Caribbean times international

OAS/CICAD delegation visits to discuss further cooperation with Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee on Tuesday received a courtesy call from Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD Assistant Executive Secretary Angela Crowdy and Multilateral Evaluation Mechanism (MEM) Specialist Karen Adriana Sanjines and Jean Ricot Dormeus Director of the Office of the Organisation of American States (OAS) in Guyana, at his Brickdam Office, on Tuesday.

Crowdy said that Guyana’s participation with CICAD is a very valuable one, hence the delegation’s visit to discuss further collaboration and cooperation.

She said that CICAD and the OAS have a new 2016/2020 plan of action,

which they are crafting, and it is important for all members of state to be actively involved in that document.

She said they are also here as well, “to present the results of the multilateral evaluation mechanism which has published its report on the 34 member states, regarding drug control progress in the hemisphere and implementation of the plan of action’s objectives.”

Minister Rohee, during brief remarks said that the Home Affairs Ministry was very pleased to wel-

come the delegation from CICAD, the body that deals with the fight against narcotics within the hemisphere. He said that Guyana looks forward to strengthening its partnership with CICAD/ OAS as it had pledged to do, noting that the country launched the National Drug Strategy master plan that seeks to impose upon the country the necessity to promote international cooperation with all bodies around the world, including hemispheric bodies such as the OAS and CICAD. (GINA)

Mobile Business Clinic to assist Jamaican entrepreneurs in the West

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton on January 27, launched the second in a series of Mobile Business Clinics, to assist small business persons.

Staged by the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), the three-day clinic was launched at the National Commercial Bank (NCB) Car Park in Savannala-Mar, Westmoreland, under the theme: ‘Strengthening the Capacity of Jamaican MSMEs’, and is aimed at members of the Micro, Small and Medium Sized Enterprise (MSME) sector in Western Jamaica.

In his address, Mr. Hylton said the clinic is of signal importance to Jamaica and his Ministry is committed to reach out to the micro, small and medium sized enterprises.

He pointed out that the staging of the Mobile Business Clinic in Savanna-la-Mar is a strategic move by the JBDC, as the need for the services offered by the Corporation is in high demand by members of the business sector.

The Minister said the result of a needs analysis, which was done by the JBDC, paints a less than impressive picture of players in the MSME sector in the parish of Westmoreland, which is a recipe for failure.

“It indicates that 67 per cent of MSMEs in Westmoreland do not have a business plan, 39 per cent of MSMEs have no previous exposure to entrepreneurship training and only 14 per cent MSMEs accessed loans through banks and credit unions during the life of their business. That is highly unacceptable. We can’t drive growth in the economy with only 14 per cent of our business-

es accessing loans,” Mr. Hylton said.

The Minister noted that discussions are currently taking place with the Ministry of Finance, the Planning Institute of Jamaica and the Development Bank of Jamaica to find meaningful solutions to this problem.

“I do hope that very shortly when I speak, either in the Sectoral Debate that is coming up or perhaps even before that, I will be in a position to speak very definitively to some plans and programmes, aimed at contributing to the resolution of this very troubling and challenging issue,” he said. (JIS)

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EDITORIAL

Preventable deaths

Government has been placing great emphasis in the fight against the spread of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). The massive investments being made in the health sector, especially in relation to ensuring there is a healthier and more productive population, and the numerous sensitization programmes being carried out could attest to this.

Now citizens have access to a wealth of information via TV, radio and newspaper and other forms of media to enlighten them about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. But there are still many premature deaths as a result of NCDs.

Chronic NCDs result from behavioural attitudes, or risk factors such as tobacco use, excessive use of alcohol, unhealthy eating habits, and inactivity among other reasons, hence most NCD deaths are preventable. What is needed is a change in lifestyle. This will take much effort, both in terms of human and financial resources to get persons to adopt healthier lifestyle attitudes.

People’s lives are cut short and more persons are becoming disabled as a result of NCDs. People are getting blind or are becoming physically disabled because of amputations. The number one cause of disability in Caricom countries is NCDs.

According to statistics from the Health Ministry, chronic NCDs such as heart diseases, stroke, diabetes, cancer, lung diseases and neo-psychiatric disorders are responsible for almost 60 per cent of deaths in the country annually.

This is indeed quite shocking; and now, more than ever, stakeholders in the health sector and funding partners must step up and take bolder actions needed to reverse the number of persons becoming disabled or dying from NCDs.

NCDs are one of the major causes of poverty globally. Not only are individuals and families being impoverished, there is a direct impact on the economy. NCDs have an equally critical impact on productivity, as we lose victims who have developed years of experience in various fields of development.

According to a new World Health Organisation (WHO) report titled, “Global Status Report on Non-Communicable Diseases 2014”, urgent Government action is needed to meet global targets to reduce the burden of NCDs, and prevent the annual toll of 16 million people dying prematurely – before the age of 70 – from heart and lung diseases, stroke, cancer and diabetes.

The report states that most premature NCD deaths are preventable. Of the 38 million lives (globally) lost to NCDs in 2012, 16 million or 42 percent were premature and avoidable – up from 14.6 million in 2000.

Nearly five years into the global effort to reduce premature deaths from NCDs by 25 per cent by 2025, the report provides a fresh perspective on key lessons learned. The report calls for more action to be taken to curb the epidemic, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where deaths due to NCDs are overtaking those from infectious diseases.

Almost three quarters of all NCD deaths (28 million), and 82 per cent of the 16 million premature deaths, occur in low- and middle-income countries.

The WHO report provides the baseline for monitoring implementation of the “Global action plan for NCDs 2013-2020”, aimed at reducing the number of premature deaths from NCDs by 25 per cent by 2025. Outlined in the action plan are nine voluntary global targets that address key NCD risk factors including tobacco use, salt intake, physical inactivity, high blood pressure and harmful use of alcohol.

The report provides “best buy” or cost-effective, high-impact interventions recommended by WHO, including banning all forms of tobacco advertising, replacing trans fats with polyunsaturated fats, restricting or banning alcohol advertising, preventing heart attacks and strokes, promoting breastfeeding, implementing public awareness programmes on diet and physical activity, and preventing cervical cancer through screening.

Many countries have already had successes in implementing these interventions to meet global targets. Guyana in particular has made measureable progress in its fights against NCDs, but there is still a far way to go. This latest WHO report provides useful insight into where countries are and what actions could be taken.

TT scientists lead the way Awards for excellence...

PORT-OF-SPAIN,

TRINIDAD: Although Trinidad and Tobago is more widely recognised for musical and cultural talents and innovations, it should come as no surprise to anyone that Trinbagonian scientists have also been contributing to ground-breaking developments in the field of science and technology.

While stationed at various campuses, hospitals and laboratories around the world, our home-bred doctors, professors and researchers have been leading the way and making stellar contributions in this arena and thankfully, their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Recently, the National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST) in collaboration with the Caribbean Academy of Sciences and the Ministry of Science and Technology hosted the 2014 Awards for Excellence in Science and Technology and officially recognised and rewarded some of our best and brightest professionals in the field.

Prof Anthony Kalloo is a Professor of Medicine at Johns Hopkins University and the Director of The Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Having developed special interests in natural orifice surgery, therapeutic endoscopy, biliary and pancreatic diseases and sphincter of oddi dysfunction, Prof Kalloo holds multiple patents for pioneering and innovative procedures, including the use of Botulinum toxin in the gastrointestinal tract, endoscopic cryotherapy and the winged biliary/pancreatic stent. He is the pioneer of Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery (called NOTES for short), which is a technique he recently developed that will enable abdominal surgery without the use of incisions. In 2014, NOTES was cited as one of CNN’s top ten medical innovations.

At the 2014 Awards for Excellence in Science and Technology, Prof Kalloo received the Emmanuel Ciprian Amoroso Award for Medical Sciences—Gold from the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Science and Technology, Ingrid Serrattan. Interviewed afterward, Kalloo explained that the award was a symbol of inspiration for those interested in pursuing careers in the field.

“This award is important to me personally,” he said, “because I was born here and it’s nice to be acknowledged for your successes, but I think also that this award allows young scientists or young physicians who are trying to aspire and achieve to be better to see that this can be done and that you can find success with the excellent foundation of education here. I really believe that we have an excellent foundation of education here that empowers persons to become whoever they want to be and achieve whatever they want to achieve.”

Prof Kalloo was among nine awardees on the night with medals distributed in five categories. The other awards and their recipients included: The Fenrick De Four Award for Engineering— Gold (Prof Clement Imbert)— Silver (Dr Chitram Lutchman and Dr George Sammy), The Rudranath Capildeo Award for Applied Science and Technology—Gold (Prof Michael Fisher), The Julian Kenny Award for Natural Sciences—Silver (Dr Judith Gobin) and The Frank Rampersad Award for Junior Scientist—Gold (Dr Naila Murray)—Silver (Xsitaaz Twinkle Chadee and Dr Snehal Pinto Pereira).

In his opening remarks, NIHERST chairman Prof Prakash Persad implored the decision-makers to “place more importance on the field of science and technology in society” today, while also urging scientists to “speak up”

and make themselves heard on matters of interest as well.

CAS president Dr Trevor Alleyne brought greetings from the Caribbean Academy of Science and Professor in Computer Science at the Department of Computing and Information Technology, UWI, St Augustine, Prof Patrick Hosein delivered the keynote address entitled “Innovation through Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Research”.

As one of the youngest awardees on the night, Dr Naila Murray echoed the sentiments of Prof Kalloo and expressed a positive outlook for the future of science and technology in TT:

“It’s recognition that science and technology is appreciated and really being seen as the way forward for the country and the way forward for innovation,” she explained. “All of the developed countries that we want to emulate invest a significant amount of their GDP in science and technology and really place a lot of value in these fields, so I think it’s really nice to see that the stuff we’re doing is being recognised

Dr Murray is an electrical engineer by training and a research scientist at Xerox Research Centre Europe, which is located in Grenoble, France. A national scholar, Dr Murray pursued her bachelor’s in engineering at Princeton University, USA and worked afterward as a doctoral candidate with the Colour in Context group at the Computer Vision Centre of the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona in Spain.

Andre Thompson and Simone Marie King served as the official MCs for the evening, with cocktails preceding the official ceremony and a sumptuous dinner following the award presentations. Musical interludes were provided by singer Nigel Floyd, pannist Johann Chuckaree and the pair of saxophonist Tony Woodruffe and guitarist Dean Williams. (TT Express)

“We’re ready!” ...Guyana’s

President Ramotar after signing elections proclamation

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

President Donald Ramotar has signed the formal proclamation declaring May 11, 2015 the date for General and Regional Elections in Guyana. The proclamation will be soon be gazetted as stipulated by the Constitution.

In an invited comment, the Head of State told the Government Information Agency that the date was chosen, based on the available dates that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) provided, on which it would be ready to conduct the polls, “and all the dates that they gave me fell within the exams period, so I chose one … unavoidably we have this (brouhaha over the date)”.

Continuing his reference to the comments about the poll-

ing date clashing with CSEC and CAPE examinations, President Ramotar said he was pleased with the preparations and alternative arrangements put in place by the Education Ministry. The Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) scheduled for May 11 and 16, 2015 was shifted to June 15 and 16 respectively. The new dates were set after consultations with the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and other stakeholders about what might be best for candidates.

“The main thing is that it will not put our students at a disadvantage, and in fact, I think it will give them some more time to study,” President Ramotar stated. Meanwhile,

the President emphasised that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), will base its campaign, on its track record of development, “even though the last three years were very constrictive because of the fact that the joint Opposition got a one-seat majority in Parliament, I’m still

very proud of what we were able to achieve in the circumstances”. He added that he was also proud of the PPP/C’s record in office, particularly since the Party has transformed the country, “So I think I’m running on solid ground”. With regard to the political Opposition, President Ramotar said

he was not certain about what they wanted, “because sometimes they want elections, then when you call elections, they don’t want elections, but they have to face the music anyhow. We all have to face it”. The President will be leading his party’s campaign as it seeks another term in office in an effort to continue Guyana’s developmental progress.

Ramotar was on Monday confirmed as the Presidential Candidate for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for the May 11 polls. This was disclosed by General Secretary of PPP/C Clement Rohee at the party’s weekly press conference held at Freedom House, Robb Street, Georgetown. According to Rohee, Ramotar was selected and decided upon at a meeting which was convened last week. He not-

ed that Ramotar was the only Presidential Candidate and there were no other competitors in the race for the position. “The only thing that has been decided upon is the fact President Ramotar is the Presidential Candidate. There was no other Presidential candidate,” he said. He noted too that this is not likely to change anytime before the polls.

After serving as PPP/ C’s General Secretary for 14 years, Ramotar was selected as the 2011 Presidential Candidate in April that year, ahead of the November 28 elections. Subsequent to his decision to prorogue Parliament on November 10, 2014, President Ramotar told reporters that he was “confident” that he will be the next PPP/C Presidential Candidate. (Guyana Times)

Sea-island cotton cultivation set for Jamaica

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: The Jamaica Agricultural Development Foundation (JADF) hopes to have an additional 700 acres of sea-island cotton under cultivation by the end of 2016.

Chief Executive Officer of JADF, Vitus Evans, stated that the foundation expects to increase the cotton cultivation acreage from the current 300 acres to 1000 acres, in anticipation of its vision to have 5000 acres of cotton under production by 2018.

What's more, the CEO stated that he hopes to create additional value for the sea-is-

land cotton project through the implementation of cotton weaving and spinning equipment here in Jamaica to start the production of cotton garments.

"This would be truly a Jamaican product, moving from our own cotton all the way to the final fabric and to the design model," he stated during the JADF and Embassy of Japan in Jamaica handing-over ceremony for the rejuvenation of the West Indian Sea Island Cotton Industry project on Tuesday.

Evans told the Jamaican media that the JADF is already in discussion with Caribbean Broilers for the production of 100 acres of cot-

ton, along which the Jamaica Broilers who hopes to produce a further 150 acres.

"Caribbean Broilers planted an experimental plot of approximately two acres. They have now commenced harvesting and are extremely happy with the results," he added.

Last year, the Embassy of Japan in Jamaica donated Ja$11 million to the JADF in support of the development of the West Indian sea-island cotton industry, a product which the JADF says has the potential to earn the country Ja$85.6 billion annually. During the ceremony, Evans stated that the grant was used

to purchase a high crop tractor, a boom sprayer and an inter-row cultivator which are currently in use on its farms.

An acre of cotton pro-

duction usually supplies 1200 pounds of cotton, one-third of which is lint and two-thirds of which is seeds, according to Evans."The mar-

ket is strong and we are looking at the plant to be grown on marginal lands of which there are plenty in Jamaica," he said.

(Jamaica Observer)

Guyana: several in running for PPP/C’s PM candidacy

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: One day after announcing that President Donald Ramotar will lead the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the May 11 polls, Party General Secretary Clement Rohee said they were still discussing who would fill the Prime Ministerial Candidate slot, while acknowledging a number of persons were lining up.

Rohee, himself a onetime Presidential Candidate contender, said the Party’s Executive Committee was still meeting to settle on the issue. “Those issues are being discussed at the leadership level. Nothing is decided until everything is decided upon,” Rohee said.

Asked about the procedure used to select the Prime Ministerial Candidate, Rohee maintained that the Central and Executive Committees have always been involved in that process and that the tradition of the prime ministerial post being filled by a member of the Civic was likely to be maintained. “We believe in a PPP-Civic alliance. If the PPP/C has the Presidential Candidate, traditionally the Civic component has had the Prime Ministerial Candidate and I don’t believe that would change,” he said.

Meanwhile, questioned on whether Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn RodriguesBirkett has been floated as a possible running mate for Ramotar, Rohee disclosed that as far as he was aware, this was not so, noting that there were several strong contenders for the position. “I do not know that that name is associated with that position. I know that it is a matter which is still being discussed. There are a lot of people who are working behind the scenes, they are working for the position,” the General Secretary added.

He was questioned too on whether he was a potential candidate for the position to which he replied, “Everything is possible.” There is a possibility of Rodrigues-Birkett, who is of Amerindian heritage being the Prime Ministerial Candidate. The Guyana Times understands that Junior Finance Minister Bishop Juan Edghill could also be in contention.

While this newspaper was unable to contact Edghill, Rodrigues-Birkett had earlier denied having any knowledge of herself being a Prime Ministerial Candidate contender. “I don’t know …. We haven’t gotten to that level, things happen on a daily basis, those kinds of decisions are not the ones you make by

yourself, you have to think about a lot of things … right now I am having a good time running the Foreign Ministry and I must say I have a team of very good people working here, and it is a real pleasure representing this country called Guyana,” RodriguesBirkett had said. She continued: “I have never sought anything else in all of my various portfolios.”

Prime Minister Hinds, who has held the position since the PPP/C came to power in 1992, is thought have “called it a day” as Prime Minister, but there are strong sentiments that he should make one last run. He is widely respected as a very decent, credible and incorruptible individual. He is still the strongest candidate and since it is widely expected that the PPP/C is facing a very strong challenge in the upcoming elections, it has been suggested that he be the candidate. He has been the longest serving Prime Minister within the Caribbean. It has been surmised that the PPP/C Prime Ministerial Candidate could come possibly from a wider cross-section of the Guyanese public, the Guyana Times understands, since the Civic is representative of any like-minded individual wanting to form an alliance with the PPP/C. (Guyana Times)

Jamaica’s Attorney Donna Parchment Brown installed as new custos of St Andrew

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Attorney-at-law

Donna Parchment Brown has been installed as the new Custos Rotulorum of St Andrew, effective February 2.

Governor General Sir Patrick Allen presided over the ceremony, which was held at King’s House, Tuesday.

In his remarks, the governor general said Parchment Brown’s proven track record of outstanding service and probity, coupled with her ‘people skills’ will allow her to begin her new phase seamlessly and interact with people across all social levels, irrespective of belief or persuasion.

Paying tribute to the outgoing custos, Marigold Harding, the governor general commended her for the effective service and gracious support she rendered during her tenure.

“You have been an asset, especially through your consistent actions to train and motivate the Justices of the Peace for St

Andrew,” he said.

In her response, Parchment Brown expressed humility and gratitude for the responsibilities bestowed on her, and pledged that she will strive to ensure that all the citizens of the parish are respected and treated equally.

“I intend to hear the voices of the Justices of the Peace and the people of St. Andrew and to carry out the duties set out in the Custos Rotolorum Act; the JP Act and all other sources with diligence and dignity, using tools of affirmation, communication and cooperation rooted in respect,” she said.

Among her responsibilities are serving as chief Lay Magistrate for the parish, and ensuring that there are sufficient JPs/Lay Magistrates to serve the petty session courts and communities throughout the parish.

Parchment Brown was called to the Bar more than 33 years ago and has served in both the private as well as the public sectors. (Jamaica Observer)

Jamaica-born doctor develops SenseHud

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: Jamaica-born medical doctor Kingsley Chin is a renowned orthopaedic surgeon based in the United States, especially known for his expertise with non-invasive surgical procedures to correct spinal injuries.

The Portland-raised Chin earned his MD from Harvard Medical School. However, it is his Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from Columbia University that he has been utilising to develop and promote modern technologies for safer driving on the busy roads of the United States, and soon, Jamaica.

Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from Columbia University that he has been utilising to develop and promote modern technologies for safer driving

on the busy roads of the United States, and soon, Jamaica.

Chin found out accidentally that one of his employees, graphics designer Mike Amuru, was well advanced in producing a device that would reduce road crashes in the United States. This was after Amuru suffered injuries in a crash when the other motorist was paying more attention to the phone than the road.

Amuru, who designed store window displays, stumbled on a device which projected images on walls through a process, and with results he found interesting. Very much the entrepreneur, he took it to his then boss, who wasn't impressed. Still, Amuru did not shelve the idea, and when he responded to an advertisement for a graphics designer at Chin's private equity company, KICVentures, which builds companies investing in ideas,

TT student pepper sprayed

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

School violence took a new and irritating turn on Tuesday as eight students were sent to hospital following a pepper spray attack. The action elicited an immediate and very stern warning from Education Minister Dr Tim Goopeesingh and a strong reaction from his Cabinet colleague, Minister of National Security Gary Griffith, who alluded to the illegality of the substance inflicted on the students on Tuesday.

The incident occurred at the Morvant/Laventille Secondary school in Morvant where eight students were on Tuesday attacked in their classroom by a group of students using what is believed to be pepper spray.

The victims - aged between 15 and 16 - had to seek medical attention at the Morvant Health Centre, Lady Young Road. The students complained of belly pains, headaches, nausea and burning in their eyes.

Three were rushed via ambulance to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) in Mt Hope, for additional treatment while referral letters were issued to other students to be taken to the hospital later on.

In an immediate reaction, Dr Gopeesingh issued a stern warning to students and parents, saying wanton student misconduct will not

the seeds of an idea long sown would germinate. It would grow to become the SenseHud (heads-up device), one of the more popular devices with drivers in the U.S. who are inseparable

be tolerated, while Minister of National Security Griffith warned if pepper spray was indeed used, this was illegal.

At 1.30 pm, TT media was told by one of the affected student that she and other students were sitting in a classroom when other students outside the room sprayed something into the classroom.

Contacted for comment, president of National Parent Teacher Association (NPTA) Zena Ramatali said she was unaware of the incident and insisted the situation would be investigated.

“We need an investigation into what is happening at that school and all other schools, where we have a level of acts of violence towards other students. We need to find out exactly what is going on there, where were the security officers.” Up to press time, no student was held and no pepper spray seized.

Ramatali noted that some people would want to claim pepper spay was a form of protection but pointed out that it is against the laws in this country.

“If students have this in their possession, it means the law is being broken and we need to find out what was the reason they were carrying it. How did they get it pass the security to have it on the school compound,” she said. (TT Newsday)

from their cell phones. Chin and Amuru's eureka moment came when, after completing the device, it actually worked, and now some car dealers in the U.S. are pre-installing SenseHud in the

vehicles they sell. "We shopped around with some ideas (for names) before we settled on Sense, for sensible, and Hud is heads-up device. So we have SenseHud. And it has everything to do with finding a device that would allow you to project what's on your phone screen when driving, something that is voice-activated, which would keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel," Chin added.

Describing the device, Chin said: "It's mirror angled about 45 degrees, and if you can put your phone there, you see the reflection in the mirror. It's completely voice-activated. You take the SenseHud, which is the device, you put your phone in there with your screen up, then you put the mirror angled above your phone so you are looking at the mirror, which is showing what's on your phone," said a pleased Chin, as he ex-

tolled the virtues of the merger of his partnership with Amuru and his education in medicine, mathematics and engineering.

According to Chin, "All these states (in the U.S.) are banning texting and driving because there is so much carnage on the roads. It's a big problem. The headsup display is seen as the way to solve that."

SenseHud has already found favour with at least one Jamaican legislator, Member of Parliament Fitz Jackson. Its timely emergence saw SenseHud being part of parliamentary discussions last year on amendments to the Road Traffic Act.

"There was awareness of the device during deliberations on the amendments to the Road Traffic Act. We feel that the technology will allow for greater concentration on the roads," Jackson told added.(Jamaica Gleaner)

Commissioners advised against sitting during election period in Guyana

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: The three-member Commission probing the death of Dr Walter Rodney has been advised against holding any sessions of the Inquiry during the period of Guyana’s General and Regional Elections, its Chairman, Barbadian Queen’s Counsel, Sir Richard Cheltenham has said.

Speaking to the Guyana Times on Tuesday, Cheltenham, who serves alongside Jamaican Queen’s Counsel Jacqueline Samuels-Brown and Trinidadbased Guyanese Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam, said his team would be heeding the advice of security personnel.

At the end of the sixth session, late last year, Cheltenham had indicated that the Commission

had some reservations about operating during that period.

“The Commission itself may very well become a subject of comment on the platform,” Cheltenham said Tuesday, speaking about the political campaigns, which were already underway.

The main Opposition party, the People’s National Congress (PNC), has been making full legal representation at the Inquiry, which commenced April last year, seeking to clear its name of accusations that it was responsible for the death of Dr Rodney. Commentators are of the opinion that the Inquiry being conducted during the campaigns may be disadvantageous for the political party.

The party, through its lawyer and Chairman, Basil Williams,

had already expressed disappointment that the Commission would be resuming during a period when political parties would be involved in their election campaigns.

Williams had told the Guyana Times that the PNC had expressed concern when it received a notice that the CoI would be commencing on January 26. The Commission after its one-week run on January 30 will take a break before resuming on February 10. The Guyana Times was informed that the Commission will take another break before recommencing in March for another two weeks before going on break. That break will last until the June later this year, when the Commission is expected to finally come to an end. (Guyana Times)

Guyana’s human rights record up for Universal Periodic Review

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Guyana’s human rights record will be examined by the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group for the second time on Wednesday in a meeting that will be webcast live.

Guyana is one of the 14 States to be reviewed by the UPR Working Group during its January 19-30 session. Guyana’s first UPR review took place on May 11, 2010.

In a release, the UN said the documents on which the reviews are based are: 1) national report – information provided by the State under review; 2) information contained in the re-

ports of independent human rights experts and groups, known as the Special Procedures, human rights treaty bodies, and other UN entities; and 3) information provided by other stakeholders, including national human rights institutions, regional organisations and civil society groups.

Among the issues raised in the above-mentioned documents are: addressing negative stereotypes against women; addressing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity; decriminalising same-sex consensual relations; tackling violence against Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) per-

sons; addressing alleged Police abuses, including unlawful killings, torture and ill-treatment; combating all acts of violence

Popular Trinidad journalist meets tragic end

PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

One of the most colourful television and radio personalities in Trinidad and Tobago perished in a mysterious fire on Saturday morning.

Police say well known journalist Marcia Henville burnt to death in her government housing complex last Saturday. But neighbours, suspicious of her tragic end, say there was a dispute at Henville's house around 5:30 am on that day; they heard loud quarreling, noted one of the neighbours.

About 6:00 am, police discovered Henville's charred remains on her bed. The fire was, however, only confined to her bedroom.

A male relative also received first degree burns and was hospitalised. His condition was said to be serious but stable.

Henville's two children, 20-yearold son Chioke, along with his sister, 16-year-old Nekiyah, were home at the time of the incident. They escaped unhurt.

Police said a male relative is assisting them with their investigations.

An autopsy on Monday found that she had been beaten on the head, stabbed about the body, and her throat cut.

Henville's former bosses at CCN TV6, where she hosted a weekly show "Point Blank", said they were shocked and saddened at her tragic end.

Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar said she too is shocked and saddened at the death of the well known media personality.

"I was shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Ms Henville in such tragic circumstances, and I offer my sincere condolences to her family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time," the prime minister said. "Marcia was known for her fearless pursuit of the truth, and the nation has lost a talented and dedicated journalist."

Jack Warner, political leader of the Independent Liberal Party, said Henville was a true patriot and dedicated advocate of the people, especially the downtrodden and the oppressed.

“Indeed she dedicated much of her

life both in her professional career and in her personal time to correcting social injustice and to highlighting the need for better opportunities and a greater amount of fairness to the disadvantaged.

“Her passing will leave an immense void in all the areas of national development and advocacy and her voice will be missed from the airwaves,” Warner said.

Henville's close friend, Sheldon De Shong, insisted that Henville's death was no accident. He said she confided in him only the day before her killing and he would discuss the matter with the police at the earliest opportunity.

The larger than life media personality loved life but she also loved justice. Now the call is for justice to be served to bring closure to her untimely end.

Henville was born in the United Kingdom to Trinidad and Tobago parents. She moved to Trinidad and Tobago in her early 20s, and worked briefly as a reporter at Newsday and later the Trinidad Express (19952000). She reported on general topics, with a focus on crime and court reporting. She was also a features writer and in her later years a television producer. (Caribbean News )

to clean water and sanitation; reducing maternal and infant mortality rates; access by women and girls to reproductive and HIV health services; reducing school dropout rates among girls; improving literacy rates; and Amerindian land rights and mining activities in indigenous traditional territories.

The UPR is a unique process which involves a periodic review of the human rights records of all 193 UN Member States.

against women and girls and supporting victims; abolishing the death penalty; prohibiting corporal punishment; access

Since its first meeting was held in April 2008, all UN Member States were reviewed during the first UPR cycle and 112 thus far during the second cycle. The second review of states aims to highlight human rights devel-

opments in the country since the first review and provides an opportunity for states under review to spell out steps taken to implement recommendations posed during their first reviews.

The delegation of Guyana will be headed by Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn RodriguesBirkett.

The three country representatives serving as rapporteurs (“troika”) for the review of Guyana are: Ethiopia, Portugal and Venezuela. The webcast of the session will be at http://webtv.un.org.

The UPR Working Group is scheduled to adopt the recommendations of Guyana at 17:30h on January 30. (Guyana Times)

One of Canada’s richest men locked in an international battle over Caribbean casinos with links to Canada’s most feared mafia clan

ONTARIO, CANADA: One of Canada’s richest men, is locked in an international battle over Caribbean casinos with links to one of Canada’s most feared mafia clans.

According to reports stemming from a year long investigation carried out by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and the Globe and Mail, there is no evidence that at the time DeGroote knew of the men’s “underworld connections”.

It’s reported that 2010, DeGroote, 81, who built Hamilton-based Laidlaw Transport into one of North America’s biggest waste-haulage firms before selling his stake in 1988, ran into an old friend, a businessman named Andrew Pajak.

CBC News said Pajak told DeGroote that he was working with two brothers, Antonio and Francesco Carbone of Vaughan, Ontario, on a company manufacturing electronic slot machines and they had plans to install them at a nightclub casino in Jamaica.

DeGroote initially agreed to put up US$5 million in December 2010 and by May 2012, the billionaire’s total underwriting of the Caribbean operations stood at US$111.9 million.

The Dream Group was making good on its loans, but in May 2012, the payments to DeGroote stopped.

man” introduced as Alexander Visser.

“Unbeknownst to DeGroote, Visser had a long criminal history, amounting to more than 40 convictions in Canada for fraud, uttering threats and assault,” the report said.

At the meeting, CBC News said Visser made a “stunning offer”, saying he could get Dream employees in the Dominican Republic to sign affidavits claiming the Carbones had massively defrauded DeGroote, but for a price.

In October of that year, DeGroote sued to get access to the company’s books alleging the Carbones and Pajak had misappropriated portions of the funds.

A Canadian judge in November 2013 that DeGroote had established “a strong case” for fraud.

While DeGroote’s legal battles with the Carbones progressed in the first half of 2013, “other characters with a dubious past entered the fray”, CBC News said.

In May of that year, it said DeGroote was visited by two men at his family’s luxury condo in downtown Toronto.

One of them was Peter Shoniker, an outgoing former Crown attorney “who had been convicted of money laundering in 2006”.

It said the other was a “large, broad-chinned

Initially, DeGroote objected, but eventually, he began negotiating over the asking price,” and told Visser he would send him US$150,000 with “no strings attached” for possible future help.

DeGroote declined to be interviewed by CBC and the Globe and Mail, but through his lawyers, he said the secret recordings were manipulation, created by “individuals with a long history of practicing deceit.”

In his only on-therecord statement about the Dream fiasco, issued through his lawyers, DeGroote said: “Frankly, I sincerely regret that I ever agreed to invest in this venture. Indeed, I am embarrassed by it.” His lawyers later added: “Mr. DeGroote is someone who has been wronged, rather than a wrongdoer.” (Caribbean 360)

High-speed wireless can help ganja farmers in Jamaica protect legal crops - Sinclair

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Garfield Sinclair, LIME Jamaica chief executive, indicates that ganja farmers can utilise Internet connectivity to remotely monitor their crops.

Concurrently, Sinclair downplayed the prospect of job cuts and reduced capital spend arising from the regional acquisition of Columbus Communications by Cable & Wireless (CWC) Plc -- the parent of LIME Jamaica.

LIME's acquisition of Dekal Wireless' Wi-Fi technology would allow farmers and other entrepreneurs in rural Jamaica to have a "better opportunity to participate in more modern methods of selling and settling their commercial transactions", he stated in his presentation at the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) President's Forum on Tuesday at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston.

"Plus, as we hopefully move closer to regulating the cultivation and sale of marijuana -- notice I said hopefully -- farmers can rest assured that this high-speed wireless Internet will be able to facilitate the remote monitoring for the security of their precious crops," he said to chuckles from the audience. "All kinds of uses."

It's the latest instance of a large corporate company making public pronouncements on the drug set for imminent decriminalisation.

When pressed on job cuts he reasoned that LIME was already engaged in the right-sizing of its staff.

He, however, did not speak on the implication for Flow's staff complement.

In fact, the acquisition is expected to create cost-saving of US$145 million in capital expenditure in the first three years for CWC PLC. On the flip side, the acquisition will result in CWC assuming Columbus's US$1.17 billion in existing net debt as at June 2014. CWC will pay US$707 million cash and issue 1.5 billion new ordinary shares in CWC to entities that control Columbus, according to a 59-page document on the takeover. These include entities ultimately held by Columbus co-founder John Risley, co-founder and president Brendan Paddick and significant shareholder John Malone.

Sinclair indicated at the President's Forum that the precise look of the LIME and Flow merger "on the ground" remains to be seen.

"We are in the middle of a fairly intense integration process. I am particularly interested in integrating the services where we have an overlapping of services. A lot of the details of what the final entity will look like has not been finalised," he said, adding that the CWC PLC board will meet in Jamaica by the latest next month to discuss the matter. "So the final look of the Jamaican entity, although not currently defined, we are going to be obviously looking to integrate our operations for maximum efficiency, because our investors made these investments and are obviously looking for a return pretty quick." (Jamaica Observer)

TT Law student told: You flushed your career down the toilet

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

A law student who appeared in court on Monday charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol was admonished by a magistrate who told him he had "flushed his career down the toilet."

Dillon Doodal who worked as a paralegal at the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) was asked if he knew what the head of the office, senior counsel Roger Gaspard, would think of his behaviour.

Magistrate Rehana Ali said that being in the legal profession, she was embarrassed.

"So disappointing. I have been an attorney for the last ten years and this is highly embarrassing to me that you are before me. I am disgusted ...You should be ashamed ... Do you think you will be able to get an admission to the bar with a conviction against you? You have thrown your life away sir. ... I worked at the DPP's office as well and I have the highest regard for the office."

The court heard that at around 3.25 a.m. on Sunday at Mon Repos, officers on road traffic exercise

stopped Doodal. The scent of alcohol was detected on his breath, said Traffic Court police prosecution

Sgt Dianath Harricharan.

The third year law student told constable Gerald, "Yes I had about two beers. I just come to carry my partner home. I working in the DPP office and I know my rights. If you lash me, I will give you a lawsuit faster than that."

Breathalyser tests showed Doodal was over the legal 35 microgramme limit by 58 microgrammes.

Doodal, 23 of Princes Town on Monday told Ali that he got behind the wheel after he realised that his friend and the owner of the car,

had consumed more alcohol than him.

Doodal's mother came before the court and said she was disappointed. She said that her son's driver's permit will be withheld from him.

"Take it. He is irresponsible. He is making bad decisions ... I think he has just flushed his career down the toilet. That's the reality."

Ali fined him TT$6,500. Doodal had to pay TT$3,000 on Monday and was given until February 26 to pay the balance of the money. With is conviction, Doodal was advised to get advice before he continued his education in the field. (TT Express)

Guyana: Ramotar is PPP/C’s Presidential Candidate Major investment conference in TT

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

President Donald Ramotar was on Monday confirmed as the Presidential Candidate for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for the May 11 polls. This was disclosed by General Secretary of PPP/C Clement Rohee at the party’s weekly press conference held at Freedom House, Robb Street, Georgetown. According to Rohee, Ramotar was selected and decided upon at a meeting which was convened last week. He noted that Ramotar was the only Presidential Candidate and there were no other competitors in the race for the position.

“The only thing that has been decided upon is the fact President Ramotar is the Presidential Candidate. There was no other Presidential candidate,” he said. He noted too that this is not likely to change anytime before the polls.

Questioned on whether this was a wise choice given the fact that the party would have lost a majority government under the leadership of Ramotar in the 2011 General Elections, Rohee noted that was simply an assumption and it was not proven that the candidate was the primary reason for this.

“There were a number of reasons why that happened and after the 2011 elections, we did an analysis and made it known the factors that responsible for us losing control of the Parliament. We had also pointed out over the years that we have taken corrective measures to address those issues.

“Now I believe that we are in a better position and we are still working to ensure that we are way ahead of the game. That is just an assumption and

Guyana’s President Donald ramotar

we are not going into the elections with that kind of assumption. We are going to win elections,” Rohee explained.

Meanwhile, Rohee, who also holds the post of Home Affairs Minister, related that the Prime Ministerial candidate is yet to be chosen, but there are several nominees for the position. It is possible that Prime Minister Samuel Hinds will be replaced.

“The party is still discussing this. Anything is possible. If the PPP/C has the Presidential Candidate then the Prime Ministerial Candidate would come from the Civic. There are a lot of people working,” he disclosed. Rohee noted that the party remains optimistic that it will regain its majority at the polls slated for May 11. (Guyana Times)

Canadian trade delegation developing business linkages with Barbados and the region

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS:

Business and institutional representatives from Canada’s Prince Edward Island (PEI) are visiting Barbados and other Caribbean islands to develop partnerships with local entrepreneurs, clients and associates.

The trade mission, organized with the support of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (PEI and Tourism), Innovation PEI and the High Commission of Canada to Barbados, consists of 13 companies with expertise in the areas of agriculture, professional services, information and communication technology, education and training and renewable energy.

The visit is also made possible through the active cooperation of the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce and its local partner, the Barbados Chamber of Commerce

and Industry. In 2011, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two Chambers was formalized with a view to fostering increased trade development and investment opportunities between Barbados and Prince Edward Island, through promotional activities, business exchanges and the sharing of best practices.

This MoU was renewed in 2013, and a second renewal is scheduled for Thursday, 29 January 2015, to serve as a further testimony to the commitment that Barbados and PEI have to strengthen this economic partnership. The initiative has led to the forging of several partnerships across the public and private sectors, the exchange of the Chambers’ best practices and increased commerce and trade between the two jurisdictions.

PEI and Barbados not only share a long-

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: As government seeks to take steps to protect Trinidad and Tobago’s economy from the negative implications of falling global oil prices and seeks new opportunities for economic growth during this period of uncertainty in the international energy arena, Latin Finance and the Trinidad and Tobago International Financial Centre (TTIFC) are joining forces to stage a major finance and investment forum in TT which could offer solutions to these challenges.

The forum is called the 2015 Caribbean Finance and Investment Forum. Scheduled to take place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Port-of-Spain from March 4 to 5, the objective of the forum is to “bring together regional public and private sector leaders with international investors, financiers and corporate leaders for two days of interactive panel discussions, informative presentations and pre-arranged one-on-one meetings, designed to explore investment opportunities, connect participants and meaningfully drive forward the regional agenda.”

and asset classes.”

According to a draft agenda for the forum, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is listed to give the keynote address on the opening day, March 4.

At a news conference on Monday, Planning Minister Dr Bhoe Tewarie indicated Persad-Bissessar will seek to advance talks on the establishment of a new regional agreement on energy market matters – including Petrocaribe –at this conference.

The first panel discussion to follow the Prime Minister’s address at the 2015 Caribbean Finance and Investment Forum is entitled, “What is the roadmap to a connected future?”

Vice-President for the Private Sector and NonSovereign Guaranteed Operations of the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB).

standing history of commercial ties, but also a belief in education and innovation as essential catalysts for economic growth.

Commenting on this upcoming visit, senior trade commissioner at the High Commission of Canada to Barbados, Marc Parisien, stated: “Over the past several years, Prince Edward Island has been very active in building a successful and globally competitive environment for its businesses, focussing on the well-being of its citizens. Working together with Barbados, one of its most important international business partners, and other Caribbean jurisdictions, the province offers to the region products, services and know how relevant to island environments, while giving access to global markets”.

The delegation will be in Bridgetown from 25-31 January 2015. (Caribbean News)

Information provided to the TT media about the upcoming forum states that, “from tourism and banking to energy and infrastructure, the economies of the Caribbean provide investors with a wealth of investment opportunities across a wide spectrum of industries

With the World Bank estimating that the Caribbean could experience economic growth of 3.6 percent in 2015, participants in this panel discussion will examine the current health of the region’s economies; the current condition of its capital markets; regional initiative in energy, infrastructure, health and education and how renewable energy and services can provide a stable foundation for generations to come.

This panel will be moderated by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Latin Finance, Katie Llanos Small. Members of the panel include Trade Minister Vasant Bharath; Massy Group President and CEO, Gervase Warner and Hans Schulz,

With correspondents spread throughout Latin America, Latin Finance is one of four EII flagship titles along with Euromoney; Institutional Investor and Asiamoney. The primary focus of Latin Finance is debt, equity, structured finance, syndicated lending and multilateral financing and on the practical application of these products in finance and/or investment by sovereign, financial and corporate issues and portfolio, private equity and hedge fund investors. Latin Finance exists to explain Latin America, its countries, companies and assets to international investors.

The TTIFC is an investment promotion agency created to boost a company’s operations by connecting prospective partners in financial services with excellent right sourcing resources and talent in TT. The TTIFC’s vision is to make this country “the premier location in the Western Hemisphere for financial services.” The organisation’s mission statement is, “To attract and facilitate foreign direct investment in the financial services sector, that would enhance the growth and diversification of the economy by creating sustainable employment.”

(TT Newsday)

Dominica to become fourth full member of CCJ

ROSEAU, DOMINICA: Dominica will become the fourth Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country to become a full member of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) early next month, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has said.

Dominica will join Barbados, Guyana and Belize in being members of both the Original and Appellate Jurisdictions of the CCJ that was established in 2001 to replace the London-based Privy Council as the region’s final court.

The CCJ also acts as an international tribunal interpreting the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas that governs the 15-member regional integration movement.

Last year, Dominica received the formal go-ahead from Britain to delink from the Privy Council and join the CCJ and Skerrit, speaking on the stateowned DBS radio said that the island’s acceptance of the CCJ would become a reality by early February.

“Last year we made the amendment to the Constitution to allow Dominica

to recognise the CCJ as its final court. I can say that by very early next month, the court will come into full effect,” Skerrit said, adding that there were some administrative matters that had to be dealt with.

“But I expect the court to come into full effect for Dominica by early February 2015. Certainly as we indicated last year this is an historic opportunity for Dominica. It would mean allowing more ordinary citizens to have greater access to the judicial system,” he said.

“I am very pleased to announce that, come February the court will take full effect in Dominica,” he added. (CMC)

Guyana stands on solid ground with regards to international relations

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Minister of Foreign Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, in apprising Guyanese on foreign policy matters, detailed that Guyana is looking at non-traditional partners, even while consolidating relationships with the traditional ones.

Minister RodriguesBirkett mentioned that association with Chile will unfold as the Chileans will be establishing an embassy here in Guyana, by the end of this year. She stated that was because of “our outreach down south as well … we now have an embassy in Kuwait and so we are doing some work in that region as well … so yes we have been increasing our number of partners in the International Community.”

Pertaining to the effects of this kind of amalgamation, the Minister emphasised the importance of establishing relations, with so many countries, as almost natural, since “it is an interconnect-

ing world … it’s becoming interconnected with the technology that we have today, and we also see that diversification of power as we have many emerging economies that are doing very well and certainly those countries are looking for new partners…”

Albeit, this kind of intermingling can be sought after and even be actualised, the Minister did not withhold her caution as “there will be times when we will not share the same position and there will be other times when we converge with respect to our positions … so it’s important for us to have relations with all the countries in the world.”

Minister RodriguesBirkett highlighted that China is one of Guyana’s consistent partners. She revised the fact that Guyana was one of the first countries in the English speaking Caribbean to establish diplomatic relations with China, and she “thinks that they hold that fact

very dearly and we also have been working very closely with China in good times and in bad times.”

She went back and cited the first China/ CELAC forum where out of that meeting came what is deemed a ‘cooperation plan’ that included in it some Gy$35B that can cer-

tainly come to the Latin America and Caribbean region. The details are that Gy$5B of that is for cooperation; Gy$10 B for concessionary financing; and another Gy$20B for infrastructure projects. This kind of union she suggested is “quite a major achievement … of course the imple-

mentation now is what will be important and so small countries like Guyana and the rest of the Caribbean … we have to be ready to put forward our projects under that initiative.”

Continuing on the theme of integration, Minister RodriguesBirkett referred to the recent visit to Guyana by the UNASUR (Union of South American Nations) Secretary General, former President of Columbia, Dr. Ernesto Samper.

He has been visiting all of the countries in UNASUR to discuss matters concerning the organisation but, the Minister zeroed in on Guyana’s priorities. She informed that a number of issues have been outlined, including inter-connectiveness of South America.

“I’m speaking about physical interconnection and already he has identified seven projects within the UNASUR mechanism, two of them include Guyana specifically, which would be the linking of Guyana,

Brazil, Suriname, and then among Venezuela, Guyana and Suriname.”

It should be noted that Guyana is member of UNASUR’s twelve South American countries, and has been consistently working to strengthen relations within the organisation’s framework, as well as bilaterally with the countries in UNASUR. This is why Guyana established an Argentine embassy here. It was pointed out too that very strategic is Guyana’s position between the Caribbean and South America. So, for the Minister, “it is appropriate that we have the CARICOM Secretariat here in Guyana … so that is an added advantage.”

The Minister noted that Guyana is working with them (the USA) on a number of initiatives, such as the issue of Trafficking in Persons, and even though “we do not always agree on some of the pronouncements, we are working very closely on that matter with the United States.” (GINA)

CSEC, CAPE exams which clashed with Guyana’s Election Day rescheduled

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

The Ministry of Education announced on Monday, that the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) scheduled for May 11 and 16, 2015 have been moved to June 15 and 16 respectively.

This follows general concerns raised by stakeholders, according to Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, who said that the ministry is always keen to ensure that examinations are conducted in a “smooth and effective manner”. Concerns were raised after the examinations were due to be conducted on May 11, 2015, the same date set for General and Regional Elections.

education minister Priya

Gleroy Cumberbatch

The new dates, the Education Minister explained were set after consultations with the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and other

stakeholders about what might be best for candidates. She added that several options were discussed and considered, with the ministry’s “paramount consideration” being about what was in the best interest of stu-

dents scheduled to write the examinations.

Registrar of the Caribbean Examination Council Glenroy Cumberbatch expressed similar sentiments adding that it would not have been possible to have two

competing activities for “the same space at the same time”. After discussions with the CXC’s local partner, that is, the Education Ministry, Cumberbatch said measures will be put in place to ensure the integrity of the exam papers. Asked about the dates selected previously, Minister Manickchand said that any date in April, May or June would be in the CXC/CAPE examination period after consultations were held with the Guyana Elections Commission, President Ramotar and his advisers, hence the slight hurdle which was faced and crossed effectively. The additional costs as a result of rescheduling the exams, the minister made it

clear, would be borne by the government. It was explained that as part of its regular paper setting protocol, CXC prepares additional examinations in the same subject matter, with all examination papers being equal in value and weight. CXC will mark all scripts and issue results the same time as previously scheduled. Candidates will be informed, officially, about the new changes to the time table. The team of officials accompanying Minister Manickchand comprised Chief Education Officer Olato Sam, NCERD Director, Jennifer Cumberbatch, Superintendent of CXC Sauda Kadir, and several other senior officials. (GINA)

Jamaica Gov’t launches model to boost business environment for MSMEs

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: The newly launched Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) model is expected to strengthen the business environment for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Jamaica.

This is according to Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, who was speaking at the official launch of the SBDC model in Jamaica during a recent ceremony at the Ministry’s New Kingston offices.

“It will facilitate broad-based MSME growth, leading to enhanced entrepreneurship skills and innovation for competitive industries,” he said.

The SBDC model is a managerial and technical support system for small businesses, which started in the United States of America (USA)

over 35 years ago, to assist small business owners with management problems.

It is being implemented in Jamaica by the Ministry in collaboration with the Organization of American States (OAS), the University of Texas in San Antonio (UTSA), and the Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA).

The minister noted that with its successful implementation in countries including Mexico, El Salvador, and Columbia, he is confident that the adaptation of the model will provide a structured framework to promote competiveness and development of MSMEs in Jamaica.

A unit is to be established within the Ministry to provide leadership and guidance in the implementation of the SBDC model, and an implementing committee is to be set up for the

designation and accreditation of the centres.

The Ministry will work with the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) and the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), to establish a set of criteria for the accreditation of SBDCs, specifically in terms of the standards and delivery mechanisms.

The JBDC will be the lead agency in the implementation of a oneyear pilot phase of the project, and the agency will work with partners to promote the initiative and provide business development support as necessary.

Other agencies/associations such as HEART Trust/NTA, the Jamaica Productivity Centre, Bureau of Standards Jamaica and the trade associations will play important support roles in the operation of the SBDCs.

The formal launch followed a three-day training session by the OAS and UTSA, with MSMEs and business-related organisations in Jamaica, and is part of a broader OAS initiative that began in 2012 in Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia.

The initiative seeks

to contribute to the development of institutions that support and help increase the competitiveness of MSMEs in the CARICOM region.

The CARICOM SBDC project is funded by the U.S. Government through its Permanent Mission to the OAS.

Jamaica is the third CARICOM member country to launch the SBDC model, following Belize in 2012 and St. Lucia in 2014. In 2013, SBDCs contributed to creating and obtaining 158,434 jobs, assisting in opening 24,501 new businesses, generating US$7.3 billion in new sales and providing US$3.4 billion in new financing.(JIS)

Canadian Gov't supports disaster management in Jamaica

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: The Government of Canada is spending more than CA$95,000 to assist Jamaica in implementing disaster risk reduction projects.

The Canadian High Commission of Jamaica said in a release that CA$15,000 will be provided to the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation and the remaining CA$80,000 to Abacus for Communities.

Together, these projects are expected to reach over 20,000 beneficiaries.

They will strengthen the capacity of communities across Jamaica to mitigate the effects of and better respond to disaster events,

the commission added. The Portland Bight Protected Area Disaster Risk Reduction Project, according to the high com-

mission, will be implemented by the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation and will help communities in south-

ern Clarendon and St Catherine to reduce their vulnerability to storm surges.

The project will support the planting of 2,050 mangrove seedlings and train 10 community members and conservation officers on mangrove husbandry and protection.

Abacus for Communities will implement the Community Emergency Communications for Natural Disaster and Climate Change Adaptation in Jamaica project. This initiative will

establish a community emergency telecommunications system, and train and equip 360 volunteers to operate the system in disaster events, the high commission explained. Abacus for Communities and the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation secured support for these projects through the Canada Caribbean Disaster Risk Management Fund, part of Canada’s CA$600-million Caribbean Regional Programme. (Jamaica Observer)

Angostura shares up on TT stock exchange

PORT-OF-

SPAIN,TRINIDAD:

Overall market activity resulted from trading in 15 securities of which three advanced, five declined and seven traded firm.

Trading activity on the First Tier Market registered a volume of 503,782 shares crossing the floor of the Exchange valued at TT$13,013,681.47. First Citizens Bank Ltd was the volume leader with 300,000 shares changing hands for a value of TT$10,918,605.38, followed by Jamaica Money Market Brokers Ltd with a volume

of 70,073 shares being traded for TT$28,029.20. One Caribbean Media Ltd contributed 36,963 shares with a value of TT$885,214.24, while Angostura Holdings Ltd added 36,856 shares valued at TT$589,666.

Angostura Holdings Ltd enjoyed the day’s largest gain, increasing TT$0.50 to end the day at TT$16. Conversely, First Citizens Bank Ltd suffered the day’s greatest loss, falling TT$0.08 to close at TT$36.40.

Clico Investment Fund was the only active security on the Mutual Fund Market, posting a volume of 2,670 shares valued at TT$62,570.80. It declined by TT$0.02 to end at TT$23.43. (TT Guardian)

Green light for sugar factor financing in Barbados

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS:

Cabinet has approved financing for the much discussed multipurpose sugar factory and has signalled its intention to become a major player in the supply of sugar to the regional market.

Minister of Agriculture Dr David Estwick confirmed on Monday that Cabinet gave the go-ahead for the financing at its January 8 meeting, with funds being provided by the Trinidad and Tobago-based Ansa Merchant Bank.

Reports indicated that the bank was providing Bds$60 million in financing for disbursement to the farmers to increase cane production and to satisfy the start-up operations of the proposed multi-purpose factory at Andrews, in time for the 2017 crop season.

Estwick said stakeholders would be updated on the status of the arrangement on Wednesday.

“We are now finalizing the funding for the field side . . . which means I am hoping to have a meeting on Wednesday where I can now lay out . . . the way forward for sustaining the agriculture sector, both on the sugar side and the non-sugar side,” he told a St James South branch meeting of the

ruling Democratic Labour Party.

“I’ll be holding a meeting with all the players and I’ll be bringing in all the stakeholders and giving them a clear indication as to how we’ll be taking that sector forward over the next five to ten years and settle that sector down.”

The state-of-the-art sugar factory is part of the Cane Industry Restructuring Project which has a

projected cost of US$250 million.

Phase one would focus on the production of high-end direct consumption sugar, sugar for export, bulk sugar for domestic consumption, high-end sugar for the rum industry, and 25 megawatts of electricity for the national grid.

In phase two, attention would turn to the production of biomedical products. In that regard, the minister challenged young scientists to work with government to create value-added products from sugar cane.

Estwick maintained his previously announced position that 2015 would be the final year for selling bulk sugar to Europe due to its unprofitability.

Rather, he said, the focus would shift to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) market, where he estimated states import close to Bds$1 billion in sugar from outside the region.

“We need to shift the marketing strategy away from a losing export position to a regional positive position and the second variable of that is that all the value added products, that is our market,” Estwick said, while promising to challenge CARICOM’s Council for Trade and Economic Development where necessary. (Barbados Today)

ACS urges sustainable tourism in TT

PORT-OF-SPAIN,

TRINIDAD: The Association of Caribbean States recently held a meeting with local tourism stakeholders co-operation on sustainable tourism development. Julio Orozco, director of Sustainable Tourism of the ACS, reinforced the importance of cooperation activities and the sharing of achievements to strengthen the countries of the Greater Caribbean.

The work programmes of tourism authorities—the Ministry of Tourism, Tobago House of Assembly (THA) and the Tourism Development Company (TDC)—were presented with the aim of identifying cross-cutting areas for co-operation. Donna Ferraz, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, who represented Minister Gerald Hadeed at the meeting, said the minister and his staff recognised the importance of the discussions, and by extension, the dialogue on sustainable tourism.

Orozco and Amanda Charles, sustainable tourism adviser of the ACS, emphasized the priority of the Sustainable Tourism Zone of the Caribbean (STZC), the first of its kind in the region. The STZC incorporates the principles of sustainable development in integrated tourism planning and offers a unique tool to co-ordinate regional efforts in tourism develop-

Jamaican Gov’t, unions get ready for new wage talks

KINGSTON,JAMAICA: With approximately nine weeks to the end of financial year 2014/15, there are concerns as to whether the government can conclude a new wage and fringe benefits agreement with its employees by March 31.

Finance Minister Dr Peter Phillips told a press briefing at Jamaica House on Monday that he hopes the negotiations will start within two weeks. But he admitted that he has no clue when the talks would conclude, although he has insisted on a March 31 deadline to meet budget requirements.

"I can only give you a certainty about the beginning, but I can't give you certainty about the end," Dr Phillips said in response to a question raised at Monday's briefing.

"But we would hope, and it will take our best efforts, to achieve conclusion, at least with the majority of the (bargaining) groups, if not every single one, by the start of the next fiscal year (April 1)," Phillips added.

In the meantime, the Jamaican media can confirm that the main group which will be affected by the negotiations -- an 11-union 'centralised bargaining unit' representing the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU) -- has not yet submitted its claims.

The team, which represents all the member unions of the JCTU except the Jamaica Teachers Association (JTA) which had submitted its claims weeks ago and is still awaiting a meeting, is hoping to submit its claims by weekend.

"We met last Wednesday and finalised the draft of our claims, and we are now awaiting responses from the various unions. We hope that we will be able to submit them to the Ministry of Finance by the end of the week," JCTU vice-president and head of the negotiating team for the centralised bargaining unit Helene Davis-Whyte told the Jamaican media on Monday.

Whyte said that it would be possible to complete the negotiations by the end of March as the unions expect the negotiations to start immediately.

"... The workers do not want a prolonged negotiations. They want it to be settled as quickly as possible," Davis Whyte added.

However, President of the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU) Kavan Gayle, one of the trade unions in the centralised unit, was not as optimistic.

"I don't see it possible," he said. "I agree that the workers want it to be completed as quickly as possible, but we have to ensure that we negotiate the most suitable package on their behalf," he said.

ment.

Selection of TT’s STZC destinations will be prioritized. A number of activities were identified for joint implementation and it was agreed that a representative from the ACS and national tourism agencies will be appointed to work towards formalisation of these proposals. (TT Guardian)

He said that there were several issues still outstanding from the 2012/2015 Heads of Agreement. "We intend to put them back on the table, and we want to have them settled with timelines for their implementation," he said.

Dr Phillips said on Monday that the government remains committed to the overall target of reducing public sector salaries to nine per cent of GDP by next year. (Jamaica Observer)

Jamaican manufacturers to benefit from 50% reduction in custom fees

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

The Jamaica Manufacturing Association's (JMA) lobby for a waiver of the Customs Administration Fee (CAF) on intermediate goods has proved successful.

Effective February 1, manufacturers should see a 50 per cent reduction on the importation of intermediate goods -items which have to undergo further processing before it can be sold as a manufactured goods.

In 2013, the Jamaica Customs Department's implementation of the CAF resulted in manufacturers paying up to 400 per cent more on the

import charges of manufacturing inputs needed for production. The new duties also resulted in an erosion of the sector's competitiveness, according to the JMA.

In response to the changes, several business operators, led by former president of the Jamaica Manufacturers Association Omar Azan called on the government to reconsider the amendment to the tax law. It was agreed that the association should seek further clarification from the government and Jamaica Customs, especially as it related to the administration of the processing and stripping fees for each shipment

and container.

"This is one example of how collaborative effort can yield the right results," JMA president

Ramesh calls on TT PM to remove Speaker, AG

PORT-OF-SPAIN,

TRINIDAD: Former Attorney General Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj has called on the Prime Minister to remove House Speaker Wade Mark and Attorney General Anand Ramlogan.

Speaking at a news conference at his San Fernando office on Tuesaday, Maharaj said the Prime Minister has to take action if she is serious about governance.

Maharaj also called on Mark and Ramlogan to resign.

On the issue of Mark, Maharaj said: “What the Speaker did was not an ordinary error. What the Speaker did was a grave injustice to the people of Chaguanas West and to the country as a whole, in preventing a Mem-ber of Parliament from moving a motion of censure against the minister.

Last Friday, Chaguanas West MP Jack Warner abruptly ended his presentation in Parliament after he was told by Mark he would not be able to raise an issue because it was not part of the motion of censure brought against Finance Minister Larry Howai.

Mark told Parliament he had been informed by the Judiciary of a matter involving Howai which was before the court and, therefore, debate on the motion was sub judice.

On Monday, the Judiciary said it had not communicated with Mark.

Mark apologised in a statement a short time later and said it was Howai who had informed him.

Maharaj said if the Speaker does not resign, and is not asked to resign by the Government, there can be a motion in the Parliament by which he can be removed.

He said the motion will have to be supported by the Government because the Gov¬ernment has the majority.

Concerning allegations of witness tampering involving Ramlogan, Maharaj said: “This matter concerns the integrity of the entire Cabinet and whether the rule of law would prevail.

The rule of law means no one is above the law and the highest public official is subject to the law of the land.”

Maharaj said PersadBissessar has to act.

“It must not appear that the Prime Minister is acting now because it is a general election because the Prime Minister would have to do what is honourable in these circumstances. Not only to get rid of the Attorney General, at least temporarily, but also to take other action if it is to be seen that she is serious about governance in Trinidad and Tobago....

“If the Prime Minister sits down and allows this to continue, the Prime Minister, as head of the Government, has collective responsibility; she is just as guilty as every¬body else that she condones. And every member of Cabinet is just as guilty....

“I am still hoping that the Prime Minis¬ter...in the last few months of her prime ministership, subject to any national elections results, would decide that the country comes first and the politics comes after,” he said. (TT Express)

ing the pressure since this relief was removed in December, and this decision by the government will assist in managing the input costs to the manufacturing process, the potential impact on consumer pricing and encourage investment in the sector."

Brian Pengelley stated in regard to the discount on importation fees. "Manufacturers have certainly been feel-

In a release, the president welcomed the move by the government and thanked the Minister of Finance and Industry, the Minister of Investment and Commerce and their teams, along with Jamaica Customs, for understanding and addressing the issues which stemmed from the reclassification of raw materials. Previously, manufacturers only benefited from a 50 per cent reduction on the processing and examination fees for container loads of raw material imports. However, Pengelley stated the JMA will continue to lobby for initiatives that will positively impact the competitiveness of the sector.

"We cannot afford for manufacturers to close their doors and relocate to other countries. We must continue to work together as the private and public sectors to foster a facilitative business environment and stimulate economic growth," he said. (Jamaica Observer)

Jagdeo is an asset to the PPP – Rohee

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Questions about the role of former President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo in the upcoming elections were posed to PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee who pointed out that the former President is a member of both the Central and Executive committees of the PPP.

Rohee said the Guyanese people should not be surprised if Jagdeo is one of the many persons on the PPP/C campaign trail. “Mr. Jagdeo is an Executive and Central member of the Party. He is a member of the Party in good standing. (He is) a former president, and he has made useful contributions. I don’t think it would surprise anyone for him to be part of the campaign and for him to be on our list,” Rohee said.

He added that the former President is viewed as an “asset” to the Party, despite the “attacks” launched against him in sections of the media. Rohee said, “We are not going to let go of him because of the attacks that have been launched against him over the years….he is an asset to us. He is one of us.”

Meanwhile, incumbent Head of State, President Donald Ramotar, is the presidential candidate for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) leadership ticket heading into the May 11 elections.

According to Rohee, there was no other nominee up for consideration when the deci-

sion on the presidential candidate was made by the party last week. “Donald Ramotar is the only presidential candidate; there is no other presidential candidate,” Rohee declared.

President Ramotar had, at a press conference held in mid-November last, expressed confidence that he would be the presidential candidate for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic at the next general elections. He had also made it clear that he was not afraid of facing the electorate, since the Guyanese people are perfectly capable of judging the accomplishments made relative to national development and their improved livelihoods.

The PPP/C has won every general election since 1992; however, at the last elections, the combined Opposition gained control of the National Assembly by a one-seat majority in a 33-32 split.

The Guyanese Head of State expressed confidence of regaining the parliamentary majority his party lost in the 2011 general and regional elections by one seat.

The President credited his confidence in regaining the majority to the Government’s performance in moving the country forward for the benefit of the Guyanese people, and to the experiences of the Guyanese people in the last three years.

All considered, the PPP General Secretary maintained that the PPP/C is poised to face the electorate on May 11.(Guyana Times)

Canadian gold mining company to cross-list its shares on JSE

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: Gold mining company Carube Resources Limited plans on cross-listing its shares on the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE) in the next six months.

The move is aimed at allowing local investors the chance to tap into the success of the company's mining operations in Canada and Jamaica.

Over the last four years, the Canadian company has dug well over a kilometer of rock in its search for gold and copper in 14 target areas at Bellas Gate, St Catherine. Carube, which partnered with Australian-based company Oz Minerals, has already pumped CDN$2.9 million into its Jamaican project and plans on spending another CDN$3.6 million for this year.

The mining company said it will be listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) in the next two months, af-

ter which discussions will take place for the cross-listing on the JSE. Currently, Carube plans on raising CDN$4.23 million to cover exploration costs and listing requirements for its mining project in British Colombia.

"We've had discussions with the JSE and they suggested that there may be a way that we could do a cross-listing," vice-president of exploration, Jeff Ackert, told the Jamaican media during the launch of the JSE Investment and Capital Markets Conference at Jamaica Pegasus Hotel last Thursday.

Carube will be the second company to crosslist its shares on the JSE. Earlier this year, financial company Proven Investments Limited announced its plan to crosslist its shares by the end of this month. Following the listing, Ackert said that investors will be able to buy shares in the local currency for trade in Canadian currency.

General manager of the JSE, Marlene Street Forrest, stated that Carube Resources can cross-list its shares if the company is registered in Canada and is listed on any recognised stock exchange.

"If listing is through registration in Canada, the general mode is by an introduction. The company can afterwards raise

funds on the market if required," Street Forrest stated in an e-mailed response.

Street Forrest stated that public investment into mining operations will be new to Jamaica.

"It is obvious that the time has come when Jamaicans should look beyond the traditional products and traditional companies and see what

Former Guyanese Minister Faith Harding passes on

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: Dr Faith Harding, child psychologist and longstanding member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), died at age 67 on Friday afternoon at the St Joseph’s Mercy Hospital of bronchitis.

According to Harding’s distraught husband, Patrick, the President of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners’ Association, she was taken to the hospital on January 2 after feeling ill and was hospitalised until the time she passed on.

The widower said his wife was diagnosed with bronchitis and was being treated by doctors at the health institution, but several complications arose since she also had diabetes. As such, the grieving man noted that his family was awaiting the result of a post-mortem which would be conducted on Monday morning.

Meanwhile, President Donald Ramotar, speaking to the Guyana Times on Friday evening, related that the news of Harding’s passing came as a shock.

“It is very sad. I was very surprised when I heard of her passing. I

have known Faith for a very long time. We were both in Parliament together for a number of years and during that time, I knew her well. I am very much saddened by her passing. I wish to express my sincerest condolences to her husband and family and friends. On behalf of myself, my family and my Government, our condolences and sympathies to her family,” the President said.

Dr Harding was introduced to politics at an early age through a close relationship with her uncle, the late Andrew Jackson, who was the President

of the Post Office Telecommunication Workers Union. He played a significant role in her life after her father died when she was only nine years old.

Appointed as Minister of Public Service in 1989, Dr Harding led the restructuring of the Guyana Public Service and achieved significant success in decreasing inefficiencies, lowering redundancies and elevating overall effectiveness of all government programmes and also spearheaded the nationalisation of kindergarten education that institutionalised cost-free education for all children

over the age of three.

Over a four-year period, she launched an education and literacy programme in the Tiger Bay community, instituting a programme with job skills training and instilling self-esteem and pride among the citizens through a “Miss Tiger Bay” pageant that raised money for local projects.

In the Den Amstel community where a large percentage of women and mothers lacked marketable skills, Harding helped build a skill development programme that introduced sewing and cosmetology as viable careers. She assisted the community in writing grant proposals and successfully solicited funds from international agencies that financed a daycare community centre that allowed mothers to earn a living and still have adequate care for their children.

In addition, she opened a private, free clinic that provided counselling services for children and families infected and affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, runaway youth, male and female victims of domestic violence as well as young victims of sexual abuse. (Guyana Times)

closing date at a price of CDN$0.30 per common share.

He stated that the joint venture initiative it has with Oz Minerals, allows the company to continue work on the project in the Bellas Gate community without the need to raise capital. Additionally, it will significantly reduce the risk of the dilution of share structure in Carube Resources.

other investment opportunities are available," she added.

Carube currently has a unit offering of 21,150,000 units, each consisting of one common share and one-half common share purchase warrant on the TSX. A warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one common share for a period of 24 months from the

Carube is still at least five years away from establishing commercial mines in the Bellas Gate community. Nevertheless, the prospects for the firm, and Jamaica, seem promising.

Government stands to collect five per cent of revenues earned by the company if mining occurs, as well as taxes to be paid by the company. Carube's CEO Vern Rampton reckons a mine could also provide local employment for at least 15 years. (Jamaica Observer)

TT Speaker sorry for big error

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

House Speaker Wade

Mark on Monday came under further criticism after he admitted he made a mistake in the statements he made in last Friday’s Parliament session on Independent Liberal Party MP Jack Warner’s motion of censure against Finance Minister Larry Howai.

Mark was severely criticised by Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley and Martin Daly, SC, who both called on him to produce the letter that he acted on when he made his initial judgement last Friday, and the Independent Liberal Party, who wants him to step down.

Warner’s no-confidence motion against Howai collapsed after Warner was cautioned by Mark about heading in the wrong direc-

tion and the full requirements for the motion were not completed after Warner walked out of the Parliament that day. Before starting debate, Mark had told the Parliament it was not his intention to muzzle freedom of speech.

He noted, however, that he had received Warner’s motion on December 30, 2014 and approved it on January 5, 2015, and said he had only received “a few hours ago” (that day) notice from the High Court, dated January 16, 2015, on a matter concerning Howai and Azard Ali of Sunshine Publishing Company Ltd.

The Speaker’s remark about the “High Court notice” was subsequently spotlighted when Daly issued a press release taking issue with the perceived “mixing of politics in judicial affairs.” (TT Guardian)

Miss Jamaica has won the hearts of many worldwide

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Naturally, Jamaicans are feeling some amount of disappointment at the results of the 63rd Miss Universe pageant held in Florida, Sunday night.

The country had obviously got the sense that in Miss Kaci Fennell we had found the first Jamaican winner for this crown, coming after Miss Yendi Phillipps did us proud by placing second in 2010.

Already, many views have been advanced in the post-pageant analysis, and a lot of those opinions are being informed by raw emotion, including some who felt that her fifth placing did not adequately reflect the quality of her brilliance.

Amidst the passionate discussion, though, is a fact that we all know, and accept, that people enter competitions with

the knowledge that they will either win or lose.

Miss Fennell herself may well be feeling a sense of underachievement. However, if she is, we would encourage her, and the many Jamaicans who supported her, not to, but instead to take pride in the fact that she did well -- extremely well.

Placing in the top five of a competition with 88 contestants is no easy feat. Add to that the fact

that it takes considerable bravery and self-confidence to appear on and master a stage in an arena with hundreds of people in the audience, plus millions more watching on television across the world.

Miss Fennell, we believe, was an excellent ambassador for her country throughout this contest and she deserves our congratulations for holding Jamaica's flag high. She used the interview section to further expose our country's enormous achievements in sports and music, proudly trumpeting the fastest man alive in Usain Bolt and the indomitable reggae megastar Bob Marley.

While we congratulate Miss Colombia on her victory and wish her a successful reign, we are proud to boldly state that Miss Kaci Fennell is our queen. (Jamaica Observer)

TT’s Manning wants in

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Saying his health has “improved considerably”, former prime minister Patrick Manning on Monday submitted his consent form to the San Fernando East constituency executive for their consideration in selecting him as a nominee to be the PNM’s candidate for that seat in the General Election.

Addressing a large contingent of supporters and constituency executive members, Manning said he had gotten medical advice from two of his doctors on whether to seek the constituency’s candidacy.

“My Washington doctor, was due to come here on December 24 and she did come on the 24 and I saw her on the 29 of December. And my local doctor, I have seen already,” Manning said.

“The advice I needed to get, I now have and in case of the Washington doctor, she felt that I had made tremendous strides but unfortunately I was not completely

healed yet,” he added.

Noting his San Fernando doctors had rested responsibility on his return to electoral politics squarely on his shoulders, Manning said, “my suitability depended on me and me only.” Manning observed that had he carried out with his original plan to announce his decision on January 2, it would have been to bow out of politics gracefully and announce a successor.

“Since then, I have

noticed my health has improved considerable. Considerably, so much so that my health today January 26 is much better that it was on January 2,” Manning said, adding, “My speech has, it is not the best, but is...”

“Dr Rowley is one leader that the PNM has, only one and should you wish to be a leader, you have to learn to follow,” he said, adding, “I was a leader and I can follow easily.” (TT Newsday)

Large forest operators in Guyana urged to increase value-added production

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Large scale forest companies and operators were called upon to increase value added production and harvesting as most forest operations are not fully utilising their allowable cuts as approved by the sector’s regulatory agency, the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC). This call was made by Natural Resources and the Environment Minister Robert Persaud

during an interactive meeting last Thursday with large scale forest stakeholders. The meeting sought to review the performance of the forest sector and to strategically enhance its competitiveness in 2015.

According to the Natural Resources and the Environment Minister, specific emphasis will be placed on improving the operations of the Forestry Training and Development Centre and simultaneously that

of the Forest Product Development Marketing Council. In 2015, the GFC will continue to enforce the rules and regulations of the sector; however, this will continue to be done within the flexibility of the sector’s policies and not to the extent as an enforcer, said Minister Persaud.

With this, he congratulated operators and companies within the sector on their compliance efforts which saw Guyana maintaining its

low level of deforestation as verified by independent international external audits. This is testimony of Guyana’s world class sustainable forest management practices and speaks to a world class forest sector. In moving forward, Minister Persaud stated that the government is open to suggestions and initiatives from stakeholders within the sector to improve on the sustainable management of Guyana’s forest resources. In this respect, stakeholders expressed the view that they should have similar benefits as other sectors, particularly for the processing of raw materials for value added production.

Minister Persaud stated that GFC and his Ministry would be willing to make representation following the submission of justifiable proposals from the sector, outlining support requests.

Further, in a presentation at the meeting, Commissioner of Forest, James Singh pointed out that the forest sector recorded significant growth in 2014, with production volumes increasing in the main product categories. Production in 2014 was 530,000 m3, an increase of 21 per cent over 2013 figures of 437,000 m3.

He also highlighted that exports of forest pro-

duce in 2014 was US$54 million, an increase of 38 per cent over the 2013 value of US$38 million.

He further updated the meeting on Guyana’s 4th Annual Assessment of Deforestation and Forest Degradation under the Monitoring Reporting and Verification System (MRVS) in 2014 where interim results showed a decrease in the rate of deforestation from 0.079 per cent as the annual rate for 2012, to 0.068 per cent as the reported rate for 2013. Total deforestation is 12,702 hectares for 2013. GFC also successfully fulfilled its 2014 deliverables under several other bilateral and international agreements, for example activities under the Guyana-Norway agreement; Forest Carbon Partnership Facility; the formulation of the Guyana- EU FLEGT VPA; MRVS Roadmap Phase 2, and meeting several independent audit requirements to the

satisfaction of both partners and the international community.

Concession holders were also reminded by Singh of their sustainable forest management obligations and were called upon to increase the submission of forest inventories and implementable investment plans to sustain the robust and effective compliance system of the Commission. Additionally, the GFC will be reviewing the national log export policy through a consultative process with the members of the Forest Products Association and other stakeholders, to develop a new policy for implementation in 2016. GFC will also continue to support the marketing activities of the Forest Product Development and Marketing Council, especially in promoting the use of selected lesser used species as alternatives to the traditional species. (Guyana Times)

TT PM proposes US$B energy fund

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on Monday proposed the establishment of a Caribbean Energy Thematic Fund for Caricom member states. She said the fund would be intended to address regional energy security.

Persad-Bissessar made the suggestion during an address at the First Caribbean Energy Security Summit, held in Washington, DC on Sunday. The Prime Minister reaffirmed TT’s commitment to working with the U.S. and other Caribbean countries in fostering a “cleaner, more sustainable energy future” in the region.

“Energy is at the heart of efforts to build resilience through improved competitiveness and stronger energy security,” she said. She noted that resilience can be built by transforming the energy matrix in the Caribbean, which re-

quires a three-pronged approach: Improving conservation and energy efficiency; maximising the use of renewable energy sources and converting to Liquefied Natural Gas fuelled electricity generation for the base load capacity.

The PM acknowledged that the cost of this solution is not supportable for countries with high debt and minimal fiscal space, and it

is therefore necessary to engender cooperation for building resilience through energy security.

She suggested that the region work with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other international donors, friends of the Caribbean and the pri-

vate sector to provide the method and means of achieving energy security in a considered manner that is efficient and sustainable.

She noted that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago has been working in close collaboration with the IDB over the last 18 months to design a new initiative that is home-grown in the Caribbean.

The Prime Minister said, “After rigorous economic analysis and technical feasibility studies and a thorough assessment of these, we have agreed as a government on the creation of a Caribbean Energy Thematic Fund for Caricom Member States.”

The target fund under discussion with the IDB will be US $1 billion, with comprehensive international participation being a trigger for Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment. (TT Newsday)

Guyana’s President lobbying for reduced electricity tariffs

By Erica Williams

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

President

Donald Ramotar is in negotiation with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) over a possible reduction in electricity tariffs.

In an interview with Guyana Times on Friday, President Ramotar said the proposal was made to the power company following the significant drop in fuel prices on the international market.

The price for fuel has been dropping around the world since last June, with the latest price of fuel in Venezuela being recorded at US$39.19 per barrel, the lowest in almost half a decade.

According to the President, the proposal

was tabled before a decision was taken by his Government to reduce Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) fuel prices by 30 per cent.

“I had asked GPL to examine the possibility for reduction of electricity in light of the fuel cost and I had done this before the fallen fuel prices internationally were reflected locally,” President Ramotar said.

Citizens across Guyana have repeatedly complained about the high cost of electricity. Due to the high electricity tariffs charged by GPL, some consumers have resorted to stealing electricity.

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) General Secretary Joseph Harmon had called on the govern-

ment to find ways to reduce electricity tariffs and “get off Guyanese backs.”

In response, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds had appealed to the Opposition to refrain from speaking in a manner that may cause GPL’s customers to think their stealing of electricity is justified.

GPL is reported to have suffered up to 45 per cent in losses over the past 10 years. Hinds had stated that reduction seems to have stalled a year ago, at about thirty to thirty one per cent. GPL has been on a continuous quest to reduce its losses over the years.

If the electricity tariffs are reduced, Guyanese will likely pay less than many

Jamaica an ideal business destination — IDB rep

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: The Inter American Development Bank (IDB) is encouraging both local and international entrepreneurs and private sector interests to take advantage of Jamaica's improved business climate.

Describing the current business environment as a "sweet spot" IDB Country Representative for Jamaica, Therese Turner-Jones, said several factors are combining to make Jamaica an ideal destination for launching a business.

Turner-Jones, who was speaking at the official launch of the Jamaica Investment Forum 2015 at the Wray and Nephew headquarters in New Kingston recently, said that Jamaica has recorded significant improvements in its macro-economic and investment outlook.

Caribbean countries, especially those whose generation of power is based on petroleum products.

The Prime Minister had stated that the President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) indicated that the cost of generation and delivery run between US 30 cents and US 40 cents (Gy$63 to Gy$84) per kWh. In Guyana the cost to produce and deliver electricity is US 33 cents per kWh. (Guyana Times)

She pointed to recent endorsements from the international community as a positive development for Jamaica.

These include a 64th place ranking out of 146 nations on the 2014 Forbes Best Countries for Business Report, making Jamaica the best country in the Caribbean region to do business, and third in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Jamaica also improved its ranking in the 2014 Doing Business Report with a significant

jump from 94 to 58.

Additionally, the country moved eight places up the Global Competitiveness Index for 2014/15, and is now ranked 86th out of 144 countries, compared to 94th out of 148 countries in 2013/14 report, and 97th out of 144 the previous year.

The IDB Representative said that in addition to Jamaica's improved macro-economic and business environment, the significant reduction in global oil prices have also helped to create a much more enabling climate for investors.

"I think investors, who are thinking about doing business in Jamaica would be very interested and very keen to jump on the fact that energy prices are a fraction of what they were a few months ago," she stated.

Predicting that energy prices will stay low for about another three years, Turner-Jones said this is a great opportunity for manufacturers who wish to invest in Jamaica.

The Jamaica Investment Forum 2015, planned for the Montego Bay Convention Centre March 10 to 12 will showcase key growth sectors and significant investment opportunities in Jamaica.

Over 150 local and international investors are expected to attend.

(Jamaica Observer)

Genetically engineered mosquitoes reduce dengue and chikungunya in Panama

OXFORD, ENGLAND:

An outdoor pilot trial of an engineered strain of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits the dengue and chikungunya viruses, has resulted in a reduction of over 90% in the local population of the mosquito.

The study took place in a neighbourhood of Nuevo Chorrillo, a residential suburb of the Arraiján District, west of Panama City. The 10-hectare urban area is home to approximately 900 residents and contains a school

and several small businesses. Two similar neighbourhoods nearby were monitored for comparison purposes.

Male Oxitec OX513A mosquitoes, termed 'friendly mosquitoes' by many residents, were released throughout the study area on a regular basis. Whenever these males, which cannot bite or transmit disease, mated with local female Aedes aegypti, their offspring died before adulthood. This reduced the population in successive generations of mosquitoes until, after only

six months, the reduction was over 90% relative to the comparison sites. Hadyn Parry, CEO of Oxitec commented: The pilot was conducted by the Gorgas Institute with the OX513A eggs and technical support coming from Oxitec.

Nestor Sosa, director of the Gorgas Institute, said: "Panama, like many countries in the region, has been experiencing a dengue epidemic and more recently we are seeing a new virus, chikungunya, coming to our country. (Caribbean News Now)

Jamaica’s Blue Lagoon to rise again

- Lee-Chin’s company defends slow pace of restoration of world-famous property after stakeholders

cry foul

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Michael LeeChin's Portland Holdings is dismissing claims that the Canadian billionaire has abandoned the world-renowned Blue Lagoon attraction in his home parish.

Once considered to be the gem of the Caribbean, the Blue Lagoon was purchased by Portland Holdings in 2009 with a promise from Lee-Chin that it would be restored to its former glory.

However, almost six years later, craft vendors, homeowners and other stakeholders around the once picturesque property, including president of the recently formed Craft Vendors' Alliance, Colin Beckford, have charged that those promises were empty, and the poor state of the property is now crippling their business.

"We have lost

faith in Mr Lee-Chin.

Approximately six years ago when Mr Lee-Chin visited the Blue Lagoon, he spoke about his intention to redevelop the facility, and that we the craft vendors would be an integral part going forward. I believed every word back then, as this man had restored hope in us. But it has not happened," declared an obviously disappointed

Beckford.

He noted that the Blue Lagoon, which was once Portland's premier tourist attractions, has attracted many of the world's rich and famous over the years.

The facility once housed a restaurantwhich is now partially submerged and rotting away - a mineral spa, a helicopter landing spot, and bathrooms - now cov-

ered by vegetation and closed to the public.

Baker is confident that with the timely approval of plans that will be submitted to the relevant agencies by February, the project should be completed by December 2015.

"Look at the Trident. We started construction in April and it was completed by Christmas in the same year. That's my

goal for the Blue Lagoon. It will have to be opened by season coming and I want the community's support on that," said Baker.

"We will be putting in booths for vendors as well as an area for the public to see and swim, which will have lifeguards and changing rooms. These were never there before, but we want to do everything to support the community."

Baker went on to state that it was LeeChin's commitment to the community which had caused him to prioritise the Trident's renovation over that of his own private villa, the Blue Marlin, which is located closely to the Lagoon.

The unfinished property has upset neigh-

bours and craft vendors, who say the unsightly building surrounded by zinc fences is driving away visitors from the attraction and causing a reduction in the value of their properties.

"Michael is as keen as anybody to get the Blue Marlin finished, but he'll always put the community first, and the community is the hotel that employs 240 persons, that's 240 families," stressed Baker.

"So he recognised that the Trident had to be first, then the Lagoon, and then the house, for the record plans have already been submitted (to the parish council) for the house and we are expecting them back momentarily." (Jamaica Gleaner)

Trinidad Gov’t set to build 7,000 more houses

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

With 5,300 housing units given out since 2010, Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal says the government is working to increase construction by 42 per cent over the next two years. Speaking to new homeowners at Fairfield Estates, Princes Town, on Saturday Moonilal said the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) would build an additional 7,548 homes to meet the growing demand for home ownership.

The development was one of their proudest moments, he said, and the HDC intended to include shopping areas and a farmers’ market in the community, which when completed will house a few thousand families. “You will need places to go for entertainment, recreation or even to cut your hair,” he said. He added that they were

also working with the farming communities for new housing.

“I dreamt of the day when I could own my own car and when I could get a job. I am still dreaming of the day when I could own my first house. “Our government has been tackling housing and the need for housing. We have been dealing with this matter. Our construction effort and delivery is not four and a half years. It is three years because we took one year to access, one year to review, one year to understand the challenges we faced and then we embarked upon our construction programme,” Moonilal said.

After the function, he was approached by a group of squatters who said 30 families had been promised Certificates of Comfort for the past ten years, but only one resident was dealt with. He promised to have those matters looked into. (TT Guardian)

ElEction 2015 issuEs…

Guyana’s development fast-tracked through policy of continuity

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: History has shown that while there can be impatience at the pace of change in moving a society forward; there is an even greater need for continuity to ensure the stability that ensures the change becomes lasting.

But as they have done since the elections of November 2011, the Opposition will be questioning as to why President Donald Ramotar has not veered from the path of his predecessor President Bharrat Jagdeo. They are sure to stringently question the continuity in Ramotar’s campaign for the May 11 elections that is already underway. The Americans have an apt and pithy statement that answers the question.

It was a southern saying, popularised during the Jimmy Carter presidency when Bert Lance, his Director of the Office of Management and Budget declared in Congressional tes -

timony that he could save Uncle Sam billions if he could get the government to adopt the motto, “If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it!”

And that is a truth that Guyanese could well understand ― governments should fix the things that are broken and leave those that are not, well alone.

President Ramotar obviously learnt that lesson well from Dr Cheddi Jagan and that is why even though he faced the Opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC) that tried to block every one of his initiatives with their oneseat majority, Guyana was able to outperform most of her neighbours in the region, including Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica.

What were some of the broken “things” that President Jagdeo fixed to place Guyana on a more stable trajectory?

Suddenly thrust into the

Presidency in 1999 after the People’s National Congress (PNC) street violence forced President Janet Jagan out of office, Jagdeo moved to alter the political system that had been corrupted by the Burnhamite PNC regime after 1964.

The most extensive constitutional changes were

signed into law by Jagdeo in 2000 that began by dismantling the central edifice of Forbes Burnham ― the all-powerful President who was for all intent and purposes, a constitutional dictator.

The President’s discretionary authority over pensions was removed. Burnham’s perfunctory methodology of consultation with the Leader of the Opposition was strengthened to ensure “meaningful consultation”..

Even though there was an extensive campaign in 2009 within his party and in the wider community to convince him to run for a third term, Jagdeo steadfastly held them off and in 2011, established the precedence for the first time in Guyana for a President to voluntarily vacate office. And he did this even though he was 46 years old.

When he went as head of the Commonwealth team to observe the just conclud -

ed Sri Lankan elections this was how the newspaper Ceylon Today viewed his role:

“Many foreign polls observers are here from different bodies in the world. The Commonwealth has sent former Guyanese President Jagdeo who limited the passage of the presidency in that country to two terms and signed that constitutional decree having completed his second term in office as President, he gracefully retired and went home. In contrast, President Mahinda Rajapaksa cut short his second term, to seek a mandate for a third term through the constitutional amendment he got passed in Parliament where the President office could contest any number of times.

Is this one of Jagdeo’s transformative innovations, the Opposition would have President Ramotar jettison after his second term which he will begin after May 11th? (Guyana Times)

Jamaica’s Golding tables ganja amendments in Senate

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Minister of Justice, Senator Mark Golding, tabled the landmark Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill which contains proposed changes to laws affecting the use of ganja, in the Senate on Friday.

Golding had announced last Wednesday at a post Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House that the Bill would be tabled Friday, follow- ing Monday's approval

of the proposed amendments by Cabinet. The amendments are expected to be supported by the Opposition.

The Bill has proposed the following amendments to the Dangerous Drugs Act, which was enacted in 1948 and last amended in 1987, and the debate is planned for next Friday, January 30:

Possession of two ounces or less of ganja to be a non-arrestable, ticketable infraction attracting

a fixed monetary penalty, which shall be payable outside the court system and which does not give rise to a criminal record; Failure to pay the monetary penalty is to be a minor offence, punishable in the Petty Sessions Court by an order for community service; The Bill also seeks to effect reform of the monetary penalties applicable under the Act.

Golding said Wednesday that there

will be discussions with the Ministry of Finance and Planning for portions of the revenues generated by the licensing of industry to go into a dedicated fund to be used to provide financial support for a public education programme.

The funds will also be used for drug-abuse support; funding scientific research into the medical and other specific uses of ganja; as well as for providing additional support

for the implementation of a new regulatory regime.

He said that, despite the proposals, Jamaica remains committed to the fight against transnational drug trafficking and organised crime. "Save for the specific reforms that we have announced, the criminal sanctions for illicit activities involving ganja remain as currently set out in the Dangerous Drugs Act," he said then. (Jamaica Observer)

Cassava muffin project launched in TT

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The production of local fruits and vegetables has doubled, giving impetus to the campaign to have schoolchildren eat more local foods, the Minister of Food Production has said.

Speaking at the launch of the Cassava Muffin Project at the Tunapuna Boys’ RC School on Friday, Senator Devant Maharaj, Minister of Food Production, said production for some commodities had been on the upswing. He was delivering the feature address for the project which is a collaboration between his ministry, Namdevco and the National Schools Dietary Services Ltd. Maharaj said between 2010 and 2014, production of cassava went up

also doubled.

“Farmers were able to either double or triple the local food output over the last four years for 21 commodities identified by the school nutrition programme as part of its eat local campaign. I am told that for the first time the National Schools Dietary Services Ltd has been able to use local produce every single day of its 20day menu cycle. “This has resulted in a 70 per cent increase in local food content in the menus of the school-feeding programme, up from 30 per cent in 2010.”

Maharaj said cassava was important for both food security and nutrition as it contained high levels of carbohydrates and was adaptable to poor soils and water stress, making it less

susceptible to climate change, as well as being compatible with a wide variety of crops in rotational farming. He said it was the aim of his administration to reduce imported staples by between 29 and 100 per cent.

Dr Andy Ali, chairman of the National Schools Dietary Programme, said his organisation was aiming to get as much local produce into the 154,000 meals it served daily to 120,000 children. Ali said some of the challenges included the abuse of pesticides, availability and safety. He said 153,000 pounds of cassava were required every school term for soups, salads, and its new cassava muffin to be served for breakfast. (TT Guardian)

The Forgotten Guyanese Cricketer

By Isahak BasIr, CCh

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: John

Stanislaus, 5 fttall and of Amerindian and Portuguese ancestry, was the first to hit a cricket ball clear over the Pomeroon River, in a match between Jacklow Cricket Club and Picker's Gill Cricket Club along the Upper Pomeroon River.

The historic event occurred at Picker's Gill Saw Mill Sports Ground, some 16 miles from Charity, Upper Pomeroon River. The Picker's Gill Saw Mill was a huge steam complex, the first of its kind constructed in 1915. The company employed more than 200 workers, who mostly lived around the complex with suitable housing facility. Picker's Gill was also the turning point for Bitmoutty

Cargo Steamer Service operated by T&HD, which came from Georgetown.

The Picker's Gill Sports complex’s sub-soil was mixed with saw dust and bagasse, and was always wet. It supported a market, rental shop and dance hall. The epicentre of the cricket ground was close to 200 feet from the Pomeroon River bank in the east and west direction.

It was a sunny Sunday when the Jacklow cricket team arrived at Picker's Gill to be well-received by Leroy Westmas. The Jacklow team comprised Stanley Castello, Philbert Austin, Housman Alli, John Fernandes, Cecil Garraway, John Stanislaus, Dennis Gildhari, Harold De Mattos, Dolphos Williams, Thomas Tacourdeen and Henry

James. The wicketkeeper was Fernandes and umpire was Michael Austin.

The Picker's Gill cricket team comprised William Brant, Moti Singh, Renold Smith, John Seymour, Oscar Paddy, Basil Harris, Neil McConnel, Thomas Trim, Charlie Chapelle, Leroy Westmas and Cecil Harris.

Scott, Hudson bring soul to Tobago Jazz

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Grammy and Academy award winner Jennifer Hudson, neosoul singer Jill Scott and legendary soul band Kool & The Gang have been announced as the headline acts for the 2015 Tobago Jazz Experience.

The revelation was made on Monday at the launch of the event at the Paprika Restaurant in St Clair, Port-of-Spain.

This year’s festival is themed Much More Than Music and will run from April 18 to 21.

Hudson will be the main performer on World Music Night while Scott and Kool & The Gang will bring down the curtain on the Beach Jazz Fiesta on the last night of the event.

THA Tourism and Transportation secretary Tracy Davidson-Celestine said the entire event is estimated to cost around TT$13 million. According to Davidson-Celestine, the figure is based on last year’s expenditure when they invested TT$3 million and received TT$10 million in revenue.

Tickets prices for the Tobago Jazz Experience will see a slight increase. Event co-ordinator John Arnold did not give a reason for the increase but he believes patrons will not be greatly affected by the changes. The Division is also reviewing the option of online ticketing to improve accessibility to patrons.

Last year, many of the earlier events were free while admission to

the highly anticipated shows ranged from US$50 to US$150. He also revealed that the General and VIP sections will be divided vertically at the Pigeon Point Heritage Park. This will allow both sections the opportunity to be close to the main stage. Arnold said this was necessary to keep energy levels up at the event. A similar layout was used during the Plymouth Jazz Festival, the predecessor of the Tobago Jazz Experience.

The shuttle service that was heavily criticised for being inefficient in 2014, is also being reviewed. Arnold said the festival saw a 100 per cent growth in patrons in 2014 which caused some new challenges for the event.

Last year, the National Operating Centre assisted with the creation of traffic, security and evacuation plans for the Tobago Jazz Experience.

THA Tourism and Transportation marketing manager Avion Hercules, said one of the Jazz Experience events will be held at the new Shaw Park Cultural Complex. The multi-million dollar arts and cultural centre is expected to be opened soon. The Tobago Jazz Experience will be one of the first big cultural events to be held at the venue.

The THA estimates that around 60 per cent of the usual patrons of the Tobago Jazz Experience are locals. The division is hoping to increase international support for the 2015 edition. Hercules said they will continue to do press ads across various countries including the United States, Germany and Brazil. Greater emphasis will also be placed on social and online promotion of the event. Work is also being done alongside hoteliers to build competitive accommodation rates and packages.

Tickets for Tobago Jazz Experience are expected to go on sale from February 19.

Auditions for the Tobago Jazz Experience will be held on Sunday at the Signal Hill Senior Comprehensive School from 9 am to 6 pm.

Interested people can also audition online for a spot at this year’s festival. (TT Guardian)

The hardship created by World War II saw Pomeroon sportsmen being innovative and substituting professional cricket bats for those made from cedar and silverballi wood. Rubber and balata milk were used to make cricket balls and fiddle head savannah grass was used to make scoring sheets.

John’s parents and

The history of John Stanislaus’ career is being promoted by his sons, all of whom are well-established cricketers residing in Pomeroon, who enjoy a record of good standing in their community.

The Alphonsos inclusive of Alfro Alphonso, who has invested much funding in the community, is the live wire of cricket inclusive of his uncle Joakim and George Alphonso; they are all the luminaries of cricket in the region.

Still alive are these persons who witnessed the above historic event: Alvin Melville of Jacklow, Cecil Harris of Good Hope, and Tabrack Basir, CCH, formerly of Jacklow.

the surrounding community constructed a cricket ground parallel to the cemetery and alongside Stanislaus’ farm land. The cemetery came about in 1934 when an epidemic caused the death of dozens of residents. The community support comprised of the Vansluytmans, Allens, Stolls, Garraways, Durgas, Younges, Dasses, Evans, Austins, Daniels, Ramdehols, Tacoordeens, Braithwaites, and Bairds.

Flavours of Pepperpot Restaurant in Jamaica

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

The Pepperpot Restaurant at Half Moon, A Rock Resort, MoBay was opened in December 2013 to ensure that visitors to the luxe resort were able to enjoy exquisite Jamaican fare.

There has been, to date, nothing but rave reviews for both the location — it's located close to the sea — and its menu offerings which include staples like oxtail, ackee and salt fish, jerk chicken and pork. “Since we opened, the feedback from our guests has been very positive.

They love our food; they also love that nothing is embellished. Lunch comes served on leaves, bamboo, and we even incorporate items

such as sugar cane skewers,” shared Diandra Shand, marketing and communications manager, Half Moon, A Rock Resort.

“Currently, the restaurant is

during the prime winter months but due to the positive response from guests and locals

we are definitely looking to extend the time,” Shand added further.

History of Georgetown, Guyana

Street lighting and tree planting in the city

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Have you ever looked at the towering trees on Main Street or around Georgetown and thought of when tree planting in the capital city began? Or thought of the history of the installation of street lights?

According to the book “The story of Georgetown” by James Rodway, Stabroek was lighted in early times with lanterns fastened to wallaba posts. The oil used was probably train oil. In 1860 kerosene was introduced and iron lamp posts erected. Rodway also said in his book that gas lighting had been mentioned many times before it was seriously

considered; it was proposed in 1838. The Town Council back then seriously considered the introduction of gas in 1860. It was spoken of as likely to be a great improvement, but there were doubts as to whether people generally would adopt it. It was not to be supposed that the town lighting alone could support a gas company. However, several persons came forward with projects: the first being T. C. Jenkins, an American Consul. This offer was withdrawn after news of the impending war of secession. Then came James Appleby, who offered to get up a company in London; his estimate

was £4 4s. per street lamp, and 12 shillings per thousand feet for the public. The most serious offer was by S. R. Dickson, who, in 1861, proposed to establish the Demerara Gas Light Company. He asked for a lot of land for the works and offered to light 300 street lamps at Gy$25 per annum and to supply light to private persons at Gy$5 per 1,000 feet. He also stipulated that half the shares should be subscribed in the colony. The result of his action was a petition to the court and an ordinance dated August 2, 1862, which stated that the establishment of gas works in Georgetown would be of public advantage. The

petitioners were S. R. Dickson, H. I. de Jonge, Jos. Kaufmann and Jas. Brady.

Early in 1889, Julius Conrad, R. Allan, W. S. Turner and R. Dodds applied to the Town Council for a conditional promise to support an electric light company, and as they wanted a monopoly they were referred to the government. Their request for a monopoly for 30 years and for permission to use the streets were considered by the court and referred to the Town Council. Nothing was actually done until the following year, when a meeting was held at the house of Jacob Conrad on March 25, at which it was agreed to form a company.

On May 5 the town council agreed to refer a motion of Mr Gibson that a test of 50 electric street lamps should be made to the lighting committee, which ultimately arranged for such a test. At the first general meeting of the company, on August 6, it was reported that 650 private lamps and 50 street lamps had been ordered and works expected to start on January 1, followed by lighting the greater part of High Street from Brickdam to Kingston.

On January 17, 1891, crowds of people filled the street to look at the new lights being turned on. Since that time, electric slowly, but surely, replaced gas, until the gas company was com-

pelled to discontinue its operations and gas lighting came to an end.

Rodway in his book stated, “All these were but poor attempts at street decoration, and we must thank the Botanic Gardens for almost everything [regarding trees] we have today.”

A recently added sign on one of the trees, obliquely of Walter Roth Museum on Main Street, reads: “Rain Tree, scientific name: Samanea saman. Interesting facts: Native to Tropical America, grows up to 50m tall and spreads as wide as 200 human steps, seeds are chewed for sore throat.”

(Information from “The story of Georgetown” by James Rodway)

Healing from inside out by Jamaica’s Mama roots and Viva

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: If you were unfortunate enough to have the "chicken gun yuh down" recently, you already know how painful and inconvenient the dreaded CHIKV can be. The year came to a close with a bang as the "chicken" almost took over the island.

Those "bad lucky" enough to come face to face with the biological terrorist that is the Aedes aegypti mosquito now have a new appreciation of the word 'pop-down'. It came in the form of days-long fevers, joint swelling and pain lasting for months and some downright miserable vibes that made everyday activities like coming out of bed or walking downstairs a major ordeal. If you happen to be one of the unlucky many you probably became obsessed with the desperate search for sweet relief. The afflicted ones became wellversed with a myriad remedies and cures, from Panadol and prescription drugs and steroids, to our faithful local home remedies, like bizzy tea, papaya leaf tea, and guinea hen weed. The question is, do any of these homemade mira-

cles actually work?

On the heels of our book tour in the UK, we returned to Jamaica where Suzanne found herself fighting a vicious battle with CHIKV. In search of a way to heal her aching joints, we were forced on an unexpected quest to discover some local healers and explore whether the purported healing powers of roots drinks, natural tonics and wines were myth or reality. Could anything make the CHIKV better? We were determined to see if a non-medical approach could.

Traditionally, when we hear of roots and roots drinks we think of quintessential Jamaican names like "Frontend Lifter," "Irish Moss" and our personal favourite "Stamina Daddy," all of which supposedly enhance male virility and vitality. In essence, we 'drink the roots' to 'make yuh back strong!' At the same time, however, roots tonics and natural wines are touted to have magical healing effects on the body, mind and spirit for a slew of ailments and are so popular with locals that even well-known reggae artistes write songs about them. Case

in point: Chronixx's current hit Spirulina. We decided that there was no better time than the present to explore these local phenomena.

First stop on our journey to self-healing was a visit to roots shaman to the stars, Viva. As his name implies, Viva exudes life and health and is a bona

fide healer whose mantra is that if you're going to live good and attract good, it must first start from within. He concocts the most delectable juice blends and healing tonics, all of which are flavoured with love, good vibes, positive energy and intuitive creativity. Utilising fresh juices, herbs, plants, roots and barks of all kinds, Viva knows exactly what the body and mind need to stay happy, healthy and strong. He believes in mixing fresh fruit juices like June plum, pineapple, and otaheiti with garlic, onion and ginger to boost the immune system from the inside out. As powerful as he is humble, Viva assured us that he is not the expert on roots and that in order to "really learn about the 'ting" we needed to visit Mama Roots -- the doyenne of all roots. Whatever you believe, there's no denying the magical and mystical effect of spending an afternoon in the esteemed company of Mama Roots and Viva, and Suzanne and I both departed feeling healed, whole and downright holy. And that was before we even took any roots! (Jamaica Observer)

TT Carnival market to open at Cruise Ship complex Choices

By Narine Dat Sookram

PORT-OF-SPAIN,

TRINIDAD: The Shoppes at Cruise Ship Complex will host its first Carnival market at the Port-of-Spain waterfront.

Essentially a shoppers’ bazaar, the market will offer an eclectic mix of premium products from local artisans and designers including art, bath and body products, craft, fashion apparel and accessories, gourmet foods, handbags,

jewelry and souvenirs.

The market is sure to provide a one-stop shopping destination for visitors and nationals who desire all things local. Customers can look forward to shopping in a unique and pleasant setting in a safe and secure environment, complete with ample amenities including adequate parking, air-condition, restrooms and security personnel, the release said.

The market will feature two main shopping areas. The Auditorium will feature various vendors with an assortment of local delights. The store area will allow shoppers the opportunity to become familiar with stores at the complex including Blue Basin Department Stores, Island Style, Jenni’s, Ken’s Copper Collections, and Webcraf Concepts to name a few.

The market is a collaboration between the tenants at the complex and the shops aim to provide an alternative retail shopping destination of local hidden treasures.

The market aims to provide a platform to showcase locally made and/or designed products; promote entrepreneurship and small business development; and provide an economic support tool. The Carnival market opens to the public on February 8, from 9 am to 4 pm. For more info: Jessel Brizan , via email at info@BlueBasin. co, or visit facebook.com/ ShoppesatCruiseShipComplex. (TT Newsday)

Jamaican actor/writer Stefhen Bryan is scheduled to take his one-man show, Doodu Boy, to Japan in February

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

After performing in three major American cities, Jamaican actor/writer Stefhen Bryan is scheduled to take his one-man show, Doodu Boy, to Japan in February.

The shows are scheduled for Kobe, Tokyo, and Osaka. Doodu Boy, which is autobiographical, opened in 2014.

To date, the Kingston-born Bryan has done 34 shows in Los

Angeles, San Francisco and New York.

"The reception in the U.S. was overwhelmingly positive. We will be doing a run in Jamaica starting in March/ April," Bryan told the Jamaican media. "I'm looking forward to including more patois in my performance."

Doodu Boy is Bryan's second stage production. He debuted in the 1996 ensemble play, ‘Moon

On A Rainbow Shawl’. Originally from east Kingston, Bryan is a past student of Camperdown High School. He migrated to the United States at age 15, but has also lived in the United Kingdom and Japan.

Bryan is the author of two books: 2009's ‘Black Passenger’ ‘Yellow Cabs’: ‘A Memoir of Exile’ and ‘Excess in Japan’, and ‘Only Begotten’ which was released in 2012. (Jamaica Observer)

Guyana: The evocative artwork of Winston Strick

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Winston Strick’s artistic talents and dedication to his passion for art have made him a notable artist whose mastery in creating distinguished artwork has been celebrated, as some of his pieces are a permanent fixture in the National Collection housed at Castellani House.

His painting “Silver Moon; Walk on Water”, part of the National Collection, is a beautiful, evocative painting. It is one of the few, not well-known paintings by Strick. This is because Strick is best known for his superb work in leather. “Silver Moon; Walk on Water” shows that he is anequally excellent painter. In fact, he had pursued painting at the Brooklyn Museum Art School, New York, from 1972-1973. In 1974, he returned to Guyana at a time of nationalistic fervour, when artists of

African heritage were returning to their roots.

Although he has never mounted a solo exhibition, Strick’s oeuvre is large and varied. He has won many awards and prizes for his leatherwork, but his paintings have also been recognised - as in 1985 when he won the Brewmasters Competition Painting category.

His artwork

“Woman”, also part of the National Collection, is an example of Strick’s

artistry in leather. While there are Guyanese who use local leather to make an array of footwear, handbags and crafts items, most of them have not ventured beyond these. Strick’s use of this medium for creative, artistic pieces is unprecedented.

In addition to this, he displays an astonishing level of artistry and inventiveness in the pieces he has produced. He uses various kinds of leather of dif -

Without any doubt, the choices we make in life will determine the failures and successes of a person. This means that it is very crucial for us to consider what we want from life so that our decisions we make will help us reach our goals are.

Every day we are faced with so many different choices to make and quite frankly not all of our choices have much to do with our eternal salvation. For example, the kinds of cloth we wear are all things we have to determine constantly.

I am sure that sometimes we may wonder if our choices really matter or not. And in some cases we tend to worry too much about what other people think of our choices or not, because we might feel that if no one really knows what we are doing, then our decisions isn’t really affective to anyone.

For sure everyone will have their own view on decision making. For example, some people may say that this is something that happens every moment, whereas others may say it happens every day.

But personally for me it can be both. The key is to be able to recognize when an opportunity exists and take full advantage to make a choice with the hope of maximum results.

ferent thicknesses, and incorporate seeds, pieces of metal and other objects and materials to produce works that are truly pieces of fine art. Indeed, he has won numerous awards for his work.

Strick discovered leather around 1975 and began creating remarkable pieces of sculptural, decorative and even wearable art in this medium. He became associated with the Roots and Culture Gallery, which opened in 1983. The grassroots orientation of this gallery gave Strick an excellent context to explore local materials and develop his art.

In 1991, for his sterling contributions to the field of art in Guyana, Strick was bestowed the Medal of Service by former President of Guyana, the late Hugh Desmond Hoyte. (Information on Strick’s artwork taken from “Panorama: A Portrait of Guyana”. Photos courtesy of Castellani House)

One important thing to keep in mind is that though every day may be a choice, not every choice will necessarily come with an opportunity. For example, for me personally, I choose my own college and university, it is certainly my own choice which gave me theopportunity to become the person I am today.

Someone who wants to become a teacher for example will have a similar choice and opportunity for him/herself.

If someone wants to become what he/she has always been dreaming of, then they must make that choice when the opportunity is there on his/ her own time, otherwise they wouldn’t have the ability to achieve it at all.

Regardless of our age, we all have the capability to make choices that can affect us for the rest of our lives and hopefully it’s the ones with a positive effect. We all actually have the ability to re-make ourselves and improve our lives.

The thing is we can only receive so many new opportunities in life, which means this is something we should be conscious of to grab it when it comes, because we don’t know how long it will last. It could be we are only left with one choice in a particular situation.

I have no doubt that many of us probably have lots of choices to make in life. If that is the case I encourage everyone to be prepared for them all not only to make them, but to be able to see through them.

Because remember life is made up of the choices we make every day in our lives. So if there are not enough opportunities for us, then the few that are left for us may change our lives forever.

For questions, comments or feedback, send them to mcnarine@rogers.com.

Sweet pan in the East of TT

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Another enthusiastic crowd of pan music lovers flocked the Arima Velodrome on Saturday evening to hear the offerings of 18 Single Pan steel orchestras from the Eastern Region of Pan Trinbago.

And like the night before at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain, they were not disappointed. The bands presented an array of great music as they appeared before the judges.

But many patrons complained they were not able to see the bands perform because of the position of the tent which covered the judges. This forced them to come forward on the fence.

Asked about the problem Eastern Region chairman Vernon Morancie said, “This happened last year with the conventional bands

and I requested tents with extension poles but they were not delivered. I am totally disappointed with the contractor. I humbly apologise to all patrons for the inconvenience.”

Playing in position five, joint defending champions San Juan

East Side Symphony made a statement with Duvonne Stewart’s arrangement of Ronnie McIntosh’s “Shaking It”. After the performance a confident Stewart said, “The players have done enough to make me proud, we are coming to win once more.”

The other defending champion Pan Jammers of Santa Cruz came on stage oozing confidence. Under the guidance of retired army officer Robert Tobitt, this bunch of youths showed discipline in the task before them and had the entire Velodrome audience

screaming. They took Tobitt’s arrangement of Chris Garcia’s “Chutney Bacchanal” and made it into a work of art as they danced, sang and played. The composer/singer was in the audience and he too was very pleased with Pan Jammers’ rendition of his song. He even posed with some of the players for pictures after the performance.

The event ran smoothly with a quick change around time between bands which never left the audience waiting for music. DJ KC Class is Class filled in the short gaps while the bands exited and entered the stage area.

It was very obvious that the young arrangers are making a statement with the music they are putting out as seen by Marlon White and Marsicans, Carlon Harewood and Trinidad East Side Symphony, Amrit Samaroo and Trinidad Nostalgic, Duvonne Stewart, Curtis Marcelle and Arima All Stars Steel and Jerod Lett and San Juan All Stars.

The majority of bands chose to play songs from the past with newcomers Sound of Music being the only band to play a 2015 selection - “The Holy Grail”.

Four songs by Lord Kitchener “Kaka Roach”, “No Wuk For Carnival”, “Sweet Pan” and “Rainorama” led the way followed Arrow’s “Long Time” and “Oh La La”. (TT Newsday)

Once again the intermission went to double the time specified testing the patience of some of the music lovers. But Morancie said this happened because several bands were having trouble getting into the Velodrome.

A Glimpse of Guyana’s Lost Treasures

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: This year, National Trust of Guyana’s calendar narrates the history of several distinctive Guyanese buildings of unique architecture and rich history that have been lost to time. These buildings were an irreplaceable part of our built legacy.

According to Lauren Grant from National Trust, the calendar’s objective is to “remind persons of the historic buildings which once graced our landscapes and to inform the younger generation of what once was, lest they

think that the modern buildings today represented what was there before”.

The once illustrious Sacred Heart Church is featured for January and February months. In 1860, the construction of this new church commenced to accommodate the vast numbers of Roman Catholics in British Guiana. Once designed in a rectangular shape, the original building measured 30.5m x 9.1m. An eastern façade, which became the main façade, was designed by architect Cesar Castellani and erected in 1872. This church, once situated on

Main Street, Georgetown, was destroyed by fire in 2004.

The old New Amsterdam Hospital is highlighted for March and April. The old New Amsterdam Hospital, once located in Region Six, Berbice, in the town of New Amsterdam, was one of Guyana’s outstanding historical buildings. It was built in 1844 and designed by renowned architect Cesar Castellani, and described as a “timber architectural masterpiece”. The building was declared unfit to function as the primary hospital of the region and it was left abandoned where it collapsed over time due to constant vandalism and deterioration.

May and June highlights The Alms House. The architectural design of the original Alms House, in Brickdam, was again the ingenuity of architect, Cesar Castellani. It was completed in 1878. Since its original construction, other structures have been added in the complex

to accommodate its growing population of the elderly and disabled. The Alms House was renamed the Palms but the nature and objectives of the institution remained the same. Over time the original Alms House slowly deteriorated and was later demolished.

For the months of July and August, the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is featured. Located in Brickdam, the foundation stone for this edifice was laid April 21, 1868 by Governor Hincks. It was consecrated August

25, 1878. The remarkable feat of timber craftsmanship was designed by celebrated architect, Cesar Castellani. On March 7, 1913 it was destroyed by fire. The “Brickdam Cathedral” a stone edifice, replaced the structure. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Park Hotel is the feature building for September and October. The Park Hotel was built during the 1900s and was owned by the Kissoon family. Its colonial architecture, evident in the use of timber, Demerara shutters and its veranda, was

common at that time. Once located in Main Street in the heart of the city of Georgetown, this landmark hotel was destroyed by fire in May 2000. November and December features the St. Barnabas Church. The Anglican Church of St. Barnabas, where it once stood at Regent Street and Orange Walk, Bourda, opened as a rather small building in 1884. It was consecrated in 1938. The St. Barnabas Church with its flying buttresses and massive towers was sold and later demolished in 2011.

Exploring the Iwokrama Forest

-The Screaming Piha Nature Trail in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Screaming Piha Nature Trail is one of the numerous wildlife trails you can visit in the Iwokrama forest. It is located near the Iwokrama River Lodge and Research Centre.

Entering this trail, you experience the mag-

nificent Mora forest, one of the many forest types in Guyana. This forest experiences seasonal flooding, which is typical of this forest type. As part of your walk, you would be amazed by the stunning views of the Essequibo River. Some of the trees you would encounter are the huge

Jamaican Jazz and Blues Festival to feature Peter Cetera

Peter cetera

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival is renowned for bring a number of acts who are making their debut performance on the rock. This year is no different.

Among this year’s debutantes is Peter Cetera.

Cetera, the former lead singer of the band Chicago, is all set to rock the crowd at the festival which kicks off this Thursday at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium and lasts until Saturday.

Executive producer of the event Walter Elmore is proud of his line-up and describes Cetera’s three decades of hits, including favourites, ‘You are The Inspiration’, ‘Glory Of Love’, ‘One Good Woman’, ‘Restless Heart’ and ‘Next Time I Fall’, as being worth the trip to the festival.

Cetera is an original member of Chicago and stayed with that soft rock group for 18 years. Cetera’s biggest singing and songwriting accomplishment with Chicago

Mora trees that rise over the canopy, which defines this forest type; the Soft Wallaba trees, which we get electricity poles and shingles from, and the Wamara trees –found only in Guyana.

Additionally, there are opportunities to see various lianas(woody vines) and aerial roots such as the Kufa and Nibbi. Kufa and Nibbi are important non-timber forest products that are used to make furniture, baskets and many other items.

On the Screaming Piha Nature Trail, you can also experience a rich, diverse fauna, including birds such as the screaming piha, a small bird with a beautiful call – that obviously gave the trail its name; capuchin

birds, the grey-chinned hermit humming bird, grey antbird, chestnut woodpecker, the greywinged trumpeter, the black-necked aracari and many others. Often there are also sightings of mammals like the agou-

ti, an important seed disperser, various species of monkeys, and if you are very lucky, you may see the elusive cats such as the jaguar or ocelot.

To learn more about the Screaming Piha Nature Trail , email

came in 1976 with their first worldwide number one single, the ballad ‘If You Leave Me Now’.

His trademark singing style developed as a result of having to sing for a period of time with a wired-shut jaw. He is also an accomplished bass player as and his musical talents are a family trait as his two brothers, Tim and Kenny, were involved in the production of a number of Chicago and Peter Cetera solo records.

In 1985, upon quitting the band, Peter Cetera topped music charts with ‘The Glory of Love’, the first single from his album Solitude/ Solitaire. The track which was also popular in Jamaica went on to become the theme song for the film ‘The Karate Kid, Part II’.

Among the other acts to take to the stage during the festival are megastar Mariah Carey, Charlie Wilson, The Pointer Sisters, Magic!, Soja, Arturo Tappin, Morgan Heritage and Richie Stephens. (Jamaica Observer)

tourism@iwokrama.org; visit www. iwokramariverlodge.com or theIwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development Centre on Facebook. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Soca stars sport Movementbago’s trendy street wear

PORT-OF-SPAIN,

TRINIDAD: There was no guarantee that her graphic T-shirts would make the final cut of the music video. But she still left a few samples for soca singer Kees Dieffenthaller. He liked them and selected a white muscle tee with the letter “T” emblazoned at the centre. Below the large letter were two words—Paradise Capital.

Dieffenthaller accentuated the look with a black snapback hat with a colourful pattern on its peak. When Gyptian saw Kees on set, he wanted one for himself. The Jamaican reggae artiste opted for a red tank with a Tobago logo running across the chest.

As the lone Tobagonian student at the University of Miami, Nicolette Leacock realised while many people knew about Trinidad, few were aware of the sister isle. Leacock, a business management and marketing double major, felt like Tobago was often being left out. She wanted a creative way to market the island and decided to create a street wear brand inspired by Tobago, but made for all. “I have always loved street wear clothing and more of a tomboyish look,” the 21-year-old student explained.

It is often said that designing and establishing a street wear brand can be complicated. But Leacock said it was not difficult to start the business. According to Leacock, the brand began with a capital of US$200 which she sourced from her parents. She conducted some market research and got her father to take her to a printing shop. “When I went, I met the owner and he pretty much gave me a rundown from start to finish on everything,” said Leacock. “He kind of talked me through everything, told me how the industry works.”

Tobago's teal waters and forested mountains have often served as inspiration for fashion collections. In 2011, former Project Runway

winner Anya Ayoung Chee used the island's natural beauty to create her winning collection, Tobago Love. Leacock, however, gets her inspiration from the island’s mellow vibe.

“What I try to capture is the laid-back lifestyle of Tobago,” she stated. Her Movementbago label includes T-shirts, crop-tops, sweat shirts, snapback hats, five panel hats, bucket hats, beanie hats and wristbands. Most of the brand's earlier designs were in black and white. These early T-shirts are seen as classics by the brand's supporters. Leacock has since added a variety of new colours—neons and even tie-dyed prints.

The majority of the brand's clientele are Tobagonians. But Leacock has shipped orders as far as the United Kingdom and Germany. She also once received a photo from Swedish fans in her label.

Not many new businesses place a strong emphasis on their corporate social responsibility (CSR).

But Movementbago appears different. Just three months after the brand's launch, Leacock began giving back. She first donated TT$5,000 of proceeds to the Happy Haven School which caters to students with special needs in Tobago. Her father, George Leacock, is the owner of Tobago's first radio station, Radio Tambrin 92.7 fm. Annually, the station keeps a Christmas parade in Scarborough and donates to the school. Leacock said she simply decided to continue a family tradition.

Her second effort has attracted much attention. Recently, Movementbago made a donation to the St Clair's Coaching School which is run by former national football coach, Bertille St Clair. “I wanted to donate equipment to St Clair’s Coaching School but I decided to put a spin on it to make it into an initiative to get more girls involved in the sport,” said Leacock. The former footballer came up with the Girls Score Goal initiative. A football clinic has since been held at Signal Hill Senior Comprehensive School Grounds. The clinic exposed females to the basic fundamentals of the sport. Current members of the Soca Princesses squad Kenya “Yaya” Cordner, Kimika Forbes and Maylee Attin Johnson were all facilitators.

The football clinic serves as a prelude to a summer camp and tournament in August. Leacock said Tobagonians can look forward to a high level of training from Girl Score Goals. The Movementbago creator wants to see more young people benefitting from the sport. “I want to see more young people having opportunities to travel or earn a scholarship,” she said earnestly.

Leacock understands her charitable efforts may seem strange as a new business. “I just enjoy doing those things. I think it is something every business should do,” she said. (TT Guardian)

TT Red Force crush Guyana Jaguars to lift title

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Trinidad and Tobago crushed Guyana Jaguars by 135 runs to win the final of the NAGICO Super50 on Sunday.

Led by a six-wicket haul from champion off-spinner Sunil Narine, Red Force bowled out Jaguars for a paltry 65 off 24 overs at Queen’s Park Oval, to secure a ruthless victory.

Narine finished with remarkable figures of six wickets for nine runs from eight overs as Jaguars, chasing 201 for victory, crashed from a position of 36 without loss to lose their last ten wickets for 29 runs.

Opener Trevon Griffith top scored with 31 from 28 balls but once Narine removed him in the seventh over, caught by Kieron Pollard at first slip, the innings plunged into terminal decline.

Jason Mohammed, who had earlier stroked a brilliant unbeaten 117, supported with two wickets for three runs while seamer Dwayne Bravo finished with two for 29.

Griffith, meanwhile, was the only batsman to get into double figures.

Mohammed had earlier rescued Red Force with a well-controlled maiden regional one-day hundred to help fire Trinidad and Tobago Red Force up to 200 for eight off their 50 overs. With wickets tumbling around him, the right-hander stood firm to unfurl an innings of class—an unbeaten 117 off 132 balls.

Surviving a chance on 69, Mohammed went on to counted 11 fours and five sixes, helping to rally the innings with

four key partnerships after Guyana Jaguars had made early inroads with their varied attack.

Mohammed put on 38 for the third wicket with opener Jeremy Solozano (21), 43 for the fifth wicket with Dwayne Bravo (10) and another 34 for the sixth wicket with Kieron Pollard (9).

However, it was Mohammed’s unbroken ninth wicket partnership of 52 off 33 balls with captain Rayad Emrit, who finished 12 not out, that turned the game around for Red Force.

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul finished with three for 22 while seamers Royston Crandon (2-27) and Wintz (2-44) picked up two wickets apiece. Mohammed and Solozano were the only two batsmen to pass 20.

TT RED FORCE 200 for eight off 50 overs (Jason Mohammed 117 not out, Jeremy Solozano 21; Veerasammy Permaul 3-22, Royston Crandon 2-27, Paul Wintz 2-44).

GUYANA JAGUARS

65 off 24 overs (Trevon Griffith 31; Sunil Narine 6-9, Jason Mohammed 2-3, Dwayne Bravo 2-29) (TT Guardian)

Couples Resorts Ocho Rios Charity Golf Tourney raises Ja$1.6m for local charities

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Couples Ocho Rios and Couples Sans Souci celebrated their 37th and 9th anniversaries, respectively, on the weekend of Jan 16-18, culminating in the 14th Annual Couples Resorts Ocho Rios Charity Golf Tournament which was held last week Sunday at the Upton Golf & Country Club. The tournament was the brainchild of multiple repeat guests of the hotel, Gene and Jane

Saks and Alan and Josie Kline and is organised and hosted by Couples Resorts under the direction of Alexandra Ghisays, Group PR director of Couples Resorts, and Sebert Walker, golf professional.

The tournament attracted 86 players, many of them local. The main sponsor was once again Digicel, and other sponsors included Fraser Fontaine & Kong, General Accident, ICWI, Advantage General, JN General, Guardian

Hercules elected President of GABA

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Junior Hercules will have his hands full after being elected President of the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) on Sunday at the Duke Lodge.

Hercules, who is also President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Coaches Association (GABCA) as well as President of the Plaisance Basketball Club, won the election unopposed, with seven votes in an open ballot system.

Hercules thanked outgoing President Michael Singh for his tremendous work over the last two years, while committing to ensuring that basketball in

Group and BCIC.

This year's tournament raised Ja$1.6m for the Three Hills Primary School, the Hamilton Mt Basic School and the Animal House shelter. To date, the tournaments have raised over Ja$18m for these and other local charities, including the donation and maintenance of an x-ray machine to the Port Maria Hospital and outfitting an entire school with new desks and chairs, and fencing the school grounds.

In addition, each year the Animal House is able to continue their operations with the assistance of funds raised on their behalf.

The third place winners, Dudley Wilson and Opeton Marshall each received two nights at a Couples Resort; second place went to Michael Wilmott and Zandra Roy, who each received two nights in a suite at a Couples Resort.

Dave Wagner and his partner Nick Borie came out on top and received a three-night stay at the new Couples Barbados Resort, presented by Paul Issa, deputy chairman of Couples Resorts. (Jamaica Observer)

Georgetown continued to progress under his administration.

In addition, Hercules highlighted that the first step his administration will take is to develop the game through a “collective approach”.

Further, Hercules believes that his post as GABA President will not conflict with his presidency of both the GABCA and Plaisance Club since development will be the key for all involved.

Singh, who noted that he has not left the sport and was also Vice President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), said the GABF was committed to ensuring that the new administration transitioned smoothly into their operations.

Meanwhile, Adrian Hooper was appointed the new Vice President, defeating Ewart Williams six votes to three, while Cheryl Thomas was elected as Secretary of the Association after running against Nadine Luthers-Williams.

Joyce Sullivan was elected Treasurer unopposed, while LuthersWilliams was elected unchallenged as the Assistant SecretaryTreasurer.

The clubs that voted were the Colts, Republic Bank Nets, Eagles, UG Trojans, Plaisance Guardians, Knights, and Melanie Patriots while the Dynas Ravens, TGH Pacesetters and Pepsi Sonics were no-shows. (Guyana Times)

Golden Jaguars players share knowledge with youths in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Golden Jaguars

Captain Christopher Nurse and strikers Vurlon Mills and Sheldon Holden visited the Junior Jaguars Football Academy on Saturday as they took a break from training for the international friendly clash with

TT’s

PBarbados on February 1.

A full house of 40 junior players between 5 and 12 years of age were at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground, Bourda, to meet, take photos with, and be coached by Nurse, who is currently undertaking the United States Soccer

Federation B licence coaching qualification.

The Junior Jaguars Academy is held 16:00 to 17:00h every Saturday afternoon at the GFC Ground. The session is a full hour of fun, safe developmental football coaching for boys and girls of all abilities and levels. (Guyana Times)

Cowie out World League Hockey qualifiers

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: TT

will be without the talented Darren Cowie and five other regulars for the FIH World Hockey League Round Two qualifiers set for Chula Vista, San Diego, California, USA, from February 28 to March 8.

This came after Cowie, who led the team as captain to the Round One win in Jamaica last September and a silver medal at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in November, was forced to withdraw from the team due to work commitments.

In addition to Cowie, other members of the team who participated in the first-round series and the CAC Games in Mexico are also forced to pull out of the event. They include Aidan De Gannes, Christopher Scipio and Ishmael Campbell through work commitments, while Kiel Murray and Stefan Mouttet are injured.

However, making a return to the team are England-based Kwandwane Browne,

Dillet Gilkes and Dwain Quan Chan, all of whom will be making their first tour together in over a year, while youngsters Joshua Olton, Kelon Skerritt and Teague Marcano have all been drafted into the training squad.

Francis also welcomed the introduction of the new faces in the training squad, saying, “The team is in transition at the moment as over the next couple of years, players like Browne and Gilkes and

a few others will not be around, and it is hoped that these youngsters gain enough experience now to pick up where they leave.

“We have a lot of youth in the set-up now with the Emmanuel brothers, Kristin and Kwasi, Marcano boys, Tariq and Teague as well as Lyndell Byer, Joshua Olton and Kelon Skerritt, and they are all the future of TT hockey.

In California, TT will compete in one group with

USA, Russia and Canada while Austria, Chile, Ireland and Italy are in the other round-robin group at the end of which the team will meet in cross-over quarterfinal matches followed by semifinals, third placed and final matches.

And looking ahead to the tournament, coach Glen “Fido” Francis,” who returns to lead the team after interim coach Raphael Govia coached the team through the round one series in Jamaica last year, said the group draw for the local squad is a tough one, but also presents a good chance to prove itself worthy of being involve.

“We will be the lowest-ranked team in the tournament and based on

the new format we are already assured of a quarterfinal spot as only eight teams are involved.

“However, we want to get past that hurdle and reach the semifinals for the least.

“The current crop of players are a very good mix of youth and experience, but we still have lots of work to do as a team and for that we will need to the support of the powers that be financially,” he said.

A former national goalkeeper Francis also welcomed the return of Browne, who he says will bring a lot to the team.

Following the World League round-two series, the national men’s team is carded to head to the Pan Am Games in

Toronto, Canada, from July 10-26.

Men’s training squad Ron Alexander, Kwandwane Browne, Cogie Butler, Lyndell Byer, Shaquille Daniel, Solomon Eccles, Kwasi Emmanuel, Kristen Emmanuel, Dillet Gilkes, Nicholas Grant, Dominic Jaikaransingh, Marcus James, Shane Legerton, Terrence Baptiste, Justin Pascal, Tariq Marcano, Che Modeste, Michael O’Connor, Allan Henderson, Mickell Pierre, Dwain Quan Chan, Jordan Reynos, Andrey Rocke, Karlos Stephen, Akim Toussaint, Jordan Vieira, Danil Trancoso, Dominic Young, Teague Marcano, Kelon Skerritt, Joshua Olton. (TT Guardian)

Mexico outgun Panama for CONCACAF title

CATHERINE HALL, ST JAMES:

It was a lucky 13 for Mexico, who outlasted Panama 4-2 on penalty kicks to win a third straight CONCACAF Men’s Under-20 title at the Montego Bay Sports Complex on Saturday night.

The teams had played out a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes of regulation and extra time, thanks to some fantastic goalkeeping from both custodians.

It was an epic battle between two outstanding and well prepared teams who delighted the 3,000 plus crowd in a game befitting the climax of two weeks of football. Over 100 Mexicans, many wearing sombreros and singing loudly, were in the crowd which was equally split cheering for either side.

Having already qualified for the FIFA World Cup to be held in New Zealand in May-June this year, both teams were playing for regional pride after USA and Honduras had secured the other two places earlier in the day. The USA beat

El Salvador 2-0 for third place, while Honduras outlasted Guatemala 2-1.

Mexico’s goalkeeper Joe Gonzales saved Panama’s third and fourth penalty kicks, as Mexico scored their first four to preserve the victory in the shoot-out.

Guillermo Martinez, Alejandro Diaz, Erick Auguirre and Jose Robles all scored penalties for Mexico. Ismael Diaz and Fidel Escobar scored for Panama, while Gonzales saved shots from Edson Samms and Carlos Small.

Mexico drew first blood when the giant forward Martinez headed powerfully from about six yards out in the 50th minute, as Panama conceded their first goal of the tournament after holding opponents for over five and half games or 500 minutes.

Panama drew level in the 73rd minute when Escobar converted a penalty kick after Ismael Diaz was bundled over in the area by Mexican defender Oscar Bernal. The teams had virtually cancelled each other out in the first half, each creating few chances, but Mexico came closest with Diaz hitting the base of the righthand post early in the game.

Ismael Diaz dragged a shot wide in the 55th minute and two minutes later Gonzales went full stretch, low to his left to block a shot.

Panama had the best chance to score in extra, time but Gonzalez stuck out a left glove to block a low shot from Ismael Diaz in the 105th minute.

Late in the second half De Gracia went full stretch to his right to parry a shot around the post for a corner. (Jamaica Observer)

Cameron must go, says Gonsalves

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Long serving regional Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has blasted the leadership of West Indies Cricket Board president Dave Cameron as “poor” and “embarrassing,” and says the Jamaican executive needs to be axed or resign as head of the WICB.

The St Vincent and Grenadines leader was speaking in reference to Cameron’s handling of the recent players contracts impasse, which resulted from a disputed Memorandum of Understanding and the subsequent abandonment of the India tour by the West Indies one-day team.

More significantly, his comments come just six weeks ahead of the WICB annual general meeting when Cameron

will be up for re-election.

“I hope the respective boards in the territories tell him to take a break and come back at a later date, perhaps with more mature, renewed skills of leadership,” Gonsalves told the media.

“And I believe he bears heavy responsibility and really he should withdraw himself from any consideration for any leadership or from his term.”

The outspoken Gonsalves has played a central role in trying to resolve the impasse that ensued when West Indies players walked off the one-day tour of India, following the fourth ODI in Dharamsala last October.

Their move scuppered the remaining one-dayer, the one-off Twenty20 International and the three-Test series that had been scheduled.

The Indian Cricket

Board (BCCI) blamed the WICB for the abandonment, and subsequently lodged a claim of nearly US$42 million in damages. Only last week, the BCCI gave the WICB a deadline of next Tuesday, to indicate how it planned to settle or face legal action.

Gonsalves said while the players needed to bear some responsibility in the matter, the ultimate burden rested on Cameron.

“But you can’t send people there (India) without a contract and then your attitude to them was that you aren’t talking to them. And his attitude also to the Indian board was quite dismissive.”

Gonsalves said he planned to engage regional grouping, CARICOM, on how best to go about ensuring the BBCI claim was properly addressed. (CMC)

D’Andrade finishes 2nd in TT Half Marathon

Gfinished second in the Trinidad and Tobago International Half Marathon on

Sunday.D’Andrade finished closely behind Trinidad’s Shayne Barran in a time of one hour, 18 minutes and 26 seconds. Barran won the event in a time of one hour, 18 minutes and 15

Cox wants marathon running ‘revival’ in TT

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Veteran marathoner Curtis Cox is urging racing officials to make changes that will help revive the discipline locally.

After the Trinidad and Tobago International Marathon (TTIM) on Sunday, Cox stated that organisers need to attract more local marathon runners and provide incentives to improve the quality of TT’s current crop.

The 47-year-old, who won the TTIM in 2005, lamented that he was the first local to finish the race this year, having trained mostly for the half-marathon.

Only in the final three weeks, Cox decided to switch to the full marathon, where he placed seventh, clocking two hours, 48 minutes and 12 seconds.

“I don’t want to be

disrespectful,” Cox said. “I just trained for the half-marathon and came back and finished in the top ten. That says something about marathon running in Trinidad. I’m hoping that the organisers can do something to revive marathon running in Trinidad so the locals will improve.”

Having seen the race dominated by Kenyan runners over the last decade—interrupted on a few occasions, including this year by Colombian Juan Cardona—Cox is hoping to see greater emphasis placed on locals.

“They’re supposed to have prizes for the locals only, incentives,” he said.

“Because last year, the first prize was TT$19,000, this year it was TT$15,000. So the prizes keep dropping every year and that is not good. It also had less participants in the marathon this year.”

One of the culprits, Cox felt, was the parallel running of the half-marathon with the marathon. Many runners who previously competed in the 26.2-mile marathon are now keener to run the shorter distance.

He feels the latter can be used as a December warm-up event to the full marathon.

Cox also revealed his decision to run the full marathon at a late stage was in honour of his friend and former training partner Dana Seetahal.

On Facebook on Monday, Cox indicated that it was Seetahal who took him to the start line in 2005, when he enjoyed his maiden win.

Seetahal, herself an avid marathon runner, was tragically gunned down in May last year.

(TT Express)

Jamaican Warren Barrett Jnr says enjoying life at Calabar

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

seconds. Kade Sobes of Tobago was third in one hour, 22 minutes and 34 seconds.

“I was in the lead and at the 12-mile mark, Shayne came from behind and we were running together, and then at 600 metres, he took the lead and I tried to take it back but I just couldn’t.

“I wasn’t really doing any speed work, just putting in the mileage. I feel kinda good, my time was slow, so I’ll be putting in some more training for upcoming races,” D’Andrade told Guyana Times Sport of how he felt in the race.

Meanwhile, Trinidad based Guyanese Kelvin Johnson finished sixth in the Marathon. (Guyana Times)

Having donned the red and gold of Cornwall College with distinction for years, Warren Barrett Jnr says he is now thoroughly enjoying life at Calabar High School where he hopes to build on his career.

Barrett Jnr, who broke the Class Two shot put record last year with a throw of 18.18m at the Inter Secondary Schools Sports Association Boys' and Girls' Championships, said the camaraderie at Calabar is unbelievable.

"Being at Calabar so far is a great feeling. Not to put Cornwall in any disregard or anything, I enjoyed myself at Cornwall. It's a good school, big up my coach and everyone who assisted me to get where I am," he told the Jamaican me-

dia on Saturday, after capturing the Class One discus with a throw of 54.86m at the Big Shot Meet.

Barrett Jr, 16, who is the son of former Reggae Boyz goalkeeper Warren Barrett Snr, in his first year at Class One, also won the discus at the Jamaica College Meet on January 10 with 53.19.

He was second to national representative Fredrick Dacres in the shot put open at the same meet. Barrett heaved 16.08m but was some distance behind Dacres' 17.51m.

"I am at Calabar now. I just want to continue my winning ways," said Barrett.

"Calabar is a very vibes school. It's just natural for them and I have adapted pretty good because I know most of the guys before," he noted. Young Barrett, who

revealed he is carrying some niggling injuries, knows that despite his good early-season form, he has to work to stay on top and is looking to gain his personal best.

"I have some minor injuries, but I still want to try and get my PR and if I get it, knowing that I am not a hundred per cent, I will be pleased," he admitted.

The multiple medal winner at Champs and the regional Carifta Games says his main aim this year is to be part of the junior teams to the PanAm and Carifta Games.

"The rivalry is between a lot of us. The junior throws in Jamaica are very competitive. It can go in anyone's favour, so I just want to continue to train hard and hopefully I will get the reward that I work for," said Barrett.

St Kitts and Nevis awarded CPL Franchise

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The 2014 semi-finals and final were held at Warner Park in St Kitts and the new team has been awarded as a result of strong support from government and local business.

St Kitts and Nevis’ Minister of Sports, the Honourable Glenn Phillip, said: “Last year the government of St Kitts and Nevis was delighted to support the CPL by hosting the semi-finals and final as well as a series of neutral games. That partnership reaped great rewards as St Kitts and Nevis enjoyed a significant return on

investment. Overall the economy benefited to the tune of EC$26m, which comfortably exceeded our expectations.

“Hosting the games highlighted that St Kitts and Nevis is home to some of the most passionate cricket fans in the region and having our own franchise team here will be a source of great pride for the people of St Kitts and Nevis, whilst also benefiting local businesses, as fans from around the region and overseas make the journey to watch the games at the Warner Park Stadium. CPL is watched by millions of fans

Three Jamaicans to be honoured at The Queen's/Grace Jackson Meet 2015

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

The Queen's School Past Students' Association Sports Development Committee will host the 14th staging of the annual Queen's/Grace Jackson Meet this Saturday at the National Stadium.

The meet remains a qualifying meet for the ISSA Boys' and Girls' Athletics Championships, and is the largest development meet to date on the JAAA Track & Field calendar and continues to serve as a season opener for many elite athletes.

The order of events includes but is not limited to 200m, 400m, 4x400m, triple jump and high jump. The event will commence at 8:30 am, and admission is Ja$500 for adults and Ja$200 for students with ID and children under 12 years old. Accommodation will be at the

Grand Stand only.

In keeping with tradition, each year the meet honours individuals within the sporting arena for their outstanding contributions or for performance in various fields.

This year the honorees are Bruce James, president and co-founder of MVP Track Club, and Kaliese Spencer and Rasheed Dwyer, Commonwealth Games gold medallists.

Competitors of the meet will comprise track teams from various secondary/high schools from urban and rural Jamaica.

Additionally, competitors from the major athletics clubs, including MVP/UTech, Racers Track Club (UWI), GC Foster, among others, are also expected to compete.

Registration will only be online via the event's website www. queensgracejacksonmeet. com.jm. Results of the meet can also be accessed online, at the same address. (Jamaica Observer)

worldwide.”

Pete Russell, Chief Executive Officer of CPL, said it was a great opportunity for local players and added: “We have had a wonderful relationship with the government since we first started planning for CPL games in 2014 and we are now able to bring a team to St Kitts and Nevis.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the country as fans get the opportunity to support their own team – we all look forward to the unrivalled passion that will again be evident at the Warner Park Stadium.” (CPLt20.com)

“Big blow”; “right move”; “can’t blame him” − reactions to Sunil Narine’s withdrawal from World Cup

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

GEORGETOWN,GUYANA: Sunil Narine’s abrupt withdrawal from the Cricket World Cup has left the Caribbean and the wider in a state of shock, as one of the game’s most recognisable figures will no longer be part of cricket’s mega event in Australia and New Zealand next month.

Only Sunday last, the mystery spinner was wielding his magic at the Queen’s Park Oval, snaring 6-9 from eight overs to hand Trinidad and Tobago Red Force a commanding 135-run victory over Guyana Jaguars in the final of the NAGICO Super50 tournament.

Despite that successful comeback, after being on the sidelines for three months, Narine admitted that he was not completely confident about returning to international cricket. He made the disclosure via a West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) release on Tuesday.

“Playing for [TT] Red Force and winning the NAGICO Super50 has been a big boost, but going in to the World Cup is a little too much too soon and, after consulting the WICB, for both West Indies’ and my sake we have decided to delay my return to international cricket until I am 100 per cent confident in all that I do,” Narine said.

The Trinidadian off-spinner has decided to give himself more time to work on his bowling action, which was reported as suspect in successive matches during last year’s Champions League T20 where he represented Indian Premier League (IPL) side, Kolkata Knight

Riders. Cricinfo columnist Colin Benjamin also shared his thoughts on Narine missing out on what would have been his first 50-over World Cup.

“From a global perspective it is good that the ICC is cracking down on illegal action/ mystery spinners. The sport has had many ‘chuckers’ taking wickets for too long.

“However, I remain puzzled why Narine was ever called since I’ve never noticed any chucking faults in him. His action to me is just as normal as other regular international off-spinners such as Ravi Ashwin, Nathan Lyon and Mark Craig,” Benjamin said.

“However, if Narine doesn’t feel comfortable with the new action, you can’t blame him for pulling out of World Cup. Given how questionable WICB has been treating its major players over the years, it makes no sense for Narine to risk being called on WICB duty.”

Narine’s decision comes less than a week after the ICC revealed that it will fast-track the testing process during the World Cup and submit a report within a week of the bowler’s action being reported.

The faster evaluation is part of ICC’s effort to eradicate suspect bowling actions and is bound to defeat any strategy of teams saving bowlers with suspect actions for the latter stages of the World Cup; that would have worked under the standard regulations applicable to non-ICC Events where the bowler can continue to bowl in international cricket as long as he is tested within three weeks of being reported. (Guyana Times)

Campbell takes triple cycle gold in TT

PORT-OF-SPAIN,TRINIDAD: Rigtech

Sonics rider, Akil Campbell made his senior debut at the Trinidad and Tobago Cycling Federation’s Speed Night which rode off at the Arima Velodrome over the weekend.

The 2014 Junior Cyclist of the Year, copped triple-gold in the Elite 1 & 2 category, taking the Four Laps, Two Laps Win & Out and the Men’s Keirin main event in emphatic fashion.

The curtain closer at Speed Night featured the likes of Azikiwe Kellar (PSL), Tyler Cole (Sonics) and Campbell coming up against each other in the Keirin. All eyes were on the matchup between Kellar, who qualified fastest in the Flying 200m with a time of 11.57 seconds and Campbell. An unfortunate spill saw Jonathan

Harding (PSL) going down with one lap to go, causing a delay in the mouth-watering clash. When the race was re-run, it did not disappoint. As the derny left the track, Tyler Cole led out with 1000m to go, but Kellar, a former sprint and 1km TT national champion, decided he was not leaving the race to chance and pounced on the entire pack. With one lap to go, Kellar had already opened up about 15m on Campbell, but the youngster began to reel in his opponent. With less than 50m to go, Campbell was able to cover the PSL cyclist and celebrate in emphatic style. Keiana Lester (Bike Smith) was the pick of the women as she took the Elite + Junior Women Sprint and Keirin events with two well calculated rides. (TT Newsday)