Caribbean Times International

Less Guyanese being deported from Canada Jamaica on U.S. drug list

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

There has been a significant decrease in the number of Guyanese being deported from Canada, statistics have revealed.

Back in 2012, a total of 112 illegal Guyanese immigrants were removed from Canada but by 2013, only 56 were deported. The 56 Guyanese represented 0.36 percent of the 15,440 illegal immigrants who were removed from Canada in 2013. During the period January to July 2014, Canada has deported 6263 persons, with only 29 being Guyanese.

Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr Nicole Giles said the figures are not alarming. “We are not concerned, we don’t consider this a trend, we are very comfortable with those numbers,” Dr Giles told Guyanese media during an interview.

However she explained that when a decision is taken to remove someone from Canada, it is never taken lightly, explaining that extensive judicial reviews are con-

back in 2012, a total of 112 illegal Guyanese immigrants were removed from canada but by 2013, only 56 were deported

ducted before action is taken. Overstaying their visits, illegally working in Canada and engaging in criminal activities are among reasons that often result in immigrants being deported from Canada.

It is unclear how many Guyanese were deported from countries across the world in 2013; however in 2012 a total of 750 Guyanese were deported from the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, French Guiana, Suriname, St. Maarten, Curacao, France, Antigua, Jamaica, Holland, Costa Rica and Spain. According to the

Guyana Police Force, the deportees were mainly from the USA (158), Canada (112), Trinidad (128), Barbados (82) and the highest number from Suriname; 234. They were mainly deported because of drug-related and other criminal offences, illegal entry, overstaying time and denial of refugee status.

In addition to the drop in the number of deportees, fewer Guyanese are seeking asylum in Canada. “We have seen a dramatic decrease in the number of refugee applications from Guyana,” the Canadian High Commissioner said. It was explained that in 2007 there were 126 applications from Guyanese

but by 2013 the number of applications reduced to 20. Additionally, in 2007 there were 133 decisions on claims while in 2013 there 26 decisions on claims.

“So we have seen a dramatic decrease in the number of claims. In 2013, there were 20 referrals to 20 new applications, decisions on 26 which obviously carried applications from the previous year, five applications were accepted, and 19 applications were rejected,” Dr Giles further explained.

Before a decision in made, she explained that the Refugee Protection Division in Canada looks at each case on its own merit before making a decision. “Decisions are made after laborious and very intensive investigation of the case that is presented,” the High Commissioner added.

To assist refugees who have had their claims rejected, the government of Canada has initiated the ‘Assisted Voluntarily Returns and the Reintegration Pilot Programme (AVRR).’ (Guyana Times)

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Jamaica has been listed as one of 22 major drug-producing and transit countries by U.S. President Barack Obama, according to information released Monday by the U.S. Department of State.

However, National Security Minister Peter Bunting did not appear overly worried about the listing as he said Jamaica has been included in that category for some time now.

"…From memory, Jamaica has been on that list every year since I became spokesman on national security in 2008," Bunting replied to Jamaican media, via text messaging, from a Cabinet retreat, Tuesday.

A media note from the State Department said, that under the Foreign Relations Authorisation Act, the president is required to notify Congress of those countries he determines to be major illicit drug-producing countries or major drug-transit countries

that "significantly affect the United States" every year.

A country's presence on the list does not necessarily reflect its counter-narcotics efforts or its level of co-operation with the United States on illicit drug control.

The Department of State said the designation can reflect a combination of geographic, commercial, and economic factors that allow drugs to be produced and/or trafficked through a country.

Jamaica and four other Caribbean countries--Belize, The Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti--are among 22 named by Obama.

The rest of the list reads: Afghanistan, Burma, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Laos, Mexico, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela.

In 2010, Jamaica was cited as the largest supplier of marijuana to the United States and a cocaine trans-shipment point. (Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

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EDITORIAL

Democracy

Monday was designated World International Day of Democracy–a United Nations observance celebrated on September 15 every year since 2007. The day came about following a Resolution by the UN General Assembly aimed at promoting and upholding the principles of democracy.

Interestingly, the preamble of the resolution affirmed that: “while democracies share common features, there is no single model of democracy and democracy does not belong to any country or region…democracy is a universal value based on the freely-expressed will of people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems, and their full participation in all aspects of life.” It is instructive that amid the celebration of democracy on Monday, global powers were, at best, trying to import their own brand of democracy into many countries. This undoubtedly has given rise to groups like ISIS, who believe that they must protect their “democracy” from Western influence. The result is endless bloodletting and destabilisation. There could be no explanation for the mass killings and beheadings that groups like ISIS have carried out; the atrocities in Ukraine and the long war in countries like Afghanistan where scores of people are often killed in one blast.

As observed by the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, this year’s commemoration comes at a time when the world seems more turbulent than ever. In many regions and in many ways, the values of the UN, including some of the most fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in its Charter, are being tested and challenged.

“Recent outbreaks of violence reinforce a truth we have seen time and again: that where societies are not inclusive, and where governments are not responsive and accountable, peace, equality and shared prosperity cannot take hold. We need to do more to empower individuals, focusing on the billions of people who are underprivileged, marginalised, jobless, hopeless and understandably frustrated. We need to ensure they are heard and can take an active part in their future,” the UN SG said.

Remember, in Guyana for many years, the rights of citizens were trampled on; elections were rigged; the security forces conducted widespread surveillance on ordinary Guyanese and the same hopelessness that Mr Ban spoke of was very much in evidence in the country. Through the blood of persons like Dr Walter Rodney and the resilience of Dr Cheddi Jagan that dark period ended in 1992 and today, Guyana is a democratic society. It is within this context that the occasion of International Day of Democracy must be celebrated in Guyana. That, today amid the turmoil in other regions, through a system of good democratic practices, the Nation State remains stable and this must be zealously guarded against those who may still harbour thoughts of yesteryear.

International Day of Democracy also underscores the importance of conducting elections that enjoy the trust and confidence of citizens across the country. This, for many Guyanese, is the heartbeat of democracy. For they know too well how elections were stolen and how many paid with their lives for trying to guard that sacred right to elect a government of their choice. It is no coincidence that the “Rebirth of Democracy” in Guyana began with the conduct of peaceful and credible elections in 1992.

The litmus test for genuine democracy is the extent to which the electoral process is able to engender fair and inclusive electoral participation by the people. Credible elections must be people-based. The recent brouhaha concerning the integrity of the Guyana Elections Commission’s Preliminary List of Electors is a clear indication of how touchy this subject is. It, therefore, behoves all stakeholders to place critical importance on strengthening election management because of the central role it plays in ensuring the rights of citizens to elect their leaders through peaceful and credible processes with integrity.

Canada wants trade deal with Caricom finalised

- disappointed over stalled negotiations

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Canada and the Caribbean Community (Caricom) have failed to conclude trade negotiations after initiating talks back in 2007, with the aim of replacing an agreement which expired in December 2013.

“After seven years of negotiating with Caricom, Canada is disappointed that an agreement has not been reached,” Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Nicole Giles said during an interview with Guyanese media last Friday.

In a quest to whip up support, Dr Giles advocated for Canadian partners within Caricom to “redouble their efforts” to ensure an agreement is reached in the near future.

The seventh round of negotiations toward the CanadaCaricom Free Trade Agreement was held in Barbados from June 16-21, days ahead of the drop dead deadline–June 30–which was agreed upon by both parties.

Even as uncertainty looms, the High Commissioner said Canada remains committed to negotiating a modern trade agreement with Caricom, positing that Canada has been extremely generous and accommodating.

“We have made clear every step of the way that we remain firmly committed to the US$600 million development assistance that has been announced for the Region. Sadly, despite the extensive flexibility and accommodation that Canada has shown over the past seven years, Caricom nations, as a group, have not been able to come to an agreement,”

Dr Giles said. It was Prime Minister Stephen Harper in 2007 who pledged the US$600 million to Caricom countries with Cdn$14.5 million allocated for the Caricom Trade Competitiveness Programme, Cdn$20 million for the Caribbean Disaster Risk Management Programme, and Cdn$20 million for the Caribbean Institutional Leadership Development Programme.

It is estimated that over the last six years, two-thirds of the US$600 million has been allocated. Additionally, during the period 2006-2011, Canada had given financial aid to Haiti to the tune of Cdn$555 million.

Asked whether an extended negotiating period was granted following the June 30 deadline, the High Commissioner was unable to indicate, but maintained that Canada stands willing to finalise the agreement.

In May, Caricom had stated that the “simultaneous negotiation of several trade issues as part of one international trade agreement” is a complex process. The regional grouping had said “successful conclusion of the exercise requires not only administrative coordination but technocratic/thematic synchronisation to ensure that per issue, the terms negotiated are complementary and are consistent with the overall negotiation mandate”.

Committed to negotiations

But international analysts have said that strong political will is needed.

On the flip side, Canada said the free trade agreement would give rise to new oppor-

tunities for Canadian businesses in varying sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture and financial services.

Canada maintains that it remains committed to negotiating a modern trade agreement with Caricom that will take into account differing levels of development, vulnerabilities associated with island states, and trade-related capacity challenges.

Since the early 2000s, Canada has been attempting to put arrangements in place for the free trade agreements, but it was only until 2008 that Caricom agreed to engage Canada. That level of agreement too occurred at a time when the previous agreement was nearing its expiry date. Initiated in 1986, it had paved the way for Caricom commodities to enter the Canadian market duty-free, with just a few exceptions.

Just after the U.S., Canada is the third largest market for exports of goods from Caricom. It is said that although Canada represents a meagre four percent of Caricom’s market for the export of goods, it is the only developed nation which allows Caricom countries to enjoy a trade surplus.

In a quest to build its argument, Canada has said that Caricom had benefitted significantly from the two-way merchandise trade which has “more than doubled over the last decade”.

It was pointed that revenues garnered from trade arrangements with Canada had jumped from US$1.0 billion in 1998 to US$2.5 billion in 2008. (Guyana Times)

Catholic priest laments

Trinidad’s

police killings

- as new law term opens

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Catholic priest in Trinidad Fr Clyde Harvey Tuesday expressed alarm at the 38 police killings for the year, labelling them as “extra-judicial killings” as he delivered the homily at the interfaith service for the ceremonial opening of the 2014/2015 law term.

Admitting at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Portof-Spain, he was “stepping out of his crease,” Harvey said the matter was cause for concern.

“Over 30 of our citizens

have been killed by police officers,” Harvey told the congregation.

He added: “These have been extra-judicial killings. Let’s name it for what it is. I think all of us have to feel something about that. I feel a tremendous sympathy, even empathy for the police officers and one of the frightening nightmarish thoughts I had the other night is that there are 30-something police officers who are responsible for 30-something deaths.

“Or is it there are a few police officers who are responsible for 30-something deaths,

which means that some of them are toting three, four or five ghosts.

“If that is so, we have a problem, a serious problem and all of us are responsible and that affects the law because people on the ground know what is going on.”

His reference to people on ground was viewed by many in the audience as a reference to the fact that as a priest he deals with some of the criminal element in his work with in the east Port-ofSpain community and other crime hotspot areas and would, as a result of that, get information to which other members of the public would not be privy.

He told the gathering, including President Anthony Carmona, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams and other dignitaries, that they had a responsibility to be sensitive about these things and to do everything in their power to address and correct it. (Excerpted from TT Guardian)

Guyanese lawmen get training to destroy firearms

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The 11 ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the 14 ranks of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) who successfully completed training in the use and maintenance of both the firearm destruction hydraulic shears and small arms ammunition-burning tank have been presented with their certificates.

According to the Government Information Agency (GINA), during a simple ceremony held at the Home Affairs Ministry, subject minister Clement Rohee pre-

sented the ranks with their certificate of completion.

Rohee congratulated the ranks and he thanked the United Nations (UN) for affording the ranks the opportunity. The training was done under the auspices of the United Nations Office for Disarmament’s Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC).

According to the minister, the partnership between Guyana and the UN on the subject of stock pile management is part of the greater goal of

disarmament. “Guyana has always adopted a stance of zero tolerance towards the arms trade, a growing phenomenal globally which has links to other offences such as drug trafficking.”

Hence he stated that Guyana has recognised the importance of being able to control the proliferation of weapons, ammunition and explosives as part of its goal of maintaining national security. “We should not forget that the proliferation of the illegal arms trade has implications for the welfare of our citizens,” he indicated. (GINA)

Jamaica bans electronic cigarettes imports

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Jamaican authorities have blocked the importation of electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes with liquid cartridges or replacement liquid cartridges.

Jamaica's one-yearold ban on smoking in public spaces also restricts the use of e-ciga-

rettes.

E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices that mimic the experience of smoking. Users inhale a vapour from a heated liquid that contains a concentration of nicotine.

A leaked World Health Organisation document earlier this year referred to e-ciga-

rettes as a threat which could result in a new wave of the tobacco epidemic.

According to customs, the Health Ministry says the ban is due to the absence of supporting information that would allow for the appropriate assessment for safety approval of the product.

The ministry reportedly said the e-cigarettes have not been fully investigated and the Nicotine content delivered to the user is not yet known.

The Health Ministry says it is not aware of the health risks that users may be exposed to, or the benefits associated with the use of e-cigarettes.

The Jamaica Customs Agency says it will be enforcing the prohibition until further notice is given. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Guyana ratifies UN Convention on disabilities

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Guyana became the latest country to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which is widely regarded as the first international human rights treaty of the 21st century and one of the fastest to be ratified.

“The 150th ratification is evidence of the commitment by the international community to promote and protect the human rights of persons with disabilities,” said Maria Soledad Cisternas Reyes on be-

half of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which monitors how states implement the Convention.

In a statement, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) said “disability rights worldwide have reached a major milestone” with the ratification. About 15 percent of the world’s population lives with some form of disability, and those persons face physical, social, economic and attitudinal barriers that prevent them from effectively participating

in society, according to UN figures.

Persons with disabilities are also disproportionately represented among the world’s poorest, and lack equal access to basic resources such as education, employment, healthcare, and legal support systems.

“This Convention, in force for just six years, has been ratified across all regions and cultures, and is on the way to becoming universally recognised. We call on those states still to ratify to do so,” said Cisternas, who chairs the CRPD. (Guyana Times)

Veteran Jamaican journalist dead at 69

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Veteran journalist Clare Forrester died Monday evening in Florida after a long illness. She was 69. Forrester, who passed away at 7:10 pm, was living at her brother’s home in Port St Lucie but was taken to a hospice on the advice of a nurse last week Monday after her con-

deteriorated,

Young men account for most of TT’s prison population

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Young males—including those in their teens to mid-thirties—make up approximately 64 percent of TT’s total prison population, statistics obtained by TT media show as concerns over the toll of crime on the nation’s next generation continue to deepen.

The statistics show the total prison population, as at the second quarter of this year, stood at 3,524. According to the Locking-Up Report kept by the Prison Service authorities, this total included all stations that fall under the purview of the Service such the Youth Training Centre.

In response to a request for a breakdown of these figures, the Prison Service disaggregated the number of males in prison custody according to age.

The total of adult males in prison custody, excluding Tobago Prison and the Youth Training Centre, was 3,304. Of these, a total of 2,239 were under 35 years (further broken down as: under 18-4; 18 to 251,090; 26 to 30-649; 31 to 35-496).

A total of 977 of the male prisoners were between the ages of 36 to 60. Forty-five were over 60 years old. The ages of 43 prisoners were classed as unknown.

Disclosure of the statistics comes amid concerns over the impact of crime on youth as well as amid concerns over prison conditions with two death by suicides involving young males in recent weeks. The figures also come as the State is set, in 2015, to spend millions more on incarceration and youth facilities.

Last week, Finance and Economy Minister Larry Howai unveiled the 2015 Budget which contains measures to increase expenditure on prisons.

According to the Estimates of Development Programme Expenditure for 2015, tabled in Parliament by Howai on Monday, the Ministry of Justice is expected to expend TT$10 million on the “improvement/refurbishment of the pre-release centre

and/or functional prison at Santa Rosa, Arima”. Also, TT$2 million has been allocated for the acquisition of CCTV for the Prison Service. There is also to be the refurbishment of the buildings at the Youth Training Centre; and the construction of a nursery at the Women’s Prison at Golden Grove. The Ministry of Gender, Youth and Child Development, which last week announced TT$2.7 million in youth-events, is also expected to spend TT$1 million for a programme called Youths in Especially Challenging Circumstances. Refurbishment of youth centres by the ministry (TT$16 million) remains ongoing, but has been transferred to the Infrastructure Development Fund. (Excerpted from TT Newsday)

adding that she was eight days shy of her 70th birthday.

Forrester, who wrote a weekly column in the Jamaica Observer on media issues before she went abroad for medical treatment, had extensive experience in a range of social communication roles with national, regional and international organisations. (Jamaica Observer)

Schoolteacher in Trinidad court for offering cop bribe

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

A primary school teacher in Trinidad has been put on TT$30,000 bail on two charges for allegedly offering a policeman a bribe and driving under the influence of alcohol. Baboolal Ramsubhag, who teaches at a government school in Penal, pleaded not guilty when he appeared before San Fernando Traffic Court Magistrate Rehanna Hosein on the two charges. He was arrested during a road traffic exercise on the San Fernando Siparia Erin Road, San Fernando early last Saturday morning, taken to the San Fernando Police Station and charged. However, Ramsubhag was released later after securing TT$30,000 bail granted by a justice of peace at the station.

The first charge alleged that he exceeded the alcohol limit by 66 microgrammes. The limit is 35 microgrammes.

The second charge alleged that he attempted to induce PC Gangapersad Sookai by offering him TT$500 cash to commit a breach of peace to forego prosecution. Ramsubhag’s at-

torney Jason Jackson asked for disclosure as soon as possible. Court prosecutor Sgt Dianath Harricharan said the only prosecution witness he would be calling to give evidence in the matter was Sookai.

The magistrate set the matter for trial for November 19. (TT Guardian)

Barbados building Ebola isolation unit

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS:

The construction of a fully-equipped isolation unit is underway in Barbados on the grounds of the Enmore Health Centre of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) as the Ministry of Health ramps up its four-prong action plan to keep the island Ebola free.

The unit, which should be operational by the end of the month, is being designed to handle all infectious diseases and, according to Minister of Health John Boyce, the move is part of a national programme to assure Barbadians the island has the infrastructure to respond to any incident that may arise.

Suicidal kids, a worrying reality in Jamaica

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: Approximately 20 percent of Jamaica high school students are at risk of committing suicide, a new research has shown. Following a cluster of youth suicide in 2011, the Ministry of Health conducted a research which said that Jamaica’s mid-adolescents stand at the highest risk of committing suicide.

The 2012 study, which was funded by the United Nations Children’s Fund, collected data from 3,471 grade eight, 10, 11, and 12 students across 38 randomly selected secondary schools. The findings were shared on World Suicide Prevention Day, last week, at the Hope Fellowship Church in St Andrew.

“Mid-adolescence seems to be the most tumultuous years, and those [in this category] are the ones we need to target.

"Thirty-five percent (1,075 students) admitted to suicidal ideation in their lifetime, 69.9 percent experienced the thoughts, 25 percent think about it often,” explained Dr Judith Leiba Thomas, director of child and adolescent mental health in the Health Ministry. She added that students in grade 10 were most at risk, while those in grade 12 had the lowest risk.

Moreover, she said that the association, in terms of gender, showed that more females expressed lifestyle suicidal ideation and attempted suicide, but more males actually complete suicide. The study revealed that, while repeating grades and learning problems were associated with suicide risk, there was no relationship between suicide and a child's relationship with his parents or attitude towards school and school performance.

Parental factors

“The parental factors are important in childhood, but by mid-adolescence other factors are taking the forefront, such as peer factors and biological factors,” said Leiba Thomas. But, in examining those who attempted suicide and turned up at hospitals, the study focused on seven hospitals over the one-year period.

The information collected by means of a data

extraction sheet showed that, of 228 cases of attempted suicide captured in the seven hospitals, 137 were in the youth age group, which stops at age 24. Leiba Thomas said more females than males attempted suicide and pointed out that, of the 228 cases at hospital, 10 were wards of the state. She explained further that the main cause of attempted suicide was inter-personal conflict.

The most common method for attempted suicide was found to be overdose of medicine, but 52.2 percent of ‘attempters’ have additional diagnoses such as mental disorders.

“At the top was major depression disorder, then adjustment disorder, and psychotic disorder,” she said. Moreover, of the 53 reported cases of suicide, 14 involved people under age 25, while 30 percent were males. (Jamaica Observer)

“In the past we have been dealing with some of these cases with specially equipped wards in the hospital, by the use of barrier nursing and the attending controls, but we feel the time is right for Barbados to establish a fully equipped isolation unit to deal with high contagious infectious diseases.”

The unit will consist of four beds.

Updating media managers on the island’s response to the Ebola virus, which has claimed 2,400 lives in West Africa, Boyce said the establishment of the isolation unit has been endorsed by the Cabinet and the necessary financing would be made available, although he did not provide a figure.

Last week, talks were held with the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners to secure support for the move which will be led by Dr

“It’s no secret that from time to time there are cases of tuberculosis or we have to deal with other highly contagious diseases. The point I am making here is that the need for an isolation system is not anything new, it is something which has flared up from time to time but typically subsides when there is no rampant emergency,” he said Monday.

Corey Forde from the QEH and the ministry’s Dr Karen Springer.

In addition to the unit, the authorities have also taken action to secure the nation’s ports by activating the quarantine units at the Grantley Adams International Airport and the Bridgetown Port.

“Both of these units are being brought up to a high level of response and to a much higher level of sophistication in the event that we have to handle an arriving case,” Boyce said.

Acting chief medical officer Dr Kenneth George, who underscored that Barbados’ risk of having Ebola remains low, reported that other critical stakeholders have been trained and plans are being rolled out for a public education exercise.

He also stressed that a clear protocol outlining how travellers would be handled is in place, as he insisted that no visitor would be harassed.

(Barbados Today)

Jamaica moves to strengthen forensic capability

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Government’s Forensic Laboratory and the Legal Medicine Unit in Jamaica will in the 2015/16 fiscal year be renamed the Institute of Forensic Science, with direct reporting to the Ministry of National Security.

Making the announcement, Security Minister Peter Bunting said the move is part of measures to reduce crime and violence and corruption, through investigative capacity building for the country's law enforcement agents.

"It is not just important for it to be an independent investigative institute, but also that it be preserved as that, and the influence of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) will not be any greater than any of its other stakeholders," the minister said.

Jamaica’s national security minister

He was addressing the handing over of ballistics comparison microscopes and DNA kits by the United States (U.S.) Embassy to the Forensic Laboratory in Kingston last Thursday.

The improved facility, he said, "will be able to offer forensic science services on an expanded basis, to other governments in the Region, and to the private sector."

He lauded the United States for the equipment, noting that it will be filling a gap that was identified in a Report done by the Office of the Public Defender on the Tivoli Gardens operations in May 2010.

Chargé d'Affaires at the U.S. Embassy, Elizabeth Martinez said the equipment handed over should aid greatly in crime fighting, when used in the giving of evidence. (Jamaica Observer)

Bunting said JCF personnel who are currently assigned to the laboratory will, over time, have the opportunity to take up secondment with the institute, with other options of becoming "full-time staff, or they will be able to return to the JCF".

Trinidad highway project continues - despite hunger strike threats from environmentalist

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD: TT’s

Chief State Solicitor has written to environmentalist Dr Wayne Kublalsingh, saying the State cannot accede to his request of halting the construction of the Debe to Mon Desir section of the Golconda to Point Fortin Highway.

In a letter dated September 3, Kublalsingh, called on the Prime Minister, to abide by the recommendations of the Armstrong report, and to stop the

construction of the highway.

Kublalsingh has threatened to go on a hunger strike within 14 days if the Prime Minister did not accede to his requests.

The Prime Minister passed the letter to Attorney General Anand Ramlogan who said “….such action would lead to consequences and risks, which are unknown. However, you do so at your own peril. While you have the right to protest in a lawful manner, the State has

the duty and responsibility to protect life and will not be deterred in adhering to that responsibility as it had done in the past.”

Meanwhile, the Chief State Solicitor has pointed out that the issues raised by Kublalsingh and his Highway ReRoute Movement (HRM), formed part of the constitutional motion filed against the State.

“You and the members of your movement have invoked the original jurisdiction of the High Court under section 14 of the Constitution seeking constitutional protection of the court, alleging breaches of your constitutional rights.

“The Attorney General is representing the interest of the State in this matter. Both parties are being represented by eminent Senior members of the Inner Bar. Substantial resources have been devoted by both parties.

The Chief State Solicitor reminded Kublalsingh that the High Court had ruled that the Highway ReRoute Movement was not entitled to injunctive relief in this matter and as a result he intends to seek further relief from the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council. (TT Newsday)

TT’s AG sues Rowley over E-mailgate

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

TT’s Attorney General Anand Ramlogan has filed yet another defamation lawsuit against Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley, this time for his role in the controversial E-mailgate scandal. It comes almost three weeks after Ramlogan produced correspondence from Google Inc which he said invalidated a thread of incriminating e-mails purportedly sent between him, Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar and other senior government ministers. According to the documents, filed in the Port-of-Spain High Court last Thursday afternoon, Ramlogan is alleging that Rowley committed slander when he spoke extensively on the alleged conspiracy at a public meeting

in San Juan, days after he revealed the emails in Parliament on May 20 last year. While Ramlogan’s lawyers admitted that Rowley could not be sued for his statement in the House of Representatives as it fell under parliamentary privilege, they said he had no protection for his subsequent comments. In addition to general and aggravated damages from Rowley for damage to his reputation,

Jamaica police record significant decline in murders

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Jamaica was Monday on the verge of recording its 700th murder this year, but police statistics show that this is a significant reduction when compared with last year.

According to the latest Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Periodic Serious and Violent Crime Review, 699 people were reported killed up to Sunday, 125, or 15 percent, fewer than the 824 murders recorded for the corresponding period last year.

In May, murders were nine percent below the number recorded for the first four months of last year.

The fall-off in murders is in line with the across-the-board reduction in all other categories of serious crimes between January 1 and last weekend.

The JCF data show that shootings fell nine percent; rapes dropped 23 percent; robberies declined 20 percent; larcenies fell 19 percent; aggravated assaults decreased 18 percent and break-ins fell two percent.

Police killings down

It also shows that police fatal shootings-a controversial issue for years--was almost slashed in half, with 88 reported cases so far this year.

Some 158 persons were reported killed by the police over the corresponding period last year.

Despite all the positive signs, the lingering problem of the JCF's paltry clear-up rate persisted as, according to the statistics, only 299 of the 699 murders have been solved.

Of the 789 shootings, 259 have been solved, while 254 of the 465 rapes have been solved.

A breakdown of the JCF data shows that all but three of the 19 police divisions nationwide saw a decrease in murders and rapes. The Hanover, St Ann and Kingston Central divisions were the ones that recorded increases ranging from nine to 19 percent.

In May, eight police divisions reported an increase in murders.

The six murders reported in Portland were the fewest for any division.

According to the data, 520 of all the murders recorded so far this year were in Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine, Clarendon and St James. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Suriname secures rice export deal with Venezuela

PARAMARIBO, SURINAME:

Suriname and Venezuela are one step closer to signing a longterm rice export deal that ultimately could result in a boost for Suriname’s struggling rice industry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paramaribo confirmed.

The breakthrough came last Thursday in Caracas during talks between Suriname’s President Desi Bouterse and Foreign Minister Winston Lackin with a Venezuelan delegation led by President Nicolas Maduro.

Ramlogan is also seeking more than TT$1.2 million in legal fees in defending the “reckless” allegation, including US$75,000 spent to sue Google to clarify the issue. The fee is still pending, with Ramlogan’s legal team in the United States still involved in a lawsuit filed by the Integrity Commission which is seeking similar information in its probe of the issue. (Excerpted from TT Guardian)

The agreement to export rice was a deal secured by late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and Bouterse in November 2010 in Paramaribo, and the new government has pledged to continue the programmes of cooperation Chavez initiated with Suriname. Both countries say they are committed to strengthen and enhance economic and trade cooperation including rice production and export.

“The completion of a multi-annual contract is now in advanced stage at the Ministry of Food Affairs of Venezuela.

Very soon, it is expected, we will sign a final longterm supply contract,” said the Surinamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

For 2015, Suriname has offered to supply Venezuela 32.000 metric tonnes of seed paddy and an additional 80.000 metric tonnes of white rice. According to the Surinamese authorities, Venezuela in principal has agreed with the prices Paramaribo has put forward. However, both sides still have to agree on several technical terms and specifications regarding the rice shipments.

As soon as these have been finalised the executing bodies in Venezuela will be instructed to re-

lease the funds through the PetroCaribe cooperation mechanism, which facilitates this venture. According to the provisional arrangements, every two weeks Suriname will export 4.000 metric tonnes of rice to Caracas.

The agreement with Venezuela secures new markets for Surinamese rice producers, who recently staged a weeklong protest in Nieuw Nickerie to voice their anger with the price they are being offered by local processors and exporters. During clashes between local police and demonstrating rice growers, officers used pepper spray to disperse the protesters. Eventually negotiations with the government have led to an agreement in which the government says it will subsidise the rice producers with about US$142 per

paddy rice.

HIV down in Jamaica

- except among men who have sex with men

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

There has been a general decline in HIV prevalence among selected populations in Jamaica, except among men who have sex with men.

Data on Jamaica's HIV/AIDS status was presented Monday by director of treatment, care and support in the National HIV/STI Programme, Dr Nicola Skyers at the opening ceremony for the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) Treatment 2.0 Mission at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus.

"When we look at our prevalence among selected populations, we see the overall decline in all groups except our MSM (men who have sex with men) population," Dr Skyers said.

The selected populations included antenatal clinic attendees, sexually transmitted infection clinic attendees, female sex workers, men who have sex with men, inmates, homeless people and drug users.

"(For) the antenatal clinic attendees, we have moved...from 0.9 percent prevalence in 2009 and in 2013, we were reporting 0.7 percent; STI clinic attendees down from 2.8 (percent) in 2010 to 2.4 (percent) in 2013; we have some studies

that are yet to be completed that will give us some new data for our sex workers and our men who have sex with men," Dr Skyers said.

"Our inmates (moved) from 2.2 percent in 2010 to 1.9 percent in 2013," she said.

Challenges

The HIV prevalence among the homeless and drug users has dropped from 12 percent in 2010 to four percent in 2013. The available statistics for female sex workers also showed a decline from 4.9 percent in 2008 to 4.2 percent in 2011, while the data available for men who have sex with men showed HIV prevalence at 32 percent in 2011.

However, Dr Skyers admitted that though the high HIV prevalence among MSM is a challenge, they do recognise that the "challenge with our data in that we are accessing MSM in the lower SES

(socio economic status), so the output could be somewhat biased and hopefully the methodology that we will be using with this current survey will engage a more representative sample of the population, so we are hoping to see a decline".

Although the parishes with the highest prevalence of HIV remained those considered urban areas and those in the tourism belt, Dr Skyers also reported that Jamaica has maintained a prevalence below two percent for the last five to 10 years and has also noted a decrease in the number and percentage of people who are unaware of their HIV status. This was formerly reported at 50 percent over the years, but Dr Skyers said with the new spectrum estimated that Jamaica was at 30 percent being unaware of their status. (Jamaica Observer)

Port-of-Spain’s ‘Textile King’ dies

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Longstanding Portof-Spain businessman Jimmy Charles Aboud, who was the father of Gregory Aboud, head of the Downtown Owners and Merchants Association, passed away Monday.

In a statement,

Gregory Aboud said his father passed away in the early hours of the morning.

“Mr Aboud had been admitted to the Cardiac Care Unit of the University of Miami Hospital for an emergency valve replacement procedure that was specific to his condition and available in only a few

Caricom ups efforts to fight Chikungunya

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

The Caribbean Community (Caricom) is formalising recommendations to deal with any possible incidence of the Ebola virus and is ramping up efforts to respond to the Chikungunya epidemic, the Georgetownbased Secretariat of the 15-nation bloc said on Monday.

According to Caricom, last Friday, Chief Medical Officers and other technical health experts from Caricom Member States met via video conference to rationalise the Region’s response to the two diseases. This meeting was convened by the Caricom Secretariat in collaboration with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

Among draft proposals that were fleshed out at the meeting was the achievement of the core competencies cited in the World Health Organisation (WHO) International Health Regulations. Discussions additionally focused on the need to urge a calm but prudent response when applying the WHO’s recommendation with regard to the Ebola virus–no restrictions on travel and trade in areas

where Ebola transmission has occurred. The urgent need to put in place isolation facilities and resources to permit barrier management of suspected or affected cases of Ebola was also ventilated at the meeting.

Meanwhile, Director of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), Dr Carissa Etienne last Thursday assured that there was a very low death rate from Chikungunya, despite the significant illness and disability it causes.

Dr Etienne visited the Caricom Secretariat for a courtesy call on Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque, and met with officials of the Directorate of Human and Social Development

to discuss the Region’s response to the current disease alerts.

Dr Etienne said that Chikungunya has had a significant effect on productivity and the social and economic life of affected communities, and it was, therefore, critical to concentrate response efforts on vector reduction. She said multisectoral action was needed to ensure access to water and to avoid storage which encourages mosquito breeding. Adequate garbage disposal and activating communities to take better care of themselves at the community and individual levels were other critical responses, the PAHO Director proposed.

Guyana’s Home Affairs Minister orders probe into Mazaruni Prison killing

centres in the United States. He survived the surgery, but became complicated with varying issues related to his advanced age. He finally succumbed peacefully with his family around him this (Monday) morning.”

He was 87. He was also the father of High Court judge James Aboud, and general secretary of Fishermen and Friends of the Sea Gary Aboud.

The businessman, who owned the iconic Jimmy Aboud fabric store, and who called himself ‘The Textile King’, at the corner of Queen and Henry Streets, Port-of-Spain, established his business in a single doorway rental shop on Charlotte Street in September 1949 with a TT$50 overdraft from Barclays Bank. (TT Guardian)

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Home Affairs Minister in Guyana Clement Rohee on Monday promised that a full investigation will be launched into the stabbing to death of Theon Smith allegedly by a fellow inmate, Akeem Edwards, over a stolen mobile phone on Sunday at Mazaruni Prison. Rohee admitted that “prisoners are prisoners”, especially the convicted ones who have been sentenced for serious crimes, and the possibility will always exist that there will be plotting and planning and more so, the inmates will have grudges against each other but that does not give “the right to take a life”. Such incidents, he

noted, are most unfortunate when they take place and reiterated that an investigation will be launched to get to the bottom of what transpired. In addition, he added that usually when investigations are completed, a whole host of issues are brought to the fore. He said in light of the recent reports of incidents at various correctional institutions, the government has adopted a strategic plan for the Guyana Prison Service, which was divided into two parts. “One is in respect to the custodial aspects of prisons and the other is with respect to prison reform and corrections.”

The minister explained that they

have taken a Bill to Parliament to amend the Prison Act so that the Prison Service could be renamed, but, unfortunately, it was thrown out by the Opposition. The 24-year-old Smith, also known as Theon Branche, was at the time serving a 15year sentence for robbery under arms, possession of an illegal firearm as well as break and entry. His attacker was serving a similar sentence for the same offences. It was reported that Edwards, armed with a knife, followed Smith and repeatedly stabbed him during an altercation. Smith was pronounced dead on arrival at the Bartica Hospital. (Guyana Times)

Jamaica’s new top cop vows to build trust in police

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: Dr Carl Williams Monday took the reins as Jamaica's 28th commissioner of police, vowing to increase the level of trust between the men and women under his charge and the citizens they serve and protect, while weeding out corrupt cops who tarnish the reputation of force.

"I give you my personal commitment, that under my watch, the JCF will act decisively to remove any member who has chosen the path of corruption," Dr Williams said to rousing applause from an audience of officials, well-wishers, and the large contingent of rank-and-file officers attending the change of command ceremony held at the Police Officers' Club on Hope Road, St Andrew.

Dr Williams, at the same time, said the reorganised Major Organised Crime and AntiCorruption Task Force will strengthen the police's ability to root out and prosecute those who undermine the mission of the security forces and who tarnish the reputation of the JCF.

"We will ensure that there is accountability at all levels in the JCF, and our police officers will be held to the highest standards of integrity," he said.

Dr Williams, while commending the hardworking men and women of the JCF, also made it clear that communities must come to rely on the police as protectors of their rights.

Even as he admitted that the job of police commissioner was not one for the faint-hearted, he

pledged to ensure that no one would be above the law as it seeks to protect everyone, regardless of social standing.

According to Williams, it was unfortunate that the police still had a chal-

the JCF, as the organisation would be unrelenting in its quest to bring criminal offenders to justice.

"We cannot allow this to continue," he said.

Meanwhile, the new commissioner stated that the reduction of crime remained a top priority for

lenging relationship with the communities they serve, noting that while the vast majority of police officers serve with honour and dignity, there were those whose actions violated the very rights they have been sworn to protect.

As part of the commitment to greater transparency and accountability, the new commissioner added that he has undertaken to keep the public informed on major developments within the JCF in the coming months. He also committed the constabulary to continuing the partnership with the Jamaica Defence Force, Independent Commission of Investigations, other law-enforcement agencies, human rights advocates, civil society groups and Jamaica's international partners to achieve the "vision of becoming a high-quality professional service that is valued and trusted by all Jamaicans".(Jamaica Observer)

Trini husband and wife commit suicide two years apart

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Haunted by the death of his wife, Jassodra Gosine-Lall, a bank clerk in Trinidad, who reportedly took her own life two years ago, police constable Ronnie Lall, 38, did the same thing on Monday, mak-

ing their eight- year-old daughter, Simran, an orphan.

Simran is a standard one pupil of the Rochard Douglas Presbyterian School, Barrackpore. A police officer for the past 16 years, Lall of Imamali Trace, Cunjal Road, Barrackpore is believed

to have committed suicide by ingesting a poisonous substance while visiting the home of a relative on Monday.

According to reports, he had been on sick leave for the past three months.

Tuesday, in extending condolences to the bereaved family, a se-

nior police officer of the Southern Division described Lall as a “troubled person” who had been sent by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service for counselling on numerous occasions. “But the counselling sessions didn’t seem to work for him as he never seemed to get over the death of his wife.”

According to a police report, at about 11.30 am on Monday, Lall was discovered dead at the home of a relative by his mother, Chandra Lall, 63, of Oropouche South Trace, Barrackpore. (TT Newsday)

Guyana gov’t provides free bus rides for commuters

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: In an effort to alleviate financial exploitation of East Coast and West Demerara commuters using public transportation, the Guyana government, through the Public Works and Communication Ministry, on Monday introduced a fleet of 10 44-seater buses to transport residents free of cost.

While the move is not intended to stifle the livelihood of minibus operators plying the East and West Coast and West Bank of Demerara, Public Works Minister Robeson Benn said government had become weary of the complaints levelled against these operators by commuters.

not support an increase in fares if the price of diesel or gasoline did not exceed Gy$1000.

He added that government has always been open to having consultations on the matter, but cannot countenance unilateral actions without consultations.

Asked how long the service will continue, Benn said he could not say but is hoping that it goes on for as long as possible.

Bahamas parliament passes controversial Gaming Bill

NASSAU, BAHAMAS:

Prime Minister Perry Christie said in the House of Assembly on Monday the country is expected to benefit from millions of dollars in additional revenue once the regularisation process is complete.

Despite previous projections that web shop taxes would generate US$12 million annually, Christie said the government stands to collect more than twice that amount.

Benn said the service began Saturday last, and commuters are being allowed to travel free until some issues are ironed out.

“We’ve had this situation before where we responded by bringing in buses provided free to try to alleviate the situation and try to help

“We at the Ministry of Public Works have become increasingly concerned with the state of public transportation resulting out of threats of the withdrawal of services. They (operators) are forcing people to pay higher fares and sometimes double the fares, and also forcing people to pay a full fare when they are coming off short,” Benn told media operatives who turned up at the Stabroek Market area in the vicinity of the West Coast and West Bank Demerara Bus Parks to see the vehicles.

the minibus operators to come to a position where they will consult with the Ministry of Public Works and Trade with respect to any desires or concerns they may have with respect to increasing fares,” Benn explained.

He noted that government is seeking to prevent a situation where commuters are forced to suffer as a result of one-sided actions by the minibus operators.

Minister Benn said government had taken a decision that it would

Salim Wahir, proprietor of Knight Riders Transportation, one of the bus services contracted by the ministry, said that his company is offering a free service to the ministry. According to him, it is simply responding to a situation to ease the level of financial distress on commuters. “At the moment what we’re doing is we are trying out. There’s no financial arrangement in place. We are assisting the ministry. There is no payment terms; it is free for now, because they are compensating for the tolls and fuels and pay the drivers.” (Guyana Times)

Following several days of heated debate, a controversial Gaming Bill was passed in the Bahamas House of Assembly on Monday with 25 'yes' votes and seven 'no' votes.

The Bill maintains the provision that prohibits people ordinarily resident in The Bahamas from gambling in casinos.

However, it does contain a provision that would allow the minister with responsibility for gaming to override that discriminatory element.

The Bill will lead to the regulation of the web shop industry.

However, he noted that the new projections are based on unverified information received from the majority of the web shop operators. According to the prime minister, the government is projected to collect US$25 million in penalties, back business licence fees, and application fees payable during the transition period. As a penalty, web shop operators will be required to pay business licence fees and gaming taxes for a period of six years in lieu of taxes which would have been paid had the businesses been licensed under the act. (Caribbean News)

Guyana’s housing drive reaches more citizens

- 500 get house lots at Providence

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Central Housing and Planning Authority last Friday pulled off another successful One Stop Shop at the National Stadium, which saw some 500 plus house lots being made available to Guyanese in a Gy$1.2 billion housing scheme aback the National Stadium.

It was noted that Gy$60 million alone went into providing Providence Phase 3 with electricity. Housing Minister Irfaan Ali, who gave brief remarks at the event, noted that the price that persons were paying for the house lots which is between Gy$1.5 million and Gy$2 million, was heavily subsidised, contending that the original price was

almost three times that amount.

Ali pointed out that already major development has been taking place in the scheme, noting not only the availability of electricity but also the asphalt roads in the community.

He also pointed out that the government has intentions of running a major roadway from Ogle on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) to Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) through the housing development. This would give residents more entrance and exit options.

Further, he pointed out the area is well poised to become a major commercial district, complete with malls, Banks, and a University that is already under construc-

tion. With that in mind, it was noted that the house lots in the area would appreciate greatly and their value would “skyrocket”.

This newspaper spoke to several of the persons there who all expressed joy at the opportunity to own their own land in the area.

One man who gave his name as Terrence went to the event with his wife and youngest son. Terrence explained that he was elated to have the opportunity to “finally” own a plot of land and begin construction of his own home for his family.

He said: “I am really excited, I can’t wait to start building. If I could have started building today, I would have started; I just can’t wait to get

the process over with.”

When asked whether he had visited the area the man responded in the negative, but said from the reviews he has heard thus far from persons who would have taken the time to visit, he is “certain it won’t disappoint…we love the area”.

A woman who has visited the scheme ex-

plained that she was blown away by what she saw. “They have proper roads and I saw lantern posts, so that means electricity and the drainage, everything is just there; is just for me to go and build now. I am really, really happy that I received what I wanted; it is a very nice area,” she related.

She further explained that she had applied a long while ago and to have the opportunity presented to her was a “blessing”. She too contended that she would soon commencing building, adding that she was looking forward to the area becoming a major district in the coming years. (Guyana Times)

High global rating for Jamaica’s Whistleblowers Legislation

KINGSTON,

JAMAICA: Jamaica’s Protected Disclosures Act is regarded as one the best whistleblowing legislations enacted in countries globally, by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

This disclosure was made by Head of Public Sector at the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in the United Kingdom (UK), Gillian Fawcett, who says a strong whistleblowing arrangement can make a huge contribution to good governance within the private and public sectors.

She emphasised these points while addressing a panel discussion on “Ethics and Whistleblowing in the Public and Financial Sectors”, hosted by the ACCA in partnership with the Management Institute for National Development (MIND) and Financial Services Commission (FSC), at the Knutsford Court Hotel, New Kingston, last Friday.

Enacted in 2011, Jamaica’s Protected Disclosures Act seeks to encourage and facilitate specified disclosures of improper conduct in the public interest, while

protecting persons reporting such.

Other countries enacting similar legislations, which are also rated highly by the OECD, include: the UK, Australia, South Africa, United States (U.S.), South Korea, and New Zealand.

Fawcett described whistleblowing as a “failsafe mechanism” that can help to identify systemic failure within an organisation. She said the legislation’s provisions, in principle, and accompanying supporting guidelines are deemed pivotal in relation to executing anti-fraud and corruption measures.

“Whistleblowing is an intelligent source of information for organisations to help identify malpractice, fraud and

wrongdoing,” she contends.

Fawcett stressed that in implementing these arrangements, organisations must ensure the details are properly and thoroughly communicated and understood by all persons, while safeguarding the welfare of persons volunteering information.

She was quick to point out, however, that whistleblowing should be a last resort to deal with illicit issues arising.

“What you want is a well run, well governed organisation with strong ethical behaviour, and a strong culture. If you’ve got to resort to whistleblowing, then you haven’t got all your (affairs) in order,” she argued. (Jamaica Observer)

Guyanese tourist found dead in St. Lucia hotel - police rule out foul play

CASTRIES,

ST. LUCIA: A Guyanese tourist who was on vacation in St. Lucia was found dead in his hotel room at Gros Islet on Tuesday last, but police have subsequently ruled out foul play.

Sixty-one-year-old Richard Gordon Proffitt

was discovered dead in his hotel room at about 17:00h. It is unclear who found the man’s body. However, St. Lucian police confirmed that there were no marks of violence about his body. They are also trying to ascertain whether or not the elderly man had any visitors on the day his

body was found.

While speculations are in the air, police claimed that they have to wait on the post mortem results which will give the cause of death.

It was reported that the man was last seen at about 13:00h but was found dead four hours later. It is not clear whether the man was on holiday alone, but according to information, he checked in a few days prior to his death.

Meanwhile, the island’s police are still investigating the murder of another Guyanese, 34-year-old Cedolf Hunte of Ciceron, who was attacked and stabbed to death by four masked men while playing cards with friends in the community a few weeks ago. A stab wound under his right arm is believed to have caused his death.

Hunte was a construction worker and had been living in St. Lucia for about seven years.

He was described as a hardworking individual, who liked to keep to himself.

TT$120 million for Trinidad’s baby grant

PORT-OFSPAIN,

TRINIDAD: The TT government has allocated Gy$120 million for the Baby Care Grant, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar revealed Sunday, adding it “would not be fully utilised” as only a portion of parents to whom 20,000 babies are born each year, would qualify.

“At the moment, it is estimated there are about 20,000 live births in TT per annum (but) not all 20,000 babies will be eligible for that grant. (Finance) Minister (Larry) Howai has

put in Gy$120 million which would take care of Gy$500 per month,” the PM revealed, adding “some parents will not be eligible for that grant because they would be above the income ceiling of Gy$3,000 per month.”

Persad-Bissessar was speaking to reporters Sunday afternoon, following the commissioning ceremony for a TT$25 million Linear accelerator X-Ray scanning and detection system (scanner) from China at the Port of Port-of-Spain, Dock Road, PoS.

Some persons have claimed the grant would

encourage persons to have a baby but the PM rejected this argument. “We would see, at the end of the year, whether there’s a spike in the rate of births at the end of the year. In my respectful view, people will not go out there just to make a baby just to get Gy$500 a month.”

Questioned about the items a parent would be able to purchase under the Baby Care Grant, Persad-Bissessar explained that it was not meant to be a breast milk supplement. “It is for baby care supplies. It is not to take away from breast feeding, which is best…There are some mothers who can’t breast feed for several medical and other reasons (but) the grant is not intended to be a substitute for breast feeding. It’s not to be ‘milk money’. It’s for baby care supplies,” Persad-Bissessar reiterated.

She also reminded that qualifying parents would be required to attend “parenting workshops” among other things, in order to access the grant. (TT Newsday)

Canada urges passage of Guyana’s anti-money laundering Bill

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Ahead of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Plenary Meeting in October, Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr Nicole Giles renewed calls for the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill to be approved.

But, in the absence of the required legislation, Dr Giles said the Guyana government ought to be applauded for initiating the Specialised Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), a non-legislative initiative being established based on the recommendations of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF).

Last month, government disclosed that

SOCU’s Headquarters would be constructed at the cost of Gy$63.1 million at Eve Leary. The unit will work closely with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to investigate suspected money laundering and financing of terrorism, in keeping with Guyana’s treaty obligations to CFATF.

According to Dr Giles, this is a step in the right direction, but she maintained that the AML/CFT Bill must be passed at the level of the National Assembly to bring Guyana into total compliance with CFATF’s recommendations.

Meeting recommendations

She assured that Canada will continue to support Guyana in this regard, positing that the Commission is more than confident that the non-

legislative programmes and projects being established would add value for Guyana on meeting the recommendations that have been made by CFATF.

In addition to the Canadian High Commissioner, the British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre, former U.S. Ambassador D Brent Hardt, the Organisation of American States (OAS) and Caricom have all called for the AML/

CFT Bill to be passed.

FATF, through the International Cooperation Review Group (ICRG) Americas Regional Review Group (ARRG), co-chaired by Darlene Boileau (Canada) and Maria Fernanda GarciaYrigoyen Maurtua (Peru), has been executing a targeted review of Guyana’s deficiencies with respect to the AML/ CFT framework.

Targeted review

Before the Plenary Meeting in October, Guyana will be given an opportunity to review the draft targeted review and engage in faceto-face meeting with the ARRG.

While the parties at the level of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee have agreed on the AML/

CFT (Amendment) Bill of 2013 since February, amendments to the 2009 Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act remain the biggest obstacle to moving forward.

In May, the CFATF referred Guyana to FATF after the country was further recognised as a jurisdiction with strategic AML/CFT deficiencies due to its non-compliance with the Action Plan developed with the regional body. CFATF had already sounded the alarm, calling on member countries to safeguard themselves from Guyana with the introduction of counter measures to protect their financial systems from the ongoing money laundering and terrorist financing risks. (Guyana Times)

Special Police Force to tackle TT’s school violence

PORT-OFSPAIN,

TRINIDAD: A supplemental police force, to exclusively deal with tackling the issue of school violence and gangsterism at learning institutions in Trinidad and Tobago, is one of several initiatives agreed to during a meeting between officials of the National Security and Education Ministries called to discuss the growing prob-

lem of violence and lawlessness in schools.

According to a press release issued by the National Security Ministry over the weekend, a meeting was held on September 5, at the National Operations Centre (NOC) between stakeholders from both ministries to discuss immediate and mediumterm strategies to diminish school violence and reduce the proliferation

of gangs and gang culture in schools.

Arising out of this meeting it was agreed that initiatives under “immediate action” and “medium-term action” were agreed to.

Immediate action initiatives include police mobile and foot patrols in the area of schools between the hours of 7 am and 9 am and 2 pm and 4.30 pm daily, to allow for teachers, staff and

TT to expand global diplomatic presence

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Trinidad and Tobago is moving to establish a diplomatic presence in additional locations worldwide, including in Mexico, says Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Dookeran. He made the statement during the budget debate in Parliament Tuesday.

“We have already begun to hold discussions for a Caricom presence in other parts of the world. It’s a new initiative where we are trying to establish a Caricom presence where none of us has been before,” he stated.

“The United Arab Republic, Saudi Arabia and Turkey are three countries that have been earmarked based on their interests. So there is an expansion that is taking place with respect to our representation,” Dookeran added.

He noted that the Turkish government recently announced its plan to establish an embassy in TT as part of its global outreach for the Region.

tt’s Foreign affairs minister Winston Dookeran

“These developments are developments that are building the institutions for the future based on the fact that TT is now positioned to play a pronounced role in international affairs,” Dookeran indicated. On the UK visa, Dookeran said the UK government informed TT that they had some concerns with the security aspects of the visa. (TT Guardian)

children to enter and leave schools peaceably.

Community Comfort Patrols will with immediate effect conduct patrols in all areas where there are schools to complement the efforts of the Police Service (TTPS); the police will make regular visits and engage in outreach programmes at all schools located in areas deemed “hot spots”, ultimately leading to a mentor-

ship arrangement and; repairs to school cameras where such exists and/or installation of new ones where such does not exist to enhance monitoring and surveillance at all schools. This will be done through the National Operations Centre (NOC).

Medium-term action includes establishment of a Mobile Police Unit at the Southeast Port-ofSpain Secondary to act

as a deterrent against gangsterism and hooliganism perpetuated by the criminal element and establishment of a Supplemental Police Force to deal exclusively with school security and school children violence. School violence, lawlessness, gangsterism and the use/sale of illegal drugs have become the norm at some schools in the country.

(TT Newsday)

More businesses expanding in Guyana

– as US$3 million Popeyes franchise opens on Camp Street

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Guyana Restaurant Inc has opened its second Popeyes franchise at the cost of Gy$700 million (US$3 million) on Camp Street, Georgetown.

Chairman of Guyana Restaurant Inc, Ram Lalbadhur Singh, said Popeyes’ remarkable achievements since commencing operations in 2010 have led to the establishment of the second branch. “Driven by the success of our present store which exceeded our expectation and at times its capacity, we be-

lieve that there is a need in Central Georgetown for a second facility of this nature,” he explained. Additionally, the decision was made based on Guyana’s ability to record continuous economic growth.

The modern two-storey facility will see the employment of 44 persons, complementing the 32 already employed at the Vlissengen Road Outlet. According to Singh, both facilities would be providing “top-class service” by groups of dedicated and well-trained staff.

The establishment of the multimillion-dol-

lar fast food restaurant is a clear indication of the growing confidence in Guyana’s economy, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh said during the commissioning ceremony.

“So this investment of over Gy$700 million… represents in my mind yet another manifestation, yet another example that investors’ confidence is alive and well in Guyana,” Dr Singh indicated.

He noted that this comes despite the negative picture that has been painted of the country. He added that it was Guyana

PM Stuart defends Barbados as a reputable, sustainable international financial centre

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stuart last Thursday said his administration places high priority on ensuring the sustainability of the international business and financial services sector, (IBFSCs) and is seeking new ways to improve the value offered to those who view the island as the international financial centre of choice.

Addressing the oneday international conference on international financial centres (IFCs) in a borderless digital economy, Prime Minister Stuart said that over the years, progressive legislative changes had been made to provide investors with the tools need-

Popular Guyanese jeweller charged for causing death by dangerous driving

GRestaurant Inc’s assessment of the growing economic possibilities in the country that led to the establishment of the second branch with intentions of opening a third by October.

In addition to the expanding food industry, the Finance Minister said, the hotel, transportation, construction and mining industries have been recording significant growth in Guyana due to the favourable economic climate.

Reference was made to the Guyana Gold Fields Project at the Aurora Gold Mines located in the north-west of the country in CuyuniMazaruni. When it kicks into operation, the Aurora Gold Project is designed to produce 3.29 million ounces of gold, averaging 194,000 ounces annually. But, Minister Singh said, though gold is not being produced just yet, a “silent resolution” has occurred with the company employing approximately 700 persons. He also alluded to the multimillion-dollar call centre which will create more than 5000 jobs when it opens its doors within months. The Qualfon Call Centre is being constructed in Providence, East Bank Demerara. (Guyana Times)

Montserrat

ed to do business.

“This has meant, in many cases, upgrading existing products and introducing new ones. In recent times, the moves to allow for Private Trust Companies and Foundations bear witness to our recognition of the need for evolution and adaptation,” he told delegates.

He said the term “International Financial Centre” now appears to focus mainly on the small developing countries providing business and financial services, and some have been labelled as “offshore financial centres”, tax havens, or “sunny places for shady people. (Caribbean News)

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Popular Guyanese Jeweller, Bishnarine “Sanjay” Persaud, of Lot 26 Sheriff Street, Georgetown was last Friday charged for allegedly causing the death of Leon Hunte, a handyman attached to the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&C).

Hunte died in a motor vehicle accident last Wednesday evening on Lamaha Street, Georgetown.

The 39-year-old businessman was granted bail in the sum of Gy$1.5 million when he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. He pleaded not guilty to the charge after the Administration of Justice Act (AJA) was applied.

The charge stated that on September 10, at Lamaha Street, he drove motor car PKK 5501 in a manner dangerous to the public causing the death of Leon Hunte.

The businessman was represented by Attorneyat-law Glen Hanoman, who told the court that his client was temporarily discharged from the hospital to facilitate an investigation into the fatal accident. He claimed that as soon as his client was discharged, he presented himself to the Kitty Police Station where he was interrogated.

Hanoman added, that by attending court his client proves that he is not a flight risk and promised that he will attend court on his own accord once bail is secured. At this time, his client made an application for bail to which, the prosecutor, Vishnu Hunt had no objections.

Bail was initially set at Gy$2 million but was reduced to Gy$1.5 million by Magistrate Latchman after a plea by the defendant’s lawyer. He argued that Persaud had a huge hospital bill to pay and is assisting with the funeral expenses for the deceased. This newspaper understands that about 23:15h on the day in question, Persaud was proceeding east along Lamaha Street at a fast rate of speed when he collided with Hunte, a pedal cyclist who was proceeding in the same direction. Investigations proved that the now dead man was stuck from behind and as a result, he was flung some distance before landing on the roadway.

An ambulance was summoned to the scene but by this time, Hunte was already dead. Persaud, on the other hand, sustained injuries and was taken to the Woodlands Hospital where he was treated and subsequently sent away.

Police launched an investigation which led to charges being instituted. The father of two will make his next court appearance on October 3.

welcomes dozens of specially reared mountain chicken

frogs

LONDON, ENGLAND: Dozens of frogs reared in United Kingdom zoos have been returned to their Caribbean home in a painstaking operation, five years after their parents were airlifted out to escape a deadly fungus.

A total of 51 Leptodactylus fallax, known as mountain chicken frogs because they reportedly taste like chicken and make a clucking-like noise, have been released on Montserrat, a British Overseas Territory.

In 2009, conservationists rescued a population of the critically-endangered frogs from the island to avoid them being wiped out by a chytrid fungus, which has devastated amphibian numbers worldwide, according to the Guardian newspaper.

It said the mountain chicken frog population has also dwindled due to people eating them. The spe-

leptodactylus fallax or mountain chicken frog as it more commonly known

cies is the national dish in Montserrat and Dominica.

Following a breeding programme by London Zoo and Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, which produced 76 frogs from just two females, 51 of them were put in custom-built shipping containers and flown to Montserrat in July.

Head of herpetology at the Zoological Society of London, Ben Tapley, said the demanding logistics showed the dedication of the conservation efforts.

“As the frogs were being held in the run-up to re-

lease (on Montserrat), they had to be fed. We ordered a massive load of insects, and to avoid introducing an invasive pest to the Caribbean, someone had to sort through the crickets, throwing out the females so we only sent males. We checked it three times, and sent 5,000 male crickets.”

The freed frogs will be tracked by radio tags to map their movements, with batteries that will last a few months, as well as a team of conservationists in the field. (Caribbean News)

All systems in place for top 25 Guyanese law students’ entry to UWI

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Guyana’s Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister

Anil Nandlall and a delegation recently met officials of the Council of Legal Education where discussions were held on the way forward for the top 25 University of Guyana law students.

According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) statement, the Attorney General was accompanied to the meeting by Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Jacob Opadeyi; Head of the Department of Law, the President of the Bar Association, as well as

an executive of the Bar Association.

“The issue of the admission of the Guyana law students graduating from UG was a live one. I am pleased to report that all arrangements are in place for the 25 top Guyanese graduates to enjoy automatic entry and the 10 other nonGuyanese are to be accommodated at the UWI [University of the West Indies] and other law schools based on the zoning of the territory from which they may come,” Nandlall said.

He noted too that the question of the future and whether this problem will continue to arise annually is still alive, as

it had occupied the attention of the Heads of Government at their last summit in Antigua.

At the Council level, Nandlall said they will continue to engage the Heads of Government in terms of getting financing, but in the meantime, a list of organisations has already being shortlisted whose services will be engaged in conducting this review process.

“Time is of the essence, as soon as the Heads of Government commit their financial resources, that process will begin.”

In the interim, the Attorney General said several issues will be looked at, including the role of the Council as to whether it should be administering the law school or merely be an accrediting centre and let law schools be run by other entities, including governments, as well as whether the Region has the need for the number of lawyers that is being generated.

Further, the Attorney General stated that there will be a review of the collaborative agreement between UG and the UWI. (GINA)

Former Jamaica Information Minister to stand trial

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Former Jamaican Information and Telecommunications Minister Daryl Vaz is due to go on trial early next year on corruption related charges. Vaz, who will now ap-

pear in court on February 16, had been charged in April 2012, following allegations that he conspired with former Senior Superintendent James Forbes and businessman Bruce Bicknell, to quash a bribery charge against Bicknell.

Hotel concession ignites major investments in Barbados

BRIDGETOWN,

BARBADOS: Barbadian hotel properties are preparing to invest more than Bds$40 million back into the sector.

The Board of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) said in a statement issued Monday that a number of its members would be undertaking significant refurbishments, and this will be facilitated by the long-awaited concessions being granted by government.

“The concessions will allow us to generate more cash flow and put more of us in a better position to raise the quality of our product to the level it

Prosecutors alleged, that Vaz approached the arresting officer, Sergeant Jubert Llewellyn, and promised him “gold bars”…a code word for a promotion, if he withdrew the charge against Bicknell.

In July, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn, withdrew the bribery charge against Bicknell. She then argued that it would have been difficult to mount a successful case against him.

However, Forbes was convicted and fined Ja$800,000 for his role in the conspiracy.

Vaz, who is the Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Member of Parliament for the constituency of West Portland, appeared in court last Thursday when the trial date was set. (Jamaica Observer)

should be, which will go along way in increasing the number of visitors we can attract to Barbados, which will benefit the entire country as a whole,” the board explained.

Last Wednesday, Minister of Finance Chris Sinckler announced tens of thousands of dollars in tax breaks for the sector, but with certain conditions such as the signing of a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) between the BHTA, the Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS) and the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association (BMA).

The BHTA board thanked government for the concessions, saying it is “welcomed

news for our members as it will now give us the platform to reinvest in our product with much needed upgrades”.

“It also puts us in a better position to be more competitive and to better market our product and the island. Our competitors are already getting ahead of us and if we don’t reinvest and improve our product, we will continue to lose market share as has been the case in recent times.”

On the issue of the MOU, the board maintains that its membership has always worked, and will continue to work with both the BAS and BMA.

“The BHTA has always been committed to supporting our local farmers and manufactures and so, even though the MOU is not a prerequisite for accessing the concessions, we will continue, as stated at the meeting on Wednesday, to work at reaching a mutual agreement beneficial to all involved, as we see this as another avenue to further cement our present relationship in which our members currently support and work with numerous local farmers,” the group said.

(Barbados Today )

Amerindian culture inspires chic collection in Guyana

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA : Indigenous Spice, her second collection influenced by Amerindian culture, gives local designer Natasha David a way to showcase her indigenous heritage with a kaleidoscope of colours and flare for nature.

The collection, which includes several pieces of garments made of banana leaves, beads, feathers, tibisiri, fabric and other natural materials, includes dresses, bags, head bands, slippers, dolls, baskets and functional household items.

David explained that her new collection is called Indigenous Spice because “[it]

demonstrates the Amerindians’ love for colour” and also she “wanted to add spice to cultural and comfortable garments”.

According to the designer, this stylish collection, unlike her past collections, incorporates more fabric rather than straw.

“I used more fabric this time around because I find people are more comfortable in fabric rather than walking around in garments made entirely of straw.”

David, whose mother is a descendant of the Warrau tribe, added that venturing into this type of design helps her to keep in touch with her culture and display it culture

proudly.

The designer disclosed that more needs to be done in showcasing the Amerindian culture, not just during Amerindian Heritage Month, but year round.

“We must be proud to display our culture, especially through clothing. This is why I will continue to design such garments because there are not many designers experimenting with the theme,” she declared.

The Indigenous Spice collection is presently displayed in front of the indigenous restaurant Tuma Sala located between Middleton and Campbell Streets, Georgetown. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Lots of new Barbadian talent at Honey Jam auditions

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS:

Producer Ebonnie Rowe was very happy and impressed with the talent that came out, especially seeing a lot of new faces and strong voices!

Honey Jam is an all female multicultural, multigenre artist showcase featuring amazing live performances. It was started in Canada in 1995 by Barbadian Ebonnie Rowe. Honey Jam also provides educational and mentoring opportunities for young female artists as well as promotes and supports women's charities

“I was concerned that four years in we may have already seen everyone there is to see but was pleasantly surprised. The number of artists that came out was around the same number from previous years. For me it’s not about the quantity but the quality and we have more than enough to choose from for the concert. I must also thank judges Rupee, Alison Hinds, Jaicko, Kellie Cadogan, JJ Poulter, Sonia Mullins,

DJ D.Luxe, Minim and Caroline Reid for making time in their busy schedules to support and encourage the artists who were thrilled to be able to perform in front of them.”

The next step is for organiser to make their final selection of artists for this year’s programme, after which they will go through a series of workshops–

Vocal & Performance, Songwriting and general music industry information. There will be an event in October where everyone who was chosen will be announced, rehearsals will be scheduled with the House Band, lots of media interviews and appearances and then the concert date is November 8.

Rowe stated that “a lot of people only see the concert and aren’t aware of the full developmental programme that we offer–networking, mentoring, educational and performance opportunities. I would encourage them to speak with some of the artists who have participated in the past and get a full idea about what we

are doing and that it is a project worthy of support.

We hope that more of corporate Barbados will be inspired to contribute and help us to continue providing these opportunities for young women. She also wishes to thank everyone for their continued support and for the sponsors who have come on board in the face

of shrinking budgets in these difficult economic times. And of course I have to mention that tickets for the concert are on sale now!”

The show, which has a female-only cast of musicians, is an opportunity for the young women, ages 16 to 25, to hone their skills and develop their potential. It also gives them a chance at being scouted by producers and labels in the music industry.

“The show is not only about really cute girls who can sing,” Rowe stressed at the launch earlier this month.

“We also encourage them to be ambassadors for their country.”

Rowe was recently in Canada, celebrating Honey Jam Canada’s 19th-year anniversary, where singer Melanie Fiona was a guest attendee.

Rowe said staging Honey Jam at the Frank Collymore Hall in November was proving to be a huge challenge. (Excerpted from Caribbean News)

Nereid Yachting Rally graces Guyana’s shores once again

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: They have braved strong currents, sailed against the winds, and dared to do something new by deciding to sail south.

These yachters, courageous men and women, have arrived in Guyana, on the second Nereid Rally and are anchored in their boats in the mighty Essequibo.

Sailing from the twinisland republic of Trinidad and Tobago on September 1, the Nereid Yachting Rally has again graced Guyana’s waters with participants from the United Kingdom, Argentina, Israel, Italy, France, the United States, Switzerland, and Australia.

The Tourism Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) last Thursday hosted a recep-

tion at the Hurukabra River Resort to officially welcome the yachties, all of whom had wonderful things to say about what they have seen of the country, as well as the trademark Guyanese hospitality, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

Organiser of the rally, David Matelicani, said that this time of year is hurricane season for many other Caribbean islands and this makes Guyana an ideal destination since the country is not plagued by such disasters. “It is through the hard work of the government and the private sector that we are now starting to see Guyana as an alternative destination… sailors don’t need to stay in the Caribbean waiting for hurricane season to end,” Matelicani stated. He added that one of

the main purposes of the Nereid Rally has always been to encourage sailors to sail southwards. Matelicani said that convincing people to sail to Guyana was easy since it is a country so well-endowed with natural wonders, hospitable people and a rich diverse culture.

Potential

Meanwhile, GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh said that the tourism industry is very passionate about the development of a yachting industry in Guyana, given the country’s potential. He told the visitors that they are in a country that the National Geographic has named as one of the top 20 must-see destinations in the world. The yachties were taken with Guyana’s pristine environment and Haralsingh

informed that the government is committed to responsible tourism and sustainable development with its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). While other Caribbean countries offer more of a sun, sand and sea tourism, Guyana offers nature, eco and adventure tourism.

In a few days, the ral-

ly will proceed to neighbouring Suriname before coming to an end in French Guiana. The management of the Hurukabra River Resort (Kit and Gem Nascimento) and the regional administration of Region Seven had planned a number of guided tours for the yachties including

those to Fort Zeelandia, Marshall Falls, and the Heritage Day celebrations at Karrau Village on September 13.

The name Nereid has its roots in Greek mythology and means sea nymphs (female spirits of sea waters) who can be very friendly and helpful to sailors fighting perilous storms. (GINA)

Guyanese Fashion icon participates in Caribbean New York Fashion Week 2014

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Renowned Guyanese Fashion Designer Sonia Noel, showcased her First Resort Collection last weekend during Caribbean New York Fashion Week (CNYFW).

The fun and flirty collection was rich with Noel’s signature weave patterns incorporating vivid hues, leopard prints and polka dots.

The event which was held at The Out Nightclub in New York City coincided with the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and was attended by members of the press and the Caribbean Diaspora.

Models, many whom were also of Caribbean heritage, walked the runway to the sweet sounds of soca music. Later that evening, dancers entertained the audience with a carnival procession on the runway.

The founder of Guyana Fashion Weekend, and the creator behind the Fashion Label–Mariska Designs, has been designing for over 20 years, and has solidified her status as

one of the Caribbean’s leading designers.

Her creations particularly appeal to women who are looking for glamour and sophistication and her very unique design aesthetics has given her a distinctive edge above fashion labels in Guyana and the Caribbean.

Her product line includes crinkled cotton clothing, wraps, accessories and unique handpainted linen. A regular participant at fashion events internationally, Noel started Guyana Fashion Week in 2007 to increase local designers’ visibility and promote their creativity.

Caribbean New York Fashion Week is a fashion event showcasing some of the Caribbean’s emerging and established fashion designers and their collections, Caribbean models and highlights of Carnival costume designs.

Targeting mainly Caribbean fashion designers and models, CNYFW provides the platform for all talents to showcase their inspirations in creative fashion designs for brand launching, as well as,

the forum for fashion buyers and investors.

Other countries represented at CNYFW included Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, and The Bahamas. Another Guyanese designer Myrna Patterson, also debut her creations at CNYFW.

Though highly anticipated, the show was poorly attended with many seats remaining unfilled throughout the evening. Face of Fashion (FoF), a modelling and fashion design management company hosted the event.

A savvy businesswoman at heart, Noel was also spotted at other cultural events around New York City promoting her Makin’ Style fashion magazine.

At the recent Guyana Fun Day held during the Labour Day Weekend in Brooklyn, fans had the chance to chat with the designer and purchase signed copies of the magazine.

Noel continued her Fashion Week sweep of the City with a visit to the Conversation With

Selwyn Live Web TV Show that was held followed by a meet-andgreet reception in her honour at the Elberta Restaurant on Flatbush

Bollywood Soap Stars’ concerts for Guyana in October

GEORGETOWN,

GUYANA: Lead actress Surbhi Jyoti also referred to as “Zoya” of popular Indian TV Series “Qubool Hai” will grace Guyana with her presence in October for three big events through promoter Ram Jhoda under the RJ Films Brand.

The shows are set for October 10 at Canje, Berbice; October 11 at Everest Cricket Club ground, Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown; and October 12 at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground, Essequibo.

The actress is expected to perform several scenes from the TV series, “Qubool Hai” and will also perform a few dance pieces. She will also be accompanied by three big names in the music industry.

About Zoya

These are Chintan Bakiwala, a former contestant in the India reality show Indian Idol; Indian songstress Sangeeta Kopalkar and popular playback singer Shiaz Billo. Jyoti is a popular face in Punjabi movies and Punjabi soap operas. She came into the limelight while playing the lead character role in Zee TV’s soap opera “Qubool Hai” as Zoya Farooqui. Currently, she is portraying the role of Sanam in the same show.

The talented Surbhi was born on May 29, 1988 into a PunjabiBrahmin family hailing from Jalandhar; the oldest city in the north-western India state of Punjab.

She is a talented theatre artiste and debater and has won the national debate thrice. After making a number of appearances in Punjabi movies, she was selected to play the character of Zoya in her television debut show “Qubool Hai” on Zee TV.

She has also worked in the Punjabi series “Kach Diyan

Wanga”. She starred in the popular Punjabi movies such as “Munde Patiale De” and “Raula Pai Gaya”. Surbhi Jyoti has been the anchor for many shows, as well at the college level. On her role as Zoya Farooqui, Jyoti has said that she can relate to her character in real life.

Jyoti completed her schooling from Shiv Jyoti Public School and graduation from HMP (Hansraj Morarji Public College). Later, she pursued her MA in English from Apeejay College of Fine Arts.

The charming Surbhi is now seen as the co-host of TV show “Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya” on Zing TV. Jyoti hosts alongside popular singer Meiyang Chang.

Surbhi says she is afraid of lizards, and refers to herself as a bookworm who loves cooking.

Crying is a natural part of her personality; whether she is happy or sad, so she says she does not need glycerine for shooting emotional scenes of the show… tears come naturally. The only thing she hates about Mumbai is the traffic and admits that sometimes she is short-tempered.

She acted in the movie, “Akiyaan To Door Jayen Na” as Sona; “Raula Pai Gaya” as Reet; “Kach Diyan Wanga” as Preet Sehgal and was the lead female character in “Munde Patiale De”. (Guyana Times)

Avenue in Brooklyn.

The next stop for this busy style icon is the island of Belize where she will facilitate a Fashion Forum and showcase her

collection on September 19 at the House of Couture Garden in celebration of Belize’s Independence. (Guyana Times)

Jamaica’s Freddie McGregor takes jerk to Long Beach

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Jerk festivals seem to be a hot item--as far as Jamaican culture is concerned--in the United States these days.

Several major cities including Atlanta, New York, Fort Lauderdale and Philadelphia have events showcasing spicy productS. Long Beach in southern California has joined the mix.

The Long Beach Reggae Music Jerk and Food Festival is scheduled for September 28. It is the brainchild of singer Freddie McGregor whose Big Ship Music label are promoters.

"I'm very surprised at the sudden interest in

the States for Jamaican jerk foods. I headlined the Atlanta jerk fest two weeks ago and we saw over 20,000 people in attendance," he told Jamaican media. "I guess people like family-friendly events."

McGregor said he has been "looking at that market for sometime now" but started planning late last year after Long Beach was confirmed as the show's site.

Like established jerk events in Florida and New York, the Long Beach show is complemented by live music. Roots acts like Johnny Osbourne, U Roy, The Abyssinians, and Admiral Tibet, popular in the Golden State, dominate the line-up.

Jamaica's Rastas ready for ganja decriminalisation

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Taking a deep draw on a pipe that glows with burning marijuana, reggae luminary Bunny Wailer gives a satisfied grin through a haze of aromatic smoke in his concrete yard painted in the red, green, gold and black colours identified with his Rastafarian faith.

These days, the baritone singer from the legendary Wailers, the group he formed in 1963 with late superstars Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, has reason to feel good. There is unprecedented traction building in Jamaica to decriminalise pot, meaning the dreadlocked Wailer and other adherents of Rastafari—a homegrown spiritual movement that considers the drug divine—may soon be able to smoke without fear of arrest.

"Rastas have treated marijuana as something legal all along, even though we have been sent to prison for using the herb in our prayer. But this is the time for all these pressures to stop. The world is catching up now," the 67-year-old three-time Grammy winner said at his modest Kingston home.

Jamaica is known internationally for its marijuana. The hardy plant grows easily on the tropical Caribbean island, where its use is culturally entrenched despite being legally banned for 100 years. Cultivation is kept hidden, with small patches tucked into mountainsides, in swamps and between rows of other crops. Wailer, himself, was convicted of possession in 1967 and did more than a year of hard labour.

In this august 28, 2014 ap photo, legalisation advocate and reggae legend bunny Wailer smokes a pipe stuffed with marijuana during a “reasoning” session in a yard

Legislative moves

Previous moves to decriminalise the drug failed to advance mainly because officials feared they would violate international treaties and bring sanc-

tions from Washington. But now, with a number of U.S. states relaxing their marijuana laws—Colorado and Washington even allow recreational use— Jamaica is rethinking

GuyExpo 2014 to field 400 exhibitors in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Guyana’s 19th Trade and Investment Exposition (GuyExpo), which began in 1995, will take place from October 2 to 5, under the theme, 'Transformation: Partnering for a better Guyana’, the event will showcase locally produced goods and services.

The venue for the exhibition will be the Sophia Exhibition Site and will host an estimated 110,000 visitors, and 400 exhibitors, among them participants from eight countries.

What began as an activity that attracted close to 200 exhibitors is today Guyana’s biggest expo with over 460 businesses, both local and internation-

al participating annually, all given the occasion to present their locally produced goods and services.

GuyExpo became an annual event in 2004, under the Chairmanship of Keith Burrowes, and is now the longest sustained exhibition in the Caribbean.

In 2004, the organisers took cognisance of the growth and interdependence of international trade and opened the exhibition to the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and other regional exhibitors, reported the Government Information Agency (GINA).

With its genesis as a biennial activity, GuyExpo has now morphed into a national event which offers business associates

the opportunity to meet, network, and negotiate with international companies and establishments, as well as showcase their skills, talents and creative work, on an annual basis.

From its inception to now, the focus has remained on the development of small and medium sized enterprises, thereby ensuring that local businesses enjoy the level of growth and expansion that is needed for them to remain competitive at the regional and international levels.

Several businesses which have grown along with the expo from its genesis include A H and L Kissoon, Toolsie Persaud Limited, Banks DIH, Demerara Distillers Limited, Geddes Grant

its position.

Justice Minister Mark Golding says Jamaica's Cabinet has approved a plan to decriminalise marijuana, including for religious purposes, and legislators are expected to authorise it before the end of the year.

Freedom to use marijuana for religious worship is one of various amendments to Jamaica's Dangerous Drugs Act supported by Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller's administration. Her ministers also have proposed unclogging courts by decriminalising small amounts of weed for personal use, making possession of two ounces or less a ticketable offence. The main hope is that a regulated medical marijuana and scientific research sector could help draw investments to the cash-strapped is-

land, which is labouring under its latest loan programme with the International Monetary Fund.

Even if the current proposals fall short of the full legalisation Rastas long have sought, they are welcomed by many, said Priest Dermot Fagan, leader of a small sect in an isolated commune in the Blue Mountains that tower over Kingston.

"We are thankful for the coming changes and, yes, some of the pressures will be eased. But we can't forget the destruction, the mayhem that has been caused by the persecution of this divine herb," said Fagan, waving his hands for emphasis on a balcony overlooking the School of Vision retreat, a place where Rasta mysticism brushes against the realities of modern life.

(Excerpted from AP)

African film fest comes to UWI

and Gafoors.

Since its humble beginnings GuyExpo has come a long way and takes a permanent place on the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce’s Annual Calendar of Events.

This premier exposition and trade fair offers business associates the opportunity to meet, network and negotiate with international companies and establishments, as well as showcase their skills, talents and creative works.

This annual event provides a platform for both local and foreign businesses: importers, exporters, retailers, wholesalers. It fuses together a wide cross section of producers of handicraft, furniture, garments, jewellery, and horticulture, pharmaceuticals, tourism, information technology and most of all culture.

This ideal setting provides the opportunity for businesses to increase their competitiveness and efficiency and foster growth.

GuyExpo is undertaken as a partnership among the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, GO-Invest and the private sector; while exhibitors, franchise holders, game operators and entertainers play a major role in the overall success of the event. (GINA)

University of the West Indies, mona (Jamaica Observer photo)

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: The Faulty of Humanities and Education at University of the West Indies, Mona, is set to host the E Desmond Lee Africa World Documentary Film Festival from October 2-5.

Over 20 documentaries made by filmmakers in Africa and African Diaspora communities will be screened at the Neville Hall Lecture Theatre.

The documentaries cover a wide range of subjects and reflect the diversity of interests, concerns and cultural expression in the African world. These films counter the notion that black communities are characterised primarily by poverty, war and violent conflict.

‘True Somebody: The African Soccer Dream’ by Stephen Latty documents a vital time in African soccer and shows how the extraordinary success of African players competing in European leagues

has inspired a surge of soccer passion throughout the continent.

Some of the films are upbeat stories celebrating the resilience of the human spirit, creativity and the artistic sensibility: ‘Asni, The Life of Asnaketch Worku: Courage, Passion & Glamor in Ethiopia’, by Rachel Samuel, is the story of the extraordinary Ethiopian artist, Asnaketch Worku, who is a cultural icon in Ethiopia. ‘Saya: Dance and Survival in an AfroBolivian Village’, by Beret Strong and John Tweedy, shows how the Saya dance troupe in Bolivia, celebrates and preserves their African cultural heritage.

‘Sahel Calling’ by John Bosch looks at the aftermath of events in 2012-2013 in Mali when radicals used violence to control communities. ‘Move’ by Theodore Collatos is the story of the Chicago-based Deeply Rooted Dance Theatre. (Jamaica Observer)

Preserving Guyana's Amerindian culture through the culinary arts

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA :A Patamona

term, Tuma Sálá, pronounced with a rolling ‘r’ sound, meaning “come let’s dine”, is the first and only restaurant in Guyana that specialises and sells indigenous dishes.

The venture, which also includes a tour guide agency and a craft shop, was founded by several individuals, however, Lolita Williams, the cook and proprietress of Tuma Sálá, mainly manages the restaurant.

Williams, a charming woman, is from the Patamona tribe, hailing

from the Upper North Pakaraimas in a small village called Waika. Her culture is still very much a part of her daily life despite 25 years spent in Georgetown.

The quaint culturebased restaurant, with art and craft items influenced by the Amerindian people displayed around the interior, launched in January 2014, although its doors were officially opened in February of that same year.

Sitting with Williams in the airy courtyard behind the restaurant as she prepares to make several appetizing dishes, she explained why

she believes the restaurant is important. “It [the restaurant] is important because a lot of Amerindians live in Georgetown, so it gives not only them but person from other ethnic groups a chance to have the dishes without having to travel”.

Located in central Georgetown on Middleton and Campbell streets, Tuma Sálá truly provides an accessible way for Guyanese and foreigners alike to sample indigenous meals while enjoying the hospitable treatment, amazing art, and soothing music of the Amerindian culture.

“There are several other culture-based restaurants in Georgetown that allow persons to explore the culture of several ethnic groups but they were none promoting the indigenous heritage,” she explained.

Proud of her heritage and willing to answer the questions of her customers, Williams encourages persons to try new things and easily explains the preparations of meals when asked. Williams is overjoyed when customers enjoy her meals.

Several wild meat dishes are prepared and served at Tuma Sálá: labba, bush cow, bush hog and deer, as well as a variety of fishes such as Lukanani. These

meals are generally served with a cool glass of piwari, paracari, fly (potato wine) or a choice of local fruit juices.

Most of the meals are prepared in cada (coura) sauce, made by boiling fresh cassava water for a few minutes (before it turns into cassareep), and all are served with either cassava bread or farine, dried or seasoned.

Of course, the Guyanese favourite pepperpot (made with cassareep) or tuma pot (the white sauce version) can be bought there as well as barbeque wild meat or chicken prepared the Amerindian way.

According to Williams, Guyanese need to appreciate indigenous dishes more in order to stay in touch with their culture and showcase Guyana to the best of their abilities, not only in the month

of September but year round.

Traditional indigenous dishes

For as long as she can remember, Williams have been preparing indigenous dishes. “It is something you just learn growing up, passed down from generation to generation,” she pointed out. However, professionally she has been selling for six years at a stall in the Amerindian Village hosted at Sophia Exhibition Centre the heritage month.

Williams also spoke about several traditional meals and beverages, their preparations and health benefits.

The tacuma worm, as they are commonly called, comes from the Ite tree. “The villagers would cut the trees down, dig a hole in the bark, cover it cover it

with its own branches, then leave it for six weeks. In six weeks time this beetle lays its eggs which feeds off the tree and developed into the otocuma worms. The worm is rich in Vitamin D and protein and is traditionally known to help with asthma and cholesterol,” Williams explained.

She added: “Fly, also called potato wine, is made from the red potato. The potato is scraped clean, cut into pieces, boiled until soften so it may be crushed and strained. It is then covered and left for a week or more with spice and clove to ferment.”

When ready it may be sweetened or sweetened while it ferments to make an oaky potent wine, with an old spice taste similar to that of whiskey.

One of her favourite meals, Williams was more than enthused to speak of the Acoushi ant. “It is a very tasty treat. During the rainy season we would dig holes around their nest and fill it with water so when they come out they are stuck.”

Very rich in vitamins and a good source of protein, the ants are then collected and boiled in cada sauce or smoked and preserved to be added to meals daily.

(Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Gossip

People gossip for a variety of reasons. For example, when they want to feel a sense of being superior, that is when they do not feel so good about themselves, and so they will take the time to negatively judge others.

Some people have lots of time on their hands and when they cannot come up with something interesting to talk about that is knowledgeable, gossiping about other people becomes of great interest. And for some people, it is just of jealousy and greed, and for those reasons, they will hurt talented and successful people.

There are many instances too where people gossip because they want to feel part of a group, and for some, they just want attention, because usually a person gets that sort of attention when revealing some gossip about others. However, spreading rumours has little foundation and is only a temporary thing.

It is not a wrong thing to look at someone’s intent in discussing other people and relationships as long as the intent is to understand human nature and improve one’s quality of life and relationships. However, if the intent

is to temporarily feel superior or get attention by disparaging others, then that’s a problem. Take, for example, somebody is gossiping cruelly about a co-worker. In a case like this, it is important not to feed the gossiper with curiosity, agreement and further questions. It’s best to try and change the subject. Here is something you can try: “I noticed that you talk about your co-worker all the time. I am curious why they seem to interest you so much?” Or you can be straightforward and say, “I am more interested about the things that are happening in your life.”

There are things people can do to avoid unnecessary gossip. For example, they can try to figure out what’s the point of repeating the information that others may already know. There is no doubt that human beings are social creatures and gossip is just a part of the framework of culture. In one sense, it can help to maintain social norms, especially if the gossipers think people are paying attention to what they’re doing.

There are things that need to be considered before someone starts to gossip about someone else. For example, the gossiper con-

siders whether the information is harmful or not, or whether they can support the gossip with facts, instead of just repeating hearsay.

And look a little deeper too to see if they are doing it to make themselves feel better or raise their status. But also, one should consider if the information is second or third-hand.

If people gossip because it puts them at the centre of attention, then they need to stop. Communicating information is okay; for example, one can say, “Did you hear that they are hiring four more new teachers?” Or, “Did you hear

that John committed suicide?” However harmful gossip is a whole different story. For example, “I heard that ABC is sleeping with her boss; that’s why she’s getting promoted and we are not.”

The reality is, gossiping comes from being insecure. And in a sense, it also leaves everyone else involved feeling a sense of guilt. Therefore, engaging in positive conversation is more interesting and enlightening than just judging and listening to rumours. For questions, comments, feedback, email mcnarine@rogerss.com.

Deepika Padukone: I don't expect to be star all my life

After giving hits like 'Chennai Express', 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' and 'Race 2' in 2013, Deepika Padukone has become one of the most sought-after actresses in Bollywood. She says she feels secure, but is also aware that her stardom isn't going to last forever.

When asked if she is afraid of losing her stardom, she said: "No, not at all. I know my stardom isn't going to be all my life. I am secure about my work, but I don't expect to be a star all my life. It's

practically impossible and if anyone thinks like that, they are delusional."

The actress, who is being applauded for her

performance in her new film ‘Finding Fanny’, said it's very "rare" that she is happy with her work.

(TOI)

Vivek oberoi plans a family vacation to mauritius

Vivek Oberoi had earlier cancelled his birthday plans for the promotion of the Mega Blood Donation Drive. Apparently, Vivek wants to spend some quality time with his wife and son since he was busy with blood donation campaign on his birthday.

Vivek is now planning to make a short trip to Mauritius with his family before the shoot of his upcoming movie, 'Bank Chor'. Vivek, who always celebrates his birthday with cancer patients at CPAA (Cancer Patients Aid Association) on September 3, couldn't celebrate with them this

year as he was committed with blood donation drive. But now he has decided to celebrate with

them on September 13, 2014 and then leave for Mauritius. (TOI)

Akshay Kumar determined to make martial arts compulsory in school

Akshay Kumar has always been passionate about martial arts and attributes his own life's success completely to it. It is his dream to make martial arts compulsory for students in school, so that they can learn the art of self-defence.

Talking on the importance of it, he said, "Do you know that when the attacks of 26/11 happened at Leopold Cafe, there were 11 foreigners at that time, but not

even one of them got injured as the moment they were attacked, they lay down on the floor, whereas the Indians did not know what to do and therefore got killed. When a grenade attack happens, it is the splinters that fly from it that hit you and kill you, but if you lie down on the ground, you can get saved. That is why countries like China, Hong Kong and Singapore train you on how to deal with difficult situations

like fire, floods, attacks and even earthquakes. It is my dream that one day martial arts becomes compulsory in schools for every child." (TOI)

Priyanka Chopra: I was very good in arts and craft

Priyanka Chopra, who attended a recent event in Mumbai, said that she was very good in arts and craft.

Speaking at the event, the 32-year old

actress said: "I used to come first in arts and craft. I am also very fond of it. I can't stitch so well but I definitely know how to do it. I can't stitch clothes. I have studied in a con-

John Abraham: It hurt me a lot when I sold my first bike

I

vent school, so it was compulsory for them to teach us. I was very good in arts and craft."

Chopra, was recently seen in the movie ‘Mary Kom’. (TOI)

John Abraham's passion for bikes is well known. Recently, when he was in the capital for a biking event, Delhiites weren't surprised when the actor spoke incessantly about his love for the mean machines.

As he took a pause, he said, "You know I should stop now. When it comes to bikes I can keep talking about them."

Talking about his first bike, he said, "I cried when I sold my first bike. It hurt me a lot."

When a fan asked him to "send a message to encourage the female pillion riders who are not comfortable wearing helmets", the actor asked him not to assume things.

He said, "Apart from what the law says, I think females are quite sensitive to understand that in a road accident the pillion riders are the first to get hurt. They do wear helmets."(TOI)

believe in fairytales: Sonam Kapoor

Actress Sonam Kapoor, who will be seen in the role of a clumsy girl, who falls in love with a Prince in her upcoming film 'Khoobsurat', says she is a believer of fairytales in real life.

The 29-year-old actress said she did the Disney movie because she believes in happy endings and even though the concept of a fairytale does not find many takers today, people should hold onto it.

"The reason I did ‘Khoobsurat’ was because I just believe in a happily ever after...I am

a strong believer of fairytales and think at the end everything will be good. We should not let

Shah Rukh Khan praises Salman for being courteous, gracious

"E

verybody is courteous and gracious and so is Salman Khan," said Shah Rukh Khan reacting to the former's friendly gesture.

The two are known for their infamous rivalry, but now both of them seem to be holding out an olive branch to each other. If Salman was gracious enough as the host of ‘Bigg Boss 8’ to say

that they will promote Shah Rukh's ‘Happy New Year’ on the reality show, the Bollywood Badshah said he try his best to utilise the platform.

When asked about Salman's comment, Shah Rukh said: "The marketing is part of the production and whatever we are asked to do, we will do it. We would only be happy to be going wherever we

are invited.” He added: "Everybody is very courteous and gracious and so is Salman bhai. We love that he thought we should come there. If we have the scope and time, most certainly we will go there. If we don't have it, please don't take it seriously and say that we avoided it. It just needs to be done when it needs to be done.” (TOI)

Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling welcome a baby girl

Actors Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling became first-time parents last week when the Latina gave birth to a baby girl, the U.S.

Weekly has reported. Mendes, 40, and Gosling, 33, have had a romantic relationship since they acted together in the 2011 film, 'The Place

Beyond the Pines'.

The couple is known for their discretion, even about her pregnancy, which she went so far as to deny on a television programme last February.

In 2009, when she was in a relationship with producer George Gargurevich, Mendes told Efe news agency that tying the knot was not in her plans.

"I do not see myself getting married. I am 35 years old but I feel like a kid. In the 60s and 70s, at my age, you were finished, but I feel like I am still growing. As for babies…no, not now," she said. (TOI)

Alan Turing biopic 'Imitation Game' wins People's Choice award at Toronto Film Fest

Alan Turing's biopic 'The Imitation Game' has won the People's Choice award at the Toronto International Film Festival.

The drama about the British code breaker who helped decrypt the Enigma machine dur-

ing World War Two stars 'Sherlock' star Benedict Cumberbatch, the BBC reported.

Director Morten Tyldum said that it was "an amazing honour" to win the prize and for film fans to support the Imitation Game means a lot to him, the entire cast

and film-making team.

Turing was credited with bringing about the end of the war and saving hundreds of thousands of lives after decoding German Naval messages and is also considered to be the founding father of the modernday computer. (TOI)

Alec Baldwin, Danny Glover set to join upcoming movie 'Andron'

Alec Baldwin and Danny Glover are set to star in AMBI Pictures' upcoming sci-fi/ action film 'Andron.'

According to the Hollywood Reporter, AMBI, a newly launched film production and finance company, has been owned by Andrea Iervolino and Lady Monika Bacardi.

'Andron' begins when a group of young men and women awake in a dark, claustrophobic maze. They don't remember who they are

or how they got stuck in the black labyrinth. The group must learn to decipher codes, understand the signals and beat the

Joan Rivers'

doctor reportedly clicked

tests in a mysterious and bizarre place. Out of necessity, they struggle to form a bond to survive.

(TOI)

'selfie'

while she was out cold

Joan Rivers’ personal doctor had reportedly clicked a selfie while the comedienne was under anesthesia.

The picture was snapped in the procedure room right before the physician was about to perform an unauthorised biopsy on Rivers' vocal chords, which had lead to her cardiac arrest, the CNN reported.

The news was revealed by a work -

er

on

my son has taught me about patience: Hilary Duff

Actress Hilary Duff can't really remember life without her two-year-

old son Luca and says he has changed her completely. The ‘Chasing the

sun’ singer credits Luca, her son with estranged husband Mike Comrie, for changing her priorities and outlook on life.

"I feel like I don't even remember who I was before I had him," femalefirst.co.uk quoted her as saying.

"He's taught me about patience, which I didn't have before. Being in this business since I was 12, I constantly was busy and on the go. I think having him has helped center me and calm me down and make me realise that the little things are important," she added. (TOI)

Jennifer Garner and hubby Affleck have 'mindful' marriage

Jennifer Garner has revealed that she and her husband Ben Affleck have a "very mindful" marriage.

The 42-year-old actress admitted that she's not interested in being courted by the 42-yearold actor on a regular basis and believes their relationship works because they allow for both family and personal time, Contactmusic reported.

She said that they are definitely in a very mindful place where they are making an effort to be together, do things at the same time and be loving towards each other. (TOI)

Marriage isn't golden ticket: Kate Hudson

Actress Kate Hudson says she and her beau Matthew Bellamy are in no rush to tie the knot because they don't believe marriage is the "golden ticket" to a successful relationship.

The 35-year-old actress has been engaged to Bellamy for over three years and wants to savour the moments, re-

ports femalefirst.co.uk.

"We're working, it's a long engagement. I think the best part is that knowing you're working towards the idea of a commitment that is hopefully as long of a stretch as you can pull it--and forever seems beautiful," Women's Health magazine quoted Kate as saying. (TOI)

Designer graves lighting up Jamaica’s cemeteries

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Annotto Bay Cemetery in St Mary, Jamaica has become less of a morbid graveyard and more like an attraction as passers-by stop daily to take pictures and examine the ‘designer graves’ depicting the lifestyles that the deceased once lived or wanted to live.

From a fairytale castle to an aeroplane, the intricately designed tombs have given the cemetery a fanciful feel, and a well-needed facelift.

Conceptualiser of

the breathtaking designs and proprietor of Exodus Funeral Home, Errol Green, said more and more people are requesting the service for their loved ones.

“I bury people according to their lifestyle. From the programmes to bookmarks, everything reflect the person’s lifestyle and so I wanted the graves to reflect what the person used to be like or what they wanted to be like,” Green said.

While he would not disclose what these tombs cost, Green stated that he tailors the

designs to meet families’ budgets.

He, however, explained that building a regular tomb, inclusive of a regular headstone, can cost over Ja$100,000, while a granite tomb can cost up to Ja$1million.

Green, whose funeral home is located in the heart of Annotto Bay, said the idea to make the graves fancy was born when he decided to put more dignity into the funeral business.

He added that he got the idea a year ago and built the first such grave—a fancy two-

TT’s inaugural tourism awards set for Hyatt this weekend

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD: The Trinidad Hotels Restaurants and Tourism Association (THRTA) will celebrate Tourism Week 2014 by paying tribute to those who have contributed to developing the industry. The inaugural Gala Tourism Awards Dinner and Dance takes place September 20 at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad and awards for outstanding service in the categories Hotelier of the Year Award; Outstanding Industry Employee Award; Business Excellence Award— Direct Tourism Services; Business Excellence Award— Tourism Supporting Services and; Lifetime Achievement Award.

THRTA president Andrew Welch said:

“We hope to elevate our industry by recognising true excellence in tourism.”

Guest speaker for the evening will be Vincent Vanderpool-

Wallace, a leading tourism mind from the Bahamas.

VanderpoolWallace’s experience as co-president of Resorts International, then the largest private company in The Bahamas, director general of Bahamas Tourism, secretary general and CEO of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) and most recently as Minister of Tourism of The Bahamas has made him an ideal advisor to private companies and governments in tourism and hospitality.

He has been the principal architect of

storey house, complete with an Escalade truck in the carport—for his mother who was buried some 15 years ago.

Green explained that the licence plate on the artistic Escalade bears his mother’s date of birth.

A week later when the artwork on the tomb was complete, Green said he began getting enquiries from interested persons and almost immediately, he and his team began working on what has been the most intricate design so far—a castle which was built for a

teenage girl who died in the United States and whose body was returned to Jamaica to be buried in the Annotto Bay cemetery.

A year later, Green said he was contacted by another mother who saw the replica of the castle when she visited the grave of her adult son and wanted something just as fancy for him. Green said she did not have a specific design in mind and so he suggested building a house with a Jamaica Public Service metre on the outside since the deceased had worked with

the light and power company for years.

Thereafter, the father of an 18-year-old approached Green to build a tomb in the design of an aeroplane for his son who had died in Canada.

“His desire was to be a pilot and we just wanted to keep that dream alive for him,” Green said.

Now, Green said the family intends to build a glass cage around the structure because of the many onlookers who go there to sit and take pictures. (Jamaica Observer)

“A Bitter Lime”−heads to Guyana for filming

policies to ensure robust public-private sector co-operation and brings a unique perspective to the growth and development of businesses and destinations that rely on hospitality for their profitability and their economies.

While the spotlight will be on the winners, patrons attending will also have a delectable treat as TT’s top chefs will be influencing a menu just for the occasion with the support of all ingredients from Hadco Limited. They are: Chef Joe Brown, Jaffa; Chef Debra Sardinha-Metivier, DSM Cuisine; Chef Khalid Mohammed, Chaud Restaurant; Chef Raymond Joseph, Head Chef Courtyard by Marriott & Former National Culinary team captain and the Hyatt Regency Trinidad team led by Chef Fernando Franco.

The evening will also be enhanced by Décor by Brian Macfarlane. (TT Guardian)

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: As the cast and crew are concluding the first leg of filming for the movie “A Bitter Lime” in Los Angles, USA, the excitement is building for the final leg of filming to be shot in Guyana. This segment of production is expected to last for approximately three weeks.

In Los Angles, as part of the crew is Guyanese Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts who is the Production Manager. She flew to LA to lend her expertise to the production and to garner invaluable knowledge about the film industry.

Roberts who is a top graduating student of the University of the West Indies (Barbados) in film production is elated to be part of the team which is spareheaded by Australian Director Max De Bowen.

Just over two months ago, De Bowen was in Guyana scouting for locations and the cast of supporting

roles for the film which is a relationship-based drama with its main focus on escapism; a couple who share a fantasy of escaping life’s problems by leaving their life in America and running away to an exotic faraway place (Guyana) only to realise that their problems lie within them.

Apart from the production team that consists members from Canada, Los Angeles and Singapore, the Guyanese cast and crew will feature actors such as Kirwyn Mars, Mark Kazim, Michael Ignatius, Chris Gopaul, Leon Cummings, Shameeza Wong, Vanya Persaud, Gerrard Gilkes, Zoya Moore, Abeena Gomes, Kijana Lewis, and Mdala Richmond. Dancers Meleesa Payne and Fiano Spencer will also join the cast as well as Miss Guyana World 2013 Ruqayyah Boyer and Heatwaves Band lead singer Tennicia De Freitas.

Ossie Nedd is also

included in the team along with make-up artist Renee ChesterThompson (Bromeliad. rnc), wardrobe by Keisha Edwards (ShaSha Designs), set designer Neilson Nurse and hair stylist Carmalita Flue.

The inspiration of the film was garnered from classic mid-century Noir films such as “Too Late For Tears”, “Kiss Me Deadly”; 80’s thrillers, such as “Body Heat”, “Blow Out”; and psychological thrillers, such as “Birdy” and “Straw Dogs”. The film also twists the concepts in a contemporary world–starting with cold, formal American scenery and moving into an exotic jungle city (Georgetown, Guyana) virtually never seen in film before.

“A Bitter Lime” also shows a diverse world, exposing simultaneous beautiful and insanity. This will be one of many films to be shot in Guyana over the next three years. (Guyana Times)

Karrau Village delivers splendid Amerindian Heritage Day event in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Under the theme “Traditional Embodiment for Amerindian Development,” Guyana’s Amerindian Heritage Day was hosted in Karrau, Region Seven and was well celebrated and attended by Amerindians and Guyanese from all walks of life.

Karrau villagers did not hesitate in their quest to show the rest of Guyana what they had to offer with traditional Amerindian dances, dress displays and impersonations. Villagers displayed what makes them unique, through their creativity and glowing enthusiasm for Amerindian folklore.

Amerindian Affairs

Minister Pauline Sukhai encouraged the youths and the Amerindian com-

munity at large to “be proud of (themselves)… be proud Guyanese”, ensuring to take advantage of all opportunities that are afforded to them.

She remarked that Amerindians across Guyana “have found

Amerindian dishes; however the Karrau residents spiced things up a bit by making their pepper-pot with wild hog, deer and even labba (or Urana as the Makushi people call it), quite a treat for outsiders. The drinks too were quite refreshing as there was the obvious piwari drink that Guyanese around the globe enjoy but also potato wine, or fly as it is called locally.

their feet” and will continue to do so if they seek to develop themselves, preserve their culture, and thus themselves along the way. She encouraged the residents of Karrau particularly, not to loose sight of their de-

velopment, adding that “the village council have been and continue in the (way) of development.”

The Karrau Community Centre ground, which is located at the centre of the village, housed booths which were beautifully arranged with traditional Amerindian craft and wares, as well as purses and wallets for men with more contemporary designs.

Delicacies were also on display, with the

Toshao Cornelius remarked that Karrau is special and is set apart from other villages as it has all or most of the resources Guyana is known to offer, adding that the village is not well known as other Amerindian communities, “but everything the community needs or may need is right here, it just needs to be developed.” (Guyana Times)

Star of the Week

Florence Alexi LaRose-Fedee

A woman of worth

Whether embraced by the fraternity of the Baha’i faith in Israel or surrounded by the picturesque beauty of Finnish landscapes, there is no place like home, the native Amerindian village of Santa Rosa in Region One, for Alexi LaRose. An educated, hardworking professional of Amerindian descent, Alexi, after years aboard, returned home to promote her culture and give back to the community through hard work and dedication. Florence Alexi LaRose-Fedee is advanced in her field, proud of her culture, and full of the zest and drive of youth. She returns to Guyana to give back the only way she knows how - by applying the knowledge she acquired after completing her Master’s in Development and International Cooperation at Jyvaskyla University in Finland to her daily work.

GCB congratulates Guyanese Leon Johnson on Test debut

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA:

Guyanese batsman Leon Johnson became the 300th player to represent the West Indies in Test cricket, when he made the starting XI for the second Test against Bangladesh last Saturday.

The left-hander was presented with his cap by legendary former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd, who was recently appointed Convenor of Selectors. Johnson opened the batting with Kraigg Brathwaite and immediately announced his arrival on the international scene, featuring in a partnership of 143 for the first wicket.

Johnson made a solid 66 to become the 10th batsman to score a halfcentury on debut against Bangladesh. The match is also the West Indies 500th in history, since gaining Test status in 1928. In a correspondence to the media, the Guyana Cricket Board extended congratula-

tions to Johnson on his Test debut.

Below is the full text of that message.

“The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) extends congratulations to Leon Johnson on making his debut to Test cricket; opening the batting for the West Indies in the second match against Bangladesh.

Johnson replaced West Indies prolific opener, Chris Gayle who missed the game for personal reasons. Johnson made use of the opportunity as he registered a crafty half-century in the first innings (66) which featured in a century opening stand with Craig Braithwaite.

The GCB is extremely proud of this promising 27-year-old left-handed batsman. We believe the Guyana 2013 captain has been ready for the challenge at the highest level for sometime now. We are elated that he is given the chance to start his journey as a West Indies Test player.

We believe he has the right attitude and discipline to compliment his skills and talent as a top cricketer. We fully support him and are urging Guyanese and West Indies supporters to rally hard behind him as he seeks to score well consistently and hold his place in the team.

Leon Johnson has been playing cricket at the First-Class level since age of 16 when Guyana took on Leeward Islands at Enmore in 2004. He also captained the West Indies Under-19 in the World Cup in 2005-06. His consistent performance saw him making his ODI debut in the Tri-Series involving Canada and Bermuda in 2008 where he scored 51 in the second match. He played three matches in all.

The executives, members and staff of the GCB wish Johnson well as a West Indies player. We urge him to do justice to his selection and continue to make us proud.”

TT’s Joseph wins ESPN Martial Arts gold

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Nineteen-yearold Melissa Joseph, of Trinidad parentage, recently competed in the 2014 ESPN Martial Arts tournament, winning gold in Taekwon-Do Olympic Sparring, Black Belt division at Disney’s Wide World of Sports, in Orlando, Florida.

The TT fighter was forced to compete in a heavier weight class as there were several participants who dropped out of the featherweight division, resulting in Joseph competing in the heavy weight division. Taking on a much bigger and heavier Puerto Rican opponent, Joseph trailed

5-0 in the early stages as she struggled to come to terms with the size differential.

However, Joseph’s coach told her to stay close to her rival which she found difficult to do as she literally had to support the girl’s weight. The TT fighter hung in there, though and got off the mat, battling back to tie the score 8-8, by scoring with combinations of different kicks which rocked the Puerto Rican.

It was in the third and final round that Joseph scored with a scintillating head kick to the opponent with just seconds remaining to clinch the win in exciting and epic fashion.

The performance by Joseph exhibited heart, spirit and determination to battle back after such a deficit, when it was easier to give in after fighting almost four weight divisions up.

Joseph was particularly thankful to her decorated coach Ryon Frederick, who in training, has always emphasised and practiced the back spin hook kick, which counts for the most amount of points in any one legal contact to the head and can light up the scoreboard quickly.

Joseph is a medical student at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. (TT Newsday)

Gatorade spearheads islandwide hunt in Jamaica for athletic talent

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: Pepsi Jamaica Limited will partner with one of the world's biggest athletics club in MVP through its brand Gatorade with a plan to unearth raw talent in their grassroots programme to be launched soon.

Gatorade will be the official hydration sponsor for the MVP Grassroot Athletic Clinic, conducting islandwide athletics

training camps to include student-athletes in the age group 12 to 18 years old and their coaches.

The programme will take place in all three counties from, all 14 parishes and involving over 100 student-athletes per event (Over 500 student athletes).

Cornelia Nathan, Gatorade's brand manager, said that the programme will be rolled out over five separate events

to ensure broad, comprehensive coverage and impact.

"One of the primary purposes of this innovative grassroots initiative is to provide lifelong developmental guidance and exposing the very best of track and field worldwide to Jamaica's future athletic stars and their coaches," said Nathan.

Gatorade has been the sponsor of several of the world's top sporting stars, including Usain Bolt and NBA player Dwayne Wade of the Miami Heat.

The grassroots clinic will start on September 27 in Middlesex before moving to Cornwall on October 4 and Surrey the following week. Montego Bay will be the next stop on October 25 before it concludes on November 8 in Kingston. (Jamaica Observer)

Julian Hunte honoured for service to Windies cricket

GROS ISLET, ST. LUCIA:

The West Indies Cricket Board last Saturday honoured former president Sir Julian Hunte for his contribution to the game across the Region.

Sir Julian served as president from 2007 to 2013 and also served as a director of the International Cricket Council.

The function, which was hosted by the WICB and attended by several local and regional dignitaries as well as West Indies cricket legends, was held at

the Beausejour Cricket Ground.

Sir Julian was hailed as a "St. Lucian hero" and also praised for his calm guidance and leadership during a challenging period in West Indies cricket. The 74-year-old, who is a former St. Lucia Foreign Minister, said his greatest joy was being on hand to see the West Indies team win the ICC World T20 trophy in Sri Lanka in October, 2012.

"I have a love for cricket--cricket at all levels from the grassroots level to the international level.

I have a special love for West Indies cricket and I

am happy to make a contribution to the game at all levels," Sir Julian told the audience.

"I served because of the love of the game and I was happy to contribute in any capacity, in any way I can.

"One of my greatest privileges was to be there on that night when the West Indies team won the ICC World T20 tournament. The outpouring of emotions and the celebrations we saw filled my heart with great joy. It was a wonderful triumph and a true outpouring of West Indian joy."

Sir Julian was pre-

sented with two special awards by Dave Cameron, president of the WICB, and Clive Lloyd, the most successful captain in the history of West Indies cricket and who now serves as convenor of selectors.

"His service to cricket in St. Lucia and in leading the growth and transformation of cricket in the Windward Islands is legendary. At the regional level he has given yeoman and dedicated service to the West Indies cricket board for 33 years, seven of which were as president of the WICB," Cameron said. (CMC)

Jamaica’s Mullings gives opponent bloody beating in Guyana

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: Wray & Nephew welterweight Contender 2014 champion, Sakima Mullings, and promising super middleweight Kemahl Russell scored impressive victories in Guyana last Saturday night in feature bouts on a four-fight card that was held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown.

Mullings won by technical knockout when his opponent, Guyanese Dereck Richmond, could not answer the bell for the third round because of an injury to his nose that caused profuse bleeding, while Russell won by unanimous decision over Winston Pompey, who is also from Guyana.

The Mullings versus Richmond encounter was the main bout on the card, and Mullings dominated the fight from the opening bell. He was methodical and scored decisively with hooks to the body and head after laying the groundwork with his jabs. He won the first round with an all-round attack that saw him scoring freely, while his opponent found him to be a very elusive target. He stepped up the pressure in the second round and had Richmond on the defensive all the way. Near the end of the round, he landed a leftright combination to the head that hurt his opponent and left him with a bloody nose.

During the one-min-

ute interval, Richmond was examined by medical personnel to see the extent of his injury, and they ruled that he was not able to continue, thereby giving victory to Mullings by technical knockout, and moving his record to 17-1.

The Russell versus Pompey encounter was action-packed throughout and was voted the fight of the night. The excitement started early, with Russell flooring his opponent in the first round with a straight right to the head. There was brief consternation in the Jamaica camp-which was led to Guyana by the head of KNRG Management, Lisa-May Keane-shortly afterwards, however, as Pompey fought back

Bronze for TT’s Walcott at Continental Cup

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

Olympic javelin gold

medallist Keshorn Walcott settled for bronze Sunday at the IAAF Continental Cup held in Marrakech, Morocco.

Walcott represent-

ed team Americas in the event, producing an 83.52 metre throw on his final attempt, that was good enough for third spot after producing two foul throws earlier. Team Africa’s Ihab Advelrahman El Sayed won the gold, hurling the spear 85.44m fol-

lowed by team Europe’s Vitezslav Vesely (83.77) who claimed the silver. TT shot putter Cleopatra Borel, also wearing Americas colours, placed fifth with a best attempt of 18.68m behind Europe’s Christina Schwanitz (20.02) and Borel’s Americas teammate Michelle Carter 19.76m. Asia-Pacific’s Lijiao Gong finished third with a 19.23m effort.

Both TT athletes have been consistent throughout the year, claiming silver at last month’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. (TT Newsday)

Khan, Ramdin capture top TTCB awards

PORT-OFSPAIN,

TRINIDAD:

quickly and hurt Russell with a left hook to the head.

Russell, who was in trouble and on wobbly knees for a short time, recovered quickly, and coming in behind the jab, he resumed his dominance. Even though Pompey made it exciting with his counter-punching, he was clearly outclassed, and at the end, two judges scored it 5954, and the other 58-55 for Russell.

The latter, who is now 3-0 in his young professional career, told Jamaican media Monday that it was definitely a learning experience, and that he is looking forward to fighting again soon, possibly as early as next month.

(Jamaica Gleaner)

Imran Khan was named as the National Senior Cricketer of the Year while Denesh Ramdin took the International Player of the Year accolade at the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) 58th annual Presentation and Awards Function last Saturday at the Couva/ Pt Lisas Chamber of Commerce Building, Couva.

Khan, the leg-spinning all-rounder, got the nod ahead of his fellow TT players Jason Mohammed, Evin Lewis, Rayad Emrit and Shannon Gabriel.

And Ramdin was the undisputed winner of the International Player award, having been named as the West Indies Test team captain as well as scoring a record 168 against Bangladesh in the third One-Day International in St. Kitts–the third highest ODI score by a West Indies player.

Claiming the Clubs of the Year awards were Merry Boys (Premiership–Dr Allen Sammy Trophy)

and Aranguez Sports Club (Championship–Pirtie Ramnarinesingh Trophy).

Sammy was named as the Administrator of the Year and Arjoon Ramlal claimed the TTCB President’s Award. Amir Jangoo of the North Zone walked away with the National Youth Cricketer award, defeating the challenges of highly-rated Kirstan Kallicharan, national Under-19 captain Jeremy Solozano and Akil Sital (all East Zone), and Camillo Carimbocas (North Zone).

Joshua James (Whim Anglican, Tobago) and Jayriel Charles (Moruga RC) were the male and female recipients of the Primary Schools Cricketers of the Year, while the Secondary Schools Cricketers of the Year were Akeel Mohammed (ASJA San Fernando) and Reshmi Deojit (Cedros Secondary). Samuel Roopnarine of Clarke Road claimed the Sonny Ramadhin Trophy for the Youth Spinner of the Year. (TT Newsday)

Four Guyanese swimmers headed to Mexico

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) in conjunction with

the Guyana Olympic Association will be sending four swimmers to the Pan American Olympic Festival set for Mexico from September 26.

The four swimmers selected for the competition are Derrick Ramsaroop, Omar Adams, Soroya Simmons and Jamila Sanmoogan.

With the competition expected to start on September 26, the swimmers are scheduled to leave the country on September 24.

All four of the athletes are young budding stars still in the 15-17 category and will get a taste of the international competition that will be

much bigger in age and advanced in experience. However, one of the swimming coaches that are overseeing the progress of the swimmers Shaun Bask shed some light on the training.

“So far training has been good, they came back in August from the Goodwill Games took a week off and have been training consistently since, so it has been good,” Bask stated.

Meanwhile President of GASA Ivan Persaud is scheduled to attend a congress later this month that can see Guyana gaining some assistance in improving the sport.

(Guyana Times)

TT’s De Matas earns International Taekwon-Do bronze

PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Five national martial artistes created history after competing recently in the 5th International TaekwonDo Federation (ITF) World Cup in Montego Bay, Jamaica. TT’s Johnathan De Matas was the star, bringing back a bronze medal in the sparring competition.

The five athletes who represented Trinidad and Tobago were all members of the Euge Taekwon Do Academy and included ITF IV Dan Franklyn Eugene; Francisca Sadal, Black Belt I Dan; Aaliyah Maharaj, Black Belt I Dan; Christopher Nakhid, Black Belt II Dan; and Johnathan De Matas, Red Belt.

De Matas competed in Patterns in the Colour Belt 18-36 age group and won his first fight against his Argentinian opponent.

His pattern Hwa - Rang was just too powerful for the Argentinian. In his second round of Patterns, he faced a Jamaican opponent against whom he lost by one point. De Matas was able to capture bronze though against another Jamaican in the Sparring competition.

Nakhid participated in four events—Patterns, Sparring, Technical Breaking and Power Breaking. He placed fourth in the Power Breaking, and competed keenly in his Pattern event Eui Am in which he was narrowly edged by his opponent 3-2. His first round Sparring match was against a Slovenian opponent which ended at 4-0 in favour of his rival.

Francisca Sadal took part in the Patterns event in the 36-45 age group and was one of the three com-

petitors to complete the event. This is the first time that a female athlete from TT ever competed in the Patterns competition.

Aaliyah Maharaj competed in Power Breaking in the 36-45 age group and made a great representation. She too was the first female athlete from TT to take part.

Franklyn Eugene, Sparring in the 36-45 Advanced Seniors age group, found himself trailing in the first minute in his bout vs his Argentinian opponent who was ahead by two points.

Eugene went ahead 2-3 however his opponent came back to win the event. In the Power Breaking, Eugene placed seventh out of a field of 36 competitors, edging closer to the current world leaders in the event from Paraguay, Argentina and England. (TT Newsday)

Jamaican-born Japanese athlete making a name in 400m

KINGSTON, JAMAICA:

Having left Jamaica as a toddler, Japanese quarter-miler Julian Walsh knows little about the rich sports heritage of his birthplace which has produced a number of outstanding 400 metres runners.

The 17-year-old Walsh's (he turns 18 this Thursday) first major assignment came in July at the IAAF World Junior Championships in Eugene, Oregon.

He was a member of the Japanese 4x400 metres team that finished second to the United States in the final of that event. He represents the Asia-Pacific team in the 4x400 at the Continental Cup which began last Saturday in Marrakech, Morocco.

While keen to make a name outside the relays, Walsh told Jamaican media there is no rush to be a star though he has his sights set on a landmark close to home.

"I will be attending university in Japan but I am still undecided about my future career. I'm just making the most of the present opportunities," he said. "I'm looking forward for more experience in university and hopefully to compete in the 2020 Tokyo

Olympics."

The son of Jamaican musician Imanuel Walsh, Julian Walsh was born at St Joseph Hospital in east Kingston but moved with his Japanese mother to Higashimurayama, a town in west Tokyo, when he was three years old.

His father, who has lived in Japan for nearly 20 years, says track and field came into the picture a bit late.

"He joined the track team in high school at 10 grade, but since there is no history of achievements in track at this school, with no field to practise or actual advisor, he could not start serious training until one

year later," said the older Walsh.

This has been Walsh's best year on the track. In June, he posted a personal best of 46.98 seconds at a meet in Sagamihara, Japan. That run earned him a place on the country's World Junior Champs quarter-mile relay team where they took silver behind a classy U.S. side.

Walsh last visited Jamaica for his grandfather's funeral late last year.

The Continental Cup has four teams—Africa, the Americas, AsiaPacific and Europe— competing over two days in a total of 40 events. (Jamaica Observer)

Singh’s 56 guides Essequibo to Ontario Masters inter-county championship

By RavendRa Madholall

TORONTO, CANADA:

Veteran batsman

Jaimini Singh struck a responsible half-century to spur Essequibo to a thrillsing five-wicket triumph over Berbice in the 2014 Ontario Masters over-40, 20-over intercounty tournament last Sunday at Littles ground in Scarborough.

The left-hander hit four fours and two sixes in his 44-ball 56 as Essequibo safely reached 145-5 with four balls to spare after Berbice had earlier made a challenging 139-2 from their 20-overs.

Singh, a former senior Essequibo inter-county all-rounder and captain, started the innings with his reliable companion Amarnauth Sookhu, who also batted purposefully by scoring 39 which included three fours and a similar number of sixes.

The tournament, which was held under the

auspices of the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Club for ninth year in succession, also saw two teams competing from Demerara, East and West, but they suffered early elimination at the hands of Essequibo and Berbice respectively.

Their partnership of 82 lasted for 13 overs

and that drained the enthusiasm out of the opponents, but once skipper Singh was dismissed via a skying catch at longon, Essequibo’s run-rate subsided alarmingly until Iman Ghafour came to the crease and hit two mighty sixes towards the end.

Former Guyana

first-class player and Canada’s captain, Sunil Dhaniram was the topscorer for the boys from the Ancient County earlier. The left-hander reached the boundary on three occasions and cleared it twice in his steady 39.

Rudy Bhooplall captured three wickets for

10 runs from his allotted four overs while Ghafour was also successful with the ball by claiming three victims too, but for 20 runs from his fourover spell.

Meanwhile, at the presentation ceremony just after the game, both finalists were given medals (gold and silver) for

their participation in the championship encounter while the winner took home a trophy.

Sookhu, who scored a half-century in the opening round match, was voted the Most Valuable Player.

The trophies were sponsored by Dr. Rudy Singh and Dr. Raj Singh.

Mammoth victory!

Ruthless West Indies beat Bangladesh by 296 runs SCOREBOARD

GROS ISLET, ST.

LUCIA: A century from Shiv Chanderpaul, Sulieman Benn's five-wicket haul and three wickets from Jerome Taylor helped, as West Indies ran rings around Bangladesh to win by 296 runs in the second Test and claim a 2-0 series win Tuesday.

Chasing an insurmountable 488 to win, Bangladesh collapsed from 158 for three to 188 all-out in the final session of the fourth day of the fiveday match, as West Indies produced another command performance.

Tamim Iqbal and Mominul Haque staged an amazing fightback for the tourists by

adding 110 runs for the third wicket after coming together at 48 for two.

In only their second hundred partnership of the series, opener Iqbal played patiently to reach a top score of 64, while Haque contributed 56.

But when Benn broke the partnership by removing Iqbal, the rampaging Caribbean boys pressed home the advantage to seal a lopsided victory in the 500th Test of their history.

Bangladesh enjoyed a laborious, but productive second session without losing a wicket as Iqbal and Haque frustrated the hosts.

Tamim's departure, caught in the deep by Shannon Gabriel off Benn, signalled the start of a dramatic collapse.

Bangladesh conceded their last eight wickets for 34 runs, including losing four wickets for nine runs, as the lower order failed to produce any fight.

They were wiped out by Benn, who claimed five wickets for 72 runs, while Taylor, who claimed three wickets, also completed his 100 wickets for the West Indies in the format. (Caribbean News)

West Indies 2nd innings

KC Brathwaite c Shamsur Rahman b Mahmudullah 45

LR Johnson b Taijul Islam 41

KA Edwards c Shamsur Rahman b Shafiul Islam 2

DM Bravo b Mahmudullah 7

S Chanderpaul not out 101

J Blackwood not out 66

Extras (lb 5, w 2) 7

Total (4 wickets dec; 77 overs) 269 (3.49 runs per over)

Did not batD Ramdin*†, JE Taylor, KAJ Roach, SJ Benn, ST Gabriel Fall of wickets 1-76 (Johnson, 19.3 ov), 2-81 (Edwards, 22.5 ov), 3-97 (Bravo, 34.2 ov), 4-100 (Brathwaite, 36.2 ov)

Bowling O M R W

Taijul Islam 28 5 81 1

Al-Amin Hossain 4 0 18 0

Robiul Islam 12 3 42 0

Shafiul Islam 13 1 42 1

Mahmudullah 16 2 64 2

Mominul Haque 4 0 17 0

Bangladesh 2nd innings (target: 489 runs)

Tamim Iqbal c Gabriel b Benn 64

Shamsur Rahman c Edwards b Taylor 39

Anamul Haque c †Ramdin b Benn 0

Mominul Haque c Gabriel b Benn 56

Mahmudullah lbw b Gabriel 0

Mushfiqur Rahim*† b Taylor 11

Nasir Hossain lbw b Benn 2

Taijul Islamc & b Benn 4

Shafiul Islam b Roach 14

Robiul Islam lbw b Taylor 0

Al-Amin Hossain not out 0

Extras (lb 1, w 1) 2

Total (all out; 77.4 overs) 192 (2.47 runs per over)

Fall of wickets 1-47 (Shamsur Rahman, 8.4 ov), 2-48 (Anamul Haque, 11.4 ov), 3-158 (Tamim Iqbal, 58.5 ov), 4-160 (Mahmudullah, 59.6 ov), 5-160 (Mominul Haque, 60.1 ov), 6-167 (Nasir Hossain, 62.5 ov), 7-173 (Taijul Islam, 68.1 ov), 8-188 (Mushfiqur Rahim, 76.1 ov), 9-188 (Robiul Islam, 76.5 ov), 10192 (Shafiul Islam, 77.4 ov)

TT’s Lewis, Arrindell shine at Canada Regatta

PORT-OFSPAIN, TRINIDAD:

TT Olympian Andrew Lewis continued to make steady progress in his preparations for the upcoming Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games, placing in the top ten at the CORK Olympic Classes Regatta in Kingston, Canada, recently.

Lewis, who is preparing for the CAC Games in Veracruz, Mexico, from November 14-30, was among 52 sailors in the laser class. The 2012 Olympian defeated many sailors from

USA and Canada to finish eighth and move into the top ten of North American laser sailing. With his effort, Lewis jumped from 41st to 37th in the world.

Another TT sailor Kelly Arrindell also performed creditably at the Regatta. Kelly placed 22nd in a mixed (male & female) fleet of 56 participants.

Prior to the CORK Regatta Kelly took part in the Sail Canada Youth Championships where she placed 22nd in a mixed fleet of 117 sailors. Kelly finished fourth in the ladies fleet.

Paul Dakin, Training

and Development manager of the TT Sailing School said he felt that these results augured well for TT’s chances in the upcoming CAC Games.

The start of the 2014/2015 sailing season is approaching fast. During this lead up time, the TT Sailing Association (TTSA) holds a monthly general handicap race for all classes of boats to come out and practice before the season begins.

The next general handicap takes place on Sunday at TTSA in Chaguaramas. (TT Guardian)