Caribbean Times International

TT gov’t launches attack on criminals No new taxes –finance

- PM Kamla says no more excuses in war on crime

Prime Minister

Kamla PersadBissessar has read the riot act to TT’s National Security Council (NSC), demanding that members step up to the plate in the fight against crime otherwise they will be held personally accountable for any failure to stem the tide. Persad-Bissessar also announced Tuesday that with immediate effect all leave for police officers has been put on indefinite hold.

“All hands would be on deck in the fight against crime. This means all officers from the top to the bottom,” Persad-Bissessar said after holding an emergency meeting with the council for close to three hours at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s.

She admitted, however, that putting more police officers on the ground was not the answer. “Just putting more officers on the ground hasn’t worked. That is one aspect of it. It is also more use of all the resources and technology,” she said.

Describing the crime situation, particularly the spike in murders in the new year, as intolerable, Persad-Bissessar said: “Since the start of this new year, one week ago, our nation has seen an unprecedented spike in violence and murders. This spike occurred despite increase in efforts in focusing resources, implementation, modified equipment, new technology and police visibility.”

She said when she met with the council Tuesday she asked why that was

happening and what could be done to stop it.

Not acceptable

Based on the information she received, Persad-Bissessar said:

“I intend to take a much deeper interest and action required to reverse this spike in my role as

and as chairman of the NSC, we will no longer tolerate excuses for failure by our protective and security services to keep our country safe. At today’s (Tuesday’s) meeting I was very clear to all heads…a murder is simply not a murder…vio-

chairman of the NSC. At no time could crime be considered acceptable, and the recent spike in violent crime has made this situation completely intolerable. The government and people of TT are demanding action and results.”

“As prime minister

lence is not simply violence,” Persad-Bissessar said.

“I have also made clear to each member of the NSC that they would be held personally accountable for any form of failure to keep the peace and protect our citizens. As the ones in charge of

the respective arms of the protective security services, they must perform…no shades of grey, no excuses, no apologies.”

Rapid Response

Earlier Tuesday, Persad-Bissessar was on hand for the launch of the new Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and encouraged citizens to dial 999 or 991 to report any suspicious activities.

Acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams reported that there are 77 vehicles dedicated to the RRU, but 22 will be deployed initially as part of the pilot project in the Northern Division, North Eastern Division and the Western Division. He pointed out that the East West Corridor is the area of greatest need and there was already a regime in the Port-of-Spain Division.

(Excerpted from TT Newsday and TT Guardian)

minister assures Jamaicans

inance Minister

FDr Peter Phillips has asserted that he harbours no intention of imposing new taxes on Jamaicans in 2014.

At the same time, Phillips has set in motion a busy schedule in 2014 to complete a tight financial-legislative agenda in keeping with International Monetary Fund (IMF) requirements ahead of the culmination of the 20132014 legislative year, which ends March 31.

"We don't have plans for taxation. We have plans for tax reform, generally," Phillips told Jamaican media Tuesday. "But we will have to maintain our deficit targets."

Phillips highlighted expectations of several positive developments in 2014, including growth, lowering of the commercial interest rates, and the stabilising of the local currency, even as he stressed that all would not be hunky-dory on the economic front.

Missed revenue tar-

gets have fuelled speculations in the public domain that heavy taxation is inevitable this year, but while conceding that this is the case, Phillips suggested that they have been largely overstated.

"The revenue targets have been missed slightly in relation to taxation, and I say slightly, although the numbers loom large because they have reached approximately 97 per cent of the targets," he told reporters.

Phillips added "But we are going to have to maintain our 71/2 per cent surplus, as it is the only way if we are going to pay down this debt."

Phillips reiterated that there were two ways to stop the rapid accumulation of debt: cut expenditures or increase revenues. "That is a reality that we face, but we have committed to an open discussion about our alternatives and that is why (we) have laid the fiscal policy paper before the House." (Excerpted from Jamaica Gleaner)

Barbados, Canada ink protocol amending double taxation agreement

The protocol amending the agreement between Canada and Barbados for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to taxes on income and capital is now in effect. It entered into force on 17 December 17, 2013.

According to Director of International Business Kaeron Venner: "Under the provisions of this protocol, for the purposes of the agreement, the tax residency of a company that is resident in both Barbados and Canada under both countries' domestic laws (commonly referred to as a dually resident company) will be determined based on the place of incorporation. Therefore, a Barbados incorporated vehicle that is deemed to be dually resident will be regarded as resident solely in Barbados for the purposes of the agreement and will be liable to tax in Barbados.

"Where Canada wishes to make a claim to tax that same entity, the rule is that such a vehicle may only be taxed in Canada on certain types of income derived from Canadian sources, such as income derived from

activities that it carries in Canada through a permanent establishment (PE). This new tie breaker rule removes the need to have recourse to the Mutual Agreement Procedure to determine the residence of a dually resident company."

The director further explained that on January 22, 1980, Canada and Barbados signed onto a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA), which excluded companies that were subject to a special tax benefit under the international financial services regime from all of the provisions of the Treaty. He also said: "On November 8, 2011, Canada and Barbados signed a Protocol to amend the 1980 DTA. This protocol, among other things, now allows entities operating in the international financial services sector to benefit from a number of provisions in the Treaty, including the provisions on residency. In addition, such entities will now be covered under the new comprehensive exchange of information provisions which now meet the OECD standard." (Barbados Government)

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EDITORIAL

Poverty programmes

The issue of poverty in the world must continue to occupy the minds of governments, international development partners and policy-makers, as despite progress achieved since the endorsement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by world leaders at the United Nations (UN) in 2000, human poverty still remains widespread.

The causes of poverty are numerous, including a lack of individual responsibility, ineffective national policies, exploitation by people and businesses with power and influence, or a combination of these and other factors.

There are also many different theories on how the developing world could catch up with the developed world and to sort of bridge the gap between the haves and have-nots. Through the efforts of the UN, there is some agreement on at least two approaches to development–people-centred development and sustainable development.

People-centred development stresses the importance of developing people in a community and letting them participate actively in development programmes. Plans for development have to be more than just trying to fix the economy in the hope that the wealth will trickle down to the poor, if and when the economy grows. It stresses that people themselves have to decide what action plan is best for them and the need for persons to actively participate in changing their own lives.

Sustainable development deals with using the world’s resources to improve people’s lives without compromising the ability of future generations. Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) fits neatly into this development model, which allows for the country to earn funds to undertake massive development projects in exchange for keeping it’s forests intact to help the world in the climate change fight.

Whichever development model is used, there are too many people still living below the poverty line–US$1.25 a day–and every effort must be made to improve the quality of life of everyone, everywhere.

According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), globally, the number of extreme poor has dropped by 650 million in the last three decades, a level of progress humankind had never seen, but still there are more than a billion people living in extreme poverty.

In the midst of globalised progress and development, human deprivations are still widespread. In order to bring the figures further down there is need for concrete action to be taken to match the talk by governments and development partners, especially as it relates to financing critical poverty-related programmes.

Recently, a global coalition of developed and developing countries pledged to accelerate the fight to end extreme poverty by committing a record US$52 billion in financing over the next three years for the World Bank’s fund for the poorest, the International Development Association (IDA). The IDA is the World Bank’s main instrument for achieving the goals of ending extreme poverty and boosting shared prosperity in the world’s poorest countries. The funding will allow the IDA to deliver customised and innovative solutions to help the poorest countries address their most pressing development challenges.

The coalition agreed that increased funding was needed to tackle the toughest issues in fragile and conflict-affected states to help those countries tip the balance toward stability. This IDA replenishment will see an increased focus on the most challenging frontier areas, greater private sector mobilisation, and stronger, more targeted investments in climate change and gender equality, as key to shaping the future. It argues that a strong commitment to more equitable growth underpins these efforts.

In line with the IDA17’s overarching theme of maximising development impact, this financing is expected to provide, for example, electricity for an estimated 15 to 20 million people, lifesaving vaccines for 200 million children, microfinance loans for more than one million women, and basic health services for 65 million people. Some 32 million people will benefit from access to clean water and another 5.6 million from better sanitation facilities.

IDA17, which runs from July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2017, will span the target date for the MDGs and the launch of the post-2015 agenda–a pivotal crossroad in the global effort to end extreme poverty.

The US$52 billion pledge made by the global coalition of countries will certainly go a far way in addressing extreme poverty in the world. 2014 must be the year of action where we hope to see critical programmes to end poverty implemented.

Force

the island

march

7, 2014 during the

has a

the

EU gives some

€300,000

to flood-hit Caribbean states

In response to serious damage caused by a low-level trough system in the Eastern Caribbean region, the European Commission’s Department of Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection (ECHO) has released more than €300,000 to bring immediate relief to the population most affected by floods.

“Damage in the Eastern Caribbean has been very significant, mainly because the low-level trough system unexpectedly occurred outside the Atlantic Hurricane Season. The European Commission wants to help the emergency relief effort with this immediate allocation of aid,” said Jocelyn Lance, head of the ECHO Caribbean Office, according to a European Union (EU) release.

On December 24, 2013, severe rains and high winds struck due to an unexpected low-level trough system passing through the Eastern Caribbean. The trough caused severe floods, landslides and damage in St Lucia and St Vincent and Grenadines, leaving 15 people dead and around 220,000 affected, mainly jeopardising access to safe water.

In St Vincent and the Grenadines, critical infrastructure was affected by flooding and landslides, including the airport and main hospital, as well as several bridges and roads. The damage has been so extensive that the government declared it a level two disaster, which calls for regional assistance, as local resources and capacities are limited.

In St Lucia, water systems collapsed due to flooding, leaving the entire population without access to water. Electricity blackouts, landslides, damage and blockage of roads, bridges and homes took place island-

wide. Hospitals and health centres reported damage to equipment and medical stocks. Agricultural crops, especially bananas and vegetables, were also severely affected, with damage of up to 90 per cent of the crop.

Priorities

The immediate priorities are access to safe water and sanitation, distribution of relief items (hygiene kits, cleaning tools and jerry cans), health and housing. The potential for an increase in water and vector borne diseases, especially dengue, is of concern.

As a major contributor to the Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) of the IFRC, the European Commission has agreed to use €104,834 of its DREF contribution to help bring relief to the victims. The aid will be channelled through the Red Cross National Societies of St Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which operate with funding from the DREF (€56,054 and €48,780 respectively).

Assistance includes distribution of food, relief items, access to water and sanitation, and hygiene promotion to minimise the risk of diseases. In addition, €200,000 has been granted to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) to restore health services and reduce the impact of the disaster on public health.

The European Commission’s disaster preparedness programme (DIPECHO) is currently funding four projects in the affected region, specifically in St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada and Dominica.

Lifesaving

“Despite the damage registered, disaster preparedness actions once again proved relevant and lifesaving. In

St Lucia, for example, the Community Disaster Response Teams (CDRT), formed under the DIPECHO provided first aid, psychosocial support and distributed relief items,” the head of the ECHO Caribbean Office said.

“This is why ECHO will continue to support these initiatives in the Caribbean,” he added. Current, DIPECHO projects, lasting until December 2014, will keep working to strengthen the most vulnerable communities’ capacities to anticipate, withstand and recover from natural hazards. The funds will also be used to establish and upgrade early warning systems and reinforce health centres’ preparedness.

The European Commission has signed a €3 million humanitarian contribution agreement with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to support the Federation’s Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF).

Funds from the DREF are mainly allocated to “smallscale” disasters – those that do not give rise to a formal international appeal. The Disaster Relief Emergency Fund was established in 1985 and is supported by contributions from donors.

When a National Red Cross or Red Crescent Society needs immediate financial support to respond to a disaster, it can request funds from the DREF. For small-scale disasters, the IFRC allocates grants from the fund, which can then be replenished by donors. The contribution agreement between the IFRC and the European Commission enables the latter to replenish the DREF for operations (that fit in with its humanitarian mandate) up to a total of €3 million.

Red Stripe expects huge yields from cassava project in Jamaica

- aims to create 2500 jobs in five years

Red Stripe expects to create 2,500 jobs in Jamaica within five years as part of a project to replace imported inputs with locally grown cassava in the production of beer.

The beer maker Tuesday signed a lease agreement with the Agro Investment Corporation of Jamaica for 36 acres of land at Bernard Lodge that will be used as a pilot farm for cassava cultivation.

Red Stripe managing director Cedric Blair said that the pilot farm is expected to demonstrate the company's ability to grow high yielding cassava of between 40 and 60 tonnes per hectare compared to the 10 to 15 tonnes per hectare that he said is typically produced in the Jamaican market today.

"At this level of production, we are absolutely confident that we will be in a position to replace approximately 20 per cent of our imported brewing raw materials by 2016," Blair said at the lease signing ceremony held at Red Stripe's headquarters on Spanish Town Road in Kingston.

The initiative, branded Project Grow by the brewer, has been in the works for the past two years as part of a broader plan to drive efficiencies across the company. It is a move replicating parent company Diageo's investments in supply chain rationalisation for its breweries in Africa as the beer market tightened, forcing the exploration of food crops such as cassava, sorghum and maize as cheap and reliable sources of raw materials compared to imported barley.

"This project goes way beyond just a pilot; it will extend to small farmers, medium-and large-scale agro-processors to develop a sustainable cassava supply chain for our business," Blair said, noting

that it should create 2,500 jobs directly and nearly 4,000 jobs indirectly.

According to Red Stripe chairman Richard Byles, the company decided to use a "modest" 36 acres of land for its pilot programme in order to focus on quality and efficiency of production.

"With good agricultural practices, the correct varieties and proper technology, we can triple the average output per acre of cassava that we currently achieve in Jamaica. When that is proven, we will quickly expand the project to 300 acres with the possibility to get up to 2,500 acres," Byles said.

Red Stripe expects to produce cassava beer by September. (Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

Guyana Marriott Hotel on target for August completion

- President Ramotar impressed with pace of construction

President Donald Ramotar on Saturday visited the Marriott Hotel construction site at Kingston, aback of the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD), accompanied by Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh and other highranking officials, including head of the Privatisation Unit, Winston Brassington.

President Ramotar, who toured the building, including some

model rooms, was impressed with the pace and quality of construction on the project.

“It has really set another standard for construction in our country, and we are looking forward to an early opening as possible so that we can develop our tourist industry,” the head of state said.

The Marriott Hotel is on target for an August 2014 commissioning, and President Ramotar said such infrastructure would go a

very far way in advancing Guyana’s economic development, and improving the livelihood of Guyanese.

The Marriott will boast 197 rooms, a large ballroom, conference centre, casino, nightclub, restaurant, a concrete walkway and all other amenities of a world-class hotel.

When completed, it will provide employment for close to 500 Guyanese.

The US$51 million project was launched in 2011.

Newly-acquired scanner brings Guyana’s port operations in line with international regulations

The Chinesedonated mobile container scanner in Guyana was on Monday commissioned during a ceremony at the National Park with traders being urged to ensure that they are well prepared for the scanning to minimise time and resources.

The US$4.3 million scanner was given by the government of China through a grant. The certificate of acceptance was signed in December. This is the third scanner the country has acquired; however, it is the first mobile one, which will be used to boost the export and import surveillance capacity while at the same time detect unauthorised items being smuggled through the ports.

During the commis-

a container passes through the new mobile scanner during a demonstration exercise at the national Park

sioning ceremony, a demonstration of its operation was shown to the officials present. The scanner is self-operated and can scan a maximum of 20 containers in an hour. It was manufactured by Chinese company, NUCTECH, using the latest technology in x-ray imaging.

Speaking at the

launch Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, said that while he has no doubt the mobile scanner will be used by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to meet the trade laws, it should not be solely responsible for timely and efficient conduct of the process. On this note, the minister urged traders to play their part in ensur-

Guyana’s multi-billion dollar Hope canal to become operational in April

Having missed its December 31st date of completion for the Hope canal project, Guyana’s Agriculture Ministry is giving all assurances that the canal would become operational no later than April this year.

Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy, said Monday that the remaining work is critical to the operationalisation of the Hope canal. The minister said the main area of concern is the external sluice, which is only 55 per cent complete.

Courtney Benn Contracting Services is responsible for the construction of the sluice.

ing that the process of scanning goes smoothly.

The equipment, Dr Singh noted, will boost revenue collection and mobilisation of GRA.

“This scanner and inspection system represents an extremely important addition to the hardware of our government and the officials of the GRA in ensuring compliance with our laws, but particularly our standard trade laws and protection of our revenue,” Singh noted.

International

compliance

This acquisition, he explained, brings Guyana into compliance with international standards and requirements used by major trading partners. The finance minister added that the initiative taken by the Chinese government is one of the most recent examples of the long-standing relationship between the two countries.

Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Zhang Limin, said this equipment will go a long way in boosting the operations of the GRA. He pointed out that this initiative by the Chinese government is part of its effort to improve the economies of developing countries and reflects their warm friendship.

Meanwhile, GRA Deputy Commissioner General Clement Sealey, said the acquisition of this scanner will go towards developing GRA’s

capacity in dealing with goods imported and exported and also to safeguard revenue collections.

He added that the scanner will allow for easy detection of unauthorised goods being traded and will greatly enhance the technological capacity of GRA.

“Over the years since the establishment of the GRA, GRA has been investing in information technology because of our recognition of the importance of its operations and role as the major revenue collection authority in Guyana,” the deputy commissioner general stated.

NUCTECH’s country representative and Guyana Manufacturers’ Association Chairman Clinton Williams, said the equipment will go a long way in improving the process of scanning in the trade industry.

(Guyana Times)

The minister emphasised that most of the work is near completion, noting that the progress is being made on all four components of the canal project. The canal itself is 95 per cent completed. The shaping of the dam along the entire length of the canal is about 75 per cent completed.

Engineering feat

This shaping and reshaping of the dam is to be a continuous process that will be conducted over the next 12 to 24 months. “

The minister had said that if the contractors failed to meet the December 31 deadline, the government would issue liquated damages against them. This will

According to the minister, after meetings with the engineering company, it was agreed that the work will be done in six phases that will bring the sluice to more than 90 per cent completion. This will then allow the ministry to move ahead with operationalising the project, after years of on-andoff work on the northern relief channel.

take effect soon, but will in no way affect the continuation of the project.

The Gy$3.6 billion East Demerara water conservancy northern relief channel remains a contentious issue and has received much criticism.

Several millions have already been expended on the project, which started with former Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud, and have suffered several delays. The Opposition said that while the project is good for the development of the country’s drainage and irrigation system, the government has been reluctant to ensure that contractors stick with the stipulated deadlines given to them, which has cost the country millions, even while there is no real assurances that the canal would be finally completed and function. (Excerpted from Guyana Times)

Guyanese miners facing tough times amidst fluctuating gold prices

Faced with the fluctuating prices for gold on the world market, a number of miners in Guyana have been forced out of the industry while some who have not paid their bills have seen the banks repossessing more than 100 excavators that they had taken loans to purchase.

Observers say that despite government’s lavish praises on the sector, not much has been done in terms of guiding some of the miners into reinvesting their earnings.

Speaking at a miners’ forum on Monday, Guyana Gold and Diamond Mining Association (GGDMA)

President Patrick Harding, said the drop in gold prices from US$1800 to US$1200 was devastating to the industry.

He noted that with the little money miners have, they are using it to revive their operations,

while some are struggling to meet their expenses.

“Where are we going to find the money to start the year 2014? You know that our banks and financial institutions seldom assist us, they may assist you if you are willing to put up your house or other collateral,” he pointed out at the asso-

ciation’s first meeting for the year.

Harding explained that because of the serious challenges the industry is facing, they will have to implement ways of cutting costs. He stated that the recovery system which the sector uses, causes about 50 per cent of refined gold to be thrown away, and as

such, they are looking at alternative recovery systems to reduce the use of mercury.

Burden

The GGDMA president stressed that the high costs of equipment and supplies are a burden on the miners. “The association has met before with some of the suppliers, and of course,

Canada-bound Trinidadian national intercepted at CJIA with cocaine

An elderly Trinidadian passenger was on Tuesday taken off a Caribbean Airlines flight bound for Canada at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) in Guyana by ranks of the Police AntiNarcotics Branch after they unearthed a quantity of cocaine in his luggage.

they are complaining their costs have remained high, but if they want to do business with us, they have to try to reduce their prices, otherwise we will find additional suppliers,” Harding said.

He added that some miners are unable to pay for their equipment and so they are being repossessed by the financial institutions. “Some mining businesses have been closed and some miners being put out of work. We are hoping that 2014, we will find some way around this,” he stated.

Guyana recorded the highest ever gold declaration of 458,105 ounces as at December 16, 2013, surpassing the previous highest level of 455,918 ounces in 2001; which included the declarations of both Omai and small scale operators.

During the meeting, mining lands was a major issue raised, as the miners themselves requested that more lands

be made available and at the same time, they are calling for the lands being leased to be researched for gold presence, since most often miners are given barren lands which ends up being inconvenient and costly to them. “Don’t give us barren lands, give us lands with possibilities,” one miner cried.

President Donald Ramotar, who was present at the meeting, offered government’s assistance to those miners who have difficulties with obtaining loans from banks as he highlighted the need for hire purchase legislation regarding the repossession process.

“We would help those very small miners, we will help them to reclaim so they wouldn’t have that expense and we will do it for them…for the medium-scale people, we will try our best for them to do so,” he said.

(Excerpted from Guyana Times)

This, airport officials related, is a norm.

It was during the scanning process, the illegal substance, which reportedly amounted to five kilograms, was detected. The man was taken off the flight and asked to identify his luggage.

After so doing, he was

The man had reportedly already boarded the aircraft when his baggage was scanned by members of the drug enforcement unit at the main port of entry.

taken to an isolated room where the suitcases were searched, and the cocaine unearthed in the false bottoms.

The suspect immediately denied having any knowledge of the substance and accused airport authorities in Trinidad of framing him. He was arrested and taken to police headquarters, Eve Leary where he is being grilled.

This newspaper un-

derstands that the man boarded the CAL flight from Trinidad and Tobago which stopped over in Guyana to collect outgoing passengers bound for Canada.

This is the first major cocaine bust for 2014.

Last year, 555.077kg of cannabis was destroyed while 20kg of cocaine seized, along with 1.7 kg of LSD. This resulted in 775 persons being prosecuted. (Guyana Times)

Jamaican gov’t provides millions to support onion farmers

The Jamaica government is providing Ja$7.5 million to help farmers at the Plantain Garden River Agro Park, who have incurred losses in a recent onion crop.

“We decided that we are going to get them back on their feet, and we injected $7.5 million to see what we could do to help them. The credit union has been working with them, they have been preparing land, and they have been planting pumpkin,” said Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Roger Clarke.

He said agreement had also been reached for a second crop like pumpkin or pepper in the area where the farmers had planted the onions.

INTERPOL urges Caribbean to fight crimes against children

The international Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) is urging the Caribbean and other developing nations to maximise the use of its tools and services to fight crimes against children.

In a recent report, INTERPOL said crimes against children tend to be local crimes, with the vast majority taking place within the home or family circle.

It, however, said there is an international angle, pointing out that the increased use of the Internet in recent years has led to a huge rise in crimes against children.

“Not only can offenders distribute and access child abuse material more easily, but they can also come into direct contact with children via chatrooms and social networking sites,” the statement said.

of the offender, coupled with lack of understanding or effective legislation, means that the abuse of children is easier in these countries," said INTERPOL, adding that this type of crime is linked to child trafficking, organised crime and murder.

"These types of crimes represent a huge challenge for police worldwide and require specialised skills and increased resources," INTERPOL said.

The international police organisation said it provides training and promotes best practices to police in member countries in the Caribbean and other places, stating that it brings together experts in its Specialists Group on Crimes against Children.

“They have pepper in the ground, they have Irish potato in the ground, and they are doing some work. We have not abandoned them,” he added.

Clarke was responding to media reports that the failure of the onion crop had resulted in additional hardships for the farmers.

He said the St. Thomas Cooperative Union has also been providing weekly grocery support to the farmers, which to date has amounted to an estimated Ja$650,000.

In addition, a loan scheme has been facilitated by the Agro Investment Corporation

with the financial

institution to provide working capital for the farmers.

“The credit union, during the Christmas period, and up to now, has helped…because they know that the crop had failed,” Clarke said, adding that the failure of the onion crop was due in part, to a faulty irrigation system.

INTERPOL said it runs a project in conjunction with Internet Access Service Providers to block access to child abuse material online.

In addition, it said "sex tourism", involves "the abuse of children in developing countries by people who travel there".

"The relative wealth

Formed in 1992, this group consists of a number of sub-groups dealing with particular issues and chaired by investigators from around the world.

In addition, INTERPOL said it works closely with many other agencies, both governmental and non-governmental, in this area, by facilitating training programmes and other projects worldwide. (Caribbean News)

PPP/C, APNU talk up alliance in Guyana

Amid the parliamentary gridlock and stalled multi-party dialogue, the two main political parties in Guyana, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) have issued calls for a broad-based movement to take the country forward.

The APNU for its part, last Friday, proposed a new “social contract” by which the major sections of society can come together to seek agreement on a broad national programme to move the country forward.

The PPP/C in its New Year’s message also said that the time has come for a broad left national front alliance to take the country forward.

Shared governance

A coming together of

the two parties has been elusive over the years and although much has been said about shared governance, the major political parties remain entrenched in their respective ideologies.

In a statement last Friday, APNU said the PPP/C administration has demonstrated that it is incapable of solving the country’s current crises on its own, noting that the economic crisis has lowered workers’ standard of living.

He noted too that the World Bank, in its 2014 World Development Report, rated Guyana as the second poorest country in the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

Security crisis

According to Granger, the security crisis has disproportionately hurt the poor.

APNU said a “social contract” could be the

main means of combining the talents of a wider constituency and create the conditions for social cooperation and economic progress.

The three-fold purpose of such a contract would be to reach a broad consensus on the goals of national development; to establish a sustainable institutional architecture; and to create effective poli-

cy instruments for the achievement of the objectives of the contract.

Political solution

APNU called on the PPP/C to seriously reexamine the prospects for the future relationship between citizens and the state.

It proposes that a new social contract be agreed upon in order to address Guyana’s pressing political, economic

and social problems and to foster greater unity, security and progress.

Meanwhile, the PPP/C said the search for a political solution to meet the expectation of Guyanese must continue, noting that it was extending a hand of friendship to all those who subscribe to the aspirations of a free and democratic society within the broad framework of a national democratic state, based on the principles of national sovereignty, a tri-sectoral economy, good governance, rule of law, and a working-class orientation.

It added that the PPP/C government has always been and will continue to remain faithful to the vision of its founding leaders to create a society in which there is racial and working class unity, participatory democracy, and inclusive governance.

The ruling party said it was of the view that critical to the realisation of the above objectives is the need to build trust at the political level and create political space for all. It noted that confrontation and threats must give way to dialogue, and the good of the country should remain paramount in all political engagements and discourse.

Common ground

“It is clear from the standpoint of the PPP/C that there is a strong political will to find common ground. The PPP/C administrations have always recognised the importance of multi-party democracy and have always sought to ensure that opposition parties are not treated with disdain,” the Party indicated. (Excerpted from Guyana Times)

TT gets high ranking for economic freedom

Trinidad and Tobago has been ranked among the best places in Latin America for the economic freedom it offers to foreign direct investors.

In the 2013 Economic Freedom of the World EFW ranking, TT ranks 79th out of the 152 countries and territories for economic freedom. It scored 6.95 out of a possible ten points—above the worldwide average of 6.83—across five identified key measures that comprise economic freedom. The components included how well a country protects the rights of private property ownership, whether it exercises fair and consistent enforcement of contracts, the stability of its monetary environment, rate of taxation, barriers to do-

mestic and international trade and degree of reliance on government spending.

Among South American countries, only Chile, Peru and Uruguay ranked ahead of TT in overall economic freedom. In the whole of Latin America, Brazil and Mexico, together comprising almost twothirds of South America’s GDP, placed low on the overall EFW index at 102 and 94, respectively. Argentina, with the second-largest GDP in South America, was ranked only 137th out of 152 countries and territories. And Venezuela placed last among the countries that were ranked. A total of 42 distinct variables were included in the measurements. The EFW report

has been compiled annually for 25 years by Canadian think-tank, the Fraser Institute. The Institute’s goal is to identify the countries where, across the board, it’s easiest to do business with the fewest restrictions.

The Institute’s tracking over decades has shown that a country’s degree of economic freedom exerts a profound impact on its economic prosperity across several categories. Political and civil liberties are considerably higher in economically free nations, an indicator that affects the stability of foreign direct investment (FDI).

Of perhaps greatest significance for FDI is that countries with more economic freedom have notably higher per-capita incomes.

Antiguan gov’t partners with Digicel for CCTV crime-fighting measure

Within the next 30 days Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras are to be installed in a number of strategic areas across Antigua as a crime-fighting measure.

The announcement was made recently by National Security Minister Dr Errol Cort, who told Antiguan media that the government is partnering with a telecommunications giant to get the project underway.

“I am pleased to announce that the government has entered into an arrangement with Digicel in respect of the procurement, installa-

tion and maintenance of a CCTV system for the City of St John’s and the surrounding areas,” the minister said.

“It is expected that the installation of these cameras will commence within the next 30 days.”

The minister said the two entities would be issuing a joint statement in the near future.

Over a year ago, government announced plans to embark on such a project, but the main challenge was sourcing financing.

Discussions took place between government representatives, police and the business

community for several months to determine the areas to be covered by the cameras, among other things.

In addition to this measure, the minister pledged that the Serious Crimes Task Force that was established on January 3, 2013 would be strengthened and patrols increased in an effort to clamp down on criminal activities.

Due to crime-fighting efforts over the last year, the minister said 29 illegal firearms were removed from the streets along with 315 rounds of illegal ammunition.

(Antigua Observer)

In the case of TT, it ranked third highest of 13 Caribbean countries in 2012 with GDP per capita at US$18,010. TT placed a strong fifth in its regulatory environ-

ment ranked against the other 20 Caribbean and Latin American countries examined. The ranking considered the labour market, credit market and business regulation. In freedom of international trade, TT was ranked eighth in the Latin American and Caribbean region. (Excerpted from TT Guardian)

Climate change a priority area for new Caricom chairman

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, said Monday he would use his six-month term as chairman of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) grouping to deal with the deleterious effects climate change is having on the socioeconomic future of the 15-member bloc.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia and Dominica are now emerging from the effects of a weather system that left a trail of death and destruction over the Christmas holidays.

Caribbean countries have also had to deal with the annual hurricane season and in many cases, like in Haiti, unseasonal rains that cause

widespread devastation.

“The big issue…is global warming, climate change. We are having systems affecting us outside, of the normal rainy season and the normal hurricane season,” he said making reference to the floods in April last year and the Christmas Eve rains that resulted in the deaths of nine people and hundreds of millions of dollars in damages in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Diplomacy

with during my term in a continued serious and structured way, (and it) has to deal with the deleterious effect of climate change and to get the requisite responses from the international community in relation to this matter”.

Gonsalves told a news conference that the region does not contribute “anything to these manmade weather systems, these problems with putting so much carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

to help the three affected islands recover and rebuild their battered infrastructures.

International donors’ conference

He said he had already received a letter from Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer, who is also chairman of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), outlining plans for an international donors’ conference.

enough. “To the extent that the monies you get from the Catastrophic Relief Insurance System is fairly minimal, but of course every little bit helps,” he said.

Gonsalves said he had already written to the leaders of several countries and was now waiting to see “what kind of grant assistance we can get because we really need grants preferably.

“In my term as chairman of Caricom this is one of the issues, which you will recall I said earlier on…I want dealt

“There are lots of monies which countries talk about for adaptation and mitigation to climate change. But I haven’t seen the money yet and we have to use our diplomacy as a region, and we have to be aggressive with our climate change center in Belize.

“We are…on the front line,” he said, adding that “this is an issue which is big”.

Gonsalves said that efforts were now underway to stage an international donors’ conference

TT’s AG suggests death penalty for sexual offences against children

Two prominent attorneys and a former high court judge say they do not agree with a suggestion by TT’s Attorney General Anand Ramlogan for the death penalty to be enforced for sexual offences against children. They warned that such a measure will do more harm than good.

In an interview with TT media a few weeks ago, Ramlogan said he has been toying with the idea for several months and will approach the Opposition early this year to get their consensus.

He spoke about the matter just weeks after the body of six-year-old Keyanna Cumberbatch was found in a barrel at her Maloney Gardens home. An autopsy showed that the child was struck unconscious and raped.

“The first thing I intend to do is raise with the Opposition as part of our ongoing joint anti-crime talks to see what position they have on the matter,” Ramlogan said. He noted that if the PNM supported the idea, the measure could form part of the

Constitution Amendment (Capital Offences) Bill.

In 2011, the Opposition refused to give support to an earlier version of the legislation also known as the hanging bill.

“The various natures of crimes against our innocent children have caused me to think that we should consider the introduction of the death penalty for sex crimes against children. It could be a sentencing option that the court or judge will have and he or she can impose it in, appropriate cases, where the facts and circumstances are so extreme that it shocks the conscience of the court in terms of imposing the sentence of death,” said the AG. Appropriate cases

“We can leave it as a sentencing option to the judge so that in appropriate cases...it can be imposed.” Ramlogan explained that if violence was inflicted on a child under age 14 and the circumstances were outrageous, the court should have the option of imposing the death penalty. He said, while there

is an ongoing debate on whether punishment of any form—including the death penalty—reduces crime, something has to be done to deter criminal elements.

“There are arguments that can go both ways. If someone is a beast in human form and stalks our land, then the issue is whether they have forfeited their rights to life,” he said. Ramlogan said an issue to be considered is whether victim of sex crime victims should be entitled to personal retribution in the court. In some countries they have the option of presenting a victim impact statement to the judge. This gives victims a chance to tell the court what the offence has affected in their life, whether they were required medical or mental health treatment and what they wished to be done at sentencing. He said while the death penalty was proposed for the most heinous crimes “it has never been imposed for anything other than murder, treason, piracy and hijacking”.

Thoroughly studied However, former at-

torney general Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj, said before capital punishment is introduced, it should be thoroughly studied. He warned against introducing legislation merely to promote public emotions or sensationalism.

Senior counsel Israel Khan, said he would not support the measure.

“What will happen is after a child is raped, the criminal would kill the victim so there would be no witnesses. Criminals think a certain way. The death penalty should really be reserved for the most serious offences, which are murder or treason,” he said.

Former high court judge and justice minister Herbert Volney, said introducing additional legislation “would not help anything, any government, anybody or any cause.” Instead, the government should provide the judiciary with more resources, courts and staff. Volney said the law already states that the death penalty is available to anyone who kills a child. (Excerpted from TT Guardian)

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines prime minister also told reporters that an insurance scheme organized through the World Bank, to which all the Caribbean countries contribute, does not go far

“The World Bank will give soft loan monies, the CDB (Caribbean Development Bank) will give soft loan monies, the European Union will give grants, Venezuela will give grants, (and) Taiwan will give grants”. (Caribbean News)

Shaggy encourages blood drive to curb shortage in Jamaica

International artiste Shaggy, the man behind the Shaggy Make a Difference Foundation that is geared towards raising funds to offset some of the needs of the Bustamante Hospital for Children in Kingston, said recently that a shortage of blood is another major problem affecting Jamaica.

Since 2009, Shaggy whose given name is Orville Burrell, has raised US$2 million in support of the children's hospital through a charity concert. Just last weekend, the latest installment of the charity concert was held, and though the final numbers on how much was raised are still out, the number of patrons who attended the event and the ticket sales are indications of just how well the event did this year.

But, according to Shaggy, another problem that should be addressed is the shortage of blood affecting the island.

"We have a very bad blood problem in Jamaica," Shaggy told a group of reporters at a Jamaica Observer Monday Exchange meeting held at the newspaper's headquarters on Beechwood Avenue in Kingston, recently. "Pickney a dead, people a dead, because dem nuh have blood."

"We need this, we need blood," he said.

The entertainer, who is known for hits like ‘Boombastic’ and ‘It wasn't Me’, said he will

support anyone who is willing to take on the challenge to raise awareness surrounding this problem.

Shaggy admitted that he has been toying with the idea for a while, but would not be able to spearhead such an initiative because of his current obligations with his foundation's effort to continue contributing to the Bustamante Hospital for Children.

"I guarantee that if people do a blood drive and really mobilise Jamaica, the problem can be fixed," Shaggy said, while adding that another problem is that many Jamaicans are afraid of needles, which is a deterrent to blood donation.

Igol Allen, blood donor organiser for the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS), more popularly known as the Blood Bank, told Jamaican media Monday that there may be other ways to do tests, but the needle is the only way to draw blood from donors.

He, however, welcomed the idea of partnering with an entertainer or anyone who would be willing to assist the NBTS, because the shortage of blood is a problem that the institution is constantly trying to remedy. Allen also supported Shaggy's claim that people have died simply because they did not have enough blood. (Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

Arson suspected in fire that torched Venezuelan embassy in St Kitts

Investigators in St Kitts were on Monday probing the cause of a fire that destroyed the Venezuelan Embassy and partly damaged the building housing the Organization of American States (OAS) Office on Sunday, in what one diplomat said was a “malicious act”.

“What I want to do is condemn what I see as a malicious act and attempt to cause confusion and create instability in the country,” OAS Ambassador Starret Greene told the local radio station WINN 98.9.

“The fire was kept at one window and it didn’t spread beyond the window…I met investigators here …they found a rag soaked in kerosene, it seems, at this window and at another window.

“But at the second window, thank God that was not ignited, is really where the propane tank is placed and so we are glad that particular window was not ignited but there were two areas of attack,” he said, adding that the OAS headquarters in Washington had been informed of the situation.

Investigators said the

two buildings were located streets apart in the Fortlands, in the capital, and that other buildings in the area were not directly affected.

“There are indication that the OAS office was the first line of attack and when things did not work out as planned, it seemed as if the perpetrators may have gone elsewhere and probably to the Venezuelan Embassy, but from what I was told, here was the first line of attack and thank God it was not successful,” Greene said.

Fire Chief Everette O’garro said fire officials responded to the two troubled call, but were unable to save the buildings He said arson was suspected at the OAS building due to what was discovered there, but stopped short of blaming arson for the destruction of the Venezuelan Embassy.

“What I can say is that we discovered some items that may be of evidentiary value, but we have not made the determination that arson was involved in this case,” Ogarro told the radio station.

(Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

Limacol CPL hailed as greatest investment in Caribbean’s tourism sector

The Limacol

Caribbean

Premier League (LCPL) has been touted as one of the greatest investments in the Caribbean in recent years. This is according to Guyana’s acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali.

“We believe that the LCPL is one of the greatest investments in the sporting tourism sector in the Caribbean,” Ali said, while addressing the opening ceremony of the Park Vue Hotel in Guyana on Sunday.

According to the tourism minister, 2014 will be a “huge year” for Guyana, as he anticipates another massive LCPL tournament.

Forum

“Very shortly, there will be a forum that is designed to reduce the burden in persons travelling within the region to see the matches all across the Caribbean,” he said.

He added that Guyana will be pushing to stage more of the matches. During the LCPL, tourists from

across the world will get an opportunity to explore Guyana.

The Tourism Ministry has tagged 2014, the “Year of Exploration, the Year of Opportunities”.

“You are standing in a land that has been named one of the finest eco-tourism destinations in the world, you are standing in the bosom of nature, you are standing in the next big thing in the tourism sector for nature and adventure tourism,” said Ali.

Resounding success

The NEW GPC INC has been resoundingly praised for its role in the 2013 LCPL.

In December, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) presented the company with the Business of the Year Award (large) for its investment in the LCPL T20 cricket tournament.

Queens Atlantic Investment Inc (QAII) was recognised for the acquisition of the franchise for the Guyana Amazon Warriors team, the successful hosting of the inaugural LCPL

T20 tournament, sponsorship of the league under the name Limacol CPL, and the introduction of Limacol as a global brand.

GCCI President Clinton Urling told Guyanese media that QAII’s achievements have been “remarkable” by any measure or standard when one considers the local, regional and international impact of the investments made.

He said that the business community was proud of the fact that a local company had

reached this level and was now solidifying its place as a major regional and international player.

Positive effect

Urling disclosed that the chamber also recognised the positive effect the tournament had on boosting enthusiasm in the area of sport and generally creating upliftment for Guyanese and Caribbean Community (Caricom) citizens.

He said the tournament lived up to its expectations and filled the void created following the collapse of the Stanford T20 tournament.

“No other project, no other investment from any Guyanese firm could have topped that investment that was made by the NEW GPC in relation to sponsorship of the LCPL,” he said. “It was indeed the most enormous investment and far reaching.”

There was also massive commercial support for the tournament, which has never been seen for any sporting event in the region.

(Guyana Times)

12 News

Petrotrin suspends workers amidst investigations into Trinidad’s oil spills

Eight employees from the Refining and Marketing Group of the Petrotrin Refinery in Pointe-aPierre in Trinidad were suspended Monday, as investigations continue into the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Paria that has been wreaking havoc not only on plant and marine life, but also on residents living in affected areas along the south western coastline.

And more employees could face disciplinary action over what has been described as a “Petrotrin problem” and a “national crisis,” according to manager, corporate communications Gillian Friday and Errol Baldeo, senior manager, marketing and trading.

The suspensions were announced during a media conference at

the Petrotrin Learning Resource Centre, Pointea-Pierre Monday. The briefing was called to give an update on the oil spill clean-up which continues daily in areas along the south western peninsula including Coffee Beach, Carrat Shed Beach, Station Beach and Point Sable in La Brea and Otaheite.

Baldeo told journalists those suspended were involved in the operation of the first oil spill, which occurred on December 17 at the Pointe-a-Pierre jetty.

“The jetty personnel were involved in preparing the lines from the shore, the tanker, the line work, the pump, that entire chain (operation is) being looked at. We are conducting an investigative process and the first step before we take

disciplinary action is to have sufficient investigation done,” Baldeo said.

Baldeo added that action “may be taken in suspending persons who may have been on duty at that point in time so that there is no chance that the information may be interfered with.”

Friday later confirmed the suspended employees are attached

to the Port and Marine Branch at Pointe-aPierre and were the ones who “load and receive fuel onto the Marabella port.”

Difficult times

Saying that the last three weeks have been difficult for Petrotrin, Friday said the company has managed to clean up 10 of the 13 affected beaches.

In response, president general of the Oilfields Workers Trade Union, Ancel Roget, said the suspension of the eight was “an attempt by the company’s management to cast blame on the lower level employees”.

He said senior managers should also be suspended, saying lower level employees were not responsible for imple-

menting budgets that would cause major maintenance works to be carried out on aging infrastructure.

Meanwhile, acting Finance Minister Vasant Bharath, Monday said he did not expect the oil spills to have “an impact on the economy per se.” “I don’t believe it’s reached to that point where there is significant concern by investors with regard to the amount of oil that’s been spilt. Clearly everyone is looking on to understand how we deal with the situation and how quickly we can resolve it, and also I suspect, looking on to see what the cause of it is, and how quickly we can identify it and ensure it doesn’t happen again,” Bharath told reporters. (Excerpted from TT Newsday)

Job cuts in Barbados won’t affect sole breadwinners – finance minister assures

Barbados’ Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs

Christopher Sinckler, said the government intends to put measures in place that would ensure the sole breadwinner in a household will not be unduly affected by civil service job cuts.

Some 3 000 public officers will be laid off starting this month in what the minister said Monday was government’s strategy to trim the fiscal deficit and to protect the parity of the Barbados dollar. The layoffs, along with other measures, are aimed at slashing government’s spending by Bds$145 million.

Speaking during a news conference at government headquarters Monday afternoon, Sinckler said that in going about the layoffs,

government had determined that a process and mechanism had to be put in place.

He stressed that leadership has to be given to that process and it is a matter which will be handled by the prime minister, who heads the Ministry of the Civil Service.

However, Sinckler said that directives have been issued to Departments to ensure that where they have

to release workers, that they do a clear analysis of all the persons involved to ensure that sole breadwinners are not affected.

“We have said that when we proceed that we would adopt the 1991 principles in relation to the overall retrenchment, and salary packages and so forth,” he explained.

The minister also told the media that those principles will have to be

amended in relation to industrial relations practices developed over the last 20 years or so.

He noted as well that government had indicated to the various ministries working on this–the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of the Civil Service, Chief Personnel Officer, and the Ministry of Labour, that appropriate arrangements be put in place for those people involved to have counselling.

According to him, “These could be very strenuous and difficult circumstances; not only psychological counseling, but financial counselling because there may be some who will receive separation packages that are quite generous, and we don’t want a situation where they go and spend the money and then have a difficulty getting a job in the near future.” (Excerpted from Barbados Advocate)

Jamaican MPs put millions in education

Jamaican Members of Parliament spent approximately Ja$200 million of their Ja$1-billion Constituency Development Fund (CDF) budget on educational projects over the three-month period, July to September, last year.

The Ja$199.7 million that the MPs spent over the three months, which span the graduation season in July and the opening of the new school year in September, brought their total spending on educational projects for the first six months of 2013/14, April-October, close to Ja$269 million.

Education provided the most popular projects for the MPs between April and September, as they spent Ja$242 million of the total Ja$488 million approved by the CDF for the April to September period. For October, the first month of the third quarter of the financial year, which ends in March, the legislators continued the trend by spending Ja$26

million of the Ja$90 million available from the CDF for the month.

The next major finance item was emergencies and welfare, which saw MPs providing assistance for constituents in need of social support at a cost Ja$62 million over the seven months. This was followed by consultancy funding, under which the MPs pay fees to government agencies, like the Social Development Commission (SDC) and the National Works Agency (NWA), to oversee those projects, which cost them close to Ja$59 million.

Housing Social housing, which is mainly aimed at assisting indigents in the constituencies, cost them close to Ja$47 million while, surprisingly only Ja$27.6 million was spent on sports development during the total period.

Two other interesting areas in which the MPs invested were disaster mitigation, which cost them Ja$54 million, although these projects were implemented some eight months after Hurricane Sandy in November, 2012; and economic enablement, which provided funding

for people to start their own income-earning projects.

Least on the bill was the Ja$18.6 million spent on Labour Day projects, albeit a single day's work including bushing and drain-cleaning, followed by Independence/ Festival to which the 63 MPs donated only Ja$3.5 million.

The MPs had, however, spent only Ja$578 million of their Ja$1 billion budget for 2013/14 by the end of October, leaving them with approximately Ja$400 million to be spent by March this year.

The CDF offers MPs a designated funding mechanism for constituency projects, through a unit in the Office of the Prime Minister. The main thrust of the fund is to promote human and infrastructure development at the community and constituency levels, through the establishment of sustainable development projects. (Jamaica Observer)

Guyanese-Canadian among Who’s Who in the World

Narine Dat Sookram, who was born in Berbice, Guyana, now living in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada has beaten the odds of being listed in the ‘Who’s Who in the World’ in the 2014, 31st edition.

The collection provides concise, accurate biographies of renowned individuals from around the world, representing virtually every major field of human endeavour.

Within this publication, readers will find Nobel Prize winners, innovators/inventors, authors, athletes, academics, judges, fashion professionals, and entertainers. They will also find royalty, captains of industry, political and religious leaders and many others whose noteworthy and profound contributions are showcased in this volume.

This indispensable research tool includes professional and personal data unavailable in any other source, offering researchers a unique insight into the lives of the world’s most notable personalities. There is simply no other source like it, according to the information provided on its website.

When Sookram was ask what it

feels like to be included in the ‘Who’s Who in the World’, he said: “I feel like I

am on top of the world, it’s always nice to be recognised in the mainstream.”

Sookram, who has been involved in ‘everything’, from a business owner, non-profit charity, to producing a weekly community West Indian Radio programme and the prestigious Caribbean Dream Concert has become a role model among his peers.

Doing your best

Sookram said that the thing that keeps him going is his passion to maximise his potential. “It’s not always about winning, but doing your very best every time is what matters. Crossing the finishing line is the key,” he said.

When he was asked what keeps him grounded, he said, “I have a family, a wife and daughter that is.

“Though I wear many hats in my professional career, I am a family man. I have always been that way. I like the role of being a father and a husband. That’s where I ‘shine’ the most I think. What a lot of people don’t know about me is that I do spend a lot of time in the kitchen and I love to shop for groceries, because it gives me the opportunity to

make a healthy choice.”

When he was asked to give some tips to others who may want to make the most of their lives, he said, “The key point in life is to have a goal, but most importantly working towards that goal will be something to keep an eye on.

Previous awards

“It’s like living for a purpose, because when we do, life becomes more meaningful. And when we don’t have a goal, we are like a chicken without head, we are running around, but don’t know where we are going.”

Sookram is the recipient of over 100 awards, including some of the most prestigious: The TIAW World of Difference Award, 2013; The Governor General Caring Canadian Award; Canada’s Top 25 Immigrant, 2013; The Denny Statue for the Arts; Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction; Famous People of Guyanese Heritage Inclusion; Encyclopaedia Inclusion and many more.

Sookram’s writes a weekly column in the Berbice edition of the Guyana Times on Mondays.

San Fernando man chokes to death on roti

A52-year-old San Fernando man died last Friday after choking on a meal of roti, potato and curried chicken.

Ramjattan “Boyie” Sinanan was having a meal prepared by his sister at her home in Arouca at about 5 pm when he began choking.

One of Sinanan’s sisters, Vitra Rampersad said when she and other relatives realised what was happening, they tried hitting him on his back to dislodge the food caught in his throat and they also performed Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to revive him but nothing

worked.

She said she called 811 to get an ambulance, but she kept getting a busy signal. She continued trying until she finally got through. The officials told her what to do, to try and revive him, while they waited on the arrival of an ambulance. Rampersad said she gave

her sister the instructions she was receiving, which included hitting Sinanan on his chest but nothing worked. She said when the ambulance arrived 20 minutes later, the Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) checked his heart rate and found there was none and told the family,

there was nothing they could do and advised they call the Arouca Police Station.

The police later arrived together with the District Medical Officer, who pronounced him dead. Rampersad said, her brother, was mentally challenged. (TT Newsday)

Guyanese couple returns home to open multi-million dollar hotel

President Donald Ramotar and acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali on Sunday declared opened the Park Vue Hotel, a multimillion-dollar facility situated at Farm, East Bank Demerara, in Guyana.

Dignitaries including government ministers, Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Ronald Webster, Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) President Kit Nascimento and Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Clinton Urling were toured the 52-room hotel, which has a boutique, restaurant, lounge and bar.

Praise

However, before they toured the modern facility, government officials and representatives from the private sector praised

the owners of the facility, Robin and Sharon Persaud during an official opening ceremony. The Persauds have turned from abroad to invest in Guyana.

Ramotar applauded the Persauds for believing in Guyana’s economy, noting that the construction of the hotel along the East Bank Demerara corridor will contribute significantly to the growth of tourism in the country.

According to him, the investment comes at an important time when the country’s tourism sector is on the move.

Great expectations

“Now is a good time to get into the sector, because we anticipate that there will be many more arrivals in Guyana. We are working on having more airplanes coming to Guyana, and therefore we expect the number of people visiting here will increase,” Ramotar said,

as he spoke at the pool side.

Ali said the government through his ministry will be working with the management of the

hotel to establish a park to complement the facility.

“I stand here confident of the fact you will be successful and that the tourism sector is going to be successful in Guyana, and we are going to be a rival for many other countries in the Caribbean,” Ali said to resounding applause from the audience.

He said the government of Guyana will continue to create growth

poles and expand business opportunities in Guyana beyond the capital city.

Meanwhile, Webster also used the opportunity to congratulate the Persauds on the “gigantic step” taken.

He encouraged them to place major emphasis on customer service and raising the bar of hospitality in the country.

“Leave an impression that will last,” he said as he spoke directly to the

management and staff of the new hotel.

He also used the opportunity to express disappointment over the attacks on developmental projects in the country, but expressed hope that the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion Project will materialise, catering for the influx of visitors, family and friends anticipated to visit the country this year. (Excerpted from Guyana Times)

Jamaica’s road fatalities for 2013 rise by 17 per cent

Jamaica’s National Road Safety Council (NRSC) is again calling for greater caution on the country’s roads, as the death toll resulting from fatal traffic accidents climbed to

305 in 2013, an increase of 17 per cent over 2012.

"The problem of safety on our roads is every-

body's business and we should all be concerned," urged NRSC Chairman Dr Lucien Jones.

"We are still pushing for the speedy passing of the Road Traffic Act, but in the meantime, everyone has to take responsibility where road safety is concerned," Dr Jones said.

In 2012, the number of fatalities was 260, the lowest the nation had recorded in over 20 years. It was therefore hoped that the target of no more than 240 fatalities in 2013 could have been achieved. For its part, the NRSC has been emphasising pedestrian safety as a key component in its thrust towards reducing road fatalities.

"For the past three years, pedestrians have recorded the highest

number of road fatalities," Dr Jones said. "We therefore made pedestrian safety the theme for our annual Poster Competition last year," he added.

Eighty-nine pedestrians were killed in fatal accidents in 2013. This was an increase of five per cent over 2012, and accounted for 70 per cent of the total number

of fatalities in 2013. Motor and pedal cyclists are the next categories of road users recording high numbers of fatalities. Of the 55 motorcyclists who died in 2013, only two were wearing helmets.

Speeding remains the number one cause of fatal road accidents.

"Road users should be aware that speed limits have been established to assist them in controlling their vehicles," noted Dr Jones.

"Exceed the speed limit, and your vehicle is converted from a mode of transportation into a lethal weapon. I am appealing to all road users to respect the lives of others and their own lives, by remaining within the legal limits of speed," he said. (Jamaica Observer)

Standard of living up, poverty down in Guyana - finance minister

The standard of living in Guyana continues to be improved significantly while the levels of poverty are on the decline, as the country’s economy continues to register strong economic growth despite the challenges posed by an unstable political environment and other extraneous financial challenges.

This is the position of Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, who explained that the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration are extremely proud of the gains made, but has certainly not lost sight of the “struggle” to continuously develop Guyana’s economy.

Dr Singh was speaking during an interview on a local broadcast, ‘Current Issues and

Analysis’, aired recently on Television Guyana, Channel 28.

He said that all Guyanese must take credit for the performance of the economy over the last decade as they too played a part in ensuring that the levels of productivity remained high by keeping the wheels of industries turning.

He said the economic accomplishments of Guyana cannot be easily downplayed, noting that by any measurement they are “stellar” and “outstanding”.

Growth rate

Dr Singh maintained that the overall five per cent on average growth rate recorded over the last six years is inextricably linked to the development of households and individuals, explaining that the signs of personal development can be found in every nook and cranny of Guyanese society.

“This achievement has been by no stretch of our imagination an accidental one,” he reported, while boasting that in 2013, the government continued to manage the economy prudently, rolling out responsible macro-economic policies and demonstrating mature

fiscal management of resources.

Speaking ahead of the presentation of his third budget under the Donald Ramotar administration due later this year, the finance minister said that inward foreign direct investment remained strong over the past year with the other coordinates of good economic performance sus-

all of the other key macroeconomic fundamentals remaining on a favourable trajectory, while further explaining that interest rates were on the decline as well as inflation. “The last two years have not been without challenge, least of which is the political environment in the country,” the minister stated, while further opining that “this

test to the work of the legislature and how this work affects the executive…. As a government, we have not been daunted by this reality since it exists.”

The finance minister admitted that despite the politicking by the parliamentary opposition parties on clear-cut issues, there has been incremental improvements and in

taining the buoyancy.

Dr Singh said that loans to the private sector continued in 2013 with

political reality has proven to be a test to our constitutional and legislative framework and a stern

some cases, massive advancements in the lives of the ordinary citizens.

(Guyana Times)

Policewoman charged in Trinidad for neglecting teen

Acting Inspector of Police Carol Alexander last Friday stood before a San Fernando magistrate to answer the criminal charge of neglecting a 14-year-old girl by locking her out of an apartment. The policewoman was ordered by the magistrate not to communicate with the girl for the duration of the case.

Alexander appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Mark Wellington charged with two counts of neglecting a young girl. Alexander, 53, has 32 years of service and was last working at the San Fernando City Corporation’s Police Unit.

She was arrested by officers of the San Fernando Police Station located opposite the corporation’s police headquarters

where she worked.

Attorney Cedric Neptune last Friday told Wellington his client was arrested last Monday, released and re-arrested last Thursday. Acting Sergeant Steve Persad laid the charge after consultations with officials at the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The charge as read out in court alleged that Alexander locked out a 14-year-old relative from an apartment at Embacadere, Lady Hailes Avenue, San Fernando, on two occasions.

The magistrate read the first charge that between Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22, she caused unnecessary suffering to the child by neglect.

Alexander is also alleged to have commit-

ted the same offence against the young girl on December 30. Wellington told Alexander the charges were laid indictably and she was not called upon to plead. Court prosecutor PC Ramnath Phillip said the charges would remain indictable, but could be tried summarily as well.

Neptune asked for bail to be granted, saying Alexander had an unblemished record as a police officer who rose steadily up the ranks. He said she is a single parent and always made herself available to police during investigations.

Phillip told the court while the prosecution has no objection to bail, the accused should not be allowed to interact or communicate with the virtual complainant (the child)

Drug court to be established in Barbados next month

Barbados is to establish a drug treatment court by early next month, according to Attorney General Adriel Brathwaite. He told a news conference that over the last year, several stakeholders, including the judiciary and the National Council of Substance Abuse (NCSA), had done tremendous work in laying down the framework for the court.

Brathwaite, who is also the country’s Home Affairs Minister, said that magistrates were already in the process

of looking around their courts to identify suitable applicants, and that the selection for those participating in the first cohort of offenders would be completed no later than the second week in February.

He said that only nonviolent offenders would be treated at the court.

“We want to have non-violent offenders… what we are going to do is that we want to intervene where we believe that substance abuse has driven this individual to crime. We are satisfied that substance abuse has

played a significant part in leading individuals to crime so we want to intervene at the front end”, Brathwaite said, criticising those who have been querying the establishment of the drug court.

“It’s another mechanism that we want to use to move people from the impact of drugs into having a positive life,” said Brathwaite, who was among special guests attending a thanksgiving service on Sunday for the NCSA, to mark this month’s focus on drug awareness. (Caribbean News)

who is now in the custody of The Hope Centre in Pointe-a-Pierre.

Wellington said due to the prevalence of crimes against young children, he is minded to make

such an order. He then told Alexander that she is not to visit the victim or have any form of communication with her over the duration of the hearing of the case.

Alexander was then granted TT$40,000 bail to cover both charges. Alexander was ordered to reappear in court on January 22. (TT Newsday)

Toronto-based Guyanese mandir donates to hospital

The (Guyanese) Toronto-based Voice of Vedas (VoV) spiritual centre made a hefty donation of Cdn$5000 to the Humber River Hospital and also doled out smaller grants to other worthwhile charities, as the spiritual organisation closed out the year on a high in its svea (charitable) activities.

The VoV is led by Guyanese Canadian Dr Budhendranath Doobay, who has established renal clinics in Guyana to help poor victims of renal failure.

Dr Doobay, at a recent banquet in Toronto, expressed his appreci-

ation to members, volunteers, devotees and sponsors who have made significant contributions over the year to help the mandir to achieve its ongoing objectives of service to all.

It was noted that the VoV is constructing a Hindu museum and has already established a senior citizens’ centre that caters to many Guyanese and other nationals. Plans are in place to expand Anand Bhavan, the seniors’ residence.

The VoV is also tied to a plan to erect a monument in honour of fallen Canadian soldiers on its property. The VoV also commits to devel-

Wray & Nephew sales up 16 per cent

JWray & Nephew, led by its flagship Appleton rum brand, earned 145 million euros (Ja$21 billion) in global sales over the nine months ending September 2013.

The amount equates to a 15.6 per cent rise year on year, according to financials from its majority owner European Campari group.

Jamaica provided one-third of the sales at ¤47.1 million, with Canada at ¤11.3 million and U.S. at ¤7.2 million.

The bulk of brand sales came from Appleton rum, which earned ¤27.9 million, followed by Wray & Nephew Over Proof White Rum at ¤22.5 million and Magnum tonic wine at ¤12.3 million.

"As expected the change in structure in the period had a significant positive impact of 16.4 per cent. This was almost entirely due to Lascelles de Mercado (LdM) acquisition which generated sales of ¤145.5 million in the first nine months of the year," the financials noted.

Campari acquired Lascelles in December 2012 for some US$409 million from Trinidadbased majority shareholder, CL Financial, and local shareholders.

Campari in the previous second quarter announced that it would slash the local workforce by 200 staff members to effect efficiencies since acquiring the operations in December 2012.

Reorganisation

The headcount reduction forms part of the overall re-organisation at LdM, which merged 22 companies into one—

Wray & Nephew Ltd on 2 August 2013—according to the financial notes.

The departments included sales, logistics and finance.

"J Wray & Nephew Ltd will ensure an appropriate outplacement service for the staff involved," stated the notes in the September quarter.

Campari previously indicated that it merged 22 local companies into the long-standing Wray & Nephew in order to strengthen the group's route to market in Jamaica.

"The new structure, which manages the entire brand portfolio previously distributed by J Wray & Nephew and Lascelles strengthens the group's route to market in Jamaica and improves customer services with more efficient business organisation," indicated Campari in financials.

Over the review period, despite the positive performance of the local operations, the wider Campari Gruppo registered a 14 per cent reduction in profit at ¤149 million. (Jamaica Observer)

Rise in calls to TT’s child abuse hotline

There has been an estimated 150 percent increase in the number of calls to Trinidad and Tobago’s Childline 800- 4321 hotline daily, following the launch of a text message promotion of the free service in December.

“We have seen a drastic increase in reports of abuse of children and families since we started the promotion early last month. Childline went from about 80 calls per day to now about 200. These reports are forwarded to the National Family Services, where we have social workers on the ground and

they investigate all reports of abuse,” said acting Director of National Family Services in the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Child Development Antoinette Jack-Martin.

“A lot of times we get reports about children being left home alone at night. Many callers choose to remain anonymous, but they do leave a contact number in case we need directions to the house in question.”

Jack-Martin spoke last Friday at a press conference at the ministry’s Tower D, International Waterfront Centre,

Port-of-Spain office, called to launch a yearlong programme entitled “Strengthening Our Families.”

Minister of Gender, Youth and Child Development Clinton De Coteau, said Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar has agreed to be the patron for the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the International Year of the Family and to launch the national initiative for 2014. De Coteau also said the goals of “Strengthening Our Families” would be achieved through a “multi-component ap-

proach” across multiple sectors on national and community levels.

Asked for specifics on how this would be done, the ministry’s Child Development Specialist Candice Wallace-Henry, said family skills training would play a key role. “This would address some key stresses which the family faces, such as parentchild conflict, inter-parental conflict, budgeting. Some of this would fall under the National Parenting Programme, which the ministry is launching later this year,” Wallace-Henry stated. (TT Newsday)

op a stronger global care outreach programme in Guyana, including building additional Doobay renal centres and other projects.

A fundraiser was recently held to assist the VoV with its planned programmes, particularly global medical outreach and the Canadian Museum of Hindu Civilisation in addition to the Humber River Hospital that performed special surgeries on several children flown from Guyana.

The VoV is applauded by the Guyana government and the public for its humanitarian activities.

Neal & Massy buys largest supermarket in St Lucia

Trinidad-based conglomerate, Neal & Massy Holdings Limited, has acquired controlling shares in Consolidated Foods Limited (CFL), the largest supermarket and retail chain in St Lucia.

Former CFL Chairman Michael Chastanet confirmed the buyout, but gave no details as to the amount paid for the majority shares.

He said no jobs would be cut.

"At least, the only way job losses can occur is if the economy sinks down and something happens, but I don't see that happening, okay. There will be no job losses at all. I can say that quite emphatically, that there will be no job losses. As a matter of fact, that matter I think was discussed with the prime minister even before, and he was concerned about possible job losses," Chastanet told a local television station.

Chastanet said in a statement that after 20 years in the supermarket business, he along with his immediate partners made a "strategic decision to transition the ownership of Gablewoods

Supermarket" to Neal & Massy, which has been a shareholder of Gablewoods since 2002.

As of January 1, 2014, Neal and Massy is the sole shareholder of Gablewoods Supermarket and, by extension, majority shareholder of CFL, which is the operating entity for Consolidated Foods' retail stores, Chastanet said.

He said 40 per cent of CFL, which own stores in St Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines, remains in local hands while the remaining shares would be held by the Trinidad conglomerate.

"They (Neal and Massy) do have controlling interest, but 40 per cent is a big shareholding. So, from that aspect there, it's not a matter of going all into the hands of a Trinidadian per se, you know. They have to work with the partners. The 1,500 staff are very meaningful to them. They have to work with those people," said Chastanet.

Neal & Massy's other supermarket holdings include the Hi-Lo chain in Trinidad and Super Centre in Barbados. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Over 300 homeless in St Vincent - following

St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves says the deadly Christmas weather system that hit the island has created two St Vincent and the Grenadines—one normal, and the other anguished and pained.

Gonsalves spoke to SVG media last Thursday and, according to I Witness News, he said people had lost their beds, furnishings,

Christmas storm

week that the SVG Association there had got the support of Rotary Clubs, Red Cross and private individuals to send containers of clothing, medical supplies and other non-perishable items to the flood-ravaged islands. Vincentians in the United States have also been responding to the calls to help those at home, following the disaster on Christmas Eve night. Relief efforts

countries.

St Lucia News Online reported that the island’s Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) had encountered more problems in the Micoud area because of continuing land slippage. “Crews carried material in the area to undertake repairs as the road was impassable. However, after the pipes were opened it was observed that most of the water was being lost beneath the slides.”

cooking utensils, stoves, fridges, laptops given by the State, books, clothing, shoes, “every single thing.”

“People are suffering, no question about it. Families which have been vulnerable within 24 hours have descended not just into poverty, but indigence,” he related.

Gonsalves said supplies of pipe-borne water remained a major problem and more than 300 people were homeless, with about 240 living in emergency shelters.

Virgin Islands News Online reported last

Last week, the Guyana government approved financial support for SVG and other islands affected by the weather trough. According to media reports, US$100,000 had been approved for St Vincent and the Grenadines and St Lucia, and another US$75,000 for Dominica. The Guyana government had also put mechanisms in place for a disaster relief fund for the affected islands. The fund will allow citizens and organisations to make contributions to support relief efforts in the affected

The report said WASCO, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health and the National Emergency Management Organisation, is setting up five 1,000-gallon tanks at strategic points. To bring relief to residents more quickly, the water company had decided to bypass the landslides and connect pipeline around them to get to the community. It said this would take two to three days. TT has sent two 40-foot containers of supplies to St Lucia and also sent aid to SVG. (TT Guardian)

Multi-million dollar upgrade for Guyana’s National Cultural Centre

Much-needed rehabilitation works to the tune of Gy$80 million will begin on the air conditioning, light and sound systems of the National Cultural Centre in Guyana, Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony revealed at a press conference last Friday.

The minister explained that substantial works have not been done on the theatre, particularly on the air conditioning and the current units need to be replaced.

The minister also pointed to difficulties experienced with the lighting and sound at the theatre, which seats approximately 1900 persons, and said efforts are being made to upgrade both systems from analogue to digital.

Proposals

He disclosed that 10 companies were approached for proposals of interest, and two have since sent in proposals. A previous proposal was deemed too expensive for its scope.

Dr Anthony said the staffing at the cultural centre was also an is-

sue and announced that those who have been underperforming will be replaced.

In addressing concerns over what were deemed excessive fees to rent the theatre, Dr Anthony said the costs were incomparable to the investment needed to host shows. He noted that the centre is not making enough money to be self-sufficient, and its operations were highly subsidised by the ministry.

History

The National Cultural Centre is 62 feet high, 240 feet long, and 115 feet wide. Its stage is 48 feet deep with an orchestra pit, with a 72-ftx20-ft opening.

Actual construction of the nation’s theatre began early in 1972 when general contractor SA Nabi & Sons, drove the first of 280 70-foot greenheart piles.

Although there was little hope that the auditorium would be completed in time for Carifesta’72, it was expected that the building would be useable for the first Caribbean festival of arts.

However, even this modest hope looked un-

attainable when almost continuous rains prevented work on the cement casting for the building and the work fell weeks behind schedule.

Before the festival, the building was still without walls or a roof and only the ground floor and stage were recognisable, and a surprise decision was taken. Three large tents were hired (and subsequently purchased) from an American tent contractor.

The two large tents were used to cover the foyer and the seating area and the third, smaller tent was erected over the stage. The open sides of the tents were enclosed with coconut leaves plaited together. This makeshift arrangement was an instant success and contributed greatly to the success of Carifesta. Even with that incomplete stage, the Cultural Centre was being praised. Its stage, 72 feet wide and 48 feet deep with a proscenium of 24 feet, was recognised as the largest in the Commonwealth Caribbean. (Excerpted from Guyana Times)

Transition house for female wards-of-the-state opens in Montego Bay

Female wardsof-the-state in Jamaica, 16 to 18 years old who are preparing to exit state care, now have a transition facility that they can call home in Montego Bay, St James.

‘My Father’s House’, a facility made available to the Child Development Agency (CDA), by United States-based charity organisation, Embracing Orphans, is the newest addition to the CDA’s facilities. It was officially opened last Friday.

The facility, located in the community of Reading, has the capaci-

ty to house approximately 20 girls, but now has eight wards from various parts of the island.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the CDA, Rosalee GageGrey, following the opening of My Father’s House, said that it is the first such type of facility for the agency.

She emphasised that the transition house will provide the support and after care for wardsof-the-state who have reached the age to demit state facilities, but have nowhere to go.

Gage-Grey pointed out that My Father’s

House will be used specifically for females, as there is already one such facility in place for boys in Manchioneal, Portland.

“We saw the need for girls in this area, and

Embracing Orphans was very helpful. When we had to close Windsor there was a gap so we had to find another place and they came onboard to assist us,” she stated while

describing the facility as an “invaluable donation”.

Meanwhile Chairman of the Board of the Embracing Orphans, Carl Robanske, said the house is a partnership with the CDA, adding that the contribution is just one of the many projects that his organisation is implementing in Jamaica.

“We (will) attend to maintenance as well as assisting in some of the financials of it, including a reimbursement for the lead House Mother’s Salary to the Child Development Agency,” he said.

“We also bring out teams (to Jamaica) through our teams service trips, and they will definitely be continuing to serve in maintenance projects, education with the staff, and programmes for the girls here as well as throughout other children’s home in Jamaica,” he added. Robanske explained that his organisation raises an average of US$100,000 annually, which is channeled into programmes and projects. The non-profit entity has been working in Jamaica for approximately seven years. (JIS)

Guyana gov't blames ‘hostile opposition’ for Muri Brasil pullout

The decision by Muri Brasil to pull out of its exploratory venture is the latest example of the harm being inflicted on Guyana’s developmental prospects by the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) constant attack on investors in Guyana, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni said on Sunday.

Muri Brasil Ventures Inc, in a statement said that “although the process was legal and transparent, this decision is due to the misinformation, prejudice and hostility to this proposed survey by persons and agencies, which are fostering an adverse investment climate in Guyana”.

Anti-development

According to Dr Singh, this pattern of “anti-development behaviour” by the joint opposition can be observed

as they have repeatedly protested any project geared towards the development of Guyana.

“The Amaila Falls Hydro Project, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Expansion Project, the Specialty Hospital Project and the Marriott Hotel Project are all examples of the opposition creating havoc with its one-seat majority in the National Assembly, spreading misinformation and driving away investors,” he said.

He noted that the same anti-development attitude is seen even at the policy level in the chambers of the National Assembly.

“The Anti-Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism Amendment Bill and the currently debated Public Procurement Commission Bill saw objection from the opposition, though neither par-

ty can identify any real issue of contention with the respective bills,” said Dr Singh.

The minister said similar anti-development sentiments are reflected with the cutting of the 2012 and 2013 national budgets.

“It is important to note that every investor

that has been chased out of Guyana represents hundreds of job opportunities for Guyanese that will not be realised.

Muri Brasil Ventures Inc on Saturday announced that it had made a decision to no longer pursue its geographical and geophysical survey following the permission granted by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to do so.

The company in a release said the decision was made on December 30, 2013.

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry had come in for heavy criticism for the deal which was not fully disclosed at a parliamentary committee meeting when the time was opportune.

Study Permission was granted on November 7, 2012. The locally reg-

istered company had said it was never issued a prospecting licence or mining licence, but expressed the hope of acquiring the relevant documents to facilitate mining if the study proves to be feasible.

“These kinds of exploration activities cost millions of U.S. dollars which can only be sourced as exploration investments from outside of Guyana.

“No such investments would be available if the investor is given no assurance that he will be granted prospecting licences. The investor takes a risk. If he or she is not assured of a potential return, investment capital will dry up and so will Guyana’s mining industry,” the company had said.

APNU Member of Parliament Joseph Harmon had called on Natural Resources and Environment Minister

Robert Persaud to step down, contending that he had misled the National Assembly. In response, Persaud had produced an excerpt of the transcript from the sector committee meeting which was held in the Parliament building. The document was produced by the Parliament Office of Guyana.

Leases

When asked by Harmon whether leases were issued for lands in the New River Triangle, Persaud responded in the negative.

“As of 11:25 am today, I am advised by the manager of the Land Management Administration Section of the GGMC that no mining permit licences or any permission be given for mining in the area you have outlined. I want to make that categorically clear.” (Excerpted from Guyana Times)

CIBC FirstCaribbean supports TT’s young entrepreneurs

CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank (CIBC FirstCaribbean) has committed additional funds to the development of youth business in Trinidad and Tobago by providing financial support to Youth Business TT (YBTT), the local affiliate of Youth Business International.

The organisation offers programmes to encourage entrepreneurship among young people to combat poverty and unemployment.

CIBC FirstCaribbean director of corporate sales, Anthony Seeraj, presented a cheque to YBTT on behalf of the bank that represents the first-year funds of the

bank’s new three-year commitment to the development of entrepreneurship among the region’s young people.

During the cheque presentation, Seeraj conveyed the bank’s appreciation for the continued opportunity to lend assistance where it is so greatly needed.

“Our involvement with the Caribbean Association of Youth Business Programmes continues to be highly rewarding,” Seeraj said. “At CIBC FirstCaribbean, we are committed to our mission of being ‘First for Communities’ in which we operate. Through our association with youth business, and more specifically YBTT, we have been able to help foster

the development of entrepreneurship among youth in our country.”

With the support of the business community, YBTT helps young people between the ages of 18-35 years to work for

themselves by providing access to business loans and business mentoring.

The organisation funds most types of businesses, ranging from web design to agriculture production to day care centres.

In accepting the donation, vice chairman of YBTT, Dale Laughlin, thanked the bank, explaining they would use the funds for mentorship, loan financing, networking and training programmes.

“YBTT is extremely pleased to partner with CIBC FirstCaribbean once again. The funding and general support from the bank will help us drive youth entrepreneurship, reduce youth unemployment and thereby play a vital role in the development of the economy.”

A memorandum of understanding details collaboration between the organisations until the year 2016. In addition to funding for the programme, CIBC FirstCaribbean also commits to providing business mentors to selected young entrepreneurs, a business mentoring day and experts who will offer training. (TT Guardian)

Grade 9 student in Jamaica dies from heart attack

AGrade 9 stu-

dent of the Marymount High School in Jamaica died Monday from a heart attack, shortly after faint-

ing at the institution. The student, Abigail Hyman,the education ministry said, was taken to a health centre after collapsing at school.

A team of guidance counsellors was dispatched by the ministry to provide grief counseling, support and encouragement to the stu-

dent and staff at the school.

The ministry has since extended its condolences to the family of Hyman, stu-

dents, teachers and administration of the Marymount High School.

"I pray that the peace of the Lord will be their strong shield and comfort," said Elaine Foster-Allen, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Education. (Jamaica Observer)

Flood-hit St Lucia gets help from Taiwan

Taiwan has made an EC$534,000 donation to St. Lucia to assist in the reconstruction of the island following the passage of a low-level trough that killed six people and left millions of dollars in damages late last month.

Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony, who received the donation from the Taiwanese Ambassador James Chang, said that St Lucia was currently facing an "exceedingly difficult" fiscal situation and "every donation matters.

"There is no question that there is need for humanitarian assistance. Hundreds of St Lucians have lost all of their household appliances, lost their clothing...Children have lost school books, and of course, some have suffered damage to their homes. In

the vast majority of cases that we're talking about [are] very poor people. And so it is with special gratitude that the support is received," he said. Chang, who expressed condolences to the families of the victims, said he was pleased that much of the

essential services, such as electricity, water and telecommunication, had been restored following the passage of the storm on December 24. He praised the "outstanding work by the people and the agencies involved in the recovery",

adding that he hoped the funds would help in the recovery exercise.

St Lucia is among a handful of Caribbean countries that enjoy diplomatic relations with Taiwan that China considers a renegade province. (Jamaica Observer)

Aeronautical branch for Guyana Police Force

Under the Strategic Management Department, the Guyana Police Force has undergone a series of trainings as part of the modernisation process of the security sector.

According to Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee, training in the force in 2013 was given high priority. He was at the time delivering a year-in-review report of the ministry at the Officers Training Centre, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

Rohee disclosed that a budgetary allocation of Gy$56 million was received to facilitate training, both locally and overseas.

“In 2013, 81 ranks from the level of constable to assistant commis-

sioner benefited from overseas training in police procedures and operational issues, community-oriented policing, leadership and computer training among others,” he said.

In addition, he disclosed that measures are in place to build an aeronautical branch for the force and to also source a Fixed Wing Aircraft for its operation.

In the meanwhile, the minister noted that 14 ranks have applied, have been interviewed and identified for training at the aeronautical engineering school at Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

“My ministry has signed a contract with The Emergence Group (TEG) of the United States of America to

establish a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team in the Guyana Police Force and to conduct the training for ranks who would be members of this specialised unit, which is intended to confront special types of violent crimes. The cost of this contract is US$796,987. An organisational needs assessment for the unit has been completed while actual training is targeted to commence in mid-January 2014.”

Departure

The Strategic Management Department was established in the Guyana Police Force in May last year, with the employment of 10 professionals to oversee the implementation of the Guyana

guyana's

Police Force Strategic Plan; however, three of them have since left.

According to the minister, their departures did not seriously affect the progress of implementation of the plan, but measures are in place to have them replaced.

The police force has

Positive outlook for TT’s energy sector

Energy Minister Kevin Ramnarine

said he is very pleased with Standard and Poor’s (S&P) affirmation of Trinidad and Tobago’s foreign and local currency sovereign credit ratings as “A/A1”. The S&P report was published on December 24. A statement from the Energy Ministry noted that S&P’s positive economic assessment of the country was based on a positive outlook for the national energy sector.

The ratings agency said: “We expect per capita GDP to rise by 2.6 per in 2014 thanks to both recovering energy output and continued growth in the nonenergy sector.”

From late 2010 to 2013 the energy sector experienced a series of planned maintenance events led by the country’s largest natu-

ral gas producer, bpTT. Ramnarine said these maintenance events are now largely behind,and 2014 is expected to be the best year for natural gas production since 2010.

The S&P report was also positive on the ability of TT to attract new investment in its energy sector, noting that “changes in tax and other policies in recent years have encouraged more activity in the energy sector, as we've seen in growing private-sector participation in recent onshore and offshore bidding rounds. As a result, official reserves of gas and oil—which had declined in recent years— may stabilize in the coming years.”

Investors’ confidence

The ministry pointed out in its statement that the S&P report “speaks to investor confidence

in the national energy sector in the last three years”. During this time progressive revision of the fiscal regime governing the energy sector has led to the highest ever foreign direct investment (FDI) in the energy sector of US$ 2.3 billion in 2012; the signing of seven deepwater production sharing contracts worth US$1.9 billion in FDI; and the

signing of a project development agreement with Mitsubishi of Japan for the establishment of a US $850 million Methanol to DME plant in La Brea.”

The S&P report continued, “The increase in exploration activities in the oil and gas sector in recent years should sustain energy production over the coming decade, contributing to economic growth.” The Energy Ministry said 2014 is expected to be one of the busiest for the energy sector in more than 30 years. “Altogether there are 14 exploration wells carded to be drilled by various companies in 2014.

This will undoubtedly contribute to new discoveries of hydrocarbons which will sustain the prosperity of Trinidad and Tobago into the future.” (TT Guardian)

contracted a British Consulting Firm, Capita Symonds, to assist with the modernisation process in four specific projects. A final report was completed and the ministry will be moving to finalise the details of each project so that work can commence early this year, Rohee said. Meanwhile, there has been a lot of recruitment within the force with regards to clerical positions. Some 60 civilians were employed as data entry clerks at five divisional traffic registries while 48 were stationed at police stations and the Georgetown Prison.

Evidence-based decision

“Their main responsibilities are to enter crime occurrences to populate the Integrated Crime

Information System (ICIS) to support electronic data capture and analysis of crime trends and patterns leading to evidence-based decision making by the Guyana Police Force and the Ministry of Home Affairs,” the minister pointed out. He mentioned that Cabinet gave its approval to employ an additional 25 data entry clerks to strengthen data collection efforts of the force. Additionally, a qualified civilian has been recruited as a policy analyst and is based at the force’s headquarters to assist with developing strategies and action plans targeted at combating crime and interpersonal violence.

(Guyana Times)

Jamaican cosmetologist remanded for smuggling drugs in body cavity

AClarendon-based cosmetologist who tried to smuggle 2.4 pounds of cocaine to the United States in her body cavity and strapped to her thighs, is scheduled to be sentenced later this month.

Keneisha Bent, a 22-year-old of Chapleton, Clarendon, was remanded into custody after she pleaded guilty in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court last Tuesday to charges of possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine and taking steps to export cocaine.

Bent pleaded not guilty to a charge of conspiracy to export cocaine.

She is to be sentenced by Resident Magistrate Simone Wolf Reece on

January 16. Bent was held at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston on December 22 with the drugs when she checked in to board a flight bound for Fort Lauderdale, Florida. According to the police, when she was found with the substance she told them that she purchased it from a mad woman for Ja$20,000. Bent's attorney Michael Lorne told the court that his client, who is the mother of a six-month-old baby, is an ambitious young woman who aspires to be a nurse. He said she fell on hard times and was unable to complete her studies. (Jamaica Observer)

TT’s fishermen facing rough times amidst oil spills

Fishermen in northwest Trinidad are predicting a bleak future for Trinidad and Tobago’s fish stocks as a result of the oil spill in the Gulf of Paria. Although their fishing grounds are several miles away from the location of the oil spills along the southwestern coastline, the fishermen say soon they too will be affected.

Fishermen and vendors at the Cocorite Fishing Centre complained to TT media earlier in the week that the oil spill isn’t the only thing affecting the availability of fish. Another source of concern is ongoing seismic surveys.

Moan Ramtali said:

“We can't get the fish when the oil is there… Since the oil spill it has slowed down. Before that it was a little more. We were holding a 50 to 100 pounds. After that everything stopped. It have nothing again.”

Ramtali said although he was earning money it was “still kind of slow.” He said government should compensate fishermen since they will be unable to fish for a while. He anticipated that fish prices will increase since less fish is being caught.

Jason Ali, a fish vendor for four years, said there has already been an increase in price of about TT$10, so that king fish, which used to cost TT$30 dollars is now

are not directly affected, the mangroves, which are breeding grounds for fish, have been affected, so that between the seismic survey and the oil spill, it would be a while before stocks are replenished. They warned of a dark future for fish consumers in TT. At Alcan Bay, Chaguaramas, the story was no different. Fishermen there said king fish might soon cost as much as TT$100 a pound.

The Cocorite fishermen said although they

going for TT$40. As a result, customers are buying cheaper fish such as cro cro, which sells for approximately TT$15. “Fishermen are fairly challenged because we have to go far places. Fishermen not getting time to go out, and when they go out they only holding two fish, three fish. It really affecting fishermen on the whole. It is really ridiculous,” Ali said.

“This oil spill, it will be affecting our feed grounds,” said Russell de Peza, who has been fishing at Alcan Bay for 15 years. “If a fisherman brought in about ten a day, you are now catching one or two,” he said.

Affie Duncan, who has been fishing for more than 20 years, said once the beds have been destroyed it will be very difficult to catch fish. She said fishermen who used to earn approximately TT$60,000 per year will only make TT$20,000, if so much. She said whatever little fishermen catch will have to be sold at high prices to earn the money for gas and other bills. “This year customers have to watch out. There aren’t any fish in the sea so whatever little we catch we have to sell it expensive to make back because we have bills and expenses like everyone else,” she said. (TT Guardian)

Guyana’s very best will take centre stage at the upcoming Barbados Music, Fashion And Film Awards to be held on January 11 and 12. As part of an amazing Guyanese showcase at the event which will include

designer Sonia Noel, who will receive a Regional Lifetime Achievement award in Fashion, hitmaking recording star Mystic of Brutal Group Inc, songstress Lisa Punch and the recent winner of the Gold Coast Records Inc Talent Search (held

during Guyana Fashion Week) Travis Bowen will be featured.

A team of executives and producers from Guyana will also be attending the event and will be among the event’s presenters.

The team was careful-

lisa Punch Awards, which has featured the likes of Cissy Houston, Regina Belle, Faith Evans, Rihanna, Beenie Man, Vivica Fox, Morris Chestnut and Deborah Cox among many others, and is one of the

ly selected by the event’s president and founder Ronnie Morris while on a recent trip to Guyana, as part of the team for Guyana Fashion Week of which he is a director.

The event serves as the expansion of the longrunning Barbados Music

most prestigious music award events in this hemisphere.

“I was treated like royalty in Guyana, and made the decision that the favour should be returned. There is a tremendous wealth of talent in Guyana, and it would be my honour to expose that talent to not only Barbados, but also to the world,” Morris, who himself is one of the Caribbean’s most acclaimed music business executives said.

The event is slated to be held at the ultramodern Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre in Barbados. (Guyana Times)

in its January 3-9 edition, the paper said sparrow, whose real name is

is “one

ACaribbean publication in New York, United States, has named several Caribbean personalities, including calypso legend, the Mighty Sparrow, pop-singing super star Rihanna, winner of The Voice reality show, Tessane Chin and the world’s fastest man Usain Bolt, among its ‘Caribbean People of the Year’.

The Brooklynbased weekly newspaper, ‘Caribbean People’, owned by Trinidadian businessman Howard Hughes, also named late South African President Nelson Mandela, U.S. civil rights activist the Rev Al Sharpton, Trinidadian soca artiste Bunji Garlin, sociologist David Muhammad, businessman Conrad Ifill and Howard University acting president Dr Wayne Fredrick among the top 10 “Caribbean People of the Year”.

times.

In its January 3-9 edition, the paper said Sparrow, whose real name is Slinger Francisco, is “one of the greatest entertainers of all times.

“Known as the ‘Calypso King of the World’, he is one of the best known and most successful calypsonians,” it said of Sparrow, who is convalescing in a rehabilitation centre in Queens, New York, after two weeks in a coma in a New York hospital.

‘Caribbean People’ said the Grammy Awardwinning Rihanna, whose full name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, is “known for consistently reinventing her style and image, most notably since her third album, ‘Good Girl Gone Bad’.

“Rihanna continues to be the most dynamic and leading influential female entertainer throughout 2013,” it said.

The publication noted that Chin is a “reggae fusion recording artist, best known for winning Season 5 of the American singing competition, The Voice. In recognising Usain Bolt, the paper said his achievements in sprinting have “earned him the media nickname, Lightning Bolt.” (Caribbean News)

Inspired by his heritage, award winning Canada-based Guyanese author Lal Balkaran is penning numerous books aiming to showcase the talents and beauty of his homeland.

Balkaran was born at Plantation Versailles on the West Bank Demerara on July 4, 1953, grew up in Pouderoyen, and later moved to Goed Fortuin in 1970, all three areas in close proximity.

He attended the nearby Malgre Tout Government School (1960-1965) and the West Demerara Government Secondary School (1965-1970). After high school, he taught in the Rupununi for five years from 1970-75 among the Wapishanas, and travelled extensively throughout Guyana.

Additionally, he is self-taught and is a certified internal auditor, fellow certified general accountant, fellow chartered management accountant, and holds an MBA from Heriot-Watt University of Edinburgh, Scotland. He moved to Barbados in 1982 as the accountant at CXC and then as a financial controller at the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation in 1984 before immigrating to Canada in 1987 where he worked as senior audit executive in a range of high-profile organizations.

Balkaran was grant-

The Shaggy and Friends charity show in aid of the Bustamante Children’s Hospital in Jamaica was a smashing success Saturday night on the grounds of Jamaica House in Kingston.

From early in the night, the level of support was evident on the streets of Kingston as patrons converged on the venue resulting in a massive traffic backup along Waterloo Road and others, with motorists crawling in line for almost an hour before being able to enter the grounds.

But the effort was worth it.

Grammy-winning R&B artiste NeYo, Damion ‘Jr Gong’ Marley, Trinidadian Kes, Agent Sasco,

ed two awards by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) – Canada: the 2010 Arthur J. Childs Distinguished Service in Canada Award for his IIA activities over the years including starting an IIA Guyana Chapter in 2000 and the 2012 Contribution to the Profession of Internal Auditing Award for his dedication and academic contribution to the internal auditing profession through the range of articles and books he has written on the profession that have been published around the world.

Additionally, he is an internal auditor and a published author. He has written several books and dozens of articles

on a wide range of subjects. Six books are on accounting and auditing, including the world’s first dictionary of auditing published by LexisNexis (Butterworths) in Toronto, while seven are on his native Guyana. His fascination with the savannah and jungle scenery of the area and everyday life of the people enabled him to live like them: hunting with bow and arrow; fishing with kunam and traps; drinking parakari (kari); listening to savannah and other tales of kanaima and the peaiaman; participating in their feasts; observing their taboos; eating farine, tasso and cassava bread, and sleeping in a hammock.

Elephant Man, Ity and Fancy Cat, Wayne Marshall (and his eightyear-old son) and the host Shaggy, were all in splendid form. It was a smooth flow-

ing show as Shaggy and his friends thrilled the massive crowd culminating in truly top class set by The Voice winner Tessanne Chin. Chin performed the

is his seventh book on his native Guyana. All are authoritative and timeless publications, which have been well received.

The long-term friendship he developed and maintained with some of his colleagues in the Rupununi enabled him to direct them to take some of the scenes contained in this book. The author also travelled and explored other areas of the vast region, even accompanying the natives to ‘bleed’ balata at Apoteri in 1972. He also explored the jungles from Awarewaunau to as far as the Kwitaro River and walked for miles throughout the savannah, sleeping at remote ranch-

es, abandoned houses, and even crossing over to Brazil through the Takatu River.

The writer’s life in Guyana’s interior was a defining moment and his travels throughout the hinterland in addition to his interests in the Amerindians throughout the Americas inspired him to compile the “Encyclopaedia of the Guyanese Amerindians”.

He has also done documentaries “A photo journal of the Guyanese Amerindians”, “Guyana: A Photographic Journey across All Four Geographic Regions”, and “Stamps of British Guiana and Guyana”.

Currently, he is working on a fourth edition of

his book “Bibliography of Guyana and Guyanese Writers” due to be out in mid-2014.

Of note, Balkaran has been donating books on a variety of subjects including business, accounting, finance, auditing, and anthropology in addition to computer equipment and a miscellany of items to the various missions in the interior, the National Library and the UG Library over the years, and in July 2013 when he was in Guyana conducting a 2-day workshop in HR Auditing under the auspices of IIAGuyana.

Balkaran’s interests are many and can be viewed from his website at www.lalbalkaran.com.

songs done throughout her journey on NBC’s The Voice competition even introducing fellow Voice contestant Matthew Schuler midway her performance.

Schuler took the stage and the hearts of Jamaicans as he proclaimed his love for the island belting out a soulful rendition of Percy Sledge’s ‘When a man loves a Woman’ and ‘No Holding Back’ to wild cheers from the appreciative audience.

Tessanne returned (in a different “frock”) and showed that her rendition of Whitney Houston’s hard-to-perform ‘I have Nothing’ on The Voice show was no fluke.

After doing a Reggaeinfused version of her latest single ‘Tumbling

Down’ Tessanne delved into the Whitney staple to bring the house down.

The Shaggy Make a Difference Foundation organises the annual charity event to assist in

the provision of equipment and supplies for the children’s hospital, the only one of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean. (Jamaica Observer)

Captain Debra Gouveia is the first woman to become an airline captain in Guyana, a proficient professional and an outstanding yet humble individual.

She began her aviation education at 17 and says she has never regretted choosing the challenging and exciting aviation career. In a recent interview with the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine (SM), Capt. Gouveia shared her life’s story that has led her to many accolades and awards over the years.

The following is an excerpt.

(SM): What are your academic qualifications?

Capt. Debbie: I attended St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School, St Roses High School, Flight Safety International Academy in the U.S., Oxford Air Training Academy in the U.K., IATA Travel Agents Training Academy in the U.S. where I studied professional travel planning, IATA Academy in Montreal, International Airline Station Management, ICAO Academy in Ecuador where I studied international aviation safety systems, CDI College in Canada where I graduated with a diploma in business management. I have also completed numerous courses in aviation security and airline operations.

SM: What was your first experience like as a pilot?

Capt. Debbie: I felt free and totally in charge of my destiny at that moment. It was wonderful to be zooming high above the earth’s surface. Being totally in control was amazing. It's a feeling I feel every time I fly my planes even today.

SM: At the beginning of your career, what was your determination?

Capt. Debbie: I worked harder, studied harder; until I eventually was respected

equally as a professional aviator by fellow pilots and more particularly the passengers. I guess because I am a woman...all the traditional odds were against me. I do not believe there was ever another pilot, before or after me, who, having passed his or her check ride, ever had to undergo the scrutiny I did. After all, I am the first woman to become an airline captain in Guyana. I was always a very detailed pilot and took nothing for granted. I prepared for every flight with great detail. And I flew every flight carefully and precisely.

SM: How do juggle being a pilot, entrepreneur, mother and wife?

Capt. Debbie: I have always prided myself on being a very organized and disciplined woman....I learnt how to prioritize my time. There was a time to play and a time

honoured and humbled. I knew both my husband and I worked hard for Guyana, but I had always stayed in the background and supported him totally. When I was told by Gerry about the honour of being featured on a stamp, I could not believe it. Soon I fully realize it was really for me. I was overwhelmed.

SM: Presently, what is your main focus?

to work...My children are al-

Capt. Debbie: Roraima Airways is a very complex conglomerate of aviation, travel, security and tourism services. I had to become trained and functional in every sphere of activity, whether it was flying the planes, driving the boats, coordinating the airport security and airline handling operations, planning events at our hotels, coordinating the Wedding Expo, or just arranging the airline catering on demand....So I do spend my time

Capt. Debbie: I do sometimes, but only alongside Gerry. Between my sons and the day-to-day management of the Roraima activities, it is challenging to find the time to fly too.

SM: What is your encouragement for women?

Capt: Debbie: For moth-

ways my number one priority. My boys are now grown men, shaping their own lives, and I am right there beside them.

SM: What were your feelings when you were told about being on a national postage stamp?

Capt. Debbie: Emotional,

managing the mangers and the details...We hold high the quality control visitors experience from the time they arrive in Guyana to the time they depart. Therefore, it is our focus is to continue to refine and expand our services

SM: Do you still get time to fly?

ers, motherhood is a sacred role and so it must always take preference over a woman’s professional career. I believe that a woman could do anything in this world if she works hard, organizes her life and sets her priorities.

Guyana is blessed with an abundance of majestic coconut trees, and their coconuts’ uses are vast and varied over millennia; popularly known for their beautifying properties.

The oldest fossils known of the modern coconut date from what is known as the Eocene period of Earth’s history, which dates from around 37 to 55 million years ago, and were found in Australia and India.

The coconut tree is a member of the palm family, and the coconuts are commonly used in arts and crafts, foods, medicines, oils, condiments and for religious purposes.

Knowing the benefits of coconuts, U.S.based Guyanese D’Arcy George and her mother, a medical scientist, founded their business, Crazy4Coconut, in July 2013.

In an interview, D’Arcy George revealed that the company initially focused on hair products, but this soon developed into a line of body products.

Organic “Crazy4Coconut was born after searching for coconut oil that was indeed organic, without

the high smell. Our coconut oil comes from organic coconut trees. We grow them ourselves.

Crazy4Coconut’s origin can be found in our backyard in Guyana,” she explained. The company also started after much prodding from George’s friends. George wanted coconut oil for her hair, but did not want the high coconut smell. She then asked her mother to make some for her. When George’s friends tried some they were amazed how ben -

eficial the oil was for their hair and encouraged her to invest more into the business.

All the ingredients in George’s products are natural. She only uses essential oils and not fragrance oils. The reason is that essential oils are produced from flowers or plants while fragrance oils are manmade.

As for the recipes, George does in-depth research on the ingredients and the benefits for hair and body. She also

At a time when things are hard and persons are finding it difficult to make ends meet, a church in St Catherine, Jamaica, has started a sewing project to assist members of the community.

This is the reality of the Church of Christ in Succabba Pen, Old Harbour, where a number of lovely pieces were on display at their expo.

"We started to sew pillows, bags, cushions, neck rolls, blankets, curtains and other items, now we have expanded to pillows, rugs, tablecloths, and other pieces,'' coordinator Hazel Kelly said.

She explained that the project, which started last year, has grown and has taken on persons from the community in order to make them earn as well as to learn a skill.

The success of the project has resulted in the need for further training and strengthening of the marketing aspect of the business.

"Members from the United States will be coming to train about 20 persons to sew and knit items that can be sent abroad, and they will provide a market

consults with her mother.

“Then I whip my coconut oil and get to work. When I knew I wanted to start making sugar scrubs, I researched the best natural ingredient then clarified with my mother. Scrubs can be made with sugar, salt and Epsom salt, but sugar is the best because it is less abrasive and can be used both on the body and face,” she disclosed.

Benefits

Crazy4Coconut also offers a line of scrubs made from sugars and butters, made in turn

Clove oil is one of the strongest natural antioxidants ever tested. It

from coconut oil. One of George’s most popular products is the Coconut & Clove oil. It has a mixture of a light smell along with a hint of clove. It helps with hair growth and can also be used as a dandruff treatment.

“This clove oil is also antiseptic and a very strong antioxidant.

for us. This can help the church to better assist the community,'' Kelly said.

can increase blood circulation, which makes it one of the best supports for hair growth stimulation. The sugar scrubs are made with raw cane sugar and leave hands, face and feet smooth and moisturized. It exfoliates, breaks down scar tissue beneath the skin and traps moisture

in so skin stays hydrated all day,” she noted.

George also uses jasmine oil which is known for its sensual floral fragrance and is used on skin to help soothe and moisturize. According to George, jasmine oil along with coconut oil has proven to be very effective when it comes to hair growth. Along with adding volume and length it gives dry hair a radiant shine.

“My main objective is to include coconut oil in all of my products as well as using all natural products. My mom and I currently sell the products online on our website and Facebook. My future plans for Crazy4Coconut is to have an internationally certified product as well as customers globally,” she outlined.

George also mentioned she is happy when she reads the overwhelming positive reviews of her products and this motivates her to keep on developing her business. She now has a long list of clientele who speak excitedly of the benefits enjoyed using Crazy4Coconut’s natural products. (Excerpted from Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Trinidad-born tech expert gets Lifetime Award

Trinidad-born technology expert

Bevil Wooding is the 2013 recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry (Lacnic). Established in 2009, the prestigious Lacnic Award honours people who have contributed significantly to the development of the Internet and the Information Society in Latin America and the Caribbean. The award will be presented during the Lacnic 21 meeting, to be held May 4-9 in Cancún, México.

“This was completely unexpected. It is an honour to receive this award from Lacnic,” Wooding said. “This strengthens my resolve to continue working to ensure that people are empowered to take advantage of technology for the development and benefit of our region.”

A pioneer in the development of technology solutions and educational resources, Wooding wears many hats in his work across the region and around the world.

As an Internet strategist and Caribbean outreach manger for the

U.S.-based research nonprofit, Packet Clearing House, he has been the leading advocate for the proliferation of Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) in the Caribbean. His efforts have led to the establishment of IXPs in Grenada, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica and Barbados.

He is also the chief knowledge officer at Congress WBN, a Caribbean-based international non-profit operating in more than 80 countries. Wooding leads the organisation’s global technical team and has pioneered the development of

Internet streaming applications now used around the world. More recently, he has worked with the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) to develop the Caribbean’s first-ever Digital Media syllabus. He was also instrumental in creating CXCs first ever fully digital syllabus orientation training.

Creativity

In addition, he is one of the co-architects and the programme director of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Caribbean ICT Roadshow. Through the Roadshow, Wooding has helped communities and

governments across the region understand issues ranging from Internet infrastructure and broadband access in the Caribbean to cybersecurity and the impact of social media on parenting and education.

A virtual technology ambassador, Wooding regularly represents the interests of the region at international fora. He has also come in for wide praise for his innovative initiatives, including TechLink, iCAN Mobile App Development and eBook Publishing workshops, to introduce young people to digital content creation through his BrightPath Foundation, a technology education non-profit.

One of the main factors behind his success, Wooding said, was the partnerships he has forged. In 2010, Wooding was appointed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers as one of seven Internet gatekeepers, called Trusted Community Representatives (TCRs), and assigned a smartcard with part of a special code used to secure domain names. (Excerpted from TT Guardian)

Antigua to host Caribbean Travelling Film Showcase

Antigua and Barbuda will host the fourth Travelling Caribbean Film Showcase featuring 22 films from 16 Caribbean countries.

The January 10 to12 film festival is sponsored by the Cuban Institute of Film Art and Industry (ICAIC), UNESCO, UNICEF, TELESUR and the Cuban Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and several Caribbean academic institutions. The festival is being coordinated by HAMAfilms.

The Travelling Caribbean Film Showcase, which has been in existence since 2007, will this time around feature films from Haiti, Guadeloupe, Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba, Jamaica, Venezuela, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic and Antigua and Barbuda.

The films include documentaries, fiction and a collection of animated

Trying to turn the tide

By Anu Dev

Afew months ago, I saw the documentary “Sicko”. It’s directed by Michael Moore and compared the American healthcare industry with that of other nations. The Americans are finally grappling with universal health insurance…now dubbed “Obamacare”. Even though I was horrified by the revelation that insurance companies in the U.S. have warped the healthcare system to such an extent that it’s geared towards churning out billions of dollars in profits instead of providing healthcare, I was even more troubled by the section of the movie that detailed Hillary Clinton’s healthcare reform proposal of 1993. I was astounded that her opponents were willing to spend over US$100 million just to discredit her proposal. But most of all, I was disappointed in how even she could be paid off (US$854,462 the movie claims) to remain silent.

After I’ve completed my medical studies, I’ll be entering the ‘real world’. I’ll have to work within a system, and if that system is flawed or unfair, I’ll either have to accept things as they are, or make a move to bring about change. But it’s very difficult to be the lone voice speaking out. It engenders a feeling of powerlessness in not being able to change something that one knows can cause harm.

It shook me to the core to see how someone like Hillary Clinton, so passionate about something as vital to her as healthcare, could be so effectively muzzled and reduced to introducing her husband at ‘Easter Egg Rolls’. And the revelation that even she had a price that she could be bought off with, left an even bitterer aftertaste.

‘classical steel’ a trinidadian documentary highlighting the importance of classical music in the development of the steel band will be featured during the film showcase.

films and shorts.

One of the highlights of the festival is the documentary out of Cuba and the United States, ‘Traces of the Trade’ in which filmmaker Katrina Browne discovers that her New England ancestors were the largest slavetrading family in U.S. history.

She and nine cousins retrace the Triangle

Trade and gain powerful new perspectives on the black/white divide.

Other films include ‘Rain’ a feature film from Bahamian director Maria Govan and ‘Classical Steel’ a Trinidadian documentary highlighting the importance of classical music in the development of the steel band.

‘Rise Up’ is a Jamaican documentary that jour-

neys into the heart of Jamaica’s flourishing underground music scene, while the Haitian documentary, ‘An Unwelcome Lot’, looks at the Syrian/ Lebanese experience in Haiti.

The Film Showcase also includes a special screening of the critically acclaimed Antiguan film

‘The Skin’ on Saturday. (Jamaica Observer)

The movie forced me to put myself into the shoes of the doctors, the insurance victims, the politicians and think about what I might have done had I been in their position. And then I started thinking about my future and what I could do to avoid being swept away by the money-making mentality that seems to have gripped medicine.

Looking around our amphitheatre, I realised that my fellow students were also deeply affected by the movie, but in different ways. Some seemed especially troubled by the stories of persons being turned away by insurance companies. The experience certainly made me do a lot of introspection and analyse why exactly I was so shaken by the silencing of Hillary in particular.

There’s always this unequal distribution of power working within a system and when those with entrenched interests and power don’t want to make changes, it’s difficult to turn the tide. In Hillary’s case, the powerful healthcare industry’s US$100 million fear mongering efforts to torpedo her proposal was unassailable.

I just hope that I can make the right decisions when confronted by tough choices. Something as rigorous as studying medicine changes you. I’ve already had to make adjustments. I hope that at the end of the process, I can still recognise myself and most of all that I can stand up for what I believe is right when it truly matters. I’ll have to set limits that I’ll never cross, based on my personal value-system.

It isn’t worth being rich if the price is a guilt-ridden conscience that keeps me awake at night. To play my part in effecting change in a mercenary system, I plan on volunteering my services to the poor and powerless during some of my free time and I can encourage my fellow physicians to do the same. While we mightn’t be able to accomplish a complete revolution in the system, we can do our little part at the individual level. Every little act adds up. Who knows? If there are enough of us taking innovative steps, we might just be able to reform our small part of the world.

‘Money cannot buy me’ - Aamir Khan

One of Bollywood's favourite Khans, Aamir, claims to earn the "least compared to others",

Actress Priyanka Chopra says she can romance anybody in her films, so why just talk about megastar Shah Rukh Khan.

Priyanka has delivered two hit films ‘Don’ and ‘Don 2’ with SRK.

When asked if she and Shah Rukh would make better co-hosts as far as romance and comedy on the stage is concerned, Priyanka said, "I can romance anybody, why just him...That is my job."

The actress will be hosting the 59th edition of Filmfare awards with Ranbir Kapoor and is nervous about it.

"This is for the first time that I will be co-hosting the awards, I am very nervous. It's scary and exciting... But if you don't do tough things in life then there is no fun," Priyanka said. (TOI)

Aand says he "cannot compromise" with his emotions as "money cannot buy me".

"Till today, I have not worked for money and that is one of my biggest strengths," Aamir, who is currently on a roller-coaster thanks to the success of his latest release ‘Dhoom 3’, told IANS in an interview.

He has experimented with films, roles and genres galore in his over 25year movie career. From loverboy to teacher to villager and now a villain, he has done it all, but it's vital for Aamir to connect emotionally with a project before he gives it a thumbs-up.

"It's not that I don't need money. All of us need money and, according to me, I earn the least amount of money. I earn the least compared to others and yet I am very happy because I do what my heart says,” the actor stated.(TOI)

home

from a paralytic stroke.

Suniel said, "He suffered a stroke in the first week of November. His left side got paralysed. He was in the hospital for the longest time. But he got jittery and wanted to come home. So we have this in-house ICU setup."

About his condition, Suniel added, "He can't walk, but he is stable now. He is 86 going on 60. He'll be fine. The doctors are saying it's a slow process and it will take a while for his left side to start functioning. I am fortunate enough to have a friend, who is a good physiotherapist. Dad is under his care." (TOI)

John Abraham’s brother, not Sussanne to remodel Hrithik’s new home

Hrithik Roshan's eighth floor apartment in El Palazzo, the building where he currently resides, is under renovation. His parents—Rakesh and Pinky Roshan—occupy the 9th floor of the same building, and they have a common entertainment area on the 10th floor, plus a gymnasium on the terrace.

While his floor is being remodelled, the superstar has reportedly rented a place in Prime Beach, the building where Akshay Kumar occupies apartments on the ground, first, second and fourth floors. Hrithik denies moving out of his parents' home. Apparently, the move is a temporary one.

A source said, "Hrithik will move into Akshay's building after a month. His new apartment is being done by Alan Abraham, John Abraham's brother and not by his estranged wife

After John Abraham's New Year wedding to girlfriend Priya Runchal, his ex-flame Bipasha Basu too has decided to tie the knot this year with steady date Harman Baweja. Sources close to the couple however told Indian media that the actress’ decision was made before John announced his marriage on Twitter.

Nevertheless, Bipasha and Harman will make their plans official only after his film ‘Dhishkiyaon’, produced by Shilpa Shetty and her husband Raj Kundra, hits theatres. The film is slated to release in August.

Bipasha's parents, HK and Mamta Basu, had their first formal meeting with Harman's parents, producer Harry Baweja and wife Pammi, at the Bawejas' residence in Lokhandwala Complex.

A close friend of the actress said, “After that meeting, their respective parents have met quite a few times.”

Added the friend, “Bipasha and Harman are really serious about each other. I am sure that they want to tie the knot this year.”

The two were first spotted together when the actress arrived at Jackyy Bhagnani's birthday party in Harman's car in December 2012.

‘Easier to handle

While the tongues were still wagging, the two were again spotted at a North Goa resort, ushering in Bipasha's birthday at a pool party. They soon started stepping out together in public and it was clear that this relationship was for keeps when the 33-year-old actor flew to London in October 2013, to keep Bipasha company while she was shooting for Sajid Khan's ‘Humshakals’. (TOI)

(TOI)

triplets than

stars’ - Farah Khan

She managed the rare feat of bringing a caravan of 31 cinestars together for a song in ‘Om Shanti Om’ in 2007. Now for her new film ‘Happy New Year’, Farah Khan has been busy handling a cast of six, including toprated actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan and Deepika Padukone, and the multi-faceted filmmaker says her triplets are easier to handle.

‘Happy New Year’,

slated to create Diwali 'dhoom' and 'dhamaal' in October, also stars Boman Irani, Sonu Sood and Vivaan Shah.

How does she manage to handle such a cast?

"Let me tell you, it's much easier to handle triplets and less tiring too," the effervescent Farah, a mother to two daughters and a son, told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

But she was quick to add: "It's six people here (in ‘Happy New Year’)

and the onus is on me to make sure that each one gets their due presence. Each person is important in the script--it's not that only Shah Rukh is important. Each one has a character and a proper role to play and I have to make sure that each character stands out."

What makes Farah happiest about being on the set of ‘Happy New Year’ is the oneness of her eclectic cast.

“I always feel your movie will be as strong as your weakest link. So if I ignore somebody, that's not going to be good for the movie. Even Shah Rukh knows that and he always keeps telling me to concentrate on Vivaan or make sure Sonu's character is coming out well because each character is important," she said of the musical heist, which will have strong elements of a formulaic heist movie and dollops of dance and music. (TOI)

Salman Khan urges fans to admire him from far

Superstar Salman Khan has urged his fans to admire him from a distance.

Salman recently visited Nagpur for the promotions of his upcoming film ‘Jai Ho’ when fans went crazy and chased him, leading to chaos. "I request and advice all my fans to admire me from far because I can't see kids and everyone getting pushed and hurt. If all this keeps happening, I think I should stop visiting cities. I respect and appreciate their love and warmth," Salman told reporters.

deals with common man's fight against corruption. (TOI)

Paris Hilton has home nightclub

Paris Hilton, the hotel heiress designed her Beverly Hills home herself, transforming it from a house with ''plain white walls, no mouldings and wooden floors'' to her dream abode which his kitted out with spacious rooms, walk in wardrobes and a private party area.

She told the latest UK issue of OK magazine: ''I have five bedrooms. My own bedroom is my favourite. I love my closets. I also love my private nightclub because I have lots of parties in it.''

Paris---who has three siblings, brothers Barron Hilton and Conrad Hilton and sister Nicky Hilton---likes nothing more than inviting friends over to ''hang out'' at her home and uses her club to let people party in private.

She said: ''I love it because it's a lot of fun and it's a place for all my friends to hang out. I had a party here a couple of weeks ago for my brother's birthday.''

Although the blonde beauty may be the perfect party host she has to wrap up her bashes before 2am because the security guards at the gated community are ''very strict'' and won't tolerate noise at unsociable hours. (TOI)

Tori Spelling terrified of divorce

Actress Tori Spelling is reportedly not filing for divorce from husband-actor Dean Mcdermott

Actor Robert De Niro says he doesn't mind being cast in older roles now that he is in his 70s.

The veteran star has accepted that he'll never play the romantic lead in a movie ever again and he is happy to provide comic relief as a grandfather figure instead, reports contactmusic. com.

"That's just life. We can't play certain parts any more. We're playing the father or the grandfather or the greatgrandfather and that can be written in a funny way, so it's fine. But you're not carrying the movie as the young romantic lead - those days are gone," he said.

"I'm hoping that if things work out with digital technology, they can finally make us look younger and I can go on for another 40 years," he added.

as she is terrified of being single.

The 40-year-old has decided not to react to the recent allegations that her husband cheated on her during a trip to Toronto in December.

"Tori is terrified of a divorce. She still wants to believe that Dean didn't cheat on her, but it's becoming impossible for her to live in denial anymore, but that doesn't mean she'll leave him," showbizspy.com quoted a source as saying.

"She can't stand to look at him, but she's terrified of a divorce. The idea of a custody battle literally makes her sick to her stomach, and she's terrified of being single. Dean is her prince charming, or he was. Her world is shattered right now, it’s so sad," the source added. (TOI)

De Niro stars alongside fellow Hollywood veterans Morgan Freeman, Michael Douglas and Kevin Kline in new comedy ‘Last Vegas’, which chronicles the ageing friends' trip to the U.S. gambling city for a stag party. (TOI)

Margot Robbie slapped DiCaprio for real while filming 'Wolf of

Margot Robbie has revealed that she accidentally slapped her 'The Wolf of Wall Street' co-star Leonardo DiCaprio more violently than she intended while shooting a scene.

The 23-year-old actress told GQ magazine that she got a little lost in the moment and slapped DiCaprio's face and said 'F**k you!,' Contactmusic

Vin Diesel is still mourning the loss of Paul Walker.

‘The Fast and the Furious’ star has admitted he is struggling to cope with the ''painful void'' since his ''brother'' died alongside his friend, Roger Rodas, when their car crashed and burst into flames in Santa Clarita, California on November 30.

The 46-year-old actor posted a picture of himself laughing with his late co-star while on a press tour for their latest film from the franchise on Facebook recently, with the caption: ''There was always moments of childlike laughter...We had accomplished so much by 2013... P.s. The complexities of Brotherhood, and the painful void... of it's absence.''

Vin revealed late last month that ‘Fast & Furious 7’, which he began filming alongside Paul in September, will be released on April 10, 2015, even though they were on a break from

Patrick Swayze's widow reveals joy about getting married again

Late actor Patrick Swayze's widow Lisa Niemi has shared her joy about getting married again.

Nemi, who was married to the ‘Dirty Dancing’ star for 34 years, has gotten engaged to jeweller Albert DePrisco, four years after her former husband's death from pancreatic cancer, the Daily Express reported.

Nemi, who met DePrisco through common friends, said that he is a wonderful man and she said yes at once.

She added that she is really grateful for the type of connection she had with Swayze, and that a part of her believes that she will see him again, but she also knows that she needs to go on until then.

Bullock jokes about sharing Clooney's custody' with Julia Roberts

‘I

Wall Street'

reported.

The former ‘Pan Am’ star said that there was a stunned silence on the set and then all of them burst out laughing, but she feared that DiCaprio would sue her for it.

Robbie added that she apologised profusely, but DiCaprio was impressed with her courage and asked her to hit him again. (TOI)

Sandra Bullock has joked about sharing "George Clooney's custody" with Julia Roberts at the opening of the Palm Springs International Film Festival.

The ‘Proposal’ star said that Roberts and her are in a dispute over Clooney, and have talked about sharing the custody and added that they are fine with it, Sky News reported.

Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks were among the actors who cracked jokes at the coveted event. (TOI)

prefer natural look’ - Kate Winslet

Actress Kate Winslet feels that she would rather go bare-faced than going too over the top with her make-up.

The 38-year-old actress says she prefers a natural look as her children, who are her fashion critics, don't want her to overdo her make-up, reported Contactmusic.

"I don't like wearing too much. I prefer a fresh look instead of heavy, smoking eyes. My children are great critics. They'll say, 'Why have you got all that stuff around your eyes?' and then I know it's not a good look," Winslet said.

Winslet has a 13-year-old daughter Mia, 10-year-old son Joe, and fourweek-old son Bear.

The ‘Titanic’ star says her daughter is always asking to borrow her beauty products, but she only allows her to

wear a few items on special occasions.

"I lend my daughter my beauty products, but only as a treat. If she's going to a party, I'll let her borrow mascara or moisturiser. She's only 13 and I always remind her how lucky she is to be using mummy's things," Winslet added. (TOI)

By Regina RodRigues

This is a tribute to my mother Martina Rodrigues---a notable individual in Santa Rosa who is remembered for her significant contribution to the academic development of her village.

Born at Cabucalli, Santa Rosa in Moruca on Nov. 11, 1916 to Georgina and Emmanuel Ferreira, Martina Rodrigues was one of six children. She married Eleutherio Esteban Rodrigues at the age of 16 on July 24, 1932.

Martina was the mother of seven children, but two died as infants. Of the remaining children, two live in Guyana with their families and three migrated to Canada where they live with their families.

She is known fondly as Aunty Bissy– she told us once that as a child she was always doing something and was told she was like a busy bee and so got the name ‘Bissy’.

A major contribution by Martina to the life of the Amerindians of the Rupununi and Pakaraimas was the establishment and running of a network of primary schools. Teachers for these were largely recruited from the Arawak Amerindian community at Santa Rosa. Father Bernard MacKenna operating out of Sand Creek was the priest largely responsible for this work among the Wapishana of the

FRupununi, while John Quigley worked with the Macushi of the central Rupununi and WilsonBrowne with the Patamona in the Pakaraimas. Martina was one of the teachers who left Moruca in 1952 to teach in the Rupununi.

During a tribute to her after her death, she was described, “A talented poetess, artist and seamstress who was best known for her contribution to the teaching profession. She worked among the Caribs at Red Hill, Barama in the late 1940s, at Achawib Village, Rupununi among the Wapisianas in the 1950s and finally to Dora on the Demerara in the 1960s. Old Santa Rosa folks will remember her witty, jovial and culturally centred letters she wrote in the Catholic Standard. They were likened to the contributions of the late Sister Theresa.”

The school at Achawib, where she was headmistress, is the village at the most southern

or the second year running, the Dial family gathered at the home of Christopher Dial on St John Road, St Augustine, to commemorate the arrival of their ancestors in Trinidad and Tobago. It was an observance which reflected on 155 years, of the family’s presence in the country.

The day was filled with prayers accompanied with lighted deyas and a lot of reflection and introspection, a special component was respect to the national flag of Trinidad and Tobago and a pledge of loyalty to the people and government of Trinidad and Tobago.

In its 155 years history in Trinidad

tip of Guyana – the nearest village and airstrip was 14 miles away. Martina would venture once a month on her bicycle, accompanied by 1 or 2 schoolboys to lead the way, in order to post her letters and receive her mails, which included a much cherished Reader’s Digest. She sewed her children’s clothing on her trusty Singer sewing machine. This model was purchased in 1953 and was very high end at the time as it had a foot pedal instead of one turned by hand. She proudly had her machine transported from Georgetown all the way to Achawib and up to this day the machine still exists in working order. It is kept by her eldest daughter, Elsa Barker, at her

and Tobago, the Dial family has produced sons and daughters who have served with distinction and have contributed significantly to the country’s development in many fields of endeavour, not only to Trinidad and Tobago, but globally as well. Some of these areas include, medicine, law, education, agriculture, engineering, aviation and politics. A family member is at present in government.

Research, with the help of genealogist Shamshu Deen, reveals that on December 6, 1858 Madary arrived in Trinidad aboard the vessel Edith Moore, which had set sail from India

ranch in the Rupununi.

Martina moved away from her beloved Rupununi to be closer to her children- the younger 3 were teenagers by then. She taught at Dora on the Demerara River in the 1960s. She eventually retired in the mid 1960s and moved to Georgetown to really be close to her younger children, who were schooling in the city at the time.

In 1976, she migrated to Canada after the death of her husband Stephen the year before. She lived in Canada quite independently in her own apartment until her death in 1992. She diligently sent off boxes and barrels to the family in Moruca, a tradition her children still upkeep, and she

three months before. He was assigned to the Mon Plasir Estate in Cunupia.

Twenty two years later, in 1880, Madary returned to India with wife Oozerone and four children–three sons, Bhowanee, Parboo and Siew and daughter Bhagmathea. The eldest son, Debi, remained in Trinidad working as an overseer of several large cocoa estates in the east of the country.

After two years (1882), Oozerone returned to Trinidad with her sons and two daughters, the latest addition being Parbatea, who was still an infant.

They left Calcutta aboard the vessel Scottish Admiral in August reach-

never forgot her roots as she always visited Santa Rosa where her mother and older sister still lived. She never forgot about the elderly and frequently gave away her clothing to someone who admired it or seemed to be in need.

She loved going to Bingo where she lived in Canada and every evening she would dress and take the bus to Bingo–even in winter when we might have told her it was too cold and snowy, she dressed in her warmest–including hat, gloves and boots- and off she went. She was indeed a strong and determined individual adored by all her family and friends.

(Excerpted from Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

ing Trinidad on November 08 1882. Madary did not accompany his family and it was presumed he died in India. Since Mother Oozerone had paid for the trip for her entire family, they were not indentured and she was able to reunite with son Debi.

Over time the family was able to build four large, self-contained mansions complete with drying houses on the estates in east Trinidad. Three were located in Sangre Chiquito and one in Plum Road and up until today, these buildings are still occupied by members of the Dial family. (TT Newsday)

Canadian label reaches deeper into Jamaica

“Presently, IndieRootz Records is finishing off the Natty Congo compilation album. It has a '70s Studio One vibe and an extraordinary host of artistes that will bring this album to life and open your heart. Also, we are working on a special compilation album due to be released this year. This will be mindboggling. We are taking it to another level," Brian Kotler said.

Specialising in reggae music, Indie-Rootz has also "touched dancehall and ska". Kotler described Canada's reggae market as one with immense potential. Previously, Indie-Rootz Records has worked with sev-

Jamaican theatre is entering 2014 with a bang.

The Kingston-based playhouses are awash with new productions, a total of eight plays, seeking to capture the theatregoing public's attention.

The productions range from comedy to musical revues.

Scarlett Beharie, president of the Jamaica Association of Dramatic Artists, said the Yuletide/ New Year's holiday period is known as the unofficial kick-off to the theatre season.

"It's not the most plays that we have had opening at this time. However, it is significant in that it shows the resilience of the theatre scene as it has been a very challenging year in terms of mobilising audiences," Beharie said.

nicholson as mrs

Boxing Day opening.

DMH Productions is the force behind the other Boxing Day opener, ‘To The Finish’. Directed by Dahlia Harris and Suzanne Beadle, this dramatic piece stars Carl Samuels, Jerry Benzwick, Nadean Rawlins and Chris McFarlane. The local theatre fraternity zoned in on the entire holiday season, and as such there were productions opening just before Boxing Day and immediately after.

in a pensive

Courtney Wilson.

"However, the total number of plays that ran over 2013 remains one of the highest we have seen in recent times," she continued. For over seven decades, the curtains have risen on Boxing Day for the National Pantomime.

The Barbara Gloudonpenned ‘The Golden Macca Fat’, took to the stage at the Little Theatre in St Andrew, continuing

that tradition which has been carried over from the days when the Pantomime played at the historic Ward Theatre in downtown Kingston, which now stands in disrepair.

‘Embassy Saga’, with Jamaican comedy king Oliver Samuel, also had a

Following an impressive run with ‘Ladies of The Night’, award-winning producers Jambiz International also opened ‘If There's is a Will There is a Wife’. This is running at the Centrestage Theatre in New Kingston and stars Glen 'Titus' Campbell, Sakina Deer, Sharee McDonald Russell, Camille Davis and

The Green Gables Theatre lights up with the musical revue ‘Jamaica Sweet’, written, directed and composed by David Tulloch. This production stars Deon Silvera, Terri Salmon, Rosie Murray and Michael 'Stringbeans' Nicholson.

David Tulloch's second play for the season, ‘Clash’, which stars Keith 'Shebada' Ramsay and Garfield 'Badboy Trevor' Reid opened at the Green Gables Theatre on Christmas Day.

On December 27, veteran theatre producer and playwright Basil Dawkins opened his production, ‘My God Don't Wear Pajamas’ at the Little Theatre in St Andrew. (Jamaica Observer)

Star of the Week

At just six years old, Ryan Roberts developed a love for music and his now beloved instrument – the guitar. He started listening to legendary artistes like The Beatles, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson, which were the main influences of his music. This appreciation for classic rock was his motivation to get into the rock genre – more specifically punk rock. Ryan’s two all-time favourite punk rock bands are the Ramones and Blink 182. As he watched live performances of these bands repeatedly, Ryan saw the joy they had while performing, especially with the guitar, and this motivated him to further pursue his passion. Coming from a musical lineage, Ryan recalled his uncle being in a band called Intruders, which performed at the top night clubs back in the 60s. With an inherent love for music, Ryan seriously invested his efforts in developing himself musically. He joined local rock bands Keep Your Day Job! and JoJo and The Bums, which gave him the stage to express himself. Aimed at developing his talents, Ryan studied music theory and successfully completed his ABRSM Grade Two exams. This year he hopes to complete grades 4 and 5, and would like to pursue studies in sound engineering. A fan of the bass and most recently the synthesizer, Ryan’s focus is to keep growing as a musician. Although music is his main interest, Ryan’s dream is to become a pilot.

Jamaican Chad Wright qualifies for Commonwealth Games

It’s mission accomplished for Jamaican Chad Wright as he threw 61.54m to win the men's discus open at the Pure Water/ Jamaica College Track and Field Invitational Meet Saturday, and in the process easily surpassed the qualifying standard of 50.00m for July's Commonwealth Games in Scotland.

Wright, who will be 23 years old on March 15, smashed the previous record of 58.26m held by former Calabar High teammate Travis Smikle since 2012 with his first throw of the year.

"One of my main achievements that I wanted to do today was qualify for the Commonwealth Games and just compete and see where I am for the start of the season," Wright told Jamaican media after collecting his medal.

He continued:

"Knowing that I won't compete until the end of March outdoor, so this was a good opportunity to get in the throw and see where I am."

Wright, in his final year at the University of Nebraska, where he is majoring in mathematics, said he will be in Jamaica until school reopens in a few weeks' time.

"I am here up until next week, so I will just keep training until I have to go back to school. School is going pretty well. I am just getting

ready to finish my senior year at college. This will be a massive year for me," he noted.

Wright has a personal best of 63.74m for the discus in gaining second spot at the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championship in 2013.

In 2012, he created history by becoming the first Jamaican to win the discus event at the NCAA meet, throwing 62.79m for the gold medal.

His personal best of 63.74 secured AllAmerica honours and put him at second all-time at Nebraska. It made him the Big Ten's all-time leader in the discus.

Wright has also been doing well in the shot put with a personal best of 18.86m done while finishing fifth at the NCAA Championship last year.

(Jamaica Observer)

West Indies women to hold training camp in New Zealand

The West Indies women’s team will have a full camp in New Zealand ahead of their eight-match series next month. The World Cup runners-up will arrive in New Zealand on Monday, February 10 for a one-week camp as they prepare to face the White Ferns in three One-Day Internationals and five T20 Internationals.

The series will form part of the preparations for the ICC Women’s World T20 in Bangladesh in March and April.

“It is great for us that we will have this camp in New Zealand before we play the matches there,” said long-standing captain and wicket-keeper Merissa Aguilleira.

“This will be the first time for most of the players playing in New

Guyanese Morgan, Johnson, D’Andrade start year on solid note

Guyanese Kelvin Johnson and Alika Morgan topped the field in the Bigi Broki Waka 10k road race on Sunday in Suriname to start the year on a solid note.

The overseas-based Johnson was in top form as his off season training showed signs of an improved athlete. He registered a time of 33 minutes, 43 seconds to top his countryman, who is also based overseas, Lionel D’Andrade, who finished second in 36 minutes, 24 seconds. Chomeynie Pinas of Suriname finished third in the event in 37 minutes, 15 seconds.

The event, which was run across a bridge built in the form of a hill spanning approximately two miles, was a tough challenge for the Guyanese contingent as D’Andrade explained to Guyanese media via telephone.

“It was a tough bridge but I’m pleased with my

Gordon,

Wperformance; I would also like to thank my sponsors Builders Lumber Yard,” D’Andrade said. Morgan, on the other hand, was her usual dominant self topping the female category with

a time of 41 minutes, 47 seconds, ahead of Llsida Toemere (44 minutes, 31 seconds) and Caroline Marlet (44 minutes, 39 seconds).

“The race was a good race especially being my

first race of the year…it was a bridge race a mile up and a mile down, going and coming so I’m satisfied with my performance because it’s early in the year yet and I would like to thank GT&T who continue to assist,” Morgan told Guyanese media. Meanwhile, all three of the athletes are expected to head to Trinidad for that island’s half-marathon later this month. (Guyana Times)

Borel take top NAAA awards in TT

orld 400m hurdles champion Jehue Gordon was named the Top Male Athlete of the Year for 2013 by Trinidad and Tobago’s National Association of Athletic Administrations (NAAA) at the Association’s Annual Awards Ceremony at the Capital Plaza Ballroom, Port-ofSpain on Saturday.

Zealand and we don’t know a lot about the foreign conditions, so it will be very useful to get there early and get acclimatised.”

This is the second time the West Indies Women will face New Zealand Women in a short period. Last October, the Windies came from behind to win the ODI series 2-1 at Sabina Park in Jamaica.

“We played well in both ODIs and T20s last year and we want to take that good work into 2014, said Aguilleira.

“This will be the start of a really big year for us and this will be a major tour. We have the ICC World T20 in Bangladesh and we want to win that, so the time in New Zealand will be a crucial step towards that goal.” (TT Guardian)

Gordon was the overwhelming favourite to cop the award after his golden run in the one lap event at the 14th IAAF World Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Moscow, Russia, on August 15 2012.

The 22-year-old won in a national record and world leading time of 47.69. His victory was the second ever by a local athlete at the global meeting following Ato Boldon’s triumph in the men’s 200m at the 1997 World Champs in Athens, Greece. The UWI St Augustine student was also named the Top Male Track Athlete and was honoured for his record run of 47.69 seconds (29th on the alltime list). Gordon also recorded two victories on the prestigious Diamond league circuit. The NAAA honour is the latest for Gordon over the last week after he took home the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee’s Male Sports Personality of the Year Honour

little elijah John receives the award for under-9 athlete of the year by the national association of athletic administration (naaas). Here John receives his award from tdc director naidu Powdhar at the naaas awards ceremony on saturday at the capital Plaza ballroom, Port-of-spain. (TT Newsday photo)

and Male Athlete, Consistent Performer and Breakthrough Performance of the Year at the Spirit of Sports Awards (SOSA).

Shot putter Borel took Female Athlete of the Year following her successful defence of her Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Senior Championships in Morelia, Mexico with a distance of 17.56m and also competed at the World Championships.

Borel also collected the Top Female Field Athlete of the Year.

CAC Senior men’s triple jump bronze medallist Christopher Hercules took the Top Male Field Athlete Trophy.

Double Carifta champion Mark London was named the top Male Junior athlete with Dominique Williams taking the female equivalent. London sped to victory in the boys under 20.800m (1:51.34)

and 1500m (4:01.07) at the Carifta Games in the Bahamas and ran unbeaten among the juniors on the local scene. The Zenith athlete also notched wins at the Hampton Games, taking the men’s 800m/1500m double, the TnT Twilight and Alvin Daniel Games. Williams missed on medalling at the Carifta Games finishing fourth in the girls under 20 800m and fifth 400m at the Carifta Games. However, the Neon Trackers sprinter improved her times with victories in the 400m at the TnT Twilight Games. The San Juan Secondary graduate was a member of TT’s women’s 4x400m team which debuted at the World Championships. London and Williams were also voted the Top Junior Track Athletes of the Year.

Carifta boys under 20 shot put champion Hezekiel Romeo was named the Top Junior Male Field Athlete. Romeo took the gold in the Bahamas with an effort of 18.66m. The Rebirth thrower also established a new national junior mark with the men’s implement (7.26kg) of 17.32m. Shaunna Downey (Burnley) took the Junior Female Field title with her Carifta bronze medal throw in the girls under 20 discus. (TT Newsday)

Guyanese cricketers dominated 2013 season in Canada

By RavendRa Madholall

It is safe to say that Guyanese cricketers find Canada a perfect destination to play the game on an annual basis. Their dominance again in 2013 has demonstrated their commitment and willingness to be part of the action in North America.

When the last season concluded, many of them left with some handsome performances and have already expressed profound aspiration to return in 2014, thanks to an invitation from Toronto and District Cricket Association (T&DCA).

Over 20 Guyanese cricketers travelled up to participate in the 2013 season and proved their capabilities with attractive scores and bowling figures.

Former West Indies one-day player Royston Crandon, who has been a steady player over the past four years, showed his class for Vikings

Cricket Club in the Major League. He also emerged as a leading player in the Scarborough Cricket Association competition, representing the championship team, Hawaii Artic Cricket Club.

Ryan Ramdass, a determined opener, would have also attired in the prestigious maroon colours and has come to North America to play in the Elite competition. His stint with Islanders Cricket Club in last year’s tournament was reasonably successful. He featured in Brampton/Etobicoke League in which he registered a double-century at his time off from the big league.

First appearance Guyana’s opening batsman Rajendra Chandrika made his first appearance in Canada last year, wearing the Vikings’ colours. He said he was overwhelmed to be in Toronto plying his trade and was

very grateful for the opportunity to showcase his talent and more importantly play in a competitive manner.

Former Guyana Under-19 captain

Eugene LaFluer was also a debutant and his contributions for Victoria Park Cricket Club in both Elite and Premier Divisions were absolutely remarkable. He stated that he was anxious to play for Guyana at the senior level and that was

one of his primary reasons for being in Canada. The solid left-handed batsman scored over 300 runs in both competitions, while he took over 20 wickets with his left-arm spin. His fellow Berbician and another ex-youth player, Dominic Rikhi certainly enjoyed his second stint, having scored a century (176*) for Victoria Park.

Guyanese presence

At the moment, in excess of 50 Guyanese

cricketers are involved in the annual T&DCA Elite and Premier Divisions, while several players have featured in the first and second division tournaments.

Travis Blyden and Elton Baker had done exceedingly well for Civics Cricket Club scoring a substantial amount of runs while they took wickets and led their team to the next divisions for the 2014 season.

Just before his departure to Guyana, the right-hander batsman and leg-spinner Blyden related that he was delighted to be back in Canada and playing professional cricket. He also mentioned that playing with the likes of former West Indies batsman Keith Semple was a great honour.

Fast bowler Trevon Garraway was outstanding in the Scarborough League bowling with speed and accuracy in

the final for Haiwaii. So devastating was Garraway that he took four wickets for just six runs to help skittle out the opposition for an embarrassing 25.

Some of the other Guyanese who plied their in Canada last year were Gavin Singh, Wasim Haslim, Ejaz Mohamed, Ricardo Jadunauth, Anthony D’Andrade, Harrinarine Chattergoon, Krishna Deosaran, Herman Latcha, brothers Ian and Roy Gonsalves and Trevor Henry. Some of the Guyanese who are living and playing in Canada are Zaheer Haniff, Eon Katchay, Raakesh Goberdhan, Ian Baldeo, Hemnarine Chattergoon, Kenneth Wong, Arjune Nandu, Sunil Dhaniram, Azib Ally Haniff, Glen Robinson, Jeremy Gordon, Damodar Daesrath, Mark Montfort, and Farouk Hussain among others.

Caribbean Olympians enter NJCAA T&F Coaches Association Hall of Fame

Caribbean Olympians

Alleyne Francique and Melanie Walker are among five new members inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Track and Field Hall of Fame.

The decision was taken at the United States Track & Field Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) Convention in Orlando, Florida, last month.

Francique, a former twotime World Indoor 400-metre champion of Grenada, was the NJCAA national champion in the 400m, 600m and 4x400m relay for Essex County College in 2000. He then held the NCAA Indoor 400m record for two years while attending Louisiana State University (LSU).

He also won the NCAA Outdoor 400m in 2002 before going on to win World Indoor titles in 2004 and 2006 in Budapest, Hungary and Moscow, Russia, respectively.

The Grenadian also competed in two Olympic Games, finishing fourth in Athens in 2004 and won a silver medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia.

Francique, who is an assistant coach at Texas A&M University, has won seven national titles since he began coaching in 2008, including three straight double NCAA Track & Field Titles.

Walker, who earned NJCAA All-American honours 10 times, was the Olympic 400m hurdles record holder in Beijing in 2008. She

has also won gold at the 2009 World Championships.

Walker was also a sixtime Big 12 Conference Champion while helping the University of Texas win the

2005 outdoor and 2006 indoor NCAA team championships. She was recently inducted into the University of Texas Women's Athletics Hall of Honour.

Also inducted into the Hall of Fame were Kenyan middle- and long-distance runner Sally Kipyego and coaches Clint Ramsey and Ralph Neighbours.

"Our Coaches Association is proud to honour the men and women, who by their deeds as coaches and student-athletes have made our sport so great," said Michael Smart, NJCAA Track & Field Coaches Association president.

"The accomplishments of these five men and women have shown how vital NJCAA track & field is to the track & field collegiate and international community."

The members will be inducted at a ceremony in New York in March. (Jamaica Observer)

Guyana hunting 10th regional one-day title, says manager

Manager Alvin Johnson says Guyana will be going all out to secure their tenth regional 50-over title when the West Indies Cricket Board’s NAGICO Super50 tournament bowls off in Trinidad and Tobago on January 30.

The eight-team tournament, which also includes the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) and ICC affiliate Ireland, will run until February 17.

The Guyanese, who last won the title when they defeated Barbados in near darkness in the 2005 KFC Cup final at Bourda, will face Ireland in their opening game on January 31 at the Queens Park Oval in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad.

In addition to Ireland, Guyana will face the

Windward Islands and defending champions Jamaica in Group ‘A’, while host Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, the Leeward Islands and CCC make up Group ‘B’.

In an interview with Guyanese media on Monday, Johnson said is he confident his team will be very competitive throughout the tournament.

“Judging from the players available, I am confident we will be very competitive throughout the tournament,” he commented.

The selectors are yet to name the final 14-man squad, but Johnson said “taking into consideration the players that are available to us, we have a good chance of going all the way once the guys play

to their full potential.”

Johnson, a former headmaster, also indicated that the adverse weather has affected preparations somewhat. However, he is hopeful the weather will change and allow the players to get in much valuable practice.

“Our sessions have been affected by the inclement weather, but nevertheless I am satisfied with preparations so far,” Johnson added.

The first phase of the team preparation commenced in December with 37 players, but it has been narrowed down to 26 for the second stage, which started from January 3 and will run until January 25.

The 26 still in contention for a place in the final 14 are: Leon Johnson, Devendra

Bishoo, Veersammy Permaul, Anthony Bramble, Robin Bacchus, Assad Fudadin, Zaheer Mohamed, Royston Crandon, Christopher Barnwell, Ronsford Beaton, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Vishal Singh, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Tagnarine Chanderpaul, Rajiv Ivan, Amir Khan, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Shaquille Williams, Narsingh Deonarine, Trevon Griffith, Keon Joseph, Raun Johnson, Jason Sinclair, Paul Wintz, Rajendra Chandrika and Sewnarine Chattergoon. Guyana, the only South America side in the competition, has won the tournament nine times, the first way back in 1980. Titles were also won in 1983, 1985, 1993, 1995, 1998, 2001, 2003 and 2005. (Guyana Times)

Caribbean not ready for pro league, says CONCACAF vice-president

There are discussions across the region for the revival of the Caribbean Professional Football League (CPFL), which would reintroduce professional football in the Caribbean by setting up a multinational league.

Jeffrey Webb, president of the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) and chief executive officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Pro League, Dexter Skeene, have thrown their support behind the idea. Jamaica Football Federation president and CONCACAF vicepresident, Captain Horace Burrell is, however, saying not so fast.

"I have heard some talk but, frankly and honestly speaking, there is no infrastructural development across the Caribbean to accommodate such a football competition in a structured way, so personally, I don't see this manifesting itself now," Burrell reasoned. "There is so much that needs to be done before we can start looking at that, such as the level of financing and travel. Maybe in years to come, this will happen, but for right now, there is no infrastructural development.

"The CONCACAF president has said that a task force will be named to assess and do some preliminary work," Hughes disclosed. "The task force has not been named as yet, so until that is done, we will just continue as is."

Sustainable league

Webb stated during a sports summit held in the Cayman Islands last October, that the Caribbean should consider a sustainable professional league.

"Our territories still

Ramdin urges West Indies batsmen to step up

Denesh Ramdin has urged the West Indies batsmen and fielders to step up their game if they are to level the ODI series in New Zealand.

West Indies go into the fifth and final match in Hamilton trailing 1-2 and needing a win to save face in a rain-affected series that has been rough on the visitors.

lack a meaningful established professional league for the players to aspire to," Webb said. "This is a conversation and a topic for the Caribbean and for the smaller territories to make that giant step of competing and qualifying for a World Cup. This is something that must be at the top of the agenda for Caribbean football."

Webb did add that in order for such a league to be sustainable, economic partners and the support of governments would be needed.

Burrell is in agreement with Webb on that point as he believes steps will have to be taken to improve football in the small territories before the commencement of a regional football league.

"We also need infrastructural development prior to the league to ensure that all the countries are on a level playing field," Burrell said. "And also that it could be attractive enough for people to want to watch; the grounds will have to be improved."

Following discussions that dated back to 1977, the CPFL was first established in 1992. The teams that entered were franchises set up by local businessmen, but the league suffered from financial and organisational problems. In October 1994, the league was renamed Caribbean Major League Football, but the 1995 staging was cancelled after a number of postponements, and the tournament was not revived.

The Jamaican teams that entered over the four seasons were Kingston Lions, Wavers (later renamed Reno International), Cornwall County Lions and Harbour View.(Jamaica Gleaner)

“Our fielding was not up to standard in the last game,” Ramdin said. “We’re usually a good fielding unit but, we ended up giving away too many chances. The first 25 overs were good, but in the second 25, we gave away chances and runs.”

Ramdin also pointed out that the top five batsmen need to do better than their recent stagnant performances to set a proper foundation whether chasing or batting first. “It’s no secret that our batting has failed us recently against India and New Zealand.

Hopefully, our top five will come out and get some runs on the board or lead a good chase. I believe they can finish this (series) on a good note. We’re looking to give a good showing. It’s been a long time for us away from home and we’re looking forward to going home, but we want to end on a high note and improve. We haven’t batted well at all except for a few bright spots here and there.”

Ramdin referred to West Indies’ deplet-

ed squad which had left them short of experience as a key factor in their showing against New Zealand.

Ramdin said that the absence of Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Kemar Roach and the subsequent blows to Darren Bravo, Darren Sammy, Marlon Samuels and now, Ravi Rampaul, took a severe toll on the unit.

He added that more support needed to be provided to Jason Holder, who he dubbed as their best bowler in the series.

Ramdin felt Tino Best and Sunil Narine would be effective as long as the fielders stuck to plans. He bemoaned how their fundamentals such as backing up and simple catching pegged them back in the last couple of ODIs. West Indies had lost the third Test in Hamilton earlier on the tour and Ramdin said the pitch was similar to the Test one. On the mood in the camp, Ramdin said, “It’s difficult but Bravo (Dwayne) has been motivating us in bringing a relaxed atmosphere to the dressing room so that we play our natural Caribbean style of cricket. It’s tough so far but we have the belief despite not getting much success in New Zealand. Our respectability is on the line. We have a lot of cricket back in the Caribbean waiting on us so right now, we need to rally around each other.” (WICB)

TT to play Argentina in June

Trinidad and Tobago will play world football powerhouse Argentina in a friendly international on June 4 at a venue to be announced.

The football associations of both countries will make the announcement when the venue is confirmed, a

Trinidad and Tobago Football Association release has stated.

Argentina, captained by Lionel Messi, is considered a favourite for the World Cup scheduled for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, later this year.

Argentina are also due to play their

last warm-up against Slovenia at the River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires on June 7.

"Trinidad and Tobago is also already arranged," declared Guillermo Tofoni, whose World Eleven agency organises all Argentina's friendlies.

"All that remains is

to fix where it will be played, but they're a good sparring (partner) for Argentina."

The match against Trinidad and Tobago on June 4 is part of Argentina's preparation for their Group F matches against Bosnia, Iran and Nigeria.

Canadians outshine Bajans in volleyball series

The fourth edition of the VolleyBarbados championship series proved to be a tremendous success for the five visiting Canadian teams and exposed glaring weaknesses of Barbados’ volleyball.

The tournament was won by University of British Columbia Heat, who defeated former queens the University of Montreal Heat in the finals while Barbados’ double crown queens Flow Sentry Brokers Insurance Deacons ended rock bottom in the competition.

Deacons were miss-

ing the league’s Most Valuable Player Fabia Greaves, who is ill, but fans still expected them to put on a better show of winning more than one match as knockout MVP Julia Lewis, DeAnn Smith and Dionne Licorish were reinforced with the inclusion of professionals Anicia Wood and Shari Matthews along with multitalented Rhe-Ann Niles.

However, the superior defence, setting, spiking, blocking and serving of the visitors showed that Barbados’ women’s volleyball could be in a seri-

ous crisis.

The Canadians put Barbados on the back foot constantly with their directed serves, making a

‘I am not a cheat'...

bit testy between the Olympian and Robinson, who tried to establish that Simpson was negligent. He asked if as an elite athlete she was aware that manufacturers do not always include all the ingredients on the labels of supplements. She said she was not aware. Pressing further, he asked Simpson if she was aware that supplements could be contaminated.

"I would not know that they may be contaminated," she responded.

"Do you agree that a doctor or a nutritionist would be better able to say what is contained with a supplement?" Robinson asked. However, the 2006

Commonwealth 200 metres champion maintained that she had never needed to take the WADA list to a doctor or nutritionist for them to help determine if they were clean.

(Jamaica Gleaner)

‘I am not a cheat'

Jamaican sprinter says she researched a new supplement for 14 hours before consuming it

Adefiant Sherone Simpson maintained that she was not a cheat during her three-and-ahalf hour testimony Tuesday at the start of the two-day hearing into her doping violation before an independent disciplinary panel at the Jamaica Conference Centre, downtown Kingston.

During her testimony, Simpson declared that she did everything possible, including researching on the Internet for about 14 hours, to ensure that a new supplement that was introduced to her by physical trainer Chris Xuereb did not contain any banned substances. However, according to Lackston Robinson, the attorney representing the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission, the 2008 100-metre silver medallist did not go far enough.

‘Significantly negligent’

He is contending that Simpson was "significantly negligent" so she would not be able to rely on (World Anti-Doping Agency) rules 10.4 or 10.5.2 for the mitigation of sanctions. He also contended that Simpson could not also rely on rule 10.5.3, which allows for mitigation of sanctions where it is established that substantial assistance was given to authorities investigating the case.

Rule 10.4 speaks to the elimination or reduction of a period of ineligibility and depends on whether an athlete or another person can establish when and how a specified substance entered his or her body or came into their possession and that the substance

TT’s

Twas not intended to enhance the athlete's performance. Rule 10.5.2 says an athlete's sanction can be reduced if it can be established that the athlete bears no significant fault or negligence, while 10.5.3 allows for the athlete to get a reduced sanction if the athlete renders significant assistance in establishing or discovering anti-doping violations.

Simpson is being represented by attorneys Kwame Brown and Danielle Chai, who are being instructed by the law firm Samuda & Johnson.

She was among five Jamaican athletes who tested positive for banned substances during the National Championships held in June 2013 as Jamaica selected its team to the 14th IAAF World Athletic Championships in Moscow in August.

Cross examination

Under direct examination from Brown, Simpson said Xuereb arrived in Jamaica from Canada on June 6, 2013 with supplements for her. Among them were Combat Protein, Endura, Fish Oil, Cue 10, Epiphany D1 and vitamin D. She said she was familiar with most of them except for Epiphany D1, a supplement that claims to support short and long-term memory, increased attention span, boosts confidence and improves concentration and focus.

It was revealed in pre-hearing discussions that samples of the supplement were sent by her attorneys to a lab for testing. One batch of Epiphany D1

tested was found to contain Oxilofrine, while the other did not.

Simpson said she went to Google and typed in 'WADA prohibited list 2013'.

"I looked at all the substances on the list," she said. She then checked the ingredients on the Epiphany label for unfamiliar compounds. She saw nothing on the bottle that appeared on the WADA 2013 list.

She told Brown that she Googled all substances she was unfamiliar with. "There was nothing that rang any alarm bells."

Under cross-examination, things became a

star cyclist recovering from kidney failure

rinidad and Tobago’s national cyclist Njisane Phillip would continue training soon, as he was expected to be discharged from hospital Wednesday, according to Gregory D’Andrade, vicepresident of the TT Cycling Federation.

Njisane, who was admitted to the California Hospital Medical Center in USA last Friday for stomach pains, and then later moved to a specialist hospital, spoke to D’Andrade Tuesday on the phone. It was confirmed that one of Njisane’s kidneys are

swollen, but with antibiotics, the swelling will go down and the cyclist will be ready for the track soon.

Njisane did not eat properly for the past few days and has been receiving drips after suffering from dehydration. Njisane’s mother, Vere Whiteman, and stepfather Phillip Whiteman, arrived in California Tuesday to support their son.

D’Andrade, who was Njisane’s manager at the UCI Cycling World Cup leg one in England last November, said the cyclist was in a good mood.

He stated: “He is talking and in good spirits and should be discharged tomorrow (Wednesday).” As a result of this incident, Njisane will not compete at the third leg of the UCI Cycling World Cup, which pedals off on January 17 in Mexico.

However, Njisane’s fans will see him on the track at the UCI World Track Cycling Championships in Colombia from February 26-March 2.

Some of Njisane’s fellow athletes have been tweeting their support including world champion 400 metres hurdler Jehue Gordon, who has encouraged people to keep the cyclist in their prayers.

Last year, Phillip became the first TT cyclist to win a medal in the UCI (International Cycling Union) World Cup series capturing silver in the match sprint event in Manchester. He followed up with a new national and Pan American record of 9.643 seconds in the Flying 200m which is the qualifying event for the match sprint at the Aguascalientes leg of the World Cup in Mexico last December. (TT Guardian)