Guyana Times Daily

SA president says “all

Regional food safety workshop opens Police probing murder of woman at Jumbie Backdam Guyana's Carifesta XI delegation to be chosen through auditions Regions being prepped for disaster response

Govt says GPL’s proposed tariff hike is just

Ignoring calls by the combined opposition for the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) to hold off on any tariff increases, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds on Monday insisted that the company must be able to go ahead with the hike, saying this was coming after five years of no adjustment during which time oil prices had risen by about 60 per cent.

He said the cost of oil constitutes about 80 per cent of the cost of providing electricity. According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) release, the power company has been facing dire financial constraints over the past few years as a result of high technical and commercial losses, and this position has been compounded with the slashing of its $5.2 billion subsidy by the parliamentary opposition during the consideration of the 2013 national budget. As such, it has made a proposal to institute a 26.7 per cent tariff increase, which has been submitted to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The new rates have not yet taken effect, but the

GPL board is actively engaged in planning its implementation. At present, the average price per kilowatt hour is $63 and with the 26.7 per cent increase, the new rate will be about $80 per kilowatt hour.

Speaking on a pro-

gramme on the National Communications Network (NCN), Hinds, who has responsibility for the electricity sector, said GPL has been foregoing the increase in tariffs that it ought to have been receiving. The company has calculated over $20 billion of foregone income. The prime minister said that while this increase will be very demanding on people, this adjustment should have been coming in smaller steps of about five per cent per annum.

“This 26.7 per cent is a big step, but it comes after five years of no increases and five years of greatly increased cost, especially for oil… the alternative for the future is for the annual review to be put into effect, in which case one would probably see increases of no more than five per cent per year,” he said.

According to GINA, the annual government subsidy has been meeting a lot of the shortfalls in the income required by the company. It has been part of the government’s efforts to ensure that customers are not made to bear the burden of the high cost. The prime minister said the utility needs to have enough money to keep its operations running, and if this tariff is suppressed, then ultimately, the level and quality of service will be degraded.

Generation capacity

When the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) took office, it began focusing primarily on improving generation capacity and this saw the purchase and installation of the first set of Wartsila units. However, it was recognised that transmission and distribution were also issues to be addressed, and it embarked on an aggressive programme to upgrade these. These, when completed, will see the installation of seven new substations across the country and the expansion of three others. As a result of the significant investments that have been made, today the supply of electricity has been tremendously improved compared to the level at which it was in the 1990s.

Hinds, according to GINA, rejected the claims made by the opposition and other political commentators in sections of the media that the company is not being properly managed and said that the big cost factor is technical and commercial losses. He said that there has been a lot of pressure on GPL to reduce technical losses; however, this would require significant investments. In preparation for the Amaila Falls Hydropower Plant, many studies have been conducted and one of the consulting groups that were retained by the Inter-American

Development Bank (IDB) noted that GPL needs an investment of US$250 million to bring the networks up to the required level. This investment is not within the company’s reach at this time.

Commercial losses

With regards to commercial losses, the prime minister said that one in every 10 customers is billed for less electricity than they use. At present, the company suffers a technical loss of 31.5 per cent and there have been times when it has been as high as 41 per cent. “The commercial losses require investments, but most of all it requires a culture change from people… it is essential that we have a culture change in Guyana with respect to paying for less electricity than one uses,” the prime minister said.

He explained that the budget cut that GPL suffered has reinforced the argument that the company should have been charging a tariff each year that is established in its licence. With regards to the Alliance For Change (AFC) comments that the tariff hike can provoke unrest, the prime minister said that this action could lead to a complete deterioration of the system as it did in 1978 when there was no power in Georgetown for about three days. “We have been giving great consideration to the issue of electricity tariffs, but costs eventually have to be met… our hope was that we could somehow manage until Amaila came along,” the prime minister said.

The 26.7 per cent is calculated in accordance with the 1999 Electricity Sector Reform Act (ESRA) and its licence. GPL’s 2012 audited accounts showed that the company suffered a loss of $7.6 billion in 2012. Only two increases have been implemented by the company in the last 10 years.

GBTI posts $1.8B after-tax profit

– CEO cites uncertainty in gold, sugar industries

By Svetlana MarShall

The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry has recorded an aftertax profit of $1.814 billion in 2012, representing a 32 per cent increase when compared to the bank’s returns for 2011.

Low Tide: 00:01h and 12:28h reaching minimum heights of 0.77 metre and 0.66 metre respectively.

GBTI Chief Executive Officer John Tracey made this disclosure in the bank’s 2012 report. He said the return on equity stood at 20.17 per cent at the end of the year, while the return on average assets stood at 2.23 per cent.

“Revenues for 2012 amounted to $5524 million, an increase of 21 per cent over that for 2011 due primarily to increased lending. Net interest income increased by 33 per cent while non-interest income increased by 19 per cent due to the increases in commissions and exchanging gains,” he revealed. On the flip side, the bank incurred an expenditure of $2.972 billion, an increase of $385 million.

GBTI’s overwhelming success was driven by the

posit ratio increased to 45 per cent in 2012 compared to 40 per cent at the end of 2011,” Tracey reported.

The growth in the loan portfolio was attributed to the improved and diverse loan system. In an effort to increase its portfolio, GBTI tailored its lending policies based on development in the various economic sectors in Guyana.

Risk management and internal control

With the aim of improving its service and reliability, the commercial bank embarked on the risk management and control project, an initiative which has been tagged one of the most significant projects in recent history.

Capitalising on technology, GBTI in 2012 commenced the upgrading of its operating software. The project was divided into two phases – planning and appraisal, and implementation.

“Whilst the process has been a difficult one with many challenges arising –at the end of the year, I am happy to report the process

growth in its loan portfolio, the CEO said. He explained that loans stood at $35 billion at the end of 2013, reflecting a net growth of $11.3 billion or 46.8 per cent. Currently, the bank owns a whopping 22 per cent of the loan portfolio in the banking industry.

“While the growth in our loan portfolio exceeded our target, we continued to adhere to the sound tenets of lending, while responding on a timely basis to the exceptional demand for financing. The bank’s credit to de-

has been successful...This upgrade is expected to bring significant cost savings, as well as provide a platform for superior customer service,” Tracey said.

Additionally, the risk management capacity has been strengthened with the training of three officers who were certified by the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Scotland.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) also played a crucial role in the areas of Risk Management by diagnosing

GBTI’s risk management policies and practices. In the upcoming months, the commercial bank will approach IFC once again to improve its risk management structure.

“The bank’s inspection division continued its monitoring role of the internal control system reporting directly to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors,” the CEO also noted.

Customer service, expansion

Turning his attention to customer service and branch expansion, Tracey said despite minor hiccups during the implementation stage of the software upgrade, GBTI undoubtedly maintains an excellent record of customer service. As part of its expansion project, GBTI continues to increase the number of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Point of Sale Terminals in critical areas. The relocation of the GBTI branch in Lethem in 2012 was done with the aim of providing a full suite of banking services in a more spacious and convenient environment.

“The opening of this new building reinforces the bank’s commitment to the development of Region Nine and the pioneering role the bank has played in the branching in Guyana.”

In 2012, the bank upheld its record on supporting community projects and programmes by sponsoring the Children’s Dramatic Poetry

Competition which was part of the country’s 42nd Mashramani activities. A show of the work of Guyana Women Artists Association was also facilitated by the bank in February. Groups of Early Savers were also treated to sessions of fun, games, and learning at the National Museum in the months of May and July as part of GBTI’s first storytelling and literature venture. These are just a few of the many initiatives undertaken by the bank in support of civil society.

Looking ahead

As 2013 progresses, the CEO expressed concern over the high levels of uncertainty in some sectors.

“Two of the leading production sectors and significant foreign exchange earners viz rice and gold mining are facing uncertain futures,” Tracey pointed out in his report. According to him, the heavy dependency on the Venezuela market for the sale of rice is also worrying, noting that the loss of this market can cripple the rice sector.

“The sugar industry continues to limp along, but, with favourable weather and improved technical and mechanical competence, should do no worse than done in 2012.” Amid the signs of uncertainty, Tracey said bankers were optimistic that the banking industry will continue to flourish. He said that with competition for less lending opportunities, it is anticipated that the trend of the reduction of interest rates will continue this year. Additionally, the bank will be commissioning another branch this year, while assessing the possibility of greater expansion in the future.

“With our new software being market-oriented, greater emphasis will be placed on product development and market penetration. In 2012, our tagline was changed to “Your Friend, Your Bank” and has become a challenge to all our staff and a strengthened marketing department to live out this motto.” (svetlanam@guyanatimesgy.com)

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

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

Editorial

Global job crisis

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) in one of its recent reports states that the gap between the rich and poor in most low- and middle-income countries remains wide. The report notes too that what is even more worrying is the fact that many families who have managed to rise above the poverty line are at risk of lapsing back.

Of note also, is that global unemployment is predicted to rise from the current 200 million to nearly 208 million by 2015. In essence, the job crisis worldwide is likely to get worse unless certain urgent measures are taken to remedy the situation. This is enough to cause governments and policy makers to be concerned about what sort of future is being created for our young people.

The report titled, “World of Work Report 2013: Repairing the Economic and Social Fabric”, states that income inequalities rose between 2010 and 2011 in 14 of the 26 advanced economies surveyed, including France, Denmark, Spain, and the United States. Inequality levels in seven of the remaining 12 countries were still higher than before the start of the financial crisis.

The report says that economic inequalities are on the rise, as small firms lag behind their larger counterparts in terms of profits and productive investment. While most large enterprises have regained access to capital markets, start-ups and small enterprises are disproportionately affected by bank credit conditions. This is a problem for job recovery now and affects economic prospects over the longer term.

It is interesting to note too that the report shows that middle-income groups in many advanced economies are shrinking, fuelled in part, by long-term unemployment, weakening job quality, and workers dropping out of the labour market altogether. For example, in Spain, the size of the middle-income groups declined from 50 per cent in 2007, to 46 per cent by the end of 2010. In the United States, the richest seven per cent of the population saw their average net worth increase during the first two years of the recovery from 56 per cent in 2009 to 63 per cent in 2011. The remaining 93 per cent of Americans saw their net worth decline.

That said, the size of the middle income group in developing and emerging economies has increased from 263 million in 1999 to 694 million in 2010. This is a major achievement of a growing number of Latin American and Asian countries, which spread more recently to some countries in Africa and the Arab region.

In developing countries, the most important challenge is to consolidate recent progress in reducing poverty and inequality. The report shows how productive investment, minimum wages, and social protection have contributed to this endeavour in countries like Brazil, Costa Rica, India, Indonesia, Turkey, and Vietnam.

Among the ILO recommendations to address the job crisis and income inequalities are the need to have an approach that balances macroeconomic and employment goals. This means a sustainable pace of fiscal consolidation measures, where they are necessary; more attention to the employment and social impact of different macroeconomic policies; and moving quickly with yet unresolved inefficiencies in the financial system.

ILO Director General Guy Rider points to the fact that there is need for a global recovery focused on jobs and productive investment, combined with better social protection for the poorest and most vulnerable groups. Hence, the need to pay serious attention to closing the inequality gap that is widening in so many parts of the world.

It was also suggested that the authorities place jobs higher on the reform agenda as this is not the case presently in some developed and developing countries. What is clear is that countries, including Guyana, would need to put systems in place where more and better jobs could be created so that there can be a more balanced distribution of income.

Khemraj Ramjattan appears power drunk

Dear Editor, I am shocked by the arrogance and contempt displayed on a weekly basis by the leadership of a political party, whose supporters were conned in believing they were voting for civility and change. Khemraj Ramjattan appears power drunk, and would do or say anything to steal voter-support from David Granger’s People’s National Congress/A Partnership for National Unity (PNC/ APNU).

In 2012, as government announced the July 1 deadline for the withdrawal of electricity subsidy for the town of Linden, the Alliance For Change (AFC) became very active on the frontline of the PNC stronghold, organising protests which eventually led to anarchy and the unfortunate deaths of three “peaceful protesters”. The opposition’s efforts to spread this unrest nationwide failed miserably because while the rest of the country were paying the full electricity rates, the people of Linden were enjoying and abusing a $3 billion government electricity subsidy which the AFC and APNU had earlier cut from the 2012 National Budget. They created the atmosphere for lawlessness in the mining town, then hid like cowards in the background as law enforcement moved in to stop an insurrection. They were determined not to be seen as the ringleaders.

As if nothing was learnt from this mayhem, the joint opposition again butchered $5.2 billion from a governmental assistance programme presented in the 2013 National Budget from

loans provided by Venezuela, China and the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB). A significant amount of this subsidy was to run new transmission lines on the coastlands and for the construction of seven new substations designed to reduce Guyana Power and Light (GPL) leaky systems. Although the opposition knew this budget cut would force an electricity rate increase and hardship upon all Guyanese, they are determined to create another scenario similar to Linden, that threatens to stability and security of our nation.

No one wants to pay more for electricity, but the AFC and APNU must take full responsibility for playing politics, hoping to create dissension among our people.

Moreover, the leadership of the AFC has now clearly demonstrated his intention to influence the emotions of consumers, knowing that this is likely to create civil unrest and anarchy if his threats to have GPL investigated by the Public Utilities Commission are not complied with. According to a press statement, “The proposed hike in electricity rates by the state controlled GPL must be vigorously resisted by the Guyanese people… The AFC would like to warn the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government, that this highly ill-advised and unjustified act on the part of GPL, will be provoking huge national unrest.”

Perhaps the AFC and PNC/APNU should consider making a joint appeal to those Guyanese who feel it is their inherent right to

steal electricity from GPL, so that others are not burdened paying for the fuel they consume. And perhaps a joint communiqué to the people of Linden from Granger and Ramjattan would be in order, to finally convince them of the need to do their civic duty: To pay their fair share of the electricity they use, just like everyone else in the rest of the country.

This proposed increase by GPL could have been avoided, had the joint opposition been thinking of the Guyanese consumer rather than disrupting progress.

GPL is not perfect, and the electricity situation nationwide is less than reliable. But I have not seen a single condemnation by either opposition leader to their supporters, to desist from meter-tampering and the stealing of electricity. In fact, one APNU supporter, John Adams, was awarded a seat in Parliament, after he was arrested and taken to Den Amstel Police Station for stealing electricity from GPL. I guess it’s only corruption when a PPP/C supporter is involved.

A recent Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) report shows GPL residential tariffs to be one of the lowest in the region. Only Trinidad, Suriname, and The Bahamas have lower rates. GPL’s last increase in tariffs was in February 2008, more than five years ago. The average increase then was 14 per cent with residential customers facing only six per cent and nine per cent and government covering a 20 per cent increase. Last year, 79 per cent of GPL’s genera-

tion came from Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) which is about 77 per cent cheaper than diesel. This was done primarily to keep electricity rates down. But despite this, according to GPL, “Fuel prices have risen from a weighted average of US$64 per barrel in 2006, to US$108 in 2012. In 2006, GPL’s fuel bill was $12.4 billion while in 2012, this doubled to $24.2 billion.

Last year, fuel alone accounted for 83 per cent of GPL’s tariff revenue, resulting in a loss of $7.6 billion to the nation’s utility company.”

It is time for the AFC to demonstrate to the Guyanese people that it can be trusted with stewardship of our nation. Provoking regular confrontations with the administration will not help fulfil their manifesto pledge to the voters. Maturity in politics is mastering the art of compromising, not confrontations.

How can Ramjattan justify his leadership role in a political party that has accomplished nothing for his constituency?

How can we as a nation, attract tourists and investors and regain our leadership role in the region, when thoughtless, selfish opposition forces use every means to disrupt the economy with threats of “huge national unrest”? When will Granger and Ramjattan put country first, and recognise that Guyanese want their leaders to stop fighting and work together in the national interest? Is this too much to expect from our politicians?

Yours truly, Harry Gill

GNIC corrects misleading Kaieteur News article

Dear Editor, We wish to refer to the Kaieteur News article on June 9 on the above subject and believe it is not only sensational, but grossly inaccurate, misleading and unacceptable.

There exists no dispute at this time between Guyana National Industrial Company (GNIC) Inc and the Transport and Harbours Department (THD), as it relates to the current drydocking of the MV Kimbia. On the contrary, the relation-

ship between GNIC and THD has been very cordial and professional for this particular job as has been the case for all of the previous drydocking jobs executed over the years for THD.

It is indeed unfortunate that you did not seek to obtain credible information from us on this allegation prior to publishing same.

In the circumstances, we are demanding a complete withdrawal of the article, which should be prominently displayed as is the case of

the article when it was published. Otherwise, we would have no alternative than to take legal action for defamation.

You would agree that quite apart from damage to the company’s public image, the article could result in serious adverse repercussions to the company’s business relationship as well.

Regards,

Clinton Williams Chief Executive Officer

Police conduct and minibus operators

Dear Editor,

A few weeks ago, Route 40 minibus operators complained bitterly about some illegalities that they wanted to be checked out. They spoke of certain police constables who are enmeshed in bribery and corruption with pit bull minibuses. These minibuses can stop in the presence of the police and pick up passengers in a no-stopping zone.

The operators also spoke of being roughed up when they went to complain, as a senior police officer told them that they should also buy pit bull minibuses. Some police officers actually owned these pit bull buses. There was also fear of complaining, since they would be targeted on the roads.

In general, where public transportation in minibuses is concerned, there are many issues to be addressed – fare hikes when it is late overloading, the use of touts, and music. The call from many quarters is that minibus transport must be characterised by law and order.

Minibus transportation is a major function of taking people to and from their destinations. It is not about a competition for the fastest buses and best music system.

An issue that needs attention is that of late travellers, who work overtime, go to classes or even visit the gymnasia. They have to be catered for.

Maybe, if there is no way

to control late runs by private buses, then some kind of plan must come to the fore, where these people can be accommodated, even if for just a single trip from the park to their homes. Many people are arid to be at the parks when it gets late. The place becomes a haven for those who snatch phones and hand-bags.

Maybe, the police have to concentrate more in these areas when it gets dark. If indeed there is a conflict of interest, with buses belonging to police officers, then it may call for some transfers.

Whatever happens, both operators and travellers want a better environment.

Yours truly, Gairy Sommerset

Women’s groups must get involved in stopping abusive men

Dear Editor, The magistrate decided to proceed with hearing an assault charge brought against a man accused of kicking his girlfriend. She will be compelled to testify now, even though she tried to have the case dismissed.

Shiv Chanderpaul continues to embarrass WI selectors

Dear Editor, Shivnarine Chanderpaul inexorably and unobtrusively continues to ply his trade, whenever and wherever he can. Currently, he is in England, and I am sure that he is closely being followed to the point that news about him is as eagerly anticipated as that about West Indies and their ICC Champions trophy campaign. I have met many who are so turned off by West Indies cricket, but always rejoice in the success of Shiv.

West Indies eked out a win against Pakistan in their opening game. They almost got bowled out, winning by two wickets, but almost 10 overs were left to bat. I think that if they had batted first, they would have been bowled out before the allotted 50.

This is where Chanderpaul fits in. Pakistan almost overplayed Javed Miandad. Raul Dravid played almost to the end of his career for India, but Chanderpaul is being kept out. I have listed their ODI records for a comparison below.

Table shows matches played – innings – highest score – batting average – runs scored – scoring rate in the order of Miandad, Dravid and Chanderpaul.

(JM) 233/218 - 119*41.70- 11014 - 67.01 (RD) 344/318 - 15339.16- 15284 - 71.24

(SC) 268/251-150-41.60-

12408 -70.74

Chanderpaul is not and has never been a ball-beater. He probably goes out not to get out. Of course, this approach is best suited to test matches. You do need at least one to throw down the anchor when wickets are tumbling.

In One Dayers, it is much the same – there must be someone to bat around. Again, Chanderpaul is quite the paragon par excellence for this. Like Miandad, he averages 41 runs per innings, two more than Dravid. However, Shiv’s scoring rate of 70 runs per 100 balls is better than Miandad’s 67, and only one fewer than Dravid’s 71.

The point is that for as long as Chanderpaul is fit and available, he should be a necessary staple in West Indies ODI batting line up. Let me be bold and state that the ICC Champions Trophy currently ongoing

in England will most likely prove my point. I challenge readers to look at what totals West Indies have managed over the years whenever Chanderpaul fails to click, both tests and one dayers.

Chanderpaul’s Derbyshire recently sealed an impressive 63-run victory against Essex. He hit an unbeaten 85 from 69 balls in the game. I believe if fortunes dip for West Indies in this tournament, Chanderpaul should be called up.

Yours faithfully,

Guyanese, especially women, who have been abused, must learn that when they get knocked about, it is more than a personal offence, or even one directed against women as such. The thing is a crime that transcends mere individuality or philosophical thinking. So, come what may, the charge must be followed through to its conclusion. This will put a blunt on some men who have that intimidating effect on weak women.

the report was false, and was done at the request of her family.

Quite rightly, the magistrate explained to the woman that filing a false report against someone was a criminal offence, for which she can be charged.

When the victim who made the report, and who began to have second thoughts, was questioned, she glanced periodically at the accused, and requested that the magistrate drop the case, explaining that

I think we need some changes where abusing women is concerned. Women’s groups should really work on this.

Respectfully,

Emma Jones

Page Foundation

Preparing for multiple births

Nutrition

Another dietary requirement that needs to be increased if you’re expecting more than one baby is protein, which has several important functions. First, proteins serve as the building materials of body tissue. They also act as enzymes that regulate chemical reactions to keep a body growing and functioning.

During pregnancy, an increased supply of iron is also needed for haemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that binds oxygen for delivery to the tissues. Insufficient iron can lead to a condition known as iron-deficiency anemia. Anemia occurs when the number of healthy red blood cells decreases in the body), and is relatively common in multiple pregnancies. Anemia can cause a decreased appetite and extreme fatigue during a pregnancy, as well as a reduced oxygen supply to the developing babies. Your doctor will probably prescribe an iron supplement, as your requirement for this mineral usually can’t be met by diet alone.

Iron is absorbed more easily when combined with foods high in acid, such as yogurt, and those with high amounts of vitamin C, like orange juice.

Additional fetuses also mean an increased need for

all other nutrients (such as zinc, copper, vitamin C, and vitamin D). So it’s important to take your prenatal vitamin supplement every day. But just because you’re carrying more than one baby doesn’t mean you should take more than one prenatal vitamin – one is enough and too much can even be harmful.

Your weight

Mothers carrying multiples are expected to gain more weight during pregnancy than mothers carrying a single foetus. But exactly how much weight you should gain depends on your pre-pregnancy weight and the number of foetuses, so make sure to talk to your doctor.

In general, though, you should consume about 300 additional calories a day for each foetus. It might be tough to eat a lot when your abdomen is full of babies, so try to eat smaller, more frequent meals.

Your comfort

Of course, expecting multiples means that you’re probably experiencing the typical discomforts of pregnancy more intensely. Nurturing yourself can help ease the stress of pregnancy. Even a warm bath can help lift your spirits. (Just make sure you have some-

one around to help lift you out of the tub!)

Expectant partners can help, too. Something as simple as having someone brush your hair can make the discomforts of pregnancy fade momentarily. It helps, too, if your partner remembers that your body is going through tremendous hormonal changes. Communication and understanding can be the keys to truly enjoying this special time in your lives.

Preparing for childbirth

Getting ready for a multiple birth may seem overwhelming, and concerns about pre-term labour can be additional burdens for you to bear. The best reassurance is knowing that you have a network of support around you: capable doctors, a caring hospital staff, and hopefully a supportive partner, family members, and/or friends.

To help you be more comfortable with the birth process as it unfolds, you should

also discuss the options of vaginal delivery versus caesarean section (C-section) with your doctor well before your due date. Several factors affect the safety of each approach. Even if you and your doctor agree to attempt a vaginal delivery, circumstances may arise during labour or delivery that make a C-section necessary.

You may opt to have additional birthing attendants in the room during labour and birth. For example, midwives are becoming more common. Hiring a doula is another option. The term comes from ancient Greece, where the doula was the primary attendant to the female head of the household. Today, doulas offer support services to women during the birth, as well as after delivery, by assisting with infant care and household chores.

In the case of multiples, though, a vaginal delivery may not always be possible. The crowded uterus can cause compression of the placenta or umbilical cord of any of the soon-to-beborn babies during labour. Prolonged compression may put one or more babies at serious risk as labour progresses during attempts at vaginal delivery. So prompt delivery by C-section may be necessary in these cases.

Special delivery

As labour begins, you’ll likely be connected to a foetal monitor so your doctor can check each baby’s progress. The interval between the birth of each baby delivered vaginally is usually less than an hour. And here’s one piece of good news: Because multiple-birth babies tend to be smaller than single ones, it’s easier to push them out. Luckily, they only come out one at a time!

Positioning of the babies can also affect the safety of a vaginal delivery. It’s common for the first baby to be born head first, whereas the subsequent infants may be breech (buttocks or feet first), transverse (sideways), or head first when entering the birth canal. Usually, if the first foetus is not head first, the babies will be delivered by C-section. And most triplets and other higherorder multiples are born by C-section.

If your doctor needs to perform a C-section, a catheter will be placed in your bladder, you’ll be given anaesthesia, and an incision will be made in your abdomen and uterus. The doctor will then deliver your babies through the incision. The babies will be delivered within just a few minutes of each other with this approach.

If you go into labour prematurely, you and your unborn babies will be closely monitored for signs of distress. You may have to make decisions on the delivery method and procedures at this time, so consider your options before arriving at the hospital. Many babies born prematurely will need to go immediately to the NICU for the special care they need. Visitations by family members are usually encouraged, often right from the first day.

Taking your babies home

The first days, weeks, and months are often the most difficult for parents of multiples, as everyone learns to get used to the frequent feedings, lack of sleep, and little personal time involved in parenting multiples.

Enlist whatever help you can get – from neighbours, family members, and friends – for household chores and daily tasks. Having extra hands around can not only make feedings easier and help you rest and recover from delivery, it can also give you the precious time you need to get to know your babies. (Excerpt from kidshealth)

Regions being prepped for disaster response

By Danielle CampBell-lowe

Civil Defence Commission (CDC)

Director General, Colonel (retired) Chabilall Ramsarup disclosed that government has mandated all regional administrations to ensure they develop their own disaster risk management plans.

Ramsarup said the commission has since managed to complete six of those regions and is poised to complete the remaining four by August.

“So we are hoping that in the event of a disaster, the community and the regions are now in a better position to respond,” he explained.

Ramsarup mentioned that the intention is to decentralise the responsebased activity in the event that a disaster should strike in more than one region simultaneously.

Planning and response

The director general detailed that the CDC is also working with various agencies to raise the bar on planning and response. He explained that the CDC has already worked on a Disaster Risk Management Bill and the design and implementation of a community-based risk management plan.

“As we know, when disaster strikes the communities, regions are the first responders before it comes to the CDC. During the 2005 floods, the CDC had to coordinate everything, since at the time there was no regional response plan in place,” Ramsarup stated.

He said the CDC will soon have in place an Alternative Emergency Operation Centre which is currently under construction at a Guyana Defence Force base in Timehri.

“If we have a serious problem on the dykes or at the conservancy, it would be no easy task to operate out of the CDC office, so we have decided to go to higher ground so we can still manage disasters from there,”

DDL

Ramsarup explained.

The commission is also examining the continuance of governance in the event of any such disasters that can have destabilising effects on the administration. About three years ago, the CDC partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to create a model community-based disaster plan and early warning system.

Cellphone alerts

This system automatically triggers cellular phone alerts to CDC officials whenever the water reaches a certain level on the Georgetown Datum (GD).

“We are hoping in the future to create more of these plans to look at other vulnerable areas such as the MMA, Pomeroon and Region Nine,” Ramsarup explained.

The CDC has been working simultaneously with the maritime and aeronautical search-and-rescue teams, which has conducted many simulation exercises.

The land search-and-rescue operation was completed, but has not yet been simulated.

“We are hoping to do so in another couple months to fill the gaps and everyone knows their role in ensuring such operations are successful. Last week in Timehri, we conducted the connections exercise using a scenario where the communications operation of the CDC had to be shifted to higher ground.”

According to Ramsarup, Operation Floodgates 2012 was very revealing, and the

gaps have since been identified to allow for its incorporation into a national strategy.

The director general stated that over the past three years, the CDC has really done much work and has moved into a realm of comprehensive disaster risk management.

Subsequent to such planning, the CDC was involved in a response and reliefbased operation, but has since expanded this to include preparation, planning, and rehabilitation.

Risk management

“We have prepared several plans under two major components: through the IDB [Inter-American Development Bank], we undertook the design and implementation of a disaster risk management plan with many components and under the UNDP [United Nations Development Programme], we undertook the strengthening of national and local capabilities for disaster response and risk reduction.

Over the past few weeks, the CDC has held three open forums for the public to discuss a number of plans.

These plans include the national disaster risk management policy, the multihazard preparedness and response plan, the national flood preparedness and response, and the national early warning and response protocol.

According to Ramsarup, there was much feedback and input from the public which are now being incorporated into the national strategy framework with the assistance from the UNDP.

Under these two projects, the CDC has conducted damage assessment needs analysis, and put together the policy framework and Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs).

This has since been approved by Cabinet.

“We are hoping before year-end to have all others, including the sector preparedness and response plan,” Ramsarup noted.

saddened at passing of accountant

The Demerara Distillers Limited has expressed its profound sadness at the passing of its chief accountant, Harry Barran Singh, who died by accident last Saturday evening. Singh was a valued and long-standing member of the DDL team, having joined the then Guyana Distilleries Limited (part of the Bookers Group) in 1973 as a messenger in the bottling plant, a release from the company said. “‘HB’, as he was universally known, worked his

way up via many promotions, and has held posts such as accounts clerk, accounts supervisor, assistant accountant, purchasing manager, accountant, financial accountant with the Guyana Distilleries Limited, Guyana Liquor Corporation, and Demerara Distillers Limited.”

He was appointed chief accountant of DDL and its subsidiaries, on April 24, 2007, a position which he held until his passing.

DDL Chairman Yesu Persaud noted that HB’s

sudden death is shocking to all his colleagues, especially Finance Controller Vasudeo Singh, and the members of the finance department, many of whom he has mentored in his almost 40 years with the industry.

The management and staff of DDL and its subsidiaries take this opportunity to extend deepest condolences to the wife, children and other relatives of our dearly departed colleague and friend, Harry Barran Singh, the release concluded.

wedneSday, june 12, 2013

Berbician jailed, fined for cocaine

ANew Amsterdam man who pleaded guilty to having in his possession 3.5 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking has been sent to jail for three years.

Magistrate Adela Nagamootoo imposed the penalty on Wade McBean and also fined him $10,000 when he appeared before her on Monday to answer the charge.

An East Bank Berbice man has been fined $7.2 million and jailed for three years for having in his possession a quantity of ganja.

Magistrate Adela Nagamootoo slapped the fine on Wayne Lindee of Edinburgh Village on Monday after he was found guilty of having eight kilograms of cannabis sativa in his possession for the purpose of trafficking on February 11. The fine is three times the street value of the illegal drug.

In February, police on a routine patrol spotted Lindee with a black garbage bag on Tannery Dam, Savannah Park, New Amsterdam. The

The court was told by Police Prosecutor Sergeant Phillip Sherriff that on May 8 at 41st Street, New Amsterdam, police who were carrying out a routine patrol stopped and searched the accused on whom the illegal drug was subsequently found.

McBean told the court that the cocaine was for personal use, that he lived alone and asked for leniency.

Man fined $7.2M for ganja possession in Berbice

area on the south eastern side of the town is part of the suburbs where few squatters have erected structures amid overgrown bushes. After informing Lindee that a search was going to be carried out, police inspected the bag and discovered the drug.

During the trial, the prosecution called two witnesses. On Tuesday, Police Prosecutor Sergeant Phillip Sherriff told the court that although he was not there at the time, he is relying on the evidence of the two officers who testified and asked the court to do so also.

Lindee was represented by Attorney Ryan Crawford. The defence claimed that Lindee

was at his sister’s house in the same area when the police officers came up and called him out of the yard, and they then showed him a bag between a clump of bushes on a vacant plot of land nearby. Lindee said that he told the police that he did not know about the bag, and they said to him that it was his.

The 37-year-old Lindee in pleading for leniency told the court that he is married and is a father of five. He said that he had never been charged before and he is the sole breadwinner for his family. However, he failed to supply the court with information on what means he uses to sustain his family.

Newtown resident in court for threatening and abusive language

Aman was granted bail for using threatening and abusive language when he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday.

Owen Nobrega, 38, of Lot 119 Da Silva Street, Newtown, pleaded not guilty to both charges which state that on June 9 at Da Silva Street he

used threatening language toward Harold Woodman and abusive language towards Shellon Woodman. According to the prosecution, Nobrega threatened to chop Harold.

The defendant’s lawyer, Paul Fung-A-Fat stated that his client is a horse-cart operator and made an application for reasonable bail on his behalf. The prosecution had no

objections to bail requested that the defendant’s be placed on a bond,

The magistrate placed the accused on a bond pending the outcome of the matter and granted him bail in the sum of $20,000 for the threatening language charge and $10,000 for the abusive language.

He will be returning to court on June 24.

wednesday, june 12, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com

Police probing murder of woman at Jumbie Backdam

Police are probing the murder of a woman at Jumbie Backdam, Mahdia, Region Eight, a release from the force’s public relations office said.

According to the police, a team of police ranks has

been dispatched to Jumbie Backdam, following a report received about 13:00h Tuesday that a murder had occurred resulting in the death of a female. Police could not provide any further details on the incident up to press time.

First lady denounces exploitation of children

First Lady Deolatchmie Ramotar has joined with the millions around the world in denouncing the abuse and exploitation of children while employed as child labourers.

“I commend the noble efforts of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in highlighting this problem which still exists in many parts of the world, and I applaud the efforts being made to reduce its incidence,” the first lady said in a message.

She observed that this year, the ILO has decided to cast the spotlight on a very common and often unnoticed form of abuse: the exploitation of children in domestic work.

“While I support the need for children to assist their parents in the home, the employment of children to work in other households is abhorred since many children have been terribly exploited and abused in this way. Also, because the work is taking place within the

confines of homes, it often goes unnoticed by those who can are empowered to end this form of exploitation.

“I make a concerted plea for the end to this exploitation which often discriminates against children because of their economic circumstances. Wherever such practices exist throughout the world, they must be deplored and condemned.”

Ramotar said children should have the liberty to use their free time to play and have fun, including in the company of other children.

“They should not be deprived of the joys of childhood by being forced to work under arduous and exploitative conditions in the homes of others or even to be turned into servants in their own homes. This abuse must end. We all have a duty to protect our children and on this World Day Against Child Labour, I call on all of humanity to redouble its efforts at stamping out this heartless atrocity.”

Eyew tness

Power to...

...the opposition

The opposition have dug their heels in: they won’t rescind their $5 billion cut in subsidies to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL). They claim there are abominable management practices at the power company that must be rectified before they reinstate the subsidy. These management shortcomings cause the losses by the company and they feel the government is offering a blank cheque to GPL’s management while allowing the mistakes to pile up and drown the company in red ink.

Now as we’ve said before, we have no problems with bringing management of any government corporation under scrutiny. Government-run corporations across the world are notoriously inefficient – primarily through over-staffing. In fact, we were very happy to hear that the corporation is seeking to rationalise its staffing and this was why its unions were up in arms. Then again, there was the news of a new strategy to get a grip on the theft of electricity – maybe the policeman wouldn’t have died in Sophia. These are all positive signs but we agree that more can always be done.

We’ve always said, “Look after the bottom line and the top line will take care of itself.” Meaning if we look closely at where our money’s going (the bottom line), we’ll inevitably become more profitable (the top line). But with the opposition – especially the Alliance For Change (AFC) – we’ve noted a very duplicitous habit of speaking from both sides of their mouth – or in some cases, not speaking at all. Silence is not always golden – in fact it can be acquiescence in evil.

We’ve brought up the callousness of how the opposition, once again with the AFC in the lead, have widened the divisions in Guyana. Everyone knows that Linden went through a rough patch – especially the government which has subsidised electricity there for over a decade. With the improvement in the area due to the revival of bauxite’s fortunes and also the explosion in gold mining, the government suggested a phased withdrawal of the electricity subsidy.

After opposition protests, deaths and billions going up in smoke, the subsidy remained in place – causing other Guyanese to resent “favouritism” for Lindeners. This was exacerbated when the requested subsidy for GPL – to stave off an increase in the coastal tariffs – was slashed by the opposition. The other foot has now dropped – on the neck of the coastal consumer – now that GPL is asking for a 26 per cent increase here!!!

But what takes the cake is that after creating this new crisis, the opposition are going to lead protests against the proposed GPL tariff increase!

...the opposition’s own

But the forked tongue of the opposition was revealed in an incident that concerned management of the electricity in Linden. Linden’s electricity is produced by Bosai and then sold at the nominal rates to Lindeners through the Linden Utility Services Cooperative Ltd (LUSCL).

But while the opposition have found all sorts of fault with the management of GPL, they have always given a free pass to LUSCL. Why? Not surprisingly because they’re considered as opposition supporters. Take the latest incident about which the opposition have been struck dumb. Even though the LUSCL management committee had voted down a request to purchase a tractor, Mortimer Mingo went ahead and purchased one from abroad.

Mingo just happens to be the old decades-long People’s National Congress (PNC) chairman for Region 10. He even ignored local bids for tractors when he made, paid, and later cleared the foreign tractor at a cost of over $6 million. Now we believe that what’s sauce for the goose should be sauce for the gander and not different strokes for different folks.

Can the opposition be a little more subtle in their biases and sacred cows?

...the city?

The opposition also ignore that if A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) executive member Mayor Hamilton Green coughs up the $1 billion plus City Hall owes GPL, the requested rate increase might become moot. But that would mean less “thiefing”. Nah....Let there be no power!!

Joy and disappointment as Region Six students receive NGSA results

– Renee Bisnauth tops region

By Andrew CArmiChAel

There were big smiles, tears of joy and some weeping when students received their National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) examinations result slips on Monday.

Many were happy with their results, while some wept in disappointment over their poor performance. Top Berbice student Renee Bisnauth, who placed ninth on the national list, advised those students “don’t be disappointed, focus more on your studies, and you will make it someday”.

At one school, a parent

wept as she showed this publication her child’s result slip.

“This is just one mark less than John (not real name) and he get Tutorial and look this –Vrymans Erven Annex.” The school that her child was placed at is ranked third of the New Amsterdam schools.

A look at the top performers in Berbice revealed that all came from Region Six. Heading the list is Bisnauth, of Cropper Primary, with 540 marks. The 2011 national spelling B winner and the Caribbean competition fourth-place finisher said she worked very hard: “I will get up at 5:30 and study for an hour before going to do what I have to do and prepare for school.”

She said that there were free lessons held after classes five days a week at the school during which they revised work done during regular school hours. She was expecting to top the country but she was not disappointed with her achievement.

Very happy

Coming in second was Khadeem Lewis, of Alness Primary, who got 533 marks. “I was very, very, very happy when I learnt that I came second in Region Six.”

In fact, it turned out that he was also second in Berbice. He said that he got the school that he was aiming for: Queen’s College (QC). His examination preparations included reading school news and attending private lessons after school. He says when he grows up, he wants to become a doctor but

he has not yet decided what type of doctor he wishes to become.

With 532 marks, Ebonie McNeil, who also wants to become a doctor, was third in Berbice. She said she was excited when she got the news, as she was only expecting to gain a place at a senior secondary school in Georgetown.

According to the School of the Nations New Amsterdam student, she would sometimes study from 01:00h to 03:00. “Only when I feel I have enough strength to focus on my work, I will get up again and study from 06:00 to 07:00.” She

said she also took extra lessons where her parents had to pay $1300 per month for two-anda-half-hours of daily classes.

Hard work

Coming fourth in Berbice was Melisa Rama of Crabwood Creek Primary. The chatty young lady told Guyana Times that she was happy. “I mean that I was surprised that I made it in the top 10.” She gained a place at QC, but will not be attending that school. Her new school will be Line Path Secondary.

Rama said she wants to become a marine scientist, because the sea gives one the opportunity to travel around the world and she wants to explore the ocean and experience firsthand the beautiful scenes. She said in preparing for the exams she worked through past papers. “I did not go to lessons, my dad helped me a lot and I had to push myself to make my family and school proud.” The young poet says that she is hoping to publish some of her work soon.

Also in the top 10 is another Cropper Primary student, Tejesh Goberdhan who attained a place at QC with 528 marks. That is the school he was aiming for. “I will go to JC Chandisingh, because I do not have anybody in Georgetown,” he said sadly.

Goberdhan said that every night he studied between 7:30h and 9:30h. “I did not study long, because I did not want to stay up too late, because it will cause my migraine to raise.”

That is a condition that devel-

St Margaret’s Primary maintains high scores at NGSA

oped over the past two years. His favourite subject is science and he wants to thank his parents and class teacher Sharon Durant.

Kiana Samuels of St Therese’s Primary, who got 526 marks, said that the first subject she studied was science which was not a favourite of her. “That is the subject I normally do bad in. I got 134 in it.”

That was the highest mark she gained in any of the four subjects.

She said she studied from when she got home after school until about 21:30h. She is one of the few top Berbice students

who will be taking up a place at QC.

Determination

Another student who also attained the same marks is Asaf Ali of Tain Primary.

Also equalling that score was Shanice Henry of Edinburgh Primary on the East Bank of Berbice. “I felt very elated. I got the school I wanted,” She said. Her study pattern kept her with her books from 18:30h to 23:30h. She attended after school lessons which were free of charge from 14:30h until 18:00h on school days. Her favourite subject is maths where she got 128 marks, with her highest being 132 for science.

Her teacher Rodger Wilson said that the hard work has paid off. His class gained a 100 per cent pass rate, with 30 per cent gaining places at senior secondary schools.

Jenise Hinds of St Therese’s Primary gained a place at the Berbice High School with her 524 marks. “I was overjoyed. I was excited. I was expecting a lower school.” But according to the 12-year-old, her long hours studying at night paid off. “Sleepless nights… I will reach to school late, because I will go to bed very late. If I did not understand something, I was determined to find it out.” The young lady said that many nights she went to bed at 02:00h or 03:00h in the morning. “My mother will drop to sleep and forget about me, and she have to get up early in the morning to go to work.”

Teachers and students of the St Margaret’s Primary School are all elated and satisfied with the outcome of the recently declared results of the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).

When this publication visited the school on Tuesday, the more than 100 students who wrote the exam appeared in jubilant spirits as they reminisced with their peers their challenges and achievements.

The scores which ranged from 535 to 472 revealed Ansonette Thomas as the top student, achieving 535 marks. In second place is Crystal Havana Wills with 530 marks, followed by two third place students Isabbela Jodha and Regina Sera Lynch, gaining 527 marks each. Michael Leon

Bailey’s 525 mark placed him fourth and assures them all a place at Queens College.

The other high performers were placed at other top

secondary schools; five students gained a place at the Bishops’ High School, one at the St Stanislaus College, five at St Roses High and five at St Joseph High School, while the remaining achieved placements at other high schools.

Class teacher Kathryn Persico-Newton expressed satisfaction at the outcome of her students and plans to work harder with the next batch so that they can perform better and further improve the positive image of the school.

St Margaret’s Primary is listed as a Grade A school by the Education Ministry. Over the years, the school has been producing a high level of passes at the NGSA and is one of most favoured by parents for placement of their children.

New AFC councillor sworn in to Region Two RDC

Anew Alliance For Change (AFC) councillor was sworn in on the Region Two Regional Democratic Council (RDC) panel by Region Two Democratic Council Clark Sunil Singh on Tuesday.

The swearing-in took place during the council’s statutory meeting for June. Bowanie Persaud of La Belle Alliance

on the Essequibo Coast replaced former AFC councillor Archie Cordis who resigned.

At the start of the statutory meeting, the clerk read a correspondence from the Guyana Elections Commission stating that Singh was identified by the AFC to replace Cordis as a councillor on the RDC.

Singh, after taking his oath holding a holy bible, was asked

to take his seat by Regional Chairman Parmanand Persaud. The chairman welcomed the new councillor to the council and told him that he will represent his party on different sub-committees. Persaud called on the councillor to give of his best and serve in the best interest in an effort to ensure positive development in Region Two.

Nations University mulls bringing more master’s programmes to Guyana

Nations University Director Dr Brian O’Toole said there is the possibility of the educational facility bringing additional master’s programmes to the country.

This is with the aim of providing Guyanese students with more options to advance studies at the tertiary level, especially as it regards the master's degree programmes. In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times on Tuesday, he said, through the University of London, there is the probability of offering seven or eight programmes.

He noted that since the university now has an extremely good management team, it is possible to look at other areas as well. Currently, the university offers a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) programme which O’Toole said has already had a significant impact on the business community, adding that it also has the potential to further boost the entire business sector.

“I’ve seen people really flourish… people tell me that it has really changed their whole approach to their own business, the way that they conduct their businesses, the way that they manage human resources and finances.” He also believes that there needs to be more support from the private sector, since this will go a far way.

He underscored that through the programme people are able to get a high-quality, fully accredited MBA right in Guyana of which they should take maximum advantage. “I think too much of the time we think that we have to send people overseas for great expenses: acquiring foreign currency for travel, living cost; here you can get a first-class degree internationally recognised without leaving Guyana, since we are bringing the expertise here.” Dr O’Toole disclosed that the programme, for which the fifth batch of students are now studying, has seen an increase in the intake from the time it started to now, stating that there is no question

the interest of persons in the programme is growing rapidly. In the initial group, there were 20-23 persons, while the present group has 34 persons.

The programme is the result of a close collaboration with the Nations University and the Australian Institute of Business (AIB).

Meanwhile, AIB Academic Board Chairman, Professor Dr Rod Oxenberry noted that the lecturers of the MBA are fully qualified, adding that each lecturer must have a master’s degree and significant practical experience. He said what sets this programme apart from other programmes is that its “work applied nature”.

Professor Kevin O’Brien, said one of the major attributes of the programme is that it is flexible and offered in a manner which gives persons a chance to maintain their other activities. He encouraged persons to get onboard and get enrolled in the programme.

Surveillance state

Satiricus is a patriot. Hey, what the heck...it might not be the coolest virtue to admit to right now. Some might even say it wasn’t even a virtue... patriotism is the “last refuge of the scoundrel” and all that. But Satiricus was unrepentant. He loved his Guyana. And because he loved his country, he understood why Barack Obama had to extend the surveillance programme in America.

Not only “understood” but “agreed with”. That’s right, folks. Satiricus had no qualms about keeping tabs on those who would harm your country. Was Obama supposed to “throw back” while unwashed foreigners plotted harm to his country? No siree Bob!!! “Hit them before they hit you” sounded like a good motto to Satiricus.

And it wasn’t as if Obama had anything against foreigners. His father had been one from Africa. OK...OK... maybe Obama did have something against his father who abandoned him when he was a baby. But that wasn’t why he’d expanded the spy network, was it? Anyhow Satiricus didn’t feel the U.S. government listening in on some domestic conversations was any problem. He figured freedom had to have a price, right? And if the price was the government knew Satiricus sometimes “talked dirty” to his wife when he called home from New York when he was visiting, Satiricus was willing to put up with the shame and embarrassment.

But Satiricus was very upset that his own government didn’t seem to understand to keep people under surveillance in these troubled times. Didn’t they think Guyana was also under threat? So when he saw the headline in

the government’s paper about GNBS surveillance exercise!!” as he drove to work, he smiled. He wished he could’ve stopped and bought the paper from the vendor who’d flashed him the headline. But it was too late.

Satiricus hadn’t even known that Guyana had a surveillance agency – and he was a newspaper man. But then Satiricus figured a surveillance agency wasn’t going to be of much use if everyone knew of its work, would it? With the work of America’s National Security Agency (NSA) out in the open, Satiricus guessed his government didn’t mind letting everyone know that Guyana was also spying on its citizens. After all, thought Satiricus, “we have to keep up with America, where democracy is concerned!” He felt a glow of pride when he thought of the local U.S. ambassador learning how close we were to the real thing.

“GNBS?” Thought Satiricus, “I wonder what that stands for, Guyana National Bureau of Surveillance?” Not bad...he concluded. He wondered also as to who had been caught in the “surveillance exercise”. Satiricus just knew that those Trinis, who were spending billions to import food, were spying on us to learn the secrets of how to grow rice. He hoped some of them were nabbed. The thought of rice being planted by those voluptuous Trini carnival gals in their skimpy outfits was too much for Satiricus.

He stopped at the very next newspaper vendor and bought the government newspaper. GNBS stood for “Guyana National Bureau of Standards” and they’d just conducted a “surveillance” exercise on market scales!

Satiricus sucked his teeth and threw the newspaper out of the window.

Trade unions must know implications of climate change on jobs – Duncan

Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) President Carvil Duncan has stressed the need for a thorough understanding of the implications of climate change, which demands a shift in focus from traditional jobs to those that promote environmental preservation.

Addressing the participants at a four-day workshop on green jobs and its role in supporting the country’s economy, Duncan said trade union leaders must first develop an appreciation for such an unavoidable shift.

“This seminar is not only timely but also important, primarily because many union leaders are not conscious of the effects of climate change and why

it is imperative that we should shift our concentration towards green jobs,” the FITUG president said.

He noted that the concept of green jobs, although not entirely new, is original to the Guyanese population since most people were never before exposed to such a concept and are not familiar with its implications.

Novel approach to trade unionism required

“In the past, we are acquainted with what happened in the industry as it relates to industrial accidents and workers’ representation,” Duncan remarked. However, he underscored that the promotion of green jobs will create a new type of employee with different types of skills which requires a novel approach to trade unionism.

ECLAC highlights China/ Caribbean agricultural cooperation

Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) Deputy Executive Secretary Antonio Prado said in the agricultural sector, there are real complementarities between China and Latin America and the Caribbean that can be used to build a strategic trade, technology and cultural relationship with mutual benefits.

He was at the time speaking at the first China-Latin American and the Caribbean Forum of Ministers of Agriculture, which ended on June 9 in Beijing, China. In his address to officials attending the forum, Prado underlined the need to achieve more balanced trade relations between China and the region, and to base trade on agricultural innovation, while respecting the environment and social inclusion.

Forum

According to the senior official, the newly launched Forum of Ministers of Agriculture is a highly relevant mechanism to promote constructive dialogue concerning agricultural trade and economy and agricultural innovation, science and technology (which are two main pillars of cooperation).

The creation of the forum was proposed by former Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in his message to the region during a visit to ECLAC on June 26, 2012.

Prado was particularly appreciative of the intention to create a food reserve mechanism to tackle emergencies and protect food security, proposals to strengthen research capacity, joint activities in trade promotion and facilitation, as well as the discussion of policies

relevant to agriculture, the strengthening of human resources and the exchange of experts.

Prado, who was accompanied by the head of the commission’s Agricultural Development Unit within the Division of Production, Productivity and Management, Adrián Rodríguez, went on to say, “At ECLAC we are committed to promoting and encouraging the development of relations between the peoples of China and Latin America and the Caribbean.”

Summits

He said this commitment is reflected in the commission’s participation in six China-Latin America business summits, the first forum of exchange between Chinese and Latin American think tanks and in various Chinese and Latin American initiatives on trade, investment and development reviewing the region’s ties with China.

The senior official also cited the publication of various studies on the subject in recent years, including the Mandarin version of a special issue of the CEPAL Review, launched in October 2012.

Prado declared that “the doors of ECLAC are always open for facilitating documented analysis, dialogue and the quest for practical forums for cooperation, with mutual and balanced benefits.”

He concluded, “If the region successfully reaches shared positions on the link with China and East Asia, it will be making important steps in improving its ties with the world’s most economically buoyant area, but also advancing in its own process of regional integration.”

economy with a new focus.

Green jobs are necessary

“Therefore, it is our responsibility to ensure that happens. Green jobs are necessary and those of us who remember would know that the former president, Bharrat Jagdeo, was the initiator of this green economy and he is still working to ensure that we understand green jobs and try our best to secure such jobs for the Guyanese people,” Carvil noted.

green jobs, stating that the very existence of the planet and humanity depends on it.

According to Witter, green jobs would translate into decent jobs which protect the environment, are well paying and are undertaken within an atmosphere of safety, cleanliness, and in harmony with nature.

“However, the notion and the thought of decent jobs will remain right where it is, unless there is a legitimate and deliberate commitment by all parties involved to ensure it becomes a reality.”

Duncan stated that the training programme is important to ensuring participants develop an understanding of how such jobs will be sustained after they would have been created.

He pointed out that union leaders must also be conscious of the fact that persons who may lose employment to green jobs would have to be retrained in order to fit into the new

He urged all policymakers to preserve the forest, and create new jobs as well as a better economy in an effort to stimulate progress.

Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) President Norris Witter also called on union leaders to passionately embrace the notion of

Witter cautioned against the destruction of forests whether through logging or mining and suggested the urgent establishment of a team of experts to determine what steps are needed to reverse any damage that may have already been done.

wednesday, june 12, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com

GPHC has improved services despite challenges – Khan

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) said many of the services it offers have improved tremendously, despite various challenges.

The hospital said that it has been working along with the government and other private organisations with the aim of enhancing some of its services. During a recent interview on the Current Issues and Affairs Programme, GPHC Chief Executive Officer Michael Khan has said the management of the hospital is seeking funding to purchase equipment to enable efficient and effective care.

“We have reorganised the way our wards are operated… we have created new wards… a labour room, even an admission area now… with someone there 24 hours per day, seven days a week… it is work in progress because with all the things we are doing are continuous… we are expanding all the time, our new Neonatal Unit has been expanded and it is something that we are very proud of,” said Khan. He noted that the Neonatal Unit will inevitably take care of the sick newborn, high-risk obstetrics, neonatal resuscitation, among others.

Turning his attention on the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Unit, Khan said “We changed the way we register the patients to show the real time process of the wait… we have a problem, many of the patients who come to the Accident and Emergency and the medical out-patient department bypass their health centres… and credit must be given to the government that all the health centres are staffed.”

“If the clients go there, they will be treated and will not have to spend all the money to come to GPHC,” he

said, pointing out that the A&E is for emergencies.

The GPHC sees nearly 200 cases a day. “We have extended the emergency room with 19 more beds and we are getting some new machines which will make life easier for patients to be seen promptly and efficiently,” empahsised Khan.

Improving efficiency

He noted that the Health Ministry is very supportive and the other hospitals work along in partnerships with the doctors. However, he noted that the transfer cases still somewhat encounter problems because of the lack of communications and structure communication. Meanwhile, he said for maternal deaths have been recorded for the year, and these matters are being dealt with thoroughly.

“We take maternal death very seriously and investigations are duly down into the matters of maternal death… we have a committee that investigates these types of deaths,” said Khan. He said the hospital is on track with the medication and pharmaceutical units and distributions.

The top GPHC officials also noted that the hospital has recognised the need for

the entire hospital to up its standards. Khan said this is a work in progress and the hospital has been focusing on continuous development at all costs.

More space

Acknowledging the overcrowding of the country’s main health facility, he said, the GPHC has a very limited capacity as far as space is concerned to house more patients, especially patients with chronic illness, and as such, government has provided a grant of $100 million to utilise the bottom flat of the new inpatient facility. This, he said will allow for more space for patients. The tender has been advertised and will be opened on June 16. He said he hopes the entire process will be completed before year-end.

Khan acknowledged that the hospital does have problems dealing with patients and clients because some junior staff still lacks the required training. However, more training sessions are being organised, and before becoming a part of the GPHC team, the nurses would undergo a one week orientation.

“We cannot monitor all our staff but we have changed the system now that every shift has a senior supervisor present, and this was a decision taken by the board… even I would go there for a few hours to ensure there is a proper flow.”

Khan noted that the public is not fully aware of all the success cases and challenges the GPHC employees face every day, noting that the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is overwhelmed with critical cases everyday and yet the doctors and nurses have lots of success and they must be applauded for their services to the Guyanese people.

OAS launches Caribbean Heritage showcase

The Organisation of American States (OAS) on Monday launched an exhibit of previously unseen works by Caribbean artists, titled “Groundation – Sources of Caribbean Artistry”, at the headquarters of the hemispheric organisation in Washington, DC.

Hosted by the OAS Assistant Secretary General Albert Ramdin and curated by Jamaican author, sociologist and Cultural Heritage Specialist Margaret Bernal, the exhibit includes a range of oils, water colours, mixed media and a tapestry five years in the making, detailing Caribbean culture from

Ottawa-based Trinidad artist Lorna Ramlochansingh.

The OAS Caribbean Heritage exhibit also features a showcase from the Columbus Memorial Library, highlighting achievements and milestones of the Caribbean in the OAS. “Caribbean nations represent a diversity that is global. Our nations may be small, but our people stand like giants in their contributions to the world. Through music, art, literature, law, politics, and even sport, the footprint of the Caribbean can never be erased, nor should it be underestimated,” said Assistant Secretary General Ramdin.

Curator Margaret Bernal summed up the Caribbean exhibit through the words of legendary Jamaican musician Bob Marley, saying, “… half the story has never been told”, while tapestry creator Lorna Ramlochansingh added, “the story of our people, our journey and our experience lives through our work.”

The OAS will culminate its Caribbean Heritage showcase with an event bringing together members of the diplomatic corps, the Caribbean diaspora and members of the private sector on June 20, at 18:00h in the Hall of the Americas of the main building of the organisation.

Family wants deeper probe into death of West

The family of Troy Livian, 12, of West Bury, Essequibo Coast, who had collapsed and died on his way from school, are calling for a proper and thorough investigation from the Education Department on the boy’s death.

Mother of the former 8th May Primary School student, Roxanne Livian said she is not satisfied with the postmortem results of the child and believed that there is more to her son’s death.

The woman said there seems to be some mystery surrounding the death, although autopsy revealed that

Bury schoolboy

the lad died from diabetes. The mother related that she never knew her son was suffering from the chronic disease.

She said the day the child collapsed on the road, he went home for lunch the midday and then returned to school.

Livian said after her son reportedly collapsed, he was immediately rushed to the Charity Oscar Joseph Hospital and later transferred to the Suddie Public Hospital, where he was admitted. The mother said while her son was admitted to the hospital, he was still speaking and responding to her calls.

The post-mortem was conducted by Dr Nehaul Singh at the Suddie Public Hospital. Meanwhile, according to Senior School Welfare Officer Haimraj Hamandeo, an investigation was launched into the matter. He said the medical reports revealed that the child died as a result of a chronic disease. He said that a copy of the report will be sent to 8th May Primary for the records.

The school welfare officer said the department has done everything in its mandate to look into the matter and the post-mortem result is final.

Guyana’s Carifesta XI delegation to be chosen through auditions

As Guyana prepares to thrill overseas audiences with its diverse display of artistry at the upcoming XI Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta), auditions are set to be held this weekend to determine part of the delegation which will be representing the country.

In an interview with Guyana Times, Special Project Officer Lennox Canterbury stated that the auditions are being held to ensure there is a wider cross section of people who will represent Guyana at the upcoming Carifesta.

“You know there is always talent out there or someone

out there who may not have been in the mainstream and who may have a lot of talent and work so this is an opportunity for them to come forward, and let us have a look at what they do and produce,” he explained.

He noted too that the auditions will serve to broaden the ministry’s data base of the new talent present in the country. He said there is already a general idea of what Guyana would like to showcase for Carifesta, which includes visual arts, literary arts, performing arts, fashion, culinary arts, indigenous festivals and community festivals.

However, Canterbury stated that Guyana is con-

strained to a large extent by the number of persons Suriname is requesting to be on its delegation. “That is by virtue the number of countries they expect to be there, which might be 20 plus… they suggest to us that delegations of 50 because of facilities etc… so we are looking at taking a delegation somewhere around maybe 50 persons.”

Several media operatives will also be transported by the ministry to Suriname.

Canterbury disclosed that right after the auditions are held this weekend and persons are selected, the Culture Ministry along with its part-

ners will “actively start preparing and get more into the mood” for Carifesta XI. A special select committee consisting of experts from various fields will choose the persons who will be a part of the delegations.

A portion of the $100 million from the Culture, Youth and Sport’s Ministry Sports and Arts Development Fund has been set aside for Carifesta XI.

Carifesta XI, which is slated for August 16 to 25, is a showcase of the talents of artists, musicians, authors, and to exhibit the folkloric and artistic manifestations of the Caribbean and Latin

American region. Guyana hosted Carifesta X. Auditions will be held at the Carifesta Sports Complex from 10:00h to 18:00h, from June 14 to 16. Submissions must be made to, and additional information can be obtained from the special projects officer, Department of Culture (Mash Secretariat), 91 Middle Street on telephone number 592-226-4764. Proposals are invited from visual, literary, performing, culinary arts, fashion, craft, film, and youths. The first Carifesta was held here in 1972, and was the brainchild of then President Forbes Burnham.

OAS SG urges reforms to expand Latin American economies

Organisation of American States (OAS) Secretary General José Miguel Insulza, on Monday called on Latin American countries to “deepen reforms” to “deliver the benefits of democracy, greater justice and shared growth”, during his address to the inaugural session of the Conference of Montreal, whose focus this year is “A New Economic Cycle: New Realities, New Frontiers”.

“Today’s Latin America is not the Latin America of times past,” said Secretary General Insulza, adding that ”we need to seize this moment to deepen reforms to position ourselves more solidly in the global arena.” The OAS leader noted that most Latin American countries have been enjoying a favourable economic outlook in recent years, though he also pointed out greater heterogeneity in recent forecasts. The region’s per capita income of nearly $10,000, he said “translates into a new phase of social progress and perspectives”.

“For the first time in its history, Latin America

achieved during the past decade a combination of high growth, macroeconomic stability, poverty reduction and improvement in income distribution,” said the OAS leader, while pointing out that inequality in the region has meant that growth does not always translate into development.

Reforms

The extent to which Latin America and the Caribbean grow and integrate into the global economy will depend largely, said Secretary General Insulza “by their links with other developing regions and by reforms to improve the competitiveness of their firms”. On that issue, he noted what he called “a new phenomenon in the Americas: a desire for deeper economic integration associated with stronger ties with Asia.” As his primary example, he noted the case of the Pacific Alliance – made up of Peru, Colombia, Mexico and Chile – which aims to move toward free movement of goods, service capital and labour among members, and to strength-

en trade and investment ties with Asia.

“Today, the main economic challenge facing Latin American and Caribbean countries in developing their potential inside and outside the hemisphere is not related to traditional trade barriers such as tariffs, but rather to transportation and logistics costs,” said Secretary General Insulza. Other ongoing challenges, according to the leader of the hemispheric organisation, include lagging infrastructure, tax reform, energy insecurity, insufficient scien-

tific and technological development, public security concerns, natural disasters, the impact of climate change, and how to achieve more inclusive societies.

To overcome these challenges, the OAS secretary general called for greater focus “on the distribution of skills and opportunities, rather than solely on resource distribution”. He cited other needed reforms as well, among them “enhancing the quality of education, healthcare systems and the overall quality of the state apparatus to be able to deliver the benefits of democracy, greater justice and shared growth” to their citizens.

The Conference of

Montreal brings together international business, education, political, and financial leaders to discuss very specific challenges facing the global economy.

Globalisation

The yearly event, first held in 1995, focuses on the globalisation of economies, and aims to foster economic discussions; promote relations between governments, international organisations, business leaders, civil society, workers, and academics; promote equitable development; and develop knowledge on the challenges facing the Americas.

The Conference of Montreal, taking place from

June 10-13, at the Hilton Montreal Bonaventure Hotel, is committed to heightening knowledge and awareness of the major issues concerning economic globalisation, with a particular emphasis on the relations between the Americas and other continents. Organised by the International Economic Forum of the Americas, the event strives to foster exchanges of information, to promote free discussion on major current economic issues and facilitate meetings between world leaders to encourage international discourse by bringing together heads of state, the private sector, international organisations and civil society.

Chief justice to rule on how to proceed with 2012 budget cuts case

– after AG requests that witnesses not be called

By Vahnu Manikchand

Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang is expected to rule on how the 2012 budget case will proceed after Attorney General Anil Nandlall made an application for a trial not to be held.

When the matter resumed on Tuesday at the High Court, the AG made an application for the affidavits of the witnesses, which were used in the interlocutory stage, to be treated as evidence instead of presenting the witnesses. Nandlall cited references and authorities to support his application, stating that there is no need to embark on a trial.

However, the opposition attorneys objected to Nandlall’s request. Attorney Basil Williams, representing the leader of the opposition said, he is taken back by the AG’s application since such cases are established by its witnesses.

“We were surprised to hear him (Nandlall) making an application to hide his witnesses, not to let his witnesses come, not to let Dr Luncheon come and other functionaries within the government,” he related to media operatives.

During the proceedings, Khemraj Ramjattan, the lawyer for the Speaker of the National Assembly, con-

tended that there are several points of dispute in the motion filed by the AG, as such, the witnesses need to be called before the court.

Ramjattan also argued that the court does not fully understand the procedures of the National Assembly in relation to amendments, therefore witnesses are crucial in this regards.

After the continuous counter-arguments among the parties, it was agreed that upon on the next court date, Justice Chang would determine how the case would proceed thereafter. The matter will be called again on June 19.

During the hearing, there were also discussions on legal issues regarding the contents and the validity of the motion. Attorney Williams pointed out that there are no legal issues or real controversies regarding the action filed by the AG since the circumstances have changed due to the overturning of events.

“There is no cause pending in this matter… because the matter was overtaken when the government adopted the cuts as part of the Appropriation Bill and this is also in the ruling given in the interlocutory stage by the chief justice,” noted Williams.

Astonished

After the two-hour long hearing during which there were back and forth arguments between the parties and the judge, Nandlall told reporters that he is astonished that after all the public statements made by the opposition regarding the completion of the matter, they are against a final ruling.

“In their (opposition) view, the preliminary ruling is not binding and therefore they want a final ruling and now that we are approaching the final ruling, for some inexplicable reason they are finding all kinds of ways and means of delaying and even exiting the case,” vented the AG.

Ramjattan said there are two primary issues; whether the Speaker of the House can be sued against the article which states that no civil procedures can be brought against a Member of Parliament and whether there can be amendments to the budget presented for 2012. Ramjattan indicated to the court that he wants it to rule on the determination of those two matters of the law. “At the end of the day, if we are of the opinion that the budget cannot be amended or reduced, we will take it to the Court of Appeal and even if the Court of Appeal is of the same

view, we will take it to the CCJ and if the CCJ is of that same view well then we will all respect the law because that becomes the law and that is what governs us.”

In April 2012, the combined opposition used its one-seat majority to slash $21.9 billion from the proposed $192.8 billion 2012 budget after they felt that enough explanation was not provided to them by the government. Cuts were made to allocations for the State Planning Secretariat, the Ethnic Relations Commission, the Low Carbon Development Strategy, the National Communications Network and Government Information Agency, among other entities.

The government then took to the court to block the National Assembly from cutting the budget, and Justice Chang in a preliminary ruling said the opposition could only approve or disapprove of the budget in its entirety. However this year, the opposition refused to abide by the preliminary ruling handed down by Justice Chang, arguing that it was not binding or final. As a result, the combined opposition with the Speaker’s blessings shaved more than $31.4 billion off the 2013 $208.8 billion budget presented by government. Chaos reigned when the Speaker also proclaimed that the courts had no oversight responsibility or powers over the legislature.

(vahnum@guyanatimesgy. com)

Melanie butcher shot, robbed

Gunmen Monday night shot and robbed a butcher of Melanie, East Coast Demerara in an attack at Festival City, Georgetown.

According to police, about 21:30h, butcher Joseph Alladane, 54, of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara, was at-

tacked and robbed of his jewellery by three men, who were all armed with handguns.

During the attack, one of the men discharged a round at the victim which grazed his chin and damaged the windscreen of his minibus. Investigations are in progress.

Woman charged for threatening behaviour

Awoman charged for threatening behaviour appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday.

Juliet Barrow, 53, of Lot 104 Leopold Street, pleaded not guilty to the charge, which states that on June 6 at Cornhill Street, Georgetown she made use

$80,000

of threatening language towards Alicia Clarke whereby a breach of the peace was occasioned.

The prosecution had no objection to bail and the magistrate granted Barrow her pre-trail liberty for the sum of $50,000. The defendant will appear in Court 10 on June 24 for the continuance of the matter.

bail for knife attack accused

Magistrate Judy Latchman granted a man bail on assault charges when he appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday.

Martin Dorgan, 35, of Lot 117 Regent Street, Bourda, pleaded not guilty when the charges were read against him. It is alleged that on June 6 at Cornhill Street, Georgetown he assaulted Jermaine Davis, causing actu-

ally bodily harm. According to the prosecution, on the day in question, after an argument ensued between the defendant and Davis, he pulled a knife and fired several chops at the virtual complainant (VC) whom the tip of the knife caught twice. There were no objections made by the prosecution to bail, and the magistrate granted it in the sum of $80,000. Dorgan will be appearing in Court 10 on June 24.

GENEQUIP trains farmers to use John Deere combine

GENEQUIP recently hosted a fiveday technical training which focused on the Hydrostatic 1175 John Deere Combine.

Conducted by an expert trainer from Brazil, the training zeroed in on technical aspects of operating the machine. An important part was the testing and adjusting of the combine to ensure the best fuel consumption to

acreage, with a minimum amount of paddy loss, thus allowing for favourable rice harvesting.

The training session also saw participation from a technician of the Jamaican John Deere dealership. The training was conducted on a John Deere 1175 Hydrostatic Combine, a 180 horsepower engine, a 4800 litre grain tank, and 38.6” wide tracks with seven roll-

ers and five straw walkers.

The technical trainer was impressed with Guyanese farmers.

“Guyana’s farmers are very hands-on with the combines; they have optimal header-adjustments, and do their own repairs.” The new knowledge learnt will now allow GENEQUIP technicians to focus on the troubleshooting aspects for technical support.

Russian Duma passes law banning gay propaganda

Russia’s lower house of the parliament, the Duma, has passed a law imposing heavy fines for providing information about homosexuality to people under 18.

The measure was passed unanimously and will become law when approved by the upper house and President Vladimir Putin, a virtual formality.

Gay rights campaigners clashed with anti-gay activists outside the Duma.

The lower house also passed a bill imposing up to three years in jail on those who offend religious believers.

The law comes in the wake of the imprisoning of members of the punk band

Pussy Riot for performing an anti-Putin protest in an Orthodox cathedral in February 2012.

Two band members, Nadezhda Tolokonnikova and Maria Alyokhina, are currently serving two-year jail terms.

The new law on “offending religious feelings of the faithful” will also take effect after approval by the upper house and the president.

Violence between rival protesters spread onto Moscow’s central street on Tuesday, reports the BBC’s Steve Rosenberg in the capital.

Gay rights campaigners were attacked and there were no police to stop the violence. When one group ran into a shop to take refuge, their attackers waited and then ran in to find them. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Taliban suicide bomber strikes Supreme Court in Kabul

ATaliban suicide car bomber on Tuesday targeted staff at Afghanistan’s top court, killing 14 civilians and wounding 38 others in the second attack in two days in the heavily fortified capital, police said.

Women and children were among those killed and injured in the powerful explosion at the entrance to the Supreme Court, near the U.S. embassy as buses waited to take court staff home at the end of the working day, officials said.

The Taliban claimed responsibility and threatened further attacks on the judiciary if it continued to sentence to death members of its militia.

A suicide car bomb killed 14 people outside the Supreme Court in Kabul on Tuesday, the second attack in the Afghan capital in as many days

The bomber struck around 16:00h (11:30 GMT) in the crowded area, close to a block of residential flats home to middle-class Afghans. General Mohammad Zahir, head of Kabul criminal investigations, said the bomber rammed one of the buses carrying Supreme Court staff.

“A suicide bomb hit at the back of a Coaster causing lots of civilian casualties, dead and wounded,” Zahir told AFP.

“We have 14 dead and 38 wounded,” he said, adding that at least two women were among the dead and children were also among the casualties. “Most of the casualties are Supreme Court employees,” he added.

(Excerpt from France24)

Prostitution, drugs alleged in U.S. State Department memo

Senior State Department and Diplomatic Security officials may have covered up or stopped investigations of inappropriate or even criminal misconduct by staff, according to an internal memo from the department’s Office of the Inspector General.

The timeline surrounding the allegations places the incidents during former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s tenure, opening the possibility that a widening scandal might taint both her record and her possible political aspirations. Clinton has also taken heat for the department’s response to the September 2012 attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya. Regarding the latest allegations, CNN was provided the documents by a lawyer for a whistle-blower who is a former senior inspector general investigator.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

An active U.S. ambassador “routinely ditched his protective security detail in order to solicit sexual favours from both prostitutes and minor children,” the memo said. The ambassador’s protective detail and others “were well aware of the behaviour,” the memo asserted. When a diplomatic security officer tried to investigate, undersecretary of state for management Patrick Kennedy allegedly ordered the investigator “not to open a formal investigation”.

On Tuesday, CNN obtained a statement from the ambassador, who vigorously denied the allegations, calling them “baseless”. (Excerpt from CNN)

Around the world

Chaos overtakes Istanbul protests

Aday of clashes between protesters and riot police in Istanbul’s Taksim Square suddenly changed dramatically Tuesday when police blanketed the area with massive clouds of tear gas and shot water cannons.

Tens of thousands in the square fled, while some in

Gezi Park, which was also hit by tear gas canisters, chanted and launched fireworks in defiance.

Soon the square, home to days of protests over what demonstrators call an increasingly authoritarian government, was filed with chaos. Hugely loud bangs echoed through the area −

likely the result of stun grenades.

Thousands packed back into Taksim Square, surrounding a large bonfire that they were fuelling with whatever they could pickup.

Prime Minister Recept Tayyip Erdogan’s government had said it would allow protesters to remain in Gezi Park as long as they were peaceful. But CNN’s Arwa Damon, inside the park, saw police shoot tear gas canisters on Tuesday.

“There’s a spirit of determination” and “solidarity” in the park, Damon said. Throughout the day, protesters had called on each other to try to keep things calm and to keep protests peaceful.

The assault on the area marked a return to the more heavy-handed tactics Turkish authorities used in the earlier days of the protests. (Excerpt from CNN)

Europe alarmed by U.S. surveillance

The EU is demanding assurances that Europeans are not having their rights infringed by a massive U.S. surveillance programme.

Justice Commissioner Viviane Reding plans to raise the concerns with U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder on Friday. Last week, a series of leaks by a former CIA worker led to claims the U.S. had a vast surveillance network with much less oversight than previously thought.

Snowden’s employer, defence contractor Booz Allen Hamilton, said on Tuesday it had fired the 29-year-old infrastructure analyst for violating its ethics code.

U.S. officials say the snooping programme known as Prism, revealed in last week’s leaks, is authorised under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (Fisa).

The U.S. insists its snooping is legal under domestic law. The Obama administration is investigating whether the disclosures by former CIA worker Edward Snowden were a criminal offence.

It gives the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) the power to obtain emails and phone records relating to nonU.S. nationals.

But details about the individuals targeted under the act remain secret, and there are concerns the NSA is overstepping its powers. Documents leaked to the Guardian and Washington Post newspapers claimed the U.S. authorities had direct access to the servers of nine major U.S. technology firms, including Apple, Facebook and Google. (Excerpt from BBC News)

TT PM at CIF opening: Chinese funds for seven industrial parks

Government intends to build seven industrial parks with part of the TT$3 billion China has made available to Caricom, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced Monday. “President Xi’s offer of TT$3 billion is of particular significance for our national development and I want to announce today that TT would be able to immediately access these funds to accelerate the development of business/commercial and industrial parks throughout

TT,” she said at the opening ceremony of the Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) at theTrinidad Hilton and Conference Centre, St Ann’s. Persad-Bissessar said the industrial park, to be built on 592.1 acres of land, represents an investment of TT$833 million and the leasable space on the estates will be 355.7 acres. “This would give an immediate boost to our country’s economic activity. We can do this within the next two years instead of waiting for this

expansion,” she said. The prime minister also said TT has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States Department of Energy to establish a Renewable Energy Research Centre to promote rapid deployment of critical technologies for renewable energies for TT. Apart from the U.S. and China, she said, the Canadians are big investors in TT. “Canadian investment in TT is now measured in billions of Canadian dollars....” (Trinidad Guardian)

News Corp shareholders vote to split company into two

News Corp shareholders have rubber-stamped Rupert Murdoch’s plans to hive off the struggling publishing business into a separate company and rename the entertainment business. With all the imagination of a Hollywood blockbuster sequel, the two separate publicly traded companies will be called – wait for it –News Corporation, and 21st Century Fox, a cunning update on the iconic film studio’s

Europe’s

name. “Son of” News Corp will comprise the publishing and newspaper businesses; 21st Century Fox, the TV and film businesses.

But one thing is certain, the Murdoch family will remain firmly in control. Murdoch senior will be chairman and chief executive of 21st Century Fox, as well as executive chairman of News Corp junior, while sons James and Lachlan will also sit on the boards of both companies.

vintage

The existing News Corporation will change its name to 21st Century Fox. The News Corp board formally approved the schism on May 24, and shareholders waved through the plan in New York on Tuesday. Approval was never in doubt, as they have been trying to loosen Murdoch’s historic –and some would say, romantic – attachment to the ailing and scandal-hit newspaper industry for years. (BBC News)

wines grapple with Chinese fakes

Bruno Paumard, the cellar master at a vineyard in China, can’t stop laughing while describing a bottle of supposedly French wine a friend gave him two years ago. It’s white wine, with a label proclaiming it is from the vineyards of Romanee-Conti, the bottle bearing the logo that is on bottles of Chateau LafiteRothschild, and declares its origin as Montpellier in southern France.

Domaine de la Romanee-

Conti, better known for highly prized and highly priced vintages from France’s Burgundy region, makes only a tiny amount of white wine, labelled Montrachet. It has nothing to do with the equally prestigious Lafite, which is from the Bordeaux region, and neither brand is produced anywhere near Montpellier. “It’s the most magnificent example of a hijacked brand of wine I’ve ever seen,” says Paumard, who works with Chateau Hansen

in China’s Inner Mongolia. “It doesn’t get better than that.”

Liquor stores, restaurants and supermarkets in China, the world’s most populous nation and fifth-largest wine consumer, wage a constant battle against fake wines. The amount of knockoffs on the market may increase as Beijing investigates wine imports from the European Union, threatening anti-dumping tariffs or import curbs. (France24)

Africa

Rwanda-Korea partnership to boost IT

Rwanda and Korea Telecommunication Corporation (KT) have signed an agreement to improve Internet connectivity in the country.

The joint venture on the roll-out of 4G LTE broadband wireless connectivity was signed by ICT Minister Philbert Nsengimana on behalf of the government and Yung Kim on the side of KT. According to Nsengimana, the government has decided to work with KT in terms of

ICT in order to attain Vision 2020 through the transformative power of technology. “The agreement with KT will help us expand the information infrastructure, support social progress and boost our economy,” he noted.

He also pointed out that high-capacity Internet connection can offset many constraints caused by the country’s landlocked location. “Once we get this technology, being far from the sea will no longer be a hindrance for busi-

ness that is based on information. We are going to use this opportunity to get well informed and improve business,” the ICT Minister said. Nsengimana stated that the 4G LTE technology will cover the whole country and 95 per cent of the population in three years time through the use of the already available optical fiber cables. He noted that Rwandans have become technophiles and should set the pace for the entire continent. (allAfrica)

Battle of the consoles stirs up buzz for E3 gaming expo

Ayear after Nintendo introduced its lacklustre Wii U to the gaming world, console rivals Microsoft and Sony are using the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles as a launching pad for their next generation of machines: the Xbox One and the PS4. As the long-awaited consoles go into direct competition, Microsoft and Sony have chosen wholly different strategies to promote them.

Middle East

Microsoft is keen to present the Xbox One as an allin-one platform that entails far more than just gaming. At its inauguration in late May, Microsoft emphasised the console’s multimedia might, stressing numerous ventures with music and video content suppliers they hope will make it a Swiss army knife in entertainment.

Sony, meanwhile, has chosen to package the PS4 as a device devoted to gam-

ing. During its inauguration in January, the aesthetics of the product were shunned entirely; instead, Sony chose to focus on the many exclusive games that the PS4 will boast of when it launches in late 2013. What it actually looks like is something gamers are waiting to find out at the E3. The clear challenge for the two giants is to prove to players and consumers that they can do better than Nintendo. (France24)

Dubai World unit sells UK asset Gazeley

Dubai World, the statelinked group whose US$25 billion of debt brought the emirate to the brink of financial collapse in 2009, has sold one of its UK assets as part of its efforts to repay creditors. A unit of Toronto-based investment company Brookfield Asset Management has bought logistics warehouse developer Gazeley from Dubai World subsidiary Economic Zones World (EZW), the Canadian

firm said in a statement on Tuesday. It did not disclose the value of the transaction. The sale is the first major divestments of a foreign asset by Dubai World since it agreed on a debt deal with creditors in 2011. The restructuring agreement promised full repayment to creditors through a series of disposals of overseas assets bought at peak prices in 2006-07. Gazeley is one of four businesses held

by EZW, which operates technology, logistics and industrial parks as well as the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), a business district, under the Dubai World Group umbrella. Its portfolio includes 524,000 square metre of assets and land bank of 1.3 million square metres. Proceeds from the sale of Gazeley are expected to go towards the repayment of a US$1.2 billion loan secured by associate firm JAFZA in June last year. (Arabian Business)

Wall Street

pares losses after falling on stimulus worries

Stocks fell on Tuesday following the Bank of Japan’s decision to hold monetary policy steady, but indexes were well off lows as investors took earlier dips in the market as a buying opportunity.

The Dow Jones industrial average erased nearly all its losses to trade flat at midday, supported by gains in Pfizer Inc (PFE.N) and United Health Group (UNH.N), both up more than 0.6 per cent. Financial .SPSY and ma-

terials .SPLRCM groups led the way down, falling nearly One per cent each. The utilities sector .SPLRCU was flat, faring relatively better. The decision by the BOJ roiled markets across asset classes. U.S. Treasury yields hit fresh 14-month highs, the yen rose sharply and equities dropped globally. The reaction highlighted worries about what will happen when the global stimulus programmes eventually go away. Investors have become more nervous in re-

cent weeks over when the U.S. Federal Reserve may slow its measures, which have been a significant driver of the stock market rally. “I think starting to take central bank stimulus off the table, or at least saying we’re at the limit, will create volatility in the market, but it’s a good thing because some economic statistics are saying we’re getting back to normal,” said Doug Cote, chief market strategist at ING U.S. Investment Management in New York. (Reuters)

distribution channel before being consumed or used.

* Marketing: A good or service that most closely meets the requirements of a particular market and yields enough profit to justify its continued existence. As long as cars are manufactured, companies such as Michelin that produce tires fill the market need and continue to be profitable.

GECOM to seek legal advice on Boodhoo’s reappointment

– after CEO’s lawyer writes commission

BY MICHAEL YOUNGE

Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman

Dr Steve Surujbally is expected to seek legal counsel on the way forward regarding the request by Gocool Boodhoo to be reappointed as the entity’s chief elections officer as discussions on the controversial issue yielded little fruit on Tuesday.

Discussions at the level of the statutory meeting came to a premature end after Boodhoo’s Attorney Mursalene Bacchus wrote the commission explaining that his client had a “legitimate expectation” in so far as being reappointed to the post was concerned.

The current commissioners are University Registrar Vincent Alexander, Dr Keshav Mangal, Charles Corbin, Attorney Jaya Manickchand (who replaced senior counsel Moen McDoom), Attorney Sandra Jones (who replaced Deputy Mayor Robert Williams) and Mohamood Shaw.

Reappointment

The seven-member commission was originally expected to discuss his reappointment as an agenda item, after weeks of deadlock and back-and-orth on the issue and several public pronouncements from political parties as to what positions should be taken, but that did not happen when the correspondence was introduced.

GECOM Public Relations Officer Vishnu Persaud, who also serves as secretary to the constitutional body, when contacted by Guyana Times declined to offer any official comment on the matter, stating that he was “not authorised to do so”.

But sources close to Tuesday’s meeting said the media was informed as regards the actual purpose of the meeting as it was never intended to decide the fate of Boodhoo or bring the matter to finality.

The source said that the issue about the former chief executive officer’s reappointment came out as a matter arising from the minutes, and it was expected that commissioners would each offer their position on the issue, having reviewed the relevant information before the body, which would form a wider discussion.

“There was no commitment towards achieving closure on the issue at this particular meeting,” the source reaffirmed, explaining that the letter has now forced the commission down a different route altogether even before any de-

finitive decision has been taken.

It is still unclear whether Dr Surujbally would be able to access adequate legal advice following the receipt of the letter by the next statutory meeting, which is scheduled for Tuesday next week.

Alternative action

In the letter, Boodhoo’s lawyer allegedly stipulated alternative actions that could be taken if his application was not favourably considered on the grounds of legitimate expectation, fairness and natural justice.

As it is, the commission remains split on his reappointment, with Commissioner Vincent Alexander still expressing concern that Boodhoo’s letter of interest was premature and came in advance of the three month stipulated period which should have elapsed before seeking reappointment. His position was rejected by other commissioners who said the former chief elections officer is entitled to reappointment on the basis of his performance, track-record and suitability for the post, among other non-political factors.

Boodhoo’s fate would ultimately be decided by a majority vote of the complete quorum of commissioners. Should the progovernment commissioners and the opposition commissioners become deadlocked on the matter, the chairman is entitled to a vote, in addition to a casting vote. The commissioners are legally mandated, based on a unanimous decision, to deal with all issues relating to employment of senior functionaries of the commission.

According to the Constitution, all appointments and renewal of contract for senior level administration staff must engage the attention of the entire quorum of commissioners for their consideration and must be guided by recommendations from a head of department.

“It’s either the commis-

sion resolves the matter in an independent manner or the High Courts will have to intervene especially if Boodhoo’s application does not receive a favourable response because of political superstitions and posturing by some commissioners,” another source explained.

“The consideration of Boodhoo’s request to be reappointed is a work in progress and currently remains in limbo,” the source added.

Boodhoo’s contract expired at the end of April. At the moment, the position of chief elections officer is being filled by Deputy Chief Elections Officer Calvin Benn.

Renewal

Boodhoo, who has been with the commission in excess of 10 years, has applied for a renewal of his contract but information seems to suggest that opposition members are not in favour of any move to have the contract renewed.

According to reports, all the commissioners had agreed that Boodhoo’s situation requires a hearing in which he can defend his position and be subjected to questions to which he can provide answers and clarifications.

While the commissioners have requested correspondence and appraisals that Boodhoo may have received during his years in office to allow for an assessment, the opposition’s contention seems to be pointed at the 2011 fiasco involving Boodhoo’s announcement of national elections results in favour of the ruling administration.

Some members of the opposition camp are of the opinion that Boodhoo’s contract should not be renewed, owing to a minor initial miscalculation of the November 28, 2011 poll results.

GECOM is headed by a chairman and six commissioners. It is supported by core staff in its secretariat. The work of the commission is supplemented in its elections preparation and administration by thousands of temporary staff.

wednesday, june 12, 2013

Probe into death of young mom, foetus completed

Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on Tuesday announced that the investigation into the death of Luan Rodney and her foetus has been completed and the report submitted to the Health Ministry for necessary action.

This is in compliance with the Health Ministry’s regulation on the reporting of maternal and child

deaths in Guyana – Act Number Six of 2005, the GPHC said in a terse statement.

The 28-year-old mother had died while giving birth at the hospital two Tuesdays ago. According to the husband of the deceased Nigel George Rodney, his wife had gone to the hospital and was admitted. He noted that the woman was told by her doctor that her time for birth

had passed and the ultrasound showed that everything was okay with the position and health of the baby.

He also stated that during the night of her admittance, she claimed to have contraction-like pain and prior to that, she had no other known health issues. He noted that the doctor observed that she was not doing too well in the ward and took her to the theatre.

Regional food safety workshop opens

The Pan American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO) and Health Canada on Tuesday launched a workshop for a number of Caricom member states, aimed at strengthening regulatory capacity for food safety in the region.

The three-day workshop got underway at the Grand Coastal Inn, East Coast Demerara.

Giving the feature address at the event, Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy said the Caribbean region is poised to become a major food producing source, significantly reducing its food import bill.

Dr Ramsammy said, “This region imports US$4 billion worth of food on an annual basis, so this region is convinced and we are determined that we can be a net exporter of food as a region.”

Regulative systems

However, he warned that in order to satisfy the ambitious goal of becoming a net exporter of food, the region needs to ensure that the requisite regulative systems are in place for food and nutrition security.

“I’m convinced that neither the regulations nor the systems to actively and effectively implement those regulations are fully in place in Caricom regions and there-

fore, it is imperative for our national systems and bodies to work to upgrade our laws, our laboratories and significantly ensure that there is a human resource capacity to deal with nutrition and food security,” the minister said.

Food and nutrition

Dr Ramsammy, who was health minister for some 10 years, noted that food and nutrition is necessary to reduce the prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases, which accounts for some 70 per cent of deaths and disabilities in the region.

He said with the appointment of a director and staff for the operationalisation of the Caribbean Agriculture Health and Food Safety Agency in Suriname and the public commissioning of the Caribbean Public Health Agency, food nutrition can be guaranteed for the region’s peoples.

The agriculture minister added that if the Caribbean is to become engaged in the opportunities which are a part of the world view of China and other international countries, then it must ensure that food laws, regulations, infrastructure and human resource capacities are up to par to effectively participate in new trade and economic arrangements.

“The objectives and the things we need to do to guarantee food safety and nutri-

tion security for our people, are not the only reasons we’re here. We are here because there is a global trade regime that requires we do this. Not merely because they guarantee food safety, but it is often one of the nontariff barriers created to ensure that the global inequities in trade are sustained,” Dr Ramsammy outlined.

Food regulations

He also pointed out that there are active preparations in place for the institution of new food regulations in the U.S. as of January 2014, while Canada already has regulations implemented that are being reviewed.

As such, the minister said, “we in the Caribbean, from a point of importing food and exporting food, must be cognisant of these developments.”

He charged countries representatives at the workshop to invest more into developing their surveillance systems to monitor human diseases, as well as diseases and pests affecting crops and livestock.

Also addressing the opening ceremony of the workshop were PAHO/ WHO Health Surveillance and Disease Prevention and Control Consultant Dr Zoila Fletch-Payton, Veterinary Public Health Sub-Regional Advisor Dr Alexandria and others.

SUDOKU

Usually, you’re a pretty shrewd horse trader, yet today you could knowingly make an agreement that benefits the other party much more than it does you. Tread carefully.

By Bernice Bede Osol

(June 21July 22) (Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

If you should happen to make a mistake in your work, don’t try to hide it. If you do, it could lead to unanticipated complications.

Since certain endeavours that usually come easy to you could be fraught with unforeseen complications, you had better allow plenty of time to manoeuvre and recoup.

Don’t allow serious matters to become boring or oppressive, but don’t dismiss them with a chuckle, either. Find the middle ground.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

(July 23Aug. 22) (Feb. 20-March 20)

Temporarily postpone purchasing a luxury item if it doesn’t fit comfortably within your budget. That article will still be there when your wallet is fat enough to handle it.

(March 21-April 19)

For the sake of warding off everyone who could interfere with your work, you might promise to do something that you know to be impossible. Lying would be a bad idea.

(April 20-May 20)

Most of your boasts and exaggerations will ring hollow, with no one believing you. You’d be better off telling it like it is.

(May 21June 20)

If you’re not careful, instead of magnifying your virtues and minimising your faults, you’re more likely to amplify some of the less attractive aspects of your personality.

If your optimism turns out to be unfounded, disappointment will naturally follow. Don’t let others mislead you into believing a too-rosy portrayal of things.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Don’t depend too heavily on Lady Luck to fulfil your ambitions. Unless you show her that you’re working hard to achieve your desires, she is likely to direct her efforts elsewhere.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

There is a strong possibility that you will be more prone to focus on the details than on the big picture. Try to keep your perspective.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

You will likely be inclined to tempt the fates in areas where you know the odds are stacked against you. This is foolish − listen to your common sense.

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SA president says “all are praying” for Nelson Mandela

South African President Jacob Zuma says Nelson Mandela is “very serious but stabilised” in hospital and that “all are praying” for his recovery. Zuma said the doctors were doing a “very good job”, adding that the former president was a “good fighter”. The 94-year-old is spending his fifth night in a Pretoria hospital suffering from a recurrent lung infection. Relatives, including his ex-wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, visited the ailing former leader on Tuesday.

Joined by two of his daughters, the former president’s ex-wife and partner of 34 years left amid tight security, making no comment. Outside the hospital, a cluster of people gathered eager for any news of the former leader’s condition.

Mandela has been in intensive care since he was taken to hospital on Saturday for the third time this year. In December, he spent 18 days undergoing treatment for a lung infection and gallstones.

Referring to Mandela as “the father of democracy in South Africa”, Zuma said earlier: “We need him

to be with us and I’m sure all the messages that have been pouring in to wish him a speedy recovery are highly welcome.

“And I’m sure, knowing him as I do, he is a good fighter. He will be with us very soon.”

Zuma was speaking in a televised interview broadcast on Tuesday evening, having been given a “thorough briefing” on Monday by Mandela’s doctors.

Zuma said: “I was very confident that they know what they are doing and

they are doing a very good job, whilst he is very serious but he is stabilised and we are all praying for him, really, to recuperate quickly.

“We need him to go with us,” added the ANC leader.

The South African government is trying to balance the public demand for information about Mandela with the need for privacy for his family, knowing that there’s still much uncertainty about the days ahead, says the BBC’s Karen Allen in Pretoria.

Before being admitted to hospital, Mandela had been ill for some days at his Johannesburg home, with a recurrence of his longstanding lung problems, said a statement from the president’s office earlier on Tuesday.

He was taken to hospital when his condition worsened at 01:30h on Saturday (23:30 GMT Friday). Widely referred to by his clan name Madiba, Nelson Mandela served as president from 1994 to 1999. He was previously imprisoned for 27 years, and is believed to have suffered damage to his lungs while working in a prison quarry. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Industry man accused of shoplifting baby oil, powder

Aman was placed on bail for simple larceny when he appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday

Kevin Bhisham, 39, of Industry, East Coast Demerara pleaded not guilty to the charge which states that on June 8 at Water Street, Georgetown he stole four bottles of baby oil and three bottles of baby powder,

valued a total of $5185, property of Muneshwar’s Limited.

Bhisham told the court that on the day in question, he entered the store to purchase the articles mentioned in the charge and was on his way to the cashier when someone approached and snatched at him. He stated that he was about to go to the counter when he was accused of stealing.

The virtual complainant (VC), Colin Adams informed

the court that the company caught the accused on the closed circuit surveillance camera placing the items into his pockets and waited for him to leave before apprehending him.

The prosecution had no objections to bail and the magistrate granted the accused his pre-trial liberty in the sum of $30,000. He will be making his next court appearance in Court 10 on June 24.

Caribbean must take advantage of TIFA accord with U.S. – Kamla

TTO lET

289 Thomas St, middle and top floor of storey house. Phone: 2277365

he third annual Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) began on Monday with delegates being urged to take advantage of the recently signed Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) between the United States and Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, addressing the opening of the twoday event, said the accord which was signed during the recent visit of United States Vice President Joe Biden to the Caribbean provides an opportunity to expand trade for the benefit of the region, individual states and “ev-

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar

ery citizen in our respective countries”.

“The Caribbean Investment Forum must take advantage of the lever-

age offered by this renewed international involvement in the region,” she said, adding that Caribbean countries should also seek to take advantage of the opportunities being provided by China as a result of the visit of President Xi Jingping.

“President Xi’s offer of TT$3 billion (One TT dollar = US$0.16 cents) is of particular significance for our national development. And I want to announce today that Trinidad and Tobago would be able to immediately access these funds to accelerate the development of business/commercial and industrial parks throughout Trinidad and Tobago,” she said. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

India beat West Indies to reach semi-finals

Shikhar Dhawan hit his second century in a row as India crushed West Indies by eight wickets on Tuesday to book their place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals.

Ravindra Jadeja took 5-36 as the Windies were restricted to 233-9 despite Darren Sammy’s 56 not out.

Dhawan led the reply with a superb unbeaten 102, bringing up his hundred with a six as India reached their target in just 39.1 overs. India’s victory at The Oval eliminates Pakistan from the tournament.

South Africa and the Windies, meanwhile, will go head to head on Friday for the second semi-final place.

India’s commanding win followed on from an equally impressive triumph over the Proteas and established the World Cup holders as early front-runners in a tournament featuring the world’s top eight sides.

In Jadeja and Ravinchandran Ashwin, they have two spinners who have exploited dry pitches to excellent effect and, in Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, who put on 100 for the second game in succession, they have an opening pair in scintillating form.

Ironically, given their board’s opposition to its use, India also made shrewd use of the Decision Review System as Jadeja overturned the umpire’s original not-out decision to remove Marlon Samuels lbw and

Dinesh Karthik successfully referred a dismissal for caught behind before teaming up with Dhawan to ease India home.

“It’s one of our most pleasing performances in last two years,” Ashwin told BBC Sport. “We just controlled the game, broke the partnerships at crucial times and the batting performance from Rohit and Shikhar was brilliant.”

Recalled to the India oneday side for the tournament after a two-year absence following the fastest debut Test century against Australia in March, Dhawan struck 114 off 94 balls in their opening game against South Africa in Cardiff and produced another batting exhibition here.

The left-hander cut and pulled powerfully and drove anything overpitched down the ground.

He was handed a lifeline on 41 when he top-edged a pull shot off Dwayne Bravo on 41 and was dropped by Kemar Roach at fine leg.

Sharma was almost as fluent as the other end as he breezed to a half-century with seven fours. And it came as a surprise when he fell in tame fashion, caught down the leg side off Sunil Narine.

Virat Kohli looked in sparkling touch before he was bowled by a quicker ball from Narine.

There was no danger of a wobble, however, as Karthik helped Dhawan steer India

Shikhar Dhawan celebrates his second consecutive ODI century

over the line, a brief rain delay at 204-2 proving little more than an inconvenience.

Dhawan reached three figures with a flourish by lifting Dwayne Bravo over third man for six before

Karthik finished the job –and reached his half-century – with a cover drive to the fence in the following over.

The Windies, returning to the scene of their victory over England in the 2004

Do-or-die for Australia in transTasman clash

At the last Champions Trophy, Australia beat New Zealand in the final to secure their second consecutive title. This year, the two teams meet with Australia’s tournament all but on the line.

A loss in their opening match against England has left the Australians vulnerable and should they lose to New Zealand, they would not only have to beat Sri Lanka next Monday but they would also need England to lose their remaining two matches to have any hope of scraping through to the semi-finals. Even then, it would come down to net run-rate. Should New Zealand win their progression is not certain, although it would take a similarly intricate series of results for them to miss out to England and Sri Lanka on net run-rate. An Australian victory would keep things fairly even throughout the group.

However, the Australians will need to overcome New Zealand without their captain Michael Clarke, who has been ruled out due to a back injury that has plagued him since he arrived in England. The more signifi-

cant long-term worry will be his availability for the Ashes which follow after.

David Warner is a real concern as well, having scored ducks in the two warm-up matches, followed by nine against England. New Zealand’s cordon will be well advised to be on high alert early in Warner’s innings, given the way he has been slashing and edging of late.

New Zealand also have an injury concern around a senior player, with Daniel Vettori likely to miss out having had a saline injection in his troublesome left Achilles tendon. “You only

have to look at him. He’s limping and is a bit ginger walking around the field,” the New Zealand fast bowler, Kyle Mills, said on Monday.”

He’s been doing it since his teenage years at this level and his body is tired. He shows tremendous toughness and hopefully he can rise to the occasion for these next games to get us over the line. He looked jovial getting his toast and cereal at breakfast this morning, but there’s obviously a lot of discomfort.”

Less than five years ago, Luke Ronchi made his debut for Australia against

West Indies. During that series he scored a 22-ball half-century, the fourth fastest ODI fifty by an Australia player. Now he is about to line up against his former country for the first time, having qualified for his birth nation of New Zealand earlier this year. Ronchi’s initial forays into the New Zealand side have brought few runs, but against familiar Australian bowlers, he will be keen to prove that he can be a longterm force at the top of the order.

Since George Bailey made his ODI debut in March last year, only Ian Bell and Tillakaratne Dilshan have scored more one-day international runs than his 819 at an average of 45.50. During the one-day series in England last year, Bailey was the one shining light in Australia’s batting order and again during their loss to Alastair Cook’s men on Saturday he was the top scorer with 55. Bailey is a capable stand-in captain and a reliable presence in the middle order, but he needs significantly greater support if Australia are to progress to the next stage of this tournament. (cricinfo)

Champions Trophy final, had made a promising start with the bat - reaching 100-1 inside 20 overs - but faltered badly after the dismissal of Johnson Charles, who was trapped leg before by Jadeja’s quicker ball for 60.

Marlon Samuels and Ramnaresh Sarwan followed in quick succession to Jadeja and the innings lost all its momentum as Darren Bravo ground out a painstaking 35 from 83 balls before he was stumped off Ashwin.

Kieron Pollard got off the mark with successive sixes but was soon bogged down by some tight bowling and was caught at long-on off Ishant Sharma for 22.

Narine and Ravi Rampaul offered scant resistance as Jadeja completed his five-wicket haul to

West Indies innings C Gayle c Ashwin b Kumar 21 J Charles† lbw b Jadeja 60 DM Bravo st †Dhoni b Ashwin 35 M Samuels lbw b Jadeja 1 R Sarwan c †Dhoni

seemingly end any chance of the Windies posting a competitive total.

Sammy’s late salvo, which spanned 36 balls and featured five fours and four sixes in the last four overs, gave them heart going into the change of innings, only for Dhawan and Sharma’s opening offensive to prove decisive. After defeats in their opening two Group B games, Pakistan will not qualify for the last four even if they beat India at Edgbaston on Saturday. On the Windies chances of reaching the semi-finals by beating South Africa, captain Dwayne Bravo said: “The destiny is in our own hands. We know it’s not going to be an easy game but we have the talent in our group. I’ll try to get my guys pumped up for it.” (BBC Sport)

innings

Sharma c †Charles b Narine 52 S Dhawan not out 102 V Kohli b Narine 22 D Karthik not out 51 Extras: (b4, w5) 9 Total: (2 wkts, 39.1 overs) 236 Fall of wickets: 1-101, 2-127

5-0-36-0, M Samuels 4-0-17-0, C Gayle 1-011-0, K Pollard 3.1-0-21-0

Sreesanth freed on bail in India

Indian fast bowler Shanthakumaran

Sreesanth, arrested last month over allegations of spot-fixing in the Indian Premier League, has been freed on bail. On Monday, a court ordered the release of Sreesanth, fellow cricketer Ankeet Chavan and 17 other defendants. A third cricketer, Ajit Chandila, who is also in jail on similar charges, is yet to apply for bail.

Sreesanth, Chavan and Chandila – all bowlers from the Rajasthan Royals IPL team – have denied any wrongdoing.

Spot-fixing involves illegally rigging parts of a match, for example by timing the delivery of a deliberate wide or no-ball, to benefit bookmakers or those betting on matches.

On Monday, India’s cricket board also suspended Rajasthan Royals team owner Raj Kundra from participation in cricketing activities over allegations of betting in the IPL.

Kundra’s passport was seized last week and he was ordered not to leave India. He has denied any wrongdoing.

The arrests of the players on May 16 shocked many Indians. They were suspended by India’s cricket board and the Rajasthan Royals.

Most of the others arrested in connection with the case – who are now being released on bail – are bookmakers.

The New Delhi police had sought to keep the players and bookmakers in jail alleging that they had a “nexus” with an “organised crime syndicate”.

But on Monday, the court granted them bail saying the police had failed to produce “sufficient material” against the accused to establish their claim.

The IPL is considered to be the world’s showcase for Twenty20 cricket. Top Indian and international players take part, contributing to what is the world’s richest cricket tournament. (BBC Sport)

LaFleur aims for success at first outing in Canada

F

rom r avendra m adholall in T oron T o

Former Guyana Under-19 captain

Eugene LaFleur is aiming to be successful by the conclusion of this year’s Toronto and District Cricket Association Elite and Premier Leagues with Victoria Park Cricket Club in his first year.

The left-handed batsman and left-arm orthodox spinner played his first game recently but the inclement weather halted proceedings just after the beginning and several games were also abandoned.

However, LaFleur was willing to share his anxiety, having made his debut. He promised to make a great impact in both departments of the game. He stated that he wants to score heavily and take wickets on a regular basis.

The Berbician, who represented Guyana at both the under-15 and under-19 levels, feels that playing in North America will ultimately lift the standard of his game as he harbours thoughts of playing for West Indies in the near

we

Lfuture.

“I [am] indeed grateful to get the opportunity to represent a club up here and I promised to do my best; I haven’t got a full match as yet after arriving only few days ago but I am feeling really excited and ready to go; this part of the world I think can be very competitive and that is one of the reasons to come and play here and so far I am comfortable,” the 22-yearold athlete related.

LaFleur led Guyana’s youth team in 2008 when the tournament was hosted in Barbados. Guyana were the runner-up that year but his performance was impressive.

“Playing at home, rep-

resenting your country at any level always is remarkable; my aim now is to win a spot on the Guyana’s senior team and then try to wear the prestigious maroon colour but I know you have got to make runs consistently to impress the selectors,” LaFleur declared.

On Sunday, LaFleur proved his ability with the ball, grabbing two wickets before the rain interrupted.

“Well, I went out there and got a good feel; my captain gave me the ball early and fortunately I had two early wickets which boosted my confidence tremendously so I am anxious to go out there again and perform with both bat and ball for Victoria Park,” LaFleur,

who plays for Bermine in Berbice, divulged.

Recently LafLeur was named one of the five cricketers-of-the-year for Trinidad and Tobago’s Preysal Cricket Club after his all-round performance. He dominated with bat, scoring over 500 runs and taking 41 wickets.

He revealed it was also great to play cricket in TT and come out with such statistics.

“I was happy to be recognised as a top cricketer for Preysal in Trinidad and Tobago; the competition was definitely stiff down there and I think I learnt a lot there too so hopefully I can continue with same kind of form here; the good thing many players from around the Caribbean participating and I know them very well,” LaFleur .

Meanwhile, on Sunday West Indies one-day player Royston Crandon bagged six wickets for Vikings Cricket Club who beat Mississauga Ramblers Cricket Club. Former Guyana middle-order batsman Zaheer Haniff, also representing Vikings, scored 40 not out.

need to bounce back, says Bravo

ONDON – West Indies were outplayed by India on Tuesday and lost their second Group B ICC Champions Trophy match by 8 wickets at the Oval.

Johnson Charles scored a purposeful 60 at the top of the order and Darren Sammy blasted four sixes in a stunning 56 not out, but 233-9 proved inadequate.

India made 236-2, with a brilliant run-a-ball century from left-hander Shikhar Dhawan, and moved top of the group. The Man-ofthe-Match award went to left-arm spinner Rajindra Jadeja, who took a careerbest five-wicket haul.

The Windies slipped to third position and will have to beat second-placed South Africa on Friday in Wales to qualify for the semi-finals.

Windies captain Dwayne Bravo admitted the batting came up short, noting that after a solid start he expected more in the middle overs.

“We need to identify how we can become better and comfortable with the batting group and the middle overs when the slow bowlers are on, and try to pick up the boundaries and build momentum. At the moment we keep stalling in the middle and that’s where we lose the games. We don’t lose the games in the first six or in

the last six; in the middle overs is where actually we lose it as a batting group,” the captain said after the match.

Bravo was however full of praise for Sammy, who pulled the innings around from 179-8 in the 44th over with some phenomenal power-hitting. He added a record, unbroken 50 off 27 balls with Kemar Roach who supported well.

“I wouldn’t say he [Sammy] had something to prove. He got an opportunity and he did very well. It was the right situation for him and he played his natural game. Sammy is a very competitive person and he comes out there and gives 100 per cent at all times whenever he plays for West Indies,” Bravo said.

The captain said his team is looking forward to

england u-21s lose to israel to crash out of european championship

England ended a miserable European Under-21 Championship campaign on Tuesday with a third straight defeat after Ofir Kriaf hit the winner for hosts Israel.

Stuart Pearce’s side were seeking a morale-boosting win after being knocked out at the group stage following defeats to Italy and Norway.

But they finished bottom of Group A after Kriaf’s finish cast further doubt over Pearce’s future as coach.

Thomas Ince and Wilfried Zaha both missed chances for England.

England, who averaged three goals per game in qualifying, return home on Wednesday having failed to secure a single point – or a goal from open play – in 270 minutes of action at the finals.

The only time they found the net was from Craig Dawson’s penalty when they were already trailing 3-0 to Norway last Saturday.

Their qualification campaign for the 2015 Championships starts on September 5 at home to Moldova, but whether Pearce will still be in charge remains to be seen.

The former Manchester City manager is out of contract at the end of the month and is due to have talks about his future with the Football Association in the next two weeks.

Ofir Kriaf

tained by Liverpool’s Andre Wisdom, enjoyed plenty of possession in the opening exchanges – but again, did so without managing to hurt their opponents.

Connor Wickham and Ince both failed to connect after Shelvey got behind the Israel defence to drill a low 12th-minute cross into the area.

Then came England’s best moment of the tournament in terms of attacking threat.

Manchester United’s Zaha, one of four survivors from Saturday, skipped clear of two defenders before setting up a one-on-one chance for Ince – but his shot was well saved by the onrushing Boris Kleyman, who quickly got to his feet to foil Zaha’s follow-up as well.

Israel, hammered 4-0 by Italy on Saturday, were much more menacing after the interval.

Friday’s showdown against the Proteas at the Swalec Stadium in Cardiff. India have four points from two matches and have qualified for the semis. South Africa have two points (NRR+0.410), West Indies have two points (NRR -0.086), while Pakistan are yet to register a point and have been eliminated.

“Those kinds of games are some of the best games to play, to be honest, where the destiny is in our own hands, and it’s important we forget what happened today. We still have hope. If we win the next game, we’re on to the next round. If we lose, we go home. So I think we are aware of that. We just have to...improve on our mistakes we made in this game, and look forward to the next game,” he said.

“South Africa has a very good team and a team that’s very well respected. We just have to make sure that when we turn up on Friday we are all ready to play, and it’s going to be like a final for us, and definitely we have to make sure that we win that game...it’s possible...it’s very possible. I know I have the right team and the right guys to turn around between now and Friday. Let’s see what happens on Friday...it’s going to be a very exciting game for the tournament.” (WICB)

If this was his final game in charge then there were very few positives to glean.

With their exit having been confirmed at the weekend, Pearce struck to his pre-match promise of giving his squad’s younger players valuable experience. Indeed, the team boasted just two senior caps – Jonjo Shelvey and Zaha.

And Pearce may take some comfort from the fact his side once again created more chances and had more shots on target than their

Just as they did against Norway, England, cap-

Nir Biton rattled the crossbar from 35 yards in the 57th minute before the Israel captain started a neat move that resulted in winger Kriaf curling home a sweetly struck shot from 20 yards in the 81st.

That prompted Israel coach Guy Luzon, who was taking charge of his final game before moving to take charge of Standard Liege, to sink to his knees in celebration.

It might have been a happy end for 37-year-old Luzon, but it was a fittingly poor finish to a tournament to forget for England. (BBC Sport)

sebastian Vettel signs extended Red Bull deal

World champion Sebastian Vettel has agreed a contract extension with the Red Bull Formula 1 team.

It means the 25-yearold German will stay at the team until the end of 2015.

Vettel has been with Red Bull since 2009, claiming 29 victories, 39 pole positions, and winning three successive world titles.

In March 2011, he agreed a new three-year deal up to and including 2014, with the latest extension adding one more year. So far this season, he has won three races – in Malaysia, Bahrain and last weekend in Canada – and leads the Formula 1

Drivers’ Championship by 36 points from nearest rival Fernando Alonso. Last week Vettel said he might quit the sport in five years’ time but made it clear he was not talking with any specific timetable in mind.

“Perhaps I will no longer be driving in five years’ time because I no longer have the urge to,” he told German newspaper Welt Am Sonntag.

Earlier this year he was linked with a move to Ferrari but the Italian team’s Ferrari president Luca Di Montezemolo said in February Vettel would not be joining them so long as Alonso was there. (BBC Sport)

Digicel Schools’ Football championship…

Defending champions Christianburg/ Wismar confident of repeat

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

The third annual Digicel Schools’ football championship kicks off later this month, with over 120 of the country’s secondary institutions vying for top honours. While all the teams will be harbouring thoughts of lifting the title, the coach of last year’s winners, Christianburg/Wismar Secondary, is confident his players can repeat their success.

Christianburg/Wismar emerged as the Region 10 champions at the end of the preliminary phase before going on to defeat Waramadong Secondary 5-2 in an exciting national final at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, in the 2012 edition. One year later, coach of the team, Anthony Stephens, is expressing confidence his players can replicate their effort of 2012, when they beat all and sundry on their way to the title.

Confidence

In an exclusive interview with this publication earlier this week, Stephens said the school has held several mini-tournaments over the past year to come up with the best possible combination to compete at this year’s championship.This year, Christianburg/Wismar will miss successful 2012 captain, Travis Dryden, and two other players due to the age restrictions, but according to Stephens, their replacements

Flashback! The Christianburg/Wismar Secondary School players bask in the glory of their 2012 success

are equally as good or even better.

The coach added that his players are confident, having recently won the Edward “Screw” Richmond school tournament in Linden, which “provided great preparation for his boys ahead of the Digicel competition.”

“Everything looks well leading into the competition, but I know each team would be coming hard this year because we have to remember there is a cash prize attached to it for the winning school, and I know the schools would be looking to grab that prize,” Stephens outlined.

He added, “I think we will win again, but we are not disputing the fact that the other teams will come hard at us. We have a very good team nevertheless, and there’s no reason why we can’t win again.”

Apart from lifting the

championship trophy and etching their name on the lien trophy, Christianburg/ Wismar also received a cash prize from the 2012 tournament, which Stephens said is being used to improve the school ground.

Heightened interest

Questioned on what winning the tournament has done for the school, Stephens said the title has created heightened interest among students, who are now eager to represent the institution.

“They are very enthusiatic about it. Presently, actually every school boy wants to be on the football team, whether they can play or can’t play. Going forward we will be having several mini tournaments, even futsal, to come up with the final squad. Presently, we have a strong group of players; we will have a new captain this year,

but we still have the MVP from last year, Marmarlaque Davidson, and I must say he is in top shape and taking this tournament very seriously,” Stephens revealed.

Davidson was Christianburg/Wismar’s marquee player last year, scoring a tournament-high 13 goals, including a helmet-trick in the final against Waramadong. Stephens’ message to the other teams in this year’s competition was to “come prepared”, as Davidson and company will be at full throttle to prove that their 2012 success was no fluke.

History

In the inaugural tournament in 2011, a total of 128 schools participated, while in 2012, that number rose to 152. So far, a total of 130 schools have registered, and the organisers are hoping that number will rise to 160 by the time registration closes. Already, 20 new schools have registered to be part of this year’s programme.

Region 10 champions Wismar/Christianburg Secondary is the reigning champions, while the Government Technical Institute won the inaugural edition in 2011.

Apart from etching its name on the beautiful wooden lien trophy, the champion school will receive a trophy for keeps, while it will receive a hefty monetary sum for the funding of a project of its choice.

Kmtc and Rcmtc&sF racing dates revised

The racing dates for the Kennard Memorial Turf Club and Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club and Sports Facilities have been revised, following a special general meeting by the Guyana Horse Racing Authority last Sunday.

The KMTC race meet which was originally scheduled for August 4 will now be held on August 1 in order to avoid clashing with the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matches scheduled to be stages at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, on the same date. Two CPL matches are scheduled for that day: Antigua and Barbuda will play Jamaica while Guyana will battle St Lucia.

On the other hand, the RCMTC&SF race meet has been moved from July 1 to July 14. Bobby Vaughn of the RCMTC&SF told this publication on Tuesday that a venue and programme for the meet will be decided upon on Saturday.

Meanwhile, eight races are carded for the KMTC race meet with lucrative prize packages for top horse owners.

Most of the country’s top horses are expected to be on show with the feature attraction being the B and Lower running over a distance of one mile. The winner will cart off $2,500,000, while the runner-up will win half that amount. The third and fourth place finishers will receive $625,000 and $313,000 respectively.

The co-feature is the Three-year-old Guyana and West Indies bred animals over a distance of one mile where the winning tag is

set at $1,300,000; the second place finisher will collect half that amount. The third and fourth place finishers will receive $325,000 and $162,000 respectively. Then there is the D3 and Lower over a distance of six furlongs with the winner carting off $900,000, and second, $450,000. The third and fourth place finishers will receive $225,000 and $113,000 respectively.

In the Two-year-old Guyana and West Indies bred race, the animals will be competing for a first prize of $700,000 and will be run over a distance of five furlongs. The second, third and fourth place finishers will collect $350,000, $175,000 and $88,000 respectively.

The G1 and Lower race is the other one mile event listed for the day with the animals competing for $600,000. Other races include: the J1 and Lower, J3 and K, and I and Lower. The winning tags are set at $300,000, $200,000 and $325,000 respectively.

Meanwhile, registration closes on July 21 and no late entries will be accepted according to president of the KMTC, Cecil Kennard.

Further, the organisers reminded horse owners that the event will be held under the aegis of the GHRA and all of the rules of the local governing body will be in effect. Horse owners can register their animals with Kennard on telephone numbers 226-1399, 225-4818, or 623-7609, Roopnarine Matadial (Shine) on 3253192, Ivan Dipnarine on 331-0316, Isabella Beaton on 693-7812 or Dennis Deroop on 609-9143. (Rajiv Bisnauth)

BEI win Patrick “Patto” April memorial schools’ football championships

Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) were crowned champions of the inaugural Patrick “Patto” April U-17 InterSchool Football tournament that was played at the All Saints Scotts School ground, Princess Elizabeth Road, New Amsterdam, last Friday.

BEI won a tough encounter against arch-rivals Berbice High School (BHS) after both teams failed to score at the end of regulation time; BEI eventually won 4-3 on penalties.

BHS only had themselves to blame after they squandered a chance five minutes into the game. Omari Bentham was the saviour for his team in the first half as the boys from BHS sent steady shots at the goal. Glenroy Henry was also particularly brutal on the goalkeeper, sending shots with both legs but could not beat the custodian.

In the second half the tables turned. It was time for the BHS goalkeeper to up his game as the boys from BEI turned on the heat.

Bentham was in goal

when the last shot was kicked and he saved it to give his team the 4-3 win.

Bentham was adjudged best goalkeeper with his teammate Beni Herman be-

last Friday

ing the best defender. Mark Wronge of BEI scored the most goals, rocking the back of the nets on seven occasions and also took the trophy for the best midfielder.

Earlier, New Amsterdam Multilateral (NAMS) inflicted a 4-0 beating on Canje Secondary School (CSS) in the playoff for third place. Scoring for NAMS, Jamal

June ProAm card switched to Uitvlugt Community Centre

“Six head”, Atwell in July, August bouts

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

Boxing fans in the West Demerara area will be part of history on June 29 when the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) takes it monthly ProAm boxing card outside of Georgetown for the first time.

The card, which is usually hosted at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) on Homestretch Avenue, has now been switched to the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground, due to the unavailability of the regular venue.

The CASH is currently undergoing rehabilitative work, forcing the GBBC to seek an alternative venue.

GBBC matchmaker and veteran referee, Eion Jardine, speaking to this newspaper on Tuesday, encouraged residents of West Demerara to take advantage of the opportunity by turning up at the ground to view some of Guyana’s best pugilists do battle.

In the main event, Guyanese Revlon Lake, based in Barbados, and Guyaneseborn Dexter Gonsalves, who lives in Trinidad and Tobago, will square off for the vacant junior lightweight title of Guyana.

While Lake has fought in

Guyana before, this will be Gonsalves’ maiden fight on home soil.

The 12-round contest is one of four professional fights billed for the night. Prior to the main bout, local boys Kelsie George and Troy Lewis will go head-to-head in a four-round middleweight contest, while debutant Laured Stewart will start life as a professional against Anson Norville in a fourround welterweight fight.

Another newcomer, Romio Norville, will open his campaign against Eversley Brown in a four-round middleweight contest that will kick off the professional segment of the card.

Prior to that, four amateur fights will be staged, and the names of the participating boxers will be released shortly by the Guyana Boxing Association.

Admission to the venue is $1500, with action set to get underway at 20:00 hours. Jardine assured that the GBBC will be putting all the necessary arrangements in place to ensure the card is not affected by the current inclement weather.

“Six head” returns

Meanwhile, the former world champion, Andrew “Six head” Lewis, will re-

turn to the ring on the July ProAm card, as he continues his preparation ahead of the highly anticipated clash with Jamaica’s Sakima Mullings.

Lewis, the former WBA welterweight champion, last entered the ring in October 2008 when he suffered a split decision loss to Howard “Battersea Bomber” Eastman.

On the July 26 card, Lewis will take on Kelsie George in a 10-round junior middleweight fight, providing George is able to come out with a victory over Troy Lewis later this month.

According to Jardine, if George is beaten, then a new opponent will be sought for “Six head.”

On the same card, WBC CABOFE featherweight and light welterweight title holder, Clive “The Punisher” Atwell, will meet Barbados’ Matthew Robinson in an eight-round lightweight bout. The 43-year-old “Six head” (23-4-2) and the 24-year-old Atwell (10-01) will also appear on the August 30 ProAm card.

Lewis is slated to challenge Mark Austin for his junior middleweight title of Guyana, while Atwell will face Sherwin Marshall of Barbados in an eight-round lightweight fight.

Greaves cops another first-place finish in USA

As his one-month stint draws to a close, national cyclist Alanzo Greaves is making maximum use of his remaining time in the United States of America (USA).

The 23-year-old Roraima Bikers Club representative is set to return home this weekend, but is determined to leave his mark in the USA before he returns home.

Last weekend, Greaves copped a first place finish and runner-up spot in the two races he competed in, adding to his already impressive results from five previous races.

He was the first to the finish line on Saturday in the Historic Riverton Criterium (Pro 1-2-3) race, while he ended second best the following day in the Connecticut

Criterium (Pro 1-2-3).

In both races, over 40 riders took to the starting line.

The top performance on Saturday was Greaves’ second win since arriving in the USA mid last month. Last Thursday, he won the WS United Category One race.

Apart from the top podium spots on Saturday and Thursday, Greaves also copped fourth in the CRCA Open Category 1-3; 12th in the Floyd Bennette Category 1-3; 18th in the Bound Brook Criterium Pro-1 and 52nd in the Tour of Somerville Category Pro-1. The talented young rider, who finished fourth overall in this year’s Three-Stage, was slated to compete in another race last evening. Greaves said he is enjoying the experience so far, and is eager to develop

Two cycling events on this weekend

After a lengthy break, local riders will return to competition with two cycling events this weekend, organised by national cycling coach Hassan Mohamed. On Saturday, the National Park will be the venue for the 13th annual P&P Insurance Brokers and Consultants Limited 11-race programme, set to pedal off at 09:00h.

The experienced Jude Bentley is set to defend his title in the feature 35-lap School Boys and Invitational race, having won last year’s event in one hour, 18 minutes, 26 seconds, while Junior Niles is the defending champion in the Veterans Under-50 category.

A new champion will be crowned in the Juveniles event, since last year’s winner Paul DeNobrega has since graduated to the senior division.

Other races include the 12-14 Boys and Girls, Veterans Over-50 and Over60, Uprights, BMX Boys

Open, 6-9, 9-12 and 12-14. Managing Director of P&P Insurance Brokers and Consultants Limited, Bishwa Panday, is expected to assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion of the races.

On Sunday, the riders will take to the West Demerara roadways for the 14th annual Father’s Day 50-miler, sponsored by the Guyana Oil Company, through its Castrol brand of products.

The race will commence from Wales Police Station at 08:00h, proceed to Bushy Park on the East Bank of Essequibo before returning to Demerara Harbour Bridge for the finish.

The Veteran, Upright and Female riders will turn at the Uitvlugt Community Centre on the upward journey and finish at the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

The first six finishers in the Open category will be rewarded, while the first three Juniors, Veterans, Uprights and Females will also receive prizes. The top Veteran Over-60 rider will also be recognised for his effort.

Eight prime prizes will be up for grabs during the course of the race.

Linden’s Orville Hinds is the defending champion of the Open division, having won the 2012 race in a time of one hour, 55 minutes, 30 seconds.

The other winners last year were DeNobrega (Juniors), Raymond Newton (Veterans), Hamza Eastman (Uprights), Walter Isaacs (Veterans Over-60) and Naomi Singh (Females).

As has been the norm over the years, representatives of Guyana Oil Company will be on hand to reward the top riders at the end of the race.

on what he has learnt when he returns to Guyana next weekend. This is Greaves’ third visit to the USA to participate in cycling training/ competition.

He informed that he would be back in time to challenge his counterparts in the Guyana Cycling Federation’s national championship, which is billed for the end of this month.

Greaves has been in tremendous form this season, winning an unprecedented eight races so far in 2013.

His trip has been made possible with support from Digicel, Bounty Farm, Spads Inc., Toucan Industries, Kevin Jeffrey and family, Café Sol, Compton Persaud, Roraima Bikers Club, Linden Dowridge and George Humphrey. (Avenash Ramzan)

NEW GPC/Limacol acquires Guyana CPL franchise

With just over seven weeks to go until the inaugural Caribbean Premier League kicks off, CPL Limited has announced the signing of its first franchise agreement on behalf of Guyana.

The franchisee is wellknown Guyanese businessman Dr Ranjisinghi “Bobby” Ramroop, owner of the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation INC (NEW GPC INC). The final agreement with Dr Ramroop was signed just on Monday in Guyana with CPL officials. This announcement comes hot on the heels of the recent selection of the new franchise based teams that took place on Wednesday, June 5 in Mobay.

Headquartered in Guyana, NEW GPC has been operating for 90 years and is the Caribbean’s oldest and largest pharmaceutical manufacturer of

generic pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter cosmetics preparations and veterinary products of the highest

quality. Dr Ramroop was very excited about what is to come as the new owner of the Guyana franchise.

"The CPL is just what we needed in the Caribbean and in Guyana. This tournament and my companies’ investment will help to develop cricket talent and also stimulate economies across the region," said Ramroop. "We are elated to be part of this inaugural year and look forward to the growth and development of CPL, which we believe will be the envy of the cricketing world.”

Guyana's franchise players are West Indian Sunil Narine and Pakistan player Mohammed Hafeez. They are joined by players drafted on Wednesday – Ramnaresh Sarwan, Lendl Simmons, Denesh Ramdin, James Franklin, Chris Barnwell, Martin Guptill, Krishmar Santokie, William Perkins,

Steven Jacobs, Ronsford Beaton, Trevon Griffith, Narsingh Deonarine and Veerasammy Permaul.

"We are thrilled to have Dr Ramroop and his group of companies as part of the CPL," CPL Chief Executive Officer Damien O'Donohoe said.

"It is clear that he understands our vision and what we want to achieve. We appreciate the enthusiasm he brings and we believe that Team Guyana will benefit greatly from his support."

The inaugural Caribbean Premier League starts on July 30 in Barbados and concludes on August 24 in Trinidad. The matches in Guyana take place July 31 and August 2 and 4.