Guyana Times Daily

saturday, july 5, 2014| guyanatimesgy.com

GT&T optimistic about passage of Telecoms Bill

The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) said it remains optimistic that the new Telecommunication Bill when tabled again in the National Assembly will receive the full support of the House.

GT&T Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Radha Krishna Sharma on Thursday highlighted that the passage of the Bill is vital for Guyana to advance technologically.

Sharma, in an invited comment, explained that the company has done its part. He said it is now left up to the regulators and policymakers to ensure that the requisite legislation is passed in a timely manner.

He related that it has been a process whereby all stakeholders were given the opportunity to make submissions, both written and oral to the Select Committee of the National Assembly.

“We have articulated our concerns and recommendations to the Select Committee… I know that deliberations are going on… I have no doubt that it will continue and at the appropriate time, we will brief the media on our submissions,” he added.

Sharma reiterated that their submissions were deliberate and well thought out; hence, he expected that the Select Committee would give serious and careful considerations to them.

He explained that the process is being done in four stages with the first being the submissions, which will be followed by the examination by the Committee, after then, it will be taken to Parliament for debate.

Sharma added that the last stage will be the President of Guyana signing the Bill into law.

Sharma anticipated that it will take a few months be-

fore the Bill is passed.

However, with all the liberations and review of the submissions, Sharma said that there are contractual issues and reiterated that GT&T wel -

comes liberalisation, but it must be done in a transparent manner.

Must be respected

He feels that the contractual issues must be re-

spected, explaining that contracts are more or less property rights since there are certain clauses in the agreement with the Government of Guyana.

These agreements, he noted, are legally-bound and it is their expectations that their benefits under those contractual terms are respected.

The Telecommunication Bill was tabled along with the Public Utilities Commission (Amendment) Bill on August 9, 2013.

Since the first reading of the two Bills, the second reading has been deferred several times as the Government continues to hold discussions between the two telecommunication companies.

GT&T currently has the monopoly on landline and international services. Digicel has to pay the local company for its mobile services bandwidth, which is being provided through

GT&T.

However, the international company had recently introduced reduced international rates after they won a court battle against the local telecommunication company.

This action plan was short-lived after the Public Utility Commission (PUC), responsible for approving rate increases for utilities companies in Guyana, ruled that Digicel had no authority to reduce its rate without their approval.

The Telecommunication Bill seeks to provide the establishment of a telecommunications agency and for a regular, coordinated, open and competitive telecommunications sector and other related matters.

Meanwhile, the other piece of legislation seeks to amend the Public Utilities Commission Act to facilitate the provisions of the Telecommunications Bill.

US citizen busted with cocaine at CJIA

A41-year-old man of New York City was on Friday morning intercepted at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) with 7.057 kilograms of cocaine in powdered milk packages.

According to information received, the American was an outgoing passenger on a Dynamic Airlines Flight destined for the Bradley International Airport, Connecticut, USA.

The illicit substance was found by members of the Police Narcotics Branch and Criminal Investigations Department.

Additional information gathered revealed that the cocaine was found concealed in milk packets in the man’s suitcase. The cocaine was found after the sniffer dog at the CJIA alerted the officials.

The man was cautioned, told of the suspicion and taken to the interrogation room where several milk packets were opened, the discovery of a whitish substance suspected to be cocaine was found.

It was subsequently tested and confirmed to be cocaine. The man has been taken into Police custody and is assisting with investigations.

Just over two weeks

ago, a man from North Road, Georgetown and his son were intercepted at the CJIA, with a quantity of cocaine in their suitcases.

Based on information received, the 41-year-old man and his 19-year-old son were outgoing passengers on Caribbean Airlines Flight, BW 528, when the cocaine was detected in the handles and false walls of their suitcases.

The two men were destined for the John F Kennedy International Airport.

According to reports, it was while the suitcases were being scanned, the strange object was detected, resulting in a member of the Police Narcotics Branch pulling the said luggage. At this time, a decision was also taken to pull the other luggage belong to the two persons.

Daren Harris and his son Daren Harris, Jr were found by Police and Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on June 20, at the CJIA, with 1.454 and 1.176 kilograms of cocaine respectively.

The father pleaded guilty to the offence and was sentence to three years imprisonment while the son was remanded to prison after offering a not guilty plea.

BRIDGE OPENINGS

Meddling diplomats will not be tolerated – Dr Luncheon

… Govt to engage Diplomatic Corps following US envoy's obduracy

Low Tide: 03:20h and 15:48h reaching minimum heights of 0.90 metre and 0.91 metre respectively.

LOTTERY NUMBERS

BY MICHAEL YOUNGE

The Government of Guyana said it will not tolerate disrespect, meddling and interference from foreign envoys in its internal affairs, especially when they are pursuing a clearly political agenda.

It said that while it respects all of its partners, there is a line that must not be crossed which is clearly stipulated in all international diplomatic conventions and protocols.

These sentiments were expressed by Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon, who was at the time addressing media operatives at his weekly post-Cabinet briefing, held at the Office of the President, Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Georgetown.

Dr Luncheon made it clear that the rebuke US Ambassador D Brent Hardt received from the Government through acting Foreign Affairs Minister Priya Manickchand was “fitting” and “legitimate”.

On Wednesday, Manickchand accused Hardt of unprofessional and undiplomatic conduct, while upbraiding him for a series of attacks on the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government and President Donald Ramotar. She insisted that the Ambassador “crossed the red-line” when he continued to criticise and demonise the Government on the issue of holding the long-over-due Local Government Elections.

Manickchand made no bones about rebuking the meddling tactics of the Ambassador, which Dr Luncheon hinted equated to interference in the affairs of a sovereign state under the guise of promoting democracy and civil society interests.

While many stakeholders have criticised the occasion used to launch the salvo against the Ambassador, Dr

Luncheon on Friday said that that was of little or no significance to the issue at hand.

In fact, he said that it was the “ideal opportunity” for the Government to articulate its position on the Ambassador’s continued objectionable posture given the fact that he was slated to depart the country on Sunday, July 6 this year.

The Cabinet Secretary told media operatives that the Government was “disposed to act...immediately” following the Ambassador’s statements at a Blue Caps event on Monday despite the fact that Hardt had already submitted the credentials of his successor for appointment.

Dr Luncheon alleged that Hardt used the event to go on a “blaze of contentions” apart from the issue of disregarding timing and place. “He launched a broadside,” Dr Luncheon said, against the President, the Government and PPP as well as its General Secretary.

He advised that Cabinet also took note of the Ambassador's decision to show comparable grounds of insurrection of the 1776 issues that faced King George at the time of birth of the US nation and that issues facing President Ramotar during his first term of presidency.

“Tuesday’s media reactions were astonishingly muted,” he said while advising further that Manickchand’s actions were based on Article 37 of the Guyana Constitution, which spoke about the terms and conditions under which Guyana will establish ties with other states.

Fundamental clauses Non-intervention in internal affairs and mutual respect are two of the fundamental clauses of this article. These clauses, he said, guided the Government’s response to the Ambassador’s continued meddling which was “capped by the comments made at the Blue Caps event”.

Dr Luncheon challenged the media to cite or identify any country in this hemisphere where any Ambassador or envoy could show so such disdain and disrespect via his conduct and utterances for a Government and not be sanctioned or given a stern warning.

He said that in all of his 22 years working with diplomats, it is understood that while they may disagree on issues, there are expressed expectations that such behaviours and statements violate their diplomatic training and employment terms.

Dr Luncheon explained that following the spat with the US Ambassador and his attacks, attempts will now be made to meet with the diplomatic community to articulate Government’s po-

sition on a number of matters.

“... whilst it may be considered to suffice, lest there be any doubt in any minds, I think the administration would see it fit to have an engagement with the entire Diplomatic Corp in the context of Article 37 of the Constitution of Guyana... custom and practice, reciprocity and comparable behaviour.”

“I think that [the engagement] may very well close the loop when it comes to Government being placidly made clear to diplomats... and all and sundry,” he noted.

He rejected suggestions that Government should have utilised other diplomatic routes to address its concerns, arguing strongly, that it had not the time for “Commissions of Inquiry” into the transgressions of an outgoing or ex-Ambassador.

Asked by this publication about his response to a request by Opposition Leader David Granger for the Government to apologise to the US envoy for the “vulgar” attacks, Dr Luncheon disputed the vulgar label, but contended that none will be forthcoming.

He said that the Government did not expect the Opposition Leader to rally its cause or support its position on the attacks by the Ambassador.

“The demands of the Opposition Leader follows a pattern that we are discerning when it comes to instances of protecting Guyana’s sovereignty and territory,” he said.

Dr Luncheon appeared to be sending a subliminal message that Granger and the Opposition were opportunistic because they were interested in pursuing their myopic agenda at the expense of the State and the patriotic and nationalistic positions adopted by the Government.

“We are moving on,” Dr Luncheon said.

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

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Editorial

The no-confidence threat

The threat by the AFC to call a vote of no-confidence against the Government is coming at a time when the minority party, along with APNU, has also failed to cripple the Executive’s pursuits to govern, and create continuous growth and development via alternative routes that are free of ransom, gridlock, political grandstanding and spite, which are endemic in the 10th Parliament.

It is no secret that the populace is losing interest in the Opposition’s cosmetic crusade against the Government in the name of ‘transparency, accountability and good governance’.

The truth is, a simple analysis of the agenda being pursued since 2011 by the AFC and APNU would reveal that this crusade has at its core revenge against the PPP/C, character assassination of public professionals, including former Presidents and Ministers, and clandestine attempts to undermine the work of the Executive.

The political gains of issuing such a threat, at this time, has not escaped those who understand Guyana’s political configuration and the apparent desperation that has long characterised inpatient Opposition groups who believe that they have the right and virtue to govern, as well as a monopoly understanding of what good governance is.

It is telling that the AFC that has the benefit of ex-strong men from other political parties in the persons of Messrs Nagamootoo, Ramjattan and Trotman would allow itself to make such a threat without first consulting with its membership and the wider stakeholder interests in society.

It is not surprising, therefore, that the Private Sector Commission has rejected the AFC’s attempt to score political points.

It comes as no surprise that Guyanese, too, may welcome such a move, because they too are convinced that the Government has been the victim of myopic Opposition policies and grandstanding. It could also be argued that the citizens believe that every government, whether minority or not, must be allowed to govern in an atmosphere where patriotism and the public’s interest supersede any deadlock.

Such an atmosphere is non-existent in Guyana’s new political culture.

The threat issued also exposes the mind-set of the Opposition parties. They too do not believe that the parliamentary configuration is working. They believe that fresh elections under the ‘winner takes all system’ is the only way out. One may want to ask whether the Opposition has lost confidence in its own rhetoric about the new dispensation working.

While the Opposition ponders on whether or not it will bring the motion against the PPP Government, business continues as usual and the wheels of the State are turning following President Ramotar’s response that he is up to the challenge.

PPP’s General Secretary Clement Rohee has also ably articulated that the governing party, if needs be, will utilise the Opposition-piloted opportunity to restore its majority and regain full control of the Legislature.

It is still too early to predict which way a snap poll will go but it is clear that the PPP continues its ground work and the damning revelations emanating from the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry is not helping the cause of the PNC/WPA’s new APNU party.

If the AFC’s mission to unseat the ruling Government via the motion either fails to win material support from its ally, the APNU, or the stakeholders and civil society, then it would have driven the final nail into its already sealed coffin. The latter is more realistic at this time given the mood of the population.

Regardless, the opportunities to breathe new air into the nostrils of a worrisome and lethargic political culture are countless were there to be snap elections but the stakes and consequences are also very high.

If there is a general consensus that the idea of snap elections should be abandoned, then all political parties would have learnt a valuable lesson and must now ascribe new meaning to the words: democracy, compromise and consensus. Failure to do so would be the biggest political mistake in this modern era ahead of the next constitutionally due election in 2016.

Multisectoral campaign needed to address issues relating to men, women and families

Dear Editor,

When it was first reported that Dr Myles Munroe would be the keynote speaker at the “Better Men, Better Families, Better Nation” conference, The Caribbean Voice became extremely excited. We had high hopes that this event would provide a forum for men to openly express their concerns relating to the chronic issues that plague Guyana’s families: teen pregnancies, domestic violence, suicide, drugs and several others which have led to the decline in viable family structures as well as values.

However, the fact that the conference was to be held in Georgetown rather than an outlying area where it would reach more of the men who are affected by such issues made us wonder momentarily as to its impact. Then we thought that perhaps the focus would be on professional men who would then spread the message to every region and district via seminars, workshops and focus groups.

After all, if so much money was going to be spent on a jet-setting multimillion-dollar speaker, there must be additional funds to ensure that the message and the impact become national and that the objectives implicit in laying out the carpet for Dr Munroe would be met, especially given that Dr Munroe’s first sojourn in Guyana did not seem to have yielded much. Surely that would be rectified by this second visit?

So imagine our disappointment when the visit and the conference were called off because of poor planning and communication. And so a number of questions forced themselves to the forefront. How does the NCF aim to combat issues that plague men and families, when they can’t organise such a basic event?

What of monies already spent? Couldn’t these funds, and all funds budgeted for Dr Munroe’s visit, have been more wisely spent by using local human resources (which is evidently available – psychologists and sociologists working in the field, staff at the University of Guyana, even Diaspora

human resources that would not have cost an arm and a leg) to plan and execute a national outreach addressing these issues?

Surely by now, it is understood that Georgetown is not Guyana and that issues that affect people nationwide cannot be addressed by events planned centrally, especially when the audience therein is a very minimal segment of the audience that needs to be reached.

Many in Guyana do not speak of their discomfort because such has become the norm, but when precious funds are being wasted, money that could have been better and more effectively deployed, one has to question motives, objectives, and intent. As it is, Guyana is already in a world of trouble when it comes to families and impacting issues spelt out above.

Please, therefore, let focus be placed on actual target audience, let money be spent to maximise effect and let available resources be deployed to that effect so that cost effectiveness becomes the order of the day. Multimillion-dollar motivational speakers who, at best, possess layman’s knowledge cannot help the situation and may very well end up worsening it by statements based on ignorance or personal biases.

More importantly Dr Munroe is a Pastor who propagates male-centricity and the subjugation of woman to man. He is neither a sociologist nor a psychologist and has certainly had no track record with respect to redress focused on any of the issues outlined above that Guyanese men face and which have led to the decline in viable family structures as well as values.

Besides, as a Pastor, his message would have been a Christian one, but these issues have almost nothing to do with religion and a significant number of Guyanese men are not Christians.

Perhaps because he’s a Pastor himself, Rev Gilbert’s choice of Dr Myles Munroe, is somewhat understandable. But besides the fact that Dr Munroe is really not qualified to holistically address issues of men and families, Rev

Gilbert and his commission must understand that their personal biases should not be the preeminent factor in making decisions, especially when they must be aware that the pathologies that are endemic in society cannot be approached in a piecemeal manner with a focus on ostentatiousness.

Besides given the NFC’s limited resources, each dollar must be maximally utilised towards the end goal, regardless whether that money is derived from Government or private sources.

The NCF claims that 10,000 attended Dr Munroe’s rally in 2010, yet there is a “crisis facing our families in Guyana, as demonstrated in an unprecedented spike in domestic and sexual violence”. In effect, Dr Munroe’s intervention in 2010 not only had zero impact, but issues negatively impacting families worsened, yet according to the Rev Gilbert, “Dr Munroe’s intervention remains both timely and necessary.” Are we missing something here?

Dr Munroe’s previous visit was an exercise in futility. Hence, The Caribbean Voice strongly suggests that money budgeted for his visit be utilised in liaising with central religious institutions such as the Guyana Council of Churches, the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana and the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (among others).

This, with a view to setting up a mechanism (training, networking, referrals) to ensure that every mandir, church and mosque and every pandit, pastor, moulvi and imam become part of the multi-sectoral campaign to address issues relating to men, women and families, including lack of empathetic parenting and communication, relationship issues, suicide, domestic and child abuse, incest, rape, teenage pregnancy, alcoholism and substance abuse.

Sincerely, Norkah Carter

Devv-Ramdas Daniel Judy Deveaux

Annan Boodram

Bibi Ahamad

Congratulations to Jagdeo on latest international achievement

Dear Editor,

The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) would once again like to congratulate our former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, on his recent election as Chairman of the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s 22nd Session of the Committee on Forestry (COFO) for the period 2014-2016.

Our party believes that this most recent bestowing of another international accolade on the former President is a result not only of his selfless hard work over the years, but also of his undisputed and continually rising international stature.

His election to chair this prestigious and very important international organisation is both a vindication and recognition of his undoubtedly astute leadership qualities which were crucial in propelling Guyana’s modernisation during his tenure as Head of State. Our party is infused with an incredible sense of pride at Jagdeo’s achievements and clearly for

such qualities to be recognised internationally, must be of tremendous pride to him.

His rise, which was achieved through selfless dedication from humble beginnings to an international leader, continues to be a source of inspiration to all Guyanese here and abroad, and has contributed to enhancing our nation’s international image over the years. His work has not only precipitated pride for our nation and its people, but has ensured that a small country like Guyana can provide a meaningful voice to positively impact leadership on international issues.

Over the last few years, there has been a constant bestowal of international commendation on this former President, including five Honorary Doctorates. Those from Trent University of Canada, the University of Central Lancashire and from TERI University of India, were in recognition of his global advocacy and leadership on the environment and cli-

mate change.

His dedication to efforts to help save the planet resulted in him being the recipient of the United Nations “Champion of the Earth Award” and being asked to serve on the UN Secretary General’s High Level Advisory Group on Climate Finance. This followed him being named a “Hero of the Environment” by the TIME Magazine.

Our party has no doubt that, given the inspiring leadership he provided to Guyana as a former Finance Minister and President, Jagdeo would successfully discharge his duties as the Chairman of the FAO’s Committee on Forestry, thereby setting new standards for our country. The PPP/C would like to extend best wishes to him as he embarks on his new endeavour despite calculated efforts by his detractors to besmirch his character.

PPP/Civic, Freedom House

Why the dodging?

Dear Editor, Amid damning allegations emanating from the ongoing Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry incriminating the then PNC as a rogue regime, bent on silencing the Opposition, calls have been mounting for current party leader David Granger to appear and testify.

Granger, who was at the time a PNC loyalist and Burnhamite, has repeatedly refused to heed the calls, primarily by the PPP/C, contending that he was out of Guyana at the time. Subsequently when the tribunal began, he declared that the truth is not coming out of the Commission.

For curious minds, the pronouncement by Granger that he was out of the country at the time does not appear to be a valid alibi to drown any suspicion that he either allegedly knew or was reportedly involved in the grand scheming to kill Dr Walter Rodney, the WPA leader and world-renowned Historian.

Based on the testimonies at the Commission, Dr Rodney was the most formidable threat to the Burnham-led PNC, which then stacked loyalists in key governmental posts

and employed an elaborate state surveillance system, utilising the Police, the Guyana National Service, the Guyana People’s Militia and the Guyana Defence Force.

Incidentally, Granger was a Commander in the Army at the time, which had a role to spy on the WPA activists and Opposition elements deemed a threat to the Government of the day. It is for these reasons that the now retired Brigadier cannot wash his hands from the tragedy, which happened during the darkest days of post-independent Guyana, without testifying before the Commission.

As a national leader, Granger owes it to himself and the citizenry of Guyana to tell the Commission, what was his role in the Army, both as a Burnhamite and a ‘consummate’ professional. The public would like to know, since it is a widely- accepted fact that the GDF was involved in spying on citizens under the instruction of the then Government, if it was by design that the now Opposition Leader was out of the country, to avoid blame in the killing of Rodney. Granger had said that

he was in Belgrade at the time; as a national leader, in light of the scheming allegations levelled against the PNC, the people of Guyana would want to know what was the purpose of his mission there; who sanctioned it; how many travel missions he has been on before and what is the comparison with other officers at his level; how come it happened during Dr Rodney’s death; how long he spent in Belgrade, as a Commander; how did the Army treat the death of Dr Rodney on his immediate return to Guyana; and how did he view the death of Dr Rodney and the extrajudicial killing of political opponents at the time?

These issues are relevant and would at least require a credible response from the now Opposition Leader as he was a Commander of the Army at the time, was a member then and is currently the leader of the accused party. It is not enough for the retired Brigadier to contend that he had no involvement in the death of the WPA leader by saying that he was in Belgrade at the time, through interviews and press conferences. Anyone with an ob-

Burnham had no regard for anyone who defied him

Dear Editor,

The letter, “The Rodney CoI is a means of dividing the nation”, by duo Tarron Khemraj and Gerhard Ramsaroop is testimony to the fact that we have a very good thing going on in Guyana. This kind of antiGovernment attack was not remotely possible during the days of the Burnham fright that hovered over Guyana.

Look here what these two men are saying. They are suggesting that the ongoing CoI has already backfired since one “obvious purpose of the inquiry is to try to besmirch the good name of Brigadier David Granger” and this is not possible.

ligation to the truth would appear before the Commission, and since Granger himself had told this newspaper that he is not afraid of the truth when asked about the killing of Dr Rodney and the establishment of the Inquiry, he should not be afraid to appear before the esteemed tribunal and be tested through cross-examination.

Having also told media operatives that the truth is not coming out of the Inquiry, the onus is upon him to clear his name and the image of PNC if he is a truly representative leader of the party, by putting the allegations to rest at the very forum they are being made, the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry.

Sincerely, Annalisa Ally

The reason, according to Tarron and Ramsaroop, is that “David Granger was not only subordinate to Norman Mc Lean in the GDF, but also (he) had been sent to Yugoslavia at the time of Dr Rodney’s killing”.

These two lovers of David Granger should check up again on what transpired in Berbice and what is now deemed the infamous ‘ballot box’ killings. Also, the obvious question to ask these two men is, why Granger is so ‘jumpy’ about testifying. He previously boasted that he was not afraid to appear before any kind of commission, so it is time to step up to the plate (for Granger) and also for these two PNC subtle adherents to come better.

As for the point of ‘national healing’ via the Rodney Commission of Inquiry (CoI), I think this is true in so many ways. What we are

now confirming is the true nature of the PNC regime, especially under its Founder Leader, LFS Burnham. If as a side effect, it results in “... driving fear in the minds of East Indians...” then so be it.

Burnham had no regard for anyone who defied him at the time. If Afro-Guyanese were fearful of him, then it stands to reason that everyone else, irrespective of race and religion, had to be in that mindset too. People saw Burnham’s wrath in how the House of Israel used to operate. Fr Darke was slain and ‘kick-down-the-door’ banditry came on stream.

These criminal activities transcended race. Now that PNC is being exposed for what it was and most likely still is I cannot accept the thinking of Tarron and Ramsaroop. What was done to Dr Walter Rodney and the way the PNC unleashed the House of Israel on the people (as well as the Army and the Police) in order to hold on to illegitimate power must not be forgotten. This CoI is not “... in the line (any) of race-based propaganda...” It is about setting the record straight. When inquiries over the deaths of Martin Luther King and other slain Black leaders are facilitated after their deaths, is it about racial matters, or justice and truth? I just hope that Granger will come forward willingly, and that Tarron and Ramsaroop will urge him to.

All for your consideration, Alvin Hamilton

Page Foundation

BY LAURA ALLAN

Considering if summer classes are right for your child? Then it’s time to figure it out by looking at both sides of the issue. There are both pros and cons to this decision that should be weighed carefully. Some factors might even surprise you.

Summer school help

You’ve seen in your local newspaper that summer classes are starting up soon. So now you’re beginning to wonder if you should register your child before the news school term starts in September. Still, you’re not quite sure if it’s the right decision for you. It’s true that there are ups and downs to summer classes, and it’s important to consider both before you make your choice.

Pros

Getting general education out of the way

Who honestly enjoys general education anyway? There might be a few subjects you’re good at, but others tend to be boring, simple and not within your interests. Well, now you have a chance to take them in less time. This means that you will be able to get them done and have more time for classes you enjoy more, or are just more fun.

school year rolls around, though, you might notice that you’ve lost your rhythm while goofing off during the August holiday. If you don’t stop working, that work ethic doesn’t go away. So by taking summer classes you’ll already be fully in the swing of things by the time you get back to school.

Shorter classes

If you pick a subject that you really don’t want to take but have to, there is at least one thing to look forward to. In a much shorter time than during the

Cons No downtime

The August holidays, to many, is about relieving school anxiety and cutting loose for a while. Instead of freaking out over homework and tests, you can see friends, party and just let all that stress go. Doing another class would just maintain that high stress level. After all, once you hit the working world, you don’t get a summer break anymore. Might as well live it up while you can, right?

Sticking to the routine

During the school year, it’s pretty easy to fall into a sort of rhythm. You’ll hit your stride and be able to keep momentum and work ethic up. Once the

school year, you’ll be done. You won’t have to put up with a subject teacher you’re not too fond of for very long, and once you’ve finished you’ll probably still have a week or two of summer left. Some students actually excel at the shorter programmes, so if you’re one of those students then summer classes are probably right for you.

Harder to get a summer job

Sometimes people use summer to get job experience and make a little extra cash. It can really set you ahead for future resumes and make school life more financially comfortable next semester. If you’re taking summer classes, it makes your schedule a little more hectic.

Shorter classes

This was already listed as a pro, but it can also be a con. With no time for study groups, reviewing tests and asking teachers for help, you’ll be forced to adapt or risk failing. The material also comes at you so fast that if you’re not clear on an initial concept, you probably won’t understand the later related concepts. If you’re the kind of student who can’t easily deal with a fast paced class that has no time for review, then summer classes probably aren’t the best choice for you. (education-portal.com)

BY LYNN MARGOLIES

Our teens are embedded in a culture driven by competition and perfectionism, where success is defined by status, performance and appearance. These values are transmitted to our children nonverbally through our emotional state and through what we notice, are impressed with, and praise or discourage in them.

When we are on the fast track, we lose ourselves and forget the values closest to our hearts. In moments of perspective, we realise that having the courage to stand up for children who are less popular is more impressive than scoring in the 90th percentile on the SATs. But that’s not what we reward.

Pushing teens to be the best is well-intentioned.

We worry that they will be left behind in a competitive

world. But the notion that being the best and having the most brings happiness is an illusion. And future success is not determined by good grades, Ivy League acceptances, or inflated selfesteem.

Capacities associated with success

In fact, success is correlated with psychological capacities including: optimism, curiosity, a sense of oneself as capable (different from self-esteem, which is about self-worth), and the ability to manage negative emotions and weather obstacles. These capacities develop in the context of secure attachments with parents, which occurs when we give teens space by being present, responsive and interested – rather than reactive, controlling or preoccupied. Consistently, research confirms that teens’ subjective experience of their relationship with parents as close and supportive protects and insulates them more than anything.

Why pressuring children to perform backfires

Ironically, parents’ hyper vigilance about teens’ grades and future success backfires psychologically and academically. When parents are overly invested in performance, children are less likely to develop their own, more sustainable, motivation.

Further, making the stakes too high engenders fear, leading teens to avert possible failure at all costs. This level of stress propels homework avoidance, compromises executive functions, inhibits curiosity and new challenges, and increases lying. Some teens are able to be compliant under pressure, but compliance replaces problem solving, judgment and autonomous thinking – capacities needed for selfreliance, fortitude and success. Without the space to find their own way, teens fail to develop an inner-directed sense of self to anchor them. (psychcentral.com)

Respect new female traffic wardens, Rohee urges

he Home Affairs

TMinistry on Friday hosted a Traffic Warden Programme with subject Minister Clement Rohee calling on road users to respect the new ranks as they work to avoid traffic congestion across the country.

Seven female Traffic Wardens were introduced to the public on Friday. These ranks will be stationed at areas where heavy traffic is prevalent.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Minister Rohee said the wardens have been bestowed with the power to make arrests.

“I want to encourage members of the public, particularly road users, to respect these Traffic Wardens, to pay attention to whatever instructions and directions they may have given… it is necessary for the public to respect the Traffic Warden whenever they see them or are given directions by these new recruits of the Police Force,” the Minister stated.

Maintaining law and order

He noted that if persons respect the Traffic Wardens, they will also be shown and treated with respect.

The Minister noted while it took a long time for the programme to take effect, he is nevertheless pleased that it has finally been launched and will see the wardens making tremendous contributions towards maintaining law and order on the public roadways.

Rohee pointed out that Police Forces around the world are seeking innovative ways to enhance the efficiency in which they carry out their duties; hence, the Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) should be commended for taking such an action towards improving the country’s roadways.

He stated that this initiative is a positive development which shows that the GPF is committed to provide

the necessary equipment for its members to effectively function.

The Minister added too that he hopes the Police Force, along with the general public will embrace this programme to make it suc-

applicants who answered ads that were placed in the newspapers. The selected persons were screened and had to write an entrance examination before undergoing an intense training regime.

The training sessions entails Police duties that covered the entire Act. The wardens were also trained extensively on the Traffic Offence Act and how to deal with accidents on the roadways.

cessful.

Meanwhile, acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud thanked the Home Affairs Ministry for implementing the Traffic Warden Programme. He noted that the launch is the first step of the programme and will see an increase in the number of wardens in the future.

The acting Police Commissioner explained that the initiative is one of many implemented by the Force to tackle the issue of traffic congestion. He reflected on the three lanes made along the East Bank and East Coast roads during peak hours to allow the free flow of traffic.

“All these are initiatives implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. Most recently, we have seen a lot of interventions,” he added.

The seven Traffic Wardens told reporters that they are ready to take up their posts and carry out their duties to the best of their abilities.

These Traffic Wardens were selected from a list of

According to the Force’s Training Officer, Senior Superintendent Paul Williams, the training began on April 14, and lasted for some two months.

This first batch produced a total of 11 Traffic Wardens, most of whom will be stationed along the East Coast of Demerara and in Linden, closer to their homes.

APNU concerned about increase in serious crimes

The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) said it is alarmed at the rising rate of serious crime, especially murders and armed robberies.

The coalition in a release said it is also concerned about the high rate of domestic murders, pointing out that there have been over 2050 murders in Guyana from January 2000 to May 2014.

President Donald Ramotar had warned the Guyana Police Force, on April 24, about a possible “avalanche of crimes”.

The US Department of State Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) report on Guyana stated that: “Serious crime, including murder and armed robbery, are common, especially in the suburban areas and the interior regions.”

The most recent information from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime lists Guyana’s 2010 homicide rate as 18.4 per 100,000 people – the fourth highest murder rate in South America behind Venezuela, Colombia, and Brazil. Guyana’s murder rate is three times higher than that of the US, the coalition said.

“APNU is alarmed at the rising rate of serious

crime, especially murder: There were 58 murders up to 31 May, 2014, compared to 52 for the same period in 2013. This represents a 12 per cent increase and a rate of nearly 12 murders every month. Robbery under arms: There were 473 armed robberies for the year up to 31 May 2014, compared to 372 for the same period in 2013. This represents a 27 per cent increase and a rate of over three armed robberies every day,” the release said.

According to APNU, blame for Guyana’s high murder rate lies squarely with the nearly 22-year long People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration, which has failed consistently to implement a comprehensive counter-crime strategy.

“APNU re-asserts that it is the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration’s responsibility to protect the population from violent crime. The Minister of Home Affairs, however, seems unruffled by these statistics. He has not seen it necessary either to curb the soaring rate of murder and criminal violence or to explain to the nation why, after eight years in office, serious crime continue to increase at such a phenomenal rate,” the release concluded.

Missing case jacket delays PI for bucket drowning

The Friendship, East Bank Demerara man who allegedly drowned his reputed wife in a bucket of water after an argument was further remanded to prison on Friday after the Prosecutor failed to produce the case jacket.

Mahindra Siriram appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for fixture of the commencement of his Preliminary Inquiry (PI), but the Prosecutor requested two weeks to acquire the missing case jacket and hence the case was postponed to July 8. A total of nine witnesses are expected to testify. The accused was arraigned with murder on Friday, June 13 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Siriram, 31, allegedly

drowned Shelly Persaud, 25, his spouse of nine years and mother of their three children, in the bucket of water while in a drunken state between June

9 and 10. Initially, the ECI Engineering and Construction Company employee claimed that he discovered his spouse with her head submerged in the bucket of water when he woke up to urinate.

However, after the alcohol would have left his system, the man, according to a Police source, confessed to investigators that he held Persaud’s head in the fivegallon bucket of water which was on the back step of their home.

He also told ranks that it was only after he had stuck the woman to the back of her neck and she lost consciousness was he able to get her head into the bucket of water, since she was stronger than him.

The post-mortem exami-

nation performed on the woman’s body revealed that she died from drowning due to compression injuries to the neck.

Exmouth labourer granted bail for burglary

Alabourer from Exmouth Village on the Essequibo Coast was granted $80,000 bail for burglary when he appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.

Gregory Nohar, 36, who was unrepresented by legal counsel, pleaded not guilty to the burglary charge.

According to Police on Wednesday, July 2, Nohar stole three pairs of

gold earrings, one cutlass, one knife and $5000 in cash, property of Mala Roopchand from Pomona Village, Essequibo Coast.

The defendant is expected to return to court on July 22.

Eyew tness

Diplomatic...

...blunderer

It’s clear if you’re being raped or otherwise violated, you mustn’t scream – but should politely inform the rapist “Perchance, sir, you should desist”. Now here’s the US Ambassador – who’s supposed to be a trained diplomat –traducing all the norms of his profession to interfere into our local politics with the temerity to accuse the President of this Republic – by name – of just giving “excuses” for not holding Local Government Elections.

Maybe this is the new style diplomacy the US has inducted its diplomats into. Take for example, the outburst of another career diplomat, Victoria Nuland, who served as the State Department’s spokeswoman before becoming Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian affairs last year. Discussing the US’ ally, the EU's...yes, the EU’s – lagging reaction to the Ukraine crisis, Nuland was taped telling the Ambassador to Kiev, Geoff Pyatt, “F**k the EU!!!” Was the emphasis on the “dip” or the “lo” in “diplomatic”?

Another example closer to Hardt’s overstepping his boundaries, occurred over in Moscow where US Ambassador Michael McFaul implied that Russia was bribing Kyrgyzstan to close the US military base there. The Russian Foreign Ministry immediately accused the Ambassador of being “unprofessional” and “spreading blatant falsehoods through the media”.

To his credit, unlike D Brent Hardt, McFaul conceded he was “still learning the craft of speaking more diplomatically”. The overreaching by Hardt began, of course, when he insisted he didn’t give a damn what the Government of Guyana said. He was the sole arbiter of what the word “consultation” meant and therefore, he declared, there had been “consultation” with the Government of Guyana before launching the Leadership and Democracy (LEAD) Project.

The said project was executed (we use the word advisedly) by the International Republican Institute (IRI) that had worked so diligently to bring democracy to Eastern Europe through various “colour revolutions”, and to North Africa and the Middle East during the Arab Spring. Not to mention reminding Maduro about democracy, right next door in Venezuela.

We know that Hardt has come to the end of his tenure here, but we wonder where he’ll end up after his diplomatic bungling. He started out in the Caribbean, went on to Europe and the Vatican, which are considered upward career moves, then ended up back in the Caribbean – and here in Guyana. Now let’s face it....Guyana might as well be Siberia as far as a US diplomatic posting is considered.

How far down the ladder can a fella fall before he gets the idea that a diplomat he ain’t?

...native informants

Now take in this scenario. The US’s celebrating the anniversary of its independence from Britain. It refused to go along with Britain’s domination – not even allowing it to import tea. So the citizens rebelled, declaring, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” But in an ironic turn of events, there are some in this country who believe that their Government officials are the equal of US officials.

We described above, the US Ambassador’s insult of our President and interference into our domestic affairs. But in the minds of a recalcitrant minority in this country, our acting Foreign Affairs Minister is not “equal” enough to remind the US Ambassador of his transgressions. Tickled (sorry, impossible to be “pink”) to be invited to the US July 4 bash, they booed the Minister when she told some home truths to the Ambassador.

How dare she??? And they booed her. And bayed at her. One excuse is that it wasn’t the “time and place”. What better place and time to remind the US of our sovereignty than at the US Embassy on the 4th of July??

...renegades

And who were these reprobates who booed their own Government to please a foreign power? Drug dealers and their defenders, snitches and their snatches and paedophiles and their procurers. Is this what America stands for today???

Tension rises in Region Two

– as rice farmers burn tyres in protest over “non-payment” by millers

BY INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

Region Two rice farmers on Friday evening lit tyres on the Three Friends Bridge, Essequibo Coast as tension escalated over the payment of monies owed to them by several millers.

The protest which started last week in the Town of Anna Regina attracted more farmers this week, with several women in the front line, demanding millers settle their outstanding debts to them.

The march also included a “dummy farmer” hanging from a rope around the neck, apparently indicating that farmers would commit suicide if they are not paid in a timely manner.

The farmers, displeased with millers’ promises that they would be paid in August, began the protest at the Anna Regina High Bridge earlier in the day, calling for prompt payment.

Scores of farmers, armed with placards and a public address system, expressed their displeasure with the way the Rice Producers Association (RPA) and the Guyana

Rice Development Board (GRDB) have handled the situation. Protesting farmers also said the Region Two Administration is not doing enough about drainage and irrigation. On Thursday, officials from the GRDB and RPA visited the Essequibo Coast and held several meetings with farmers explaining in detail the current issues and the status of the rice industry.

Millers were present at both meetings and promised farmers that

they would be paid before August.

GRDB General Manager Jagnarine Singh told farmers at the public meetings held at Golden Fleece and Better Success that when they sell their paddy to a mill, they enter into an agreement with the miller. Singh noted that the Rice Factory Act stipulates that farmers should be paid all of their monies within 42 days and the GRDB or the RPA would step in to represent farmers if this stipulation is

breached.

He said the GRDB would foot all expenses for legal representation against the defaulting millers, but, to date, no farmer from the Essequibo Coast has come forward.

Jagnarine explained that those millers who have large sums outstanding to farmers are being assisted with markets, and loans are also being given to millers to assist them in paying farmers.

RPA General Secretary Dharamkumar Seeraj, during the meetings, called on farmers to analyse the rice industry, both its past and future prospects, and asked for their cooperation in moving forward.

Delayed payments

Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud also noted that while he supported farmers protesting delayed payments, he did not like the idea of farmers “bad-talking” the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration. The Chairman said he would join the protest if farmers were protesting in front of millers and not against those stakeholders who are trying to help them daily.

Some residents on the Essequibo Coast are of the view that the rice

farmers’ protest is becoming too political. Several residents who viewed the protest and listened to the Essequibo Paddy Farmers Association’s television programme on Thursday night believe that the group, headed by Alliance For Change (AFC) Councillor Naithram, was only using the protest to “pull down” the PPP/C Administration.

Viewers of that television programme told Guyana Times that most of the points raised were not rice-related and farmers are only “bad talking” regional officials. The issue of payment delays to farmers has been an ongoing one, with the RPA General Secretary in December calling on millers to pay farmers promptly.

Meanwhile, when contacted for a comment on the matter, Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy told Guyana Times that the protest was politically motivated and the AFC was behind it.

Dr Ramsammy, however, admitted that he was aware that the millers on the Essequibo Coast had money for farmers.

He noted though that while this may be so, it is not a case where the millers were unwilling or uncooperative in paying the famers, but one where markets for the paddy has not yet been sourced. The Minister disclosed that more than 95 per cent of the monies owed to the farmers have already been paid.

“$24 billion was owed to the farmers by the millers but thus far, $20 billion has already been paid. There is an outstanding $4 billion and while we are urging the millers to pay the farmers, they will have to sell the paddy first before they can do so. We are doing our part by trying to source the markets for them and thus far we have been able to ship 250,000 tonnes already,” the Minister said.

The Minister is pleading with the farmers to be a little more patient with the millers, noting that everything possible is being done for them to be paid as soon as it can be arranged.

“No-confidence

motion” is

a serious matter

– Granger says careful study needed

APartnership for National Unity (APNU) Leader, retired Brigadier David Granger said the idea of a no-confidence motion against the Donald Ramotar Administration is a very serious matter and careful study needs to accompany any such move.

He said although he has not yet seen the draft noconfidence motion proposed by the Alliance For Change (AFC), he is of the view that it is time for the ruling administration to take a step out. At an APNU news conference on Friday, Granger told reporters that although the two Opposition parties had met the previous day, he was not informed about the conditionalities of the motion, including its content. And according to him, his party may not see the motion any time soon since there are some issues to be ironed out.

“We have not yet seen the motion. So the meeting we had yesterday (Thursday)

was exploratory in that we needed to get information from the AFC about what their intentions are in that regard.”

According to Granger, APNU’s main concern embodies the prevention of the unauthorised expenditure of more funds and to put more measures in place to prevent the Government from spending and accessing funds which were not approved in the National Assembly.

“Statement of Excess”

The Government, through Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, has been accused of using up funds that were originally disapproved in the National Assembly in March and April of this year. The Finance Minister is said to have committed an unlawful act, when he chose to spend the $4.5 billion out of the disapproved $31 billion.

Granger said his party is working with the AFC so that the needed aim of bringing a halt to the unauthor-

ised expenditure is achieved. The no-confidence motion against the Government, Granger said, is a very serious matter. However, he maintains that the Finance Minister has gone outside his peripheral boundary when he used money out of the Contingencies Fund, especially since the situation before him was not considered “unavoidable”.

At an earlier press conference last week, APNU had described the Minister’s action as an “abuse of the public’s purse”. Executive Member Joseph Harmon had even gone as far as to suggest that the Minister be brought before the courts. According to him, the situation needed to be addressed firmly.

Meanwhile, the two parties will again meet next week. By that time, a decision should come about. Over two weeks ago, Dr Singh tabled a “Statement of Excess” to the National Assembly, stating that the Executive had already spent over $4.5 billion that the Opposition had disapproved during the 2014 budget debate earlier this year. The Opposition had earlier this year slashed $31.5 billion from the proposed $220 billion. Some $5.1 billion was budgeted for the Office of the President, which included funds for the University of Guyana’s Student Loan Programme. APNU and the AFC had first slashed $1.335 billion for current Administrative Services budgeted under the Office of the President. From the $610.4 million, which represents the current estimates, $66.4 million in subsidy was given to the Government Information Agency (GINA), while NCN has thus far received $32.6 million.

Last Wednesday, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon had argued that the Finance Minister in his move to reinstate disapproved funds had relied heavily on the Constitution and the High Court ruling made by acting Chief Justice Ian Chang.

According to Dr Luncheon, Minister Singh has not deviated from the norm. “The Constitution specifically addresses expenditure and shortages inadequacy for agencies in discharging their work programme in any fiscal area. The Constitution does offer remedies that we have collectively termed restoration… the Constitutional Court ruling has been used by this Administration, used by the Minister of Finance to undo the unconstitutional acts that have been perpetrated by the parliamentary Opposition,” the Cabinet Secretary said as he sought to justify the actions of Dr Singh. According to Dr Luncheon, by the end of the fiscal year, there is a possibility that the entire sum which was disapproved may be restored.

Caricom to get Debt Advocacy Team

ACaribbean Community (Caricom) Debt Advocacy Team is to be appointed to campaign for debt relief and/or debt amelioration on behalf of highly indebted Caricom Member States.

This was one of the key outcomes of the 35th Conference of the Caricom Heads of Government which concluded in Antigua and Barbuda on Friday, July 4, 2014, the 41st anniversary of the Community.

At a press conference on Friday afternoon, Chair of the Conference of Heads of Government, Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, said that the Team will advocate with Development Partners on behalf of Member States.

The initiative emerged out of the recognition that the current burdensome debt was not realistic for some Member States, given their structural and other economic vulnerabilities, Prime Minister Browne said.

Debt advocacy is one of the areas that the Commission on the Economy zeroed in on as part of the measures to be taken to respond to the eco-

nomic challenges with which the Region is faced. A regional debt management mechanism is to be designed and a regional fiscal sustainability framework is to be formulated within six months, the newly-elected Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda told the media.

Another strategy proposed by the Commission on the Economy which the Heads of Government have sanctioned is resource mobilisation, particularly from nontraditional sources of financing. They have also agreed to pursue the promotion of public-private partnerships for the development of the economic infrastructure with technical advice from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the World Bank.

In their continued focus on revitalising the regional economy, the Heads of Government met on Wednesday with leading figures of the private sector. The frank engagement, the Community Chairman said, was a tangible demonstration of the Region’s commitment to engage a critical stakeholder in the context of the Strategic Priorities for the Community, as set out in the Five-year Strategic Plan which Heads approved during the Conference.

At the closing press conference, Prime Minister Browne also announced Montserrat’s intention to accede to the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas by the next meeting of the Conference. That accession will pave the way for the Member State’s full participation in the Community, particularly in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

Manickchand’s scolding of Hardt undiplomatic – PSC

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) on Friday said the scolding of US Ambassador Brent Hardt by acting Foreign Affairs Minister Priya Manickchand was contrary to diplomatic norms.

In a statement, the PSC said it believes the manner in which the Government of Guyana reprimanded the US Ambassador recently for representing the US foreign policy goals in Guyana is not consistent with the norms expected in international diplomacy and of two countries that enjoy a friendly relationship.

“The PSC calls on the Government of Guyana to use all the diplomatic channels available to them in the future to register their displeasure in the conduct of any Foreign Service Officer

and to resolve any differences in those countries’ foreign policy objectives being executed in Guyana.

"We believe that Guyana’s interest should always be represented with the highest standards of diplomacy and compliance to international protocols. We also call on the foreign service community and their representatives in Guyana to accord the same respect towards the Government and the People of Guyana,” the statement said.

However, a source close to the PSC, speaking with Guyana Times on condition of anonymity, said several members of the body did not endorse the statement issued, as they were in support of the views expressed by Manickchand.

Non-passage of AML/CFT Bill

Guyana given 4 months to put house in order

... moves to establish Special Organised Crime Unit

The targeted review that Guyana would be subjected to by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) would actually provide the country with four months for further work on achieving a compliant AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) legislation.

This review would entail work that would be conducted by FATF’s North American contingent until the time of reporting in October later this year.

“Four months from today, until October, during which the targeted review would be conducted by the North American contingent and ideally, a time for the Government and the political Opposition to conclude the enactment of FATF compliant legislation… Guyana will have that period from now until then to achieve ultimately FATF compliant legislation and to have the most favourable of reviews possible,” Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon said.

Speaking at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing

at the Office of the President on Friday, Dr Luncheon said that the machinations of the Opposition have failed, and that the efforts of the Government and the multitude of responsible stakeholders have not been in vain.

Presidential Adviser on Governance, Gail Teixeira, who represented Guyana at FATF’s June plenary in Paris, France, informed Cabinet that after comprehensive consideration by FATF, the country was spared from further black-

UK citizen nabbed

listing.

While focus has been placed on the achievement of the enactment of FATF compliant legislation, the Government has been pay equal attention to the nonlegislative recommendations that were submitted by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) during their third round of the multilateral evaluation mechanism of Guyana.

In this regard, a decision has been made with regard to the location of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). This unit’s headquarters will be housed on Camp Street at the building adjacent to the Immigration Office.

Cabinet will consider the estimates that have been submitted for the rehabilitation of the building and for the resourcing and staffing of SOCU.

“Our hope is that these non-legislative interventions in the regime of antimoney laundering national capabilities would indeed be fast-tracked and support would be provided at all levels in having this most recent initiative completed,” the Cabinet Secretary said.

with cocaine in milk tins

Hours after a US citizen was caught trying to smuggle cocaine through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) in milk packets, a United Kingdom citizen was nabbed on Friday afternoon trying to smuggle the illegal drug in milk tins.

The male TravelSpan passenger was about to board the aircraft when he was intercepted by members of the Custom AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) about 17:30h.

The man was destined for the UK, but was due to in-transit at the John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

Head of CANU James Singh confirmed the drug bust and disclosed that the mule is in custody assisting with investigations. The offi-

A UK citizen was nabbed trying to smuggle cocaine in milk tins hours after a US national was busted trying to smuggle the drug in milk powder packets

cial weight of the illegal substance found had not been released up to press time.

After four years... RPA reportedly still awaiting land to construct rice mill

After reportedly filing an application more than four years ago for a plot of land to construct a rice mill on the Essequibo Coast, the Rice Producers Association (RPA) is yet to receive a response from the authorities.

RPA General Secretary Dharamkumar Seeraj said the rice farmers’ representative body is awaiting the necessary clearance for construction to begin, and to realise a long-held dream of farmers there.

Speaking during an interactive session with farmers on Thursday, Seeraj said the proposal to construct the mill was raised in Parliament by him self and Region Two Member of Parliament Cornel Damon.

He disclosed that a re-

quest was also made in the House to have the mill established and managed under the auspices of the Government of Guyana.

The proposal for a state mill came from the farmers during a series of picketing exercises at Anna Regina last year. They lobbied for a mill to create competition for the private millers. In this case, the mill will be managed through a Private Public Partnership arrangement.

After some consideration, the RPA General Secretary said, it was decided that the construction of a rice mill in Region Two is one way of addressing the issue of payments.

Seeraj explained that the major rice industry stakeholders are in discussions to make the establishment of the mill a

reality.

He said once the mill is established, the RPA will decide how it will be managed.

Farmers commended the efforts of RPA and other rice stakeholders and said they would love for the dream of having the mill materialise. They stressed that once competition is created, the industry would be more viable. Farmers have repeatedly requested that a state managed mill be established on the Essequibo Coast to stabilise the industry.

The meeting was one of several with Region Two farmers to address problems they continue to experience in receiving payment from millers for their paddy.

Duo busted at CJIA with cocaine, cannabis appear in court

The two relatives apprehended at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Friday with quantities of cocaine and marijuana appeared in court on separate charges later that day.

The cocaine was concealed in three Kerry Gold Milk packets which were in his suitcase. He was nabbed by members of the Police Narcotics Unit and Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

Earlier on Friday, Jermaine Carter was remanded to prison until July 8 after he pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on July 4, he had 7.057kg of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Jermaine Carter appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged for the possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, while Chelsea Carter was charged with the possession of cannabis.

It is alleged that earlier on Friday morning at the CJIA, Jermaine Carter, who is an American citizen, and Chelsea Carter were departing Guyana on a Dynamic Airways Flight to Piarco International Airport, Trinidad. They checked in two suitcases that were sniffed by sniffer dogs, which detected the presence of narcotics. The owners of the luggage were then identified, arrested, and told of the charges.

Approximately 7.057 kilograms of cocaine were discovered in Jermaine Carter’s luggage. The cocaine was concealed in three Kerry Gold Milk packets, and one gram of cannabis was found in Chelsea Carter’s luggage.

Jermaine Carter was remanded to prison until July 8, while Chelsea Carter was fined $3000 and ordered to provide four weeks of community service at East La Penitence Police Station.

New shipment of fertiliser expected soon

Farmers in all rice-growing areas in Guyana will soon be benefiting from a new shipment of fertiliser from Trinidad next week, of which 3500 bags will be allocated to Region Two.

This is according to Rice Producers Association (RPA) General Secretary Dharamkumar Seeraj, who made the announcement at a recent public meeting.

He said the Government of Guyana, through the Agriculture Ministry, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and the RPA have been doing all they can to assist rice farmers and to minimise production cost.

He said the importing of fertiliser is

one of the mechanisms put in place to reduce the cost of fertiliser here.

“The Ministry of Agriculture, through the RPA took it on ourselves to bring fertiliser in, when this happened, the price for fertiliser went down because we managed to remain competitive in the market.”

Seeraj said when the new shipment arrived, some 3500 bags will be sent to the Essequibo Coast. He said the fertiliser was purchase at $5,300 per bag and will be re-sold at that price.

The RPA General Secretary said no additional cost will be charged for transportation, explaining that farmers should not be misled about the pricing

as compared to the last crop.

Seeraj said the RPA has credited some $22 million in fertilisers to farmers’ last crop, through posted cheques. He said those cheques are changeable this month, pointing out that the cash flow of the support group has been exhausted.

Credits was given to farmers as a way of assisting them to get back into the fields, since they had payments outstanding to millers.

In a different arrangement, Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy in 2013 visited Venezuela where an agreement was made for a manufacturer to supply Guyana with 5000 tonnes of fertiliser.

The agreement stipulated two shipments, with the first seeing the supply of 5000 tonnes.

As a result of the deal, farmers were able to get the fertiliser they need at a cost that is significantly below what they were offered in the past.

Rice farmers, depending on where they are located, were paying between $7000 and $10,000 for a 48-kilogramme bag of urea.

However, due to the introduction of the fertiliser deal, other companies importing were forced to reduce their prices. Local farmers need some 20,000 tonnes of fertiliser, and the importation will satisfy the current demand.

Farmers are very thankful for the initiative and praised the Agriculture Ministry for the intervention.

Hinterland scholars charged to be ‘change agents’

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds has urged hinterland youths under the Hinterland Scholarship Programme to be the impetus of greater socio-economic growth for the country as he addressed the 52nd graduation exercise of the programme at the Amerindian Village, Sophia.

“Improve on what we did, do better than what we did cause we are giving you a higher level to start from,”

Prime Minister Hinds was quoted by the Government Information Agency (GINA)

He noted that his generation laboured to bring progress to Guyana, and if youths join together, when it is their turn, then they could consolidate and bring greater advancement to this country. He urged that the

to this challenge of coming together. He added that if in the future the present-day youths can rise to the challenge of building the country, and simultaneously rise to the challenge of coming

youths not underestimate the challenge that developing the country would bring, noting that the contributions of his generation are being impeded by not rising

together as a people, then growth and development in Guyana will be unparalleled.

Amerindian Affairs

Minister Pauline Sukhai dubbed the exercise anoth-

er in the line of those that manifest the benefits of Government’s investment in education. The Hinterland Scholarship Programme provides support to 427 plus students today, when in the beginning a mere six youths were awarded scholarships to attend schools in Georgetown.

“This programme is a manifestation of Government’s commitment to increase equal access to education among hinterland students,” Minister Sukhai said. Through investments in expanding access and improving the delivery of secondary education, Government is strengthening and improving the quality and the capacity of the country’s human resource capital to ensure the country’s future, she said.

Enhance competence

Minister Sukhai also briefly addressed the issue of the Youth Entrepreneurial and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP), which aims to enhance the competence and capabilities of those youths who were not

Caricom to establish commission to review marijuana decriminalisation

Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders have agreed to the establishment of a Commission to further the debate on the decriminalisation of marijuana for medicinal purposes.

Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque told reporters that while the composition of the Commission is yet to be determined, it will most likely be made up of experts “in their field”.

“The objective of such a Commission on marijuana is to conduct an inquiry into the social, economic, health and legal issues surrounding marijuana use in the Caribbean.”

LaRocque told reporters that the Commission would “determine what recommendations they wish to make based on objective analysis and consultation within the community.

successful in gaining scholarships. She noted that there are many that will not benefit from the programme this year, since the initiative was “put to rest” by the Opposition. The parliamentary Opposition cut the Ministry’s $1.1 billion capital budget that caters for several initiatives for the uplift of the Amerindians, including the YEAP Programme.

Minister Sukhai said that the Government and the Ministry, however, remain undaunted and will continue the programme even as it seeks to implement similar initiatives. In this line, the Minister mentioned Government’s partnership with the University of Guyana, which will come online in September 2014 and by which distance tertiary education for bachelors’ degrees in Maths, Physics and Computer Science will be offered to the hinterland.

The project, which will be available to students in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine, will see those eligible being provided with student loans and a tablet (preprogrammed for the course,) the Minister explained.

“It is not a pre-determined end, it is as I said to conduct a vigorous inquiry into the circumstances of the use and the implications of the use of marijuana in our Community,” he said.

St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who had initiated debate on the marijuana issue a few years ago, had prior to his arrival here indicated that while he would not prejudge the work of the Commission, said it would most likely consider changes to marijuana legislation in countries around the world, including Jamaica, the US, Sweden, and Uruguay.

“They will look at any number of places and they will make their recommendations. I await those recommendations, because I feel even in the absence of those recommendations, it seems to me counterproductive to ignore the potential of an industry in respect of medical marijuana and to continue to expend Police, national security, court resources on persons who consume a minuscule amount of marijuana in the privacy of their homes,” said Gonsalves.

LaRocque told reporters

that the leaders, had during the first day of their deliberations “covered the grounds we wanted covered”, and that the draft strategic plan for the Community that seeks to identify the areas the Region would focus on over the next five years had been presented.

Consultation

The plan has been developed following widespread public consultation across the Region and the leaders will seek to reach agreement on top priority areas for focused attention over the five-year period of the plan

“The plan is centred around building resilience in our countries… and seeking to foster greater development in our countries,” La Rocque said, adding that a report from the Commission on the economy had also been presented to the leaders.

LaRocque said that the leaders had “an interesting encounter with the captains of industry” whose businesses span investments across the Caribbean.

“[The talks] were very, very frank exchange which is a building of a partnership between the Community and the industries to foster growth and investments,” he said, adding “some of the issues that were discussed related to the need to harmonise our business rules and regulations across the Community”.

LaRocque described the meeting between the regional leaders and the visiting Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy as productive, saying “we have had a number of summits with Spain over the years… in which we are trying to foster deeper relations between Caricom and Spain…”

A joint statement issued following the talks between regional leaders and Rajoy noted that they have agreed to give priority to “advancing the fight against poverty, the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources, biodiversity and the environment in general” as well as “working together to address the negative impact of climate change on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including through the capitalisation of the Green Climate Fund”. They have also agreed to advocate a rules-based system of international trade, “one that includes special, differentiated treatment for small, vulnerable economies and that facilitates their integration into the global economy”. (CMC)

saturday, july 5, 2014 |

ECD road contract justifies Cabinet’s role – Minister Ali

Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali said the brouhaha surrounding the award of a US$46.994 million road contract to China Railway justifies the need for Government to retain its no-objection role in the process.

Ali’s comments come in wake of the Opposition’s criticisms of the way the award of the contract was handled and Government’s subsequent clarifications on the matter.

“Over the last few days, I have noticed the roller coaster hysteria from the Opposition in relation to the award of the contract and the role of Cabinet in withholding its no-objection.”

Ali said the outcome of any procurement process should be free from bias and influence and that the hallmark of such decision must be a distinct separation of various functions and responsibilities within the procurement process.

Explaining the tender process, Ali said the project is publicly advertised. Secondly, after bids are received, an independent evaluation team is appointed by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

This team then carries out an independent technical and financial evaluation and reports its findings and recommendations to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board.

Thirdly, the NPTAB, which is an independent authority that is separate from the evaluation team, then deliberates on the recommendations. After this deliberation, a recommended position is then sent to Cabinet for its no-objection.

“Each of these levels is not only independent but also comprises necessary verifiable checks and balances in ensuring a fair procurement process,” the Minister said, adding that the result of the procurement process is one that offers a contract to the most responsive bidder that meets the technical and financial requirements at the best possible price.

Money saved

In the particular case, Ali said the people of Guyana were able to save $2.8 billion, by Government getting involved and sending back the contract to the tender board after it had earlier made its recommendations.

He explained that the recommended bidder was already assessed as technically qualified, noting that it is clear in the procurement process that once a technical assessment is conducted and more than one bidders is deemed technically qualified, then the obvious position is that the bidder with the best possible price should be recommended.

He said in circumstances where this is not the case, there must be an authority or a clearing house that of-

fers an objection or no-objection. In this case, the Government is the custodian of the financial resources of the country on behalf of the people of Guyana.

As a result of exercising its fiduciary oversight role, the Government was able to utilise its obligation to offer an objection or no-objection in the interest of the people of this country.

The question, therefore, is: “In saving our people this amount of money, was the objection to the no-objection justifiable? The answer is clearly ‘Yes’. It is therefore now clearly justified to the people of our country why it is essential that the Government maintains a no-objection role in the procurement process as the result of such role is highlighted in this case.

Synonymous role

“It must be remembered that Cabinet’s power to issue an ‘objection’ or a ‘no-objection’ is not synonymous with awarding a contract; a fact clearly established in the Procurement Act 2003. Indeed, according to Section 54(4), the Cabinet is not authorised to award a tender to suppliers or contractors. The power granted to the Cabinet under the Procurement Act (2003) is merely limited to a review of the procurement procedures followed by the procuring entity in recommending a contract,” he said.

In fact, he said the power of Cabinet to issue an objection or a no-objection merely affords another layer of oversight by the Government which has a fiduciary responsibility to perform. Ali said if Cabinet and the Executive are to be held responsible to the electorate for expenditure of public funds, then it is only reasonable and prudent that Cabinet maintain its limited oversight role in the procurement process.

Cabinet’s power to issue an objection or a no-objection does not collide with, or impair, or undermine any of the functions of the Public Procurement Commission as set out in 212 AA of the Constitution.

Article 212 AA (1) of the Constitution of Guyana specifies the functions and responsibilities of the Public

Procurement Commission and none of the 13 functions and responsibilities listed under Article 212AA(1) empowers the Public Procurement Commission to “award” or “approve” or grant a “no-objection” to contracts.

Right intact

The constitutional provision does not take away the right of Cabinet under Section 54 of the Procurement Act 2003 to grant a “no objection” to contracts; neither does it grant that right to the Public Procurement Commission. It follows, therefore, that there is absolutely no contradiction in Cabinet retaining its mere no objection power in the award of contracts upon the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission, the Minister said.

“The PPP/C Government has always been and remains committed to transparency and accountability in public expenditure. For a matter of fact, before the PPP/C came into Government in 1992, the public procurement process was clouded in secrecy; which provided the window for many secret deals. It is apposite to note that Guyana is the first Caricom member state to undertake comprehensive procurement reform by amending its Constitution in 2003. By virtue of this amendment and the passage of the Procurement Act 2003, the Public Procurement Commission and a National Procurement and Tender Administration were respectively established. The reforms were based on the UNCITRAL Model Law – it was not something plucked out of thin air.

“The Government must be held accountable for the public money, but it can only be so held if at minimum, it has an oversight role in in the award of contracts,” Minister Ali said.

Teenager wanted for causing death of Enmore man

The Guyana Police Force has issued a wanted bulletin for Paul Martin, 19, of Fellowship, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (EDC) for questioning into a matter of causing death by dangerous driving at Farm, Mahaicony.

He is accused of driving along the roadway in a dangerous manner, resulting in the death of Nandram Rooplall, also called “Ray Charles” of Hope West, Enmore, ECD on February 2.

Rooplall, 23, was one of two employees killed after the pickup truck in which they were travelling slammed into a parked truck on the Mahaicony Public Road. The other worker was Himnauth Tajram called “Manu” of Mahaica Creek.

According to reports, the accident occurred moments after the pickup had left Mahaicony after transporting heavy equipment

to facilitate repairs to a flood-damaged road in the area.

They were employed with a private contractor, Mohamed Salim Ally aka “Salim”, of Foulis, Enmore, ECD, who is doing works at the Hope/Dochfour Canal.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Paul Martin is asked to contact the Police on telephone numbers 225-6411, 229-2702, 229-2750, 2292662, 911 or the nearest Police station.

The Police in a release stated that all information will be treated with strict confidentiality.

After completing the works, in Mahaicony, the men were leaving the village, when they swerved to avoid hitting a stray cow on the road. The pickup slammed into the truck and ended up in the nearby trench.

Woman, 20, jailed for gun possession

A20-year-old woman was jailed for two years on a gun possession charge on Friday when she appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Cindy Robertson pleaded guilty to the charge of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition before Magistrate Fabayo Azore.

According to the facts, as read by Prosecutor Bharrat Mangru, on Monday, June

30, the Police were conducting a road block at Albouystown, Georgetown, when they stopped motor car PJJ 6620 in which Robertson and three other occupants were travelling.

The Police carried out a search and a revolver and six live rounds of ammunition were found in a brown shoulder bag belonging to the defendant.

Although Robertson was

not represented by an attorney, Attorney Glenn Hanoman spoke on her behalf and told the court that Robertson worked in the interior. According to him, Robertson met a man who began stalking her and it was during that period she bought the gun as a means of protection. He also stated that she was fleeing the interior at the time she was found with the firearm.

Essequibo thief fined $100,000

Essequibo Coast resident Rajkumar Kisson on Thursday appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court to answer to the charge of simple larceny.

According to a Police report, on Monday, June 30,

Kisson stole a hand bag containing a BlackBerry Torch smartphone and $9000 in cash, property of Wendy Fernandes, a nurse at the Charity Oscar Joseph Hospital.

It is alleged that Kisson, a labourer, gained access to the Virtual Complainant’s

valuables by opening the window leading to her office at the Charity Hospital.

Kisson was not represented by any attorney and was not required to plead to the indictable charge. He was fined $100,000, with an alternative of 18 months imprisonment.

Jamaican PM wants greater role for private sector in Caricom

Police report significant decline in kidnapping in Haiti

Jamaican Prime Minister Portia

Simpson Miller has urged the Caribbean business community to play a greater role in the mechanisms that have been created to encourage economic growth, employment, business expansion, social improvement and overall development in member states of the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

She has also expressed support for the integration of the private sector in the strategic planning process for the Caribbean Region. Speaking during a luncheon

meeting involving Caricom Heads of Government and Chief Executive Officers of several major Caribbean businesses held in Antigua on Wednesday, Simpson Miller expressed support for the efforts of the Caricom Secretariat to launch the Caribbean Business Council to provide a renewed platform for the engagement of the private sector at the institutional level of regional integration.

She encouraged the Caricom business community to identify and accept its role in assisting the region to build its econom-

ic resilience, by supporting the acceleration of the implementation and use of the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME).

The Jamaican prime minister also emphasised the importance of the private sector’s endorsement of the work of Caricom’s Commission on the Economy, particularly in relation to measures geared towards creating greater opportunities for businesses and improving the national and regional business regulatory environment. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Chikungunya virus warning for TT

The Chikungunya virus has quickly spread to some 25 Caribbean countries and it is only a matter of time before this country starts recording cases, said Dr James Hospedales, Executive Director at Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

Hospedales speaking at an inter-agency meeting on the Chikungunya virus held at the Normandie Hotel, St Ann’s said the virus could easily effect 30 per cent of a

country’s population at one time.

As of June 30, this year there have been close to 6000 recorded cases, Hospedales added. He said the virus hit Grenada last week and it is expected to soon be in TT. Hospedales said what was particularily worrying was that the virus has a crippling effect and could severely affect a person’s joints.

The recovery period could take months or sometimes

up to a year. Hospedales said in some cases people fell down and could not move for two or three hours.

The most vulnerable, he added, were children, the elderly and people suffering from high blood pressure, hypertension and diabetes.

“It is inevitable that this virus will hit this country if it is not here already.

We are in for a rough ride because it will impact on several areas,” Hospedales said. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Mexico finds radioactive load from stolen truck

Mexican authorities on Friday found a load of dangerous radioactive material that was in a stolen pick-up, a top civil protection official said. The load of iridium 192 was found abandoned on a street a few miles from where the truck was stolen in the industrial Mexico City suburb of Tlalnepantla, Luis Felipe Puente, the head of the country’s civil protection agency, said on Twitter.

Military troops mounted a security perimeter around the small container emblazoned with logos for hazardous materials until it was

removed from the site by the country’s nuclear safety commission, according to media reports.

The material, normally used in industrial radiography, was housed in a specialized container and would only pose a health risk if the housing was tampered with, Mexico’s interior ministry said in a statement.

The truck, which belongs to a metalworking company, had been stolen on Thursday. In December, thieves in Mexico made off with a truck containing dangerous radioactive medical material – Cobalt-60

– that the United Nations’ nuclear agency said could provide an ingredient for a “dirty bomb”, in which conventional explosives disperse radiation from a radioactive source.

That radioactive load was also found dumped by the thieves close to where it was stolen.

The UN International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which has stepped up calls on member states to tighten security to prevent nuclear and radioactive materials from falling into the wrong hands, had no immediate comment on Friday. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Haiti has recorded a significant decline in kidnapping and law enforcement authorities are saying new measures adopted by the Police have led to the decline.

Police Chief, Godson Orélus, said that only five cases of kidnapping have reported for the period January to June, as compared to 44 cases registered for same period last year.

Orelus said that in the past, several hundred people used to be abducted, but that the figures have

been declining with some months when no one was reported kidnapped.

“We have doubled our efforts to fight kidnapping and we had only five cases so far which we have solved,” Orelus told the local website, HaitianCaribbean News Network (HCNN).

According to the Police Chief law enforcement authorities also investigated seven cases of fake kidnapping, involving relatives of the so-called victims who often seek to obtain money from close relatives abroad.

“We have registered seven cases of fake kidnapping during the past six months because there are people who pretend to have been kidnapped and who ask their relatives living abroad to send them money to pay ransom”.

Orelus said the police have dismantled 16 criminal gangs in the capital and the outskirts and insisted “it is safe to visit Haiti.

“Criminality has dropped significantly in Haiti as a result of the work done by the police,” said Orelus.

(Antigua Observer)

St Kitts-Nevis opens Cuban Embassy, calls for US to end trade embargo

St Kitts-Nevis has opened an embassy in Cuba and has called on the United States to end its decade old trade and economic embargo against the only Communist country in the Caribbean.

A Government statement said that Foreign Affairs Minister Patrice Nisbett told delegates to the opening of the embassy that Basseterre would continue to support the annual United Nations General Assembly vote calling on Washington to remove the embargo placed on the island when Fidel Casyro assumed power 50 years ago.

“We continue to avail ourselves of every opportunity and in every forum to appeal to the United States of America to bring to an immediate end its un-

The United States and a handful of countries have consistently voted against ending the embargo

fair treatment of the Cuban people who continue to suffer unreasonably as a result of the decades old embargo. Cuba is our neighbour.

“Cuba is our friend and we shall continue to exploit all possible means of speaking on their behalf in the international community on this issue,” said Nisbett.

The St Kitts-Nevis Government has noted that the majority of countries within this hemisphere has supported Cuba in its quest for “normal and constructive relations” with all nations around the world. The United States and a handful of countries have consistently voted against ending the embargo. (Caribbean360)

Three miners rescued in Honduras, more remain trapped

Rescue workers in Honduras have freed three miners trapped in an informal gold mine in the south of the country. The miners were taken to a hospital nearby. At least one of them had suffered an injury to his head.

Rescue workers are still searching for eight other miners who remain trapped.

The men were cut off on Wednesday after a landslide blocked their tunnel

exit at the small mine near the town of El Corpus, about 110km (70 miles) south of the capital, Tegucigalpa.

Rescue workers do not know where the remaining eight miners are, or whether they are still alive. Informal mines are common in Honduras but the lack of adequate safety means serious accidents are not unusual.

The mine is in an area prone to landslides and earthquakes. On Thursday

the authorities said that 11 men had been rescued from the mine, but they soon corrected the information.

President Juan Orlando Hernandez of Honduras apologised for the “false report”.

“The lack of communication in the area caused the rescue workers to give us false information,” he said on Twitter, calling on people “not to lose hope” that the men would be rescued.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Palestinian fury at Israel boils in funeral for slain youth

Chanting “Intifada, Intifada”, thousands of furious Palestinians called for a new uprising against Israel during the funeral on Friday of a teen they believe was kidnapped and killed by farright Jews.

Stones thrown at Israeli Police were met by teargas, stun grenades and rubber bullets in one of the most highly charged displays of enmity in Jerusalem in years as the body of Mohammed Abu Khudair, 16, wrapped in a Palestinian flag, was carried through his neighborhood under a sweltering sun.

Medics said 15 demonstrators were treated for injuries. There was no immediate word of arrests by the Israelis. At another flashpoint, the Gaza Strip border, Palestinian rocket and

mortar launches, followed by Israeli artillery shelling, persisted on Friday but no one was hurt.

Palestinian officials trying to calm tensions in recent weeks have said they would prevent any intifada, or uprising, and seek a solution to a crisis that began when three Israeli teens were kidnapped in the occu-

pied West Bank on June 12.

The discovery of their dead bodies on Monday prompted an outpouring of national grief in Israel.

Tensions spiked after Abu Khudair was kidnapped on Wednesday in his Arab neighbourhood in Jerusalem and his charred body was found hours later in a forest on the edge of the city. (Excerpt from Reuters)

China detains Vietnamese fishermen in South China Sea

Chinese authorities have arrested six Vietnamese fishermen, officials say, in a move that could increase tensions in the South China Sea. Vietnam said the men were detained in disputed waters where the two countries have been confronting each other over a Chinese oil rig.

China says the fishermen were in Chinese waters off Hainan Island. The two are locked in an intensifying dispute over territory in the South China Sea. Each side has accused the other of ramming their

boats in the area around the Haiyang Shiyou 981 oil rig.

Earlier this year Vietnam protested against China moving the rig to waters also claimed by Vietnam, at a spot near the disputed Paracel Islands. Since then there have been several skirmishes at sea and China’s refusal to move the rig sparked angry protests in Vietnam, which left at least two people dead and several factories burnt.

According to Vietnamese reports, sailors witnessed the seizure of the fishing vessel which was ap-

parently in “common fishing grounds” in the Tonkin Gulf, says the AFP news agency. But China’s foreign ministry spokesman said the boat was seized for “illegal operations within Chinese territorial waters” close to Hainan.

China has for decades claimed a U-shaped swathe of the South China Sea.

But tensions have flared up in the region recently as China seeks to assert its claims in a more muscular fashion with a beefed-up maritime presence. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Iraq’s Maliki rejects pressure to give up premiership

Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki refused on Friday to give up his quest for a third term in power, defying a chorus of critics demanding his replacement as the country faces an existential threat from Islamist insurgents.

Maliki has come under mounting pressure since militants of the group now calling itself the Islamic State rampaged through swathes of the country last month and declared a mediaeval-style caliphate on land they have captured in Iraq and neighbouring Syria.

“I will never give up my candidacy for the post of prime minister,” Maliki said in a statement read out on state television by an announcer. “I will remain a soldier, defending the interests of Iraq and its people,” he added, in the face of what he called terrorists and their allies.

He was referring to the Islamic State and some of the most prominent armed Sunni groups who have taken control of large parts of majority-Sunni regions of Iraq. Maliki’s statement will complicate the struggle to form a new government to

Germany arrests ‘double agent’ suspected of spying for US

Aman reported to be an employee of Germany’s BND foreign intelligence agency has been arrested on suspicion of spying for the United States, it emerged on Friday.

The German Federal Prosecutor’s office said in a statement that a 31-yearold man had been arrested on suspicion of being a foreign spy and investigations were continuing. Der Spiegel magazine and the daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung said that the man worked for Germany’s foreign intel-

ligence service, known by its German acronym BND.

German authorities summoned the US Ambassador John B Emerson following the arrest, “in connection with an investigation by the federal prosecutor,” the German Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The US envoy “was asked to help in the swift clarification” of the case, it added.

The case risks further straining ties between Berlin and Washington, which were damaged by revelations last year of mass

surveillance of German citizens by the US National Security Agency, including the monitoring of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s mobile phone. The man, who is German, has admitted passing contact details to an American about a special German parliamentary committee set up to investigate the spying revelations made by former US intelligence contractor Edward Snowden, two lawmakers with knowledge of the affair told Reuters.

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Boko Haram crisis: Nigeria arrests ‘female recruiters’

Three women have been arrested in Nigeria for recruiting female members for the Islamist militant group, Boko Haram, the country’s military says. The women are said to have targeted widows and young girls, promising them marriage to Boko Haram members.

The militant group now has a female wing, the military says. Boko Haram seems to be trying to get women to play a more active role in its insurgency, the BBC’s Will Ross reports from Abuja.

Last month, a female suicide bomber died when she tried to attack a barracks in Gombe State – the first case

One of the arrested women, named as Hafsat Usman Bako, is said to be the widow of a Boko Haram fighter

of its kind in Nigeria. The bomb detonated as she was being searched at a security checkpoint. One soldier was also killed.

Women have also been among those detained in

mass arrests in cities like Maiduguri in northern Nigeria, a region where Boko Haram enjoys a measure of support. The Nigerian military said the three women it had arrested were members of an intelligence cell.

One of them was said to be the widow of a Boko Haram militant. The Islamist group is still holding more than 200 schoolgirls it captured in April in the town of Chibok in Borno state.

Boko Haram is demanding the release of its fighters and their relatives in exchange for the girls. The Government has rejected this. (Excerpt from BBC News)

ISIS horror ends for Indian nurses, all 46 will be home today

Aday that started with despair for Indian nationals in Iraq ended on a bright note as Sunni Islamist group ISIS on Friday afternoon released 46 Indian nurses who had been held captive.

The nurses had been forcibly taken from Tikrit to ISIS’ stronghold Mosul sparking fear that they too had been kidnapped, like the 39 Indian construction workers who remain in captivity in that region.

A special Air India plane

reached Erbil, in Kurdistan, late Friday evening to bring back the nurses, who are from Kerala. A joint secretary from MEA, S.K. Sinha, has gone in the aircraft to coordinate the nurses’ return.

MEA said along with the 46 nurses, another 70 Indians from that area have been taken to Erbil to catch the same flight back home.

The flight is expected to land directly in Kochi on Saturday morning before returning to Delhi.

ISIS gunmen drove the

nurses to a location not far from Erbil – about 80 km from Mosul – in a bus. Indian officials were already in Erbil to receive them.

The swift release suggested there could have been behind-the -scenes negotiations with one of the most hardened jehadi outfits. However, the government, which had sent officials beforehand to Erbil, refused to part with operational details saying that more lives were at stake and that the job was only partly done. (Excerpt from Times of India)

Iraq air raids hit ‘rebel positions in Baiji’

The Iraqi military has launched air raids against armed groups trying to capture the country’s largest oil refinery, killing as many as 30 fighters, authorities say.

unite the ethnically and religiously divided country, something parliament failed to achieve this week. It extends a political deadlock made all the more dangerous by the pressing threat to Iraq’s territorial integrity. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Reports of Friday’s assault came as Government forces claimed to have recaptured the village of the late President Saddam Hussein, and as the country’s top Shia religious leader denounced Iraq’s failure to form a new government.

A fighter jet targeted

about eight vehicles attacking government forces at Baiji, north of Baghdad, Sabah al-Nuaman, Iraqi’s security spokesman, told the AP news agency.

He said up to 30 rebel fighters were killed, but the number cannot be independently verified. Government forces also reported the recapture Saddam’s village of Awja on Thursday night although again that report could not be verified.

Nuaman also said a helicopter gunship fired on a house in the town of al-

Qaim near the Syrian border, where a gathering of local leaders of the Islamic State rebel group was taking place.

He said there were several casualties, but did not have a definite figure. Against this backdrop, Iraq’s most powerful Shia religious leader, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, said on Friday that the Iraqi parliament’s inability to agree on a new government in its first session was a “regrettable failure”. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

saturday, July 5, 2014 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyanese woman is Naomi Campbell lookalike

ANaomi Campbell lookalike who was bullied at school for being “too tall and nerdy” says she cannot walk down the road without being pestered for autographs.

Lystra Adams was constantly teased while at school in Montserrat for being taller than everyone else in her school and looking like a geek.

The name calling and snide whispering was so vicious that the young Lystra used to suffer panic attacks before going to class.

Now the 37-year-old stunner has conquered the bullies and has carved out a successful career in modelling and being the supermodel’s lookalike.

Striking Lystra said: “I was constantly bullied at school – I was always tall and used to tower above most of the older boys, let alone girls my age, and I wore these thick glasses.

“This one girl – who thought she was a top dog – was always calling me names like ‘freak’ and ‘nerd’ and she used to lead everyone in whispering behind my back.

“It doesn’t sound much, but when you’re younger and just want to fit in the constant whispering and teasing caused me to have panic attacks every day before school.

“It was horrible and really knocked my confidence at the time but looking back it has made me a stronger person – all I think now is look at me now!”

Astonishingly when Lystra arrived from Montserrat in 1997 – the height of the supermodel’s catwalk fame – she had no idea who Naomi Campbell was.

The then 20-year-old, originally from Guyana, found herself in Halifax, Yorkshire – a far cry from the runways of Paris, Milan and New York – but was still stared at in the street.

Lystra, who now lives in Staffordshire, joked: “When all these people stared at me, I thought there

was something wrong with me!

No clue

“I had no clue until one day, about a year after I’d arrived, this woman came up to me and told me I looked like Naomi Campbell.

“I just said "Who?!" but when I looked it up I was flattered and started doing lookalike work.

“I signed up with the Model Bank modelling agency in Birmingham, and I have been in work ever since.

“She’s been a bit less of a diva recently though – I need her to throw some more phones so the calls start coming back in!”

For the last 15 years, she has been turning up at functions and events in stretch limos and being “papped” on the red carpet.

She laughs when describing one event where she was surrounded by bodyguards, who took their role so seriously they even followed her into the toilet.

As the supermodel – the first black model to appear on the cover of French Vogue in 1988 – has calmed

down and shied away from the press, lookalike work has slowed for Lystra.

However, she is still stopped in the street wherever she goes – even if she is just out shopping with her partner and her daughter Jasmine, 13.

Lystra said: “Still there isn’t a day goes by where I’m not told I look like her – if I had a pound for every time that happened, I’d have as much money as her!

“Whenever we go on holiday, I’m always stopped for autographs – it probably doesn’t help that I’m wearing sunglasses which makes me look more of a diva!

“I had one woman stop me in the airport and ask for my autograph for her daughter as she was a big fan –even after I told her I wasn’t Naomi.

“On the other hand, another woman shouted at me at the races the other day because she didn’t believe I wasn’t Naomi and said I was lying and being a bitch and a diva!

“Sometimes I just can’t win, but I try not to complain – there are worse people to look like!” (Daily

“Celebrating Caricom” Day with the Caricom song!

Forty-one years ago (July 4, 1973) the founding fathers of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) came together and signed the Treaty of Chaguaramas which established the Community.

Friday marked yet another “Caricom Day” anniversary, a day set aside to commemorate all things Caricom.

This year is even more special because the Region now has an official Caricom song that was launched at the 35th Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government held in Antigua and Barbuda, July 1-4.

“We are inviting you to celebrate with us by playing the Caricom song at your media house. The Caricom song is the official, patriotic song of the community, which celebrates the history, culture and identity of the people of the Caribbean. It is to be used primarily at ceremonial and community events. In celebrating the 40th anni-

versary of Caricom in 2013, the Caricom Secretariat launched a song competition to encourage the participation of all Caricom member states in composing a song that would inspire regional pride and unity, celebrate our diversity and highlight our shared vision and aspirations,” the regional body said in a release.

The song “Celebrating Caricom” was written and composed by Michele Henderson-Delsol, a highly acclaimed recording artiste from the Commonwealth of Dominica.

It was produced by Carl Beaver Henderson from the HOTT Music Group, Trinidad. Other members of the production team were Henderson-Delsol’s husband and manager, Roland Delsol Jr of Audio Solutions Inc, Dominica and Earlson Mathew from the Sonic Arts Studios, Dominica.

The composition was selected by a regional panel of judges as the official Caricom song. A unique feature of the song that celebrates Caricom’s linguistic diversity, is the Kwéyòl spoken in the Lesser

ECLAC calls for “universalising” of Post2015 Development Agenda

Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC)

Executive Secretary Alicia Bárcena has called for “decolonising” the Post-2015 Development Agenda and for setting universal goals rather than just norms prescribed by the most advanced countries for developing countries.

She made these statements during the United Nations High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, held at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

Bárcena participated as a panelist, along with other Executive Secretaries from the United Nations’ regional commissions, in a dialogue entitled “Unlocking and reshaping development and enhancing implementation,” in the framework of the forum’s second meeting, which is taking place from June 30 to July 9 in New York.

and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) Rima Khalaf; and of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Shamshad Akhtar; as well as the Deputy Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) Andrey Vasilyev.

During her stay in New York, ECLAC’s Executive Secretary, along with Rima Khalaf, Shamshad Akhtar and Ingrid Cyimana, Director of ECA’s Strategic Planning and Operations Divisions, attended a meeting on Wednesday between the regional commissions and the permanent missions to the United Nations of the Group of 77 countries and China, to follow up on the Santa Cruz Summit, held in Bolivia last June 14-15.

Political framework

Bárcena, as coordinator of the regional commissions, thanked Bolivia for its leadership in the G77 Presidency and especially its ambassador to the United Nations, Sacha Llorenti, and stressed that the Declaration of Santa Cruz, agreed in June, establishes a political framework that has allowed countries to take a stand on the Post-2015 agenda and on the pressing matters for development in countries in the South and in the Region in particular.

Antilles and Suriname’s Sranan Tongo that punctuate the rhythmic bridge. Singer, songwriter and performer, HendersonDelsol has enjoyed a successful career as an artiste for over 20 years. Born in Grand Bay, Commonwealth of Dominica, she has thrilled audiences with her live performances in and outside the Region, with major performances at the World Creole Music Festival, Dominica; Grenada Spice Jazz Festival; Saint Lucia Jazz Festival; Roskilde Festival in Denmark; Jazz Artistes on the Green in Trinidad and Tobago; among several other performances in the USA, Europe, Martinique and Guadeloupe.

She has recorded six albums to date; her debut album titled “Michele Henderson” (2000) and her most recent being “Home” (2014). She has received numerous music awards in Dominica and was appointed Goodwill Ambassador to Dominica in 2004.

The High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, convened under the aegis of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), was established by the General Assembly in July 2013 to replace the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development, created after the Earth Summit of 1992.

At this meeting, which aims to debate regional priorities for the post-2015 agenda, ECLAC’s Executive Secretary underscored the difficulties that middle-income countries have to access funding sources and she posed the need to achieve global financial governance through the implementation of new mechanisms, such as a global tax on speculative flows, or the strengthening of existing regional mechanisms, such as the Latin American Reserve Fund.

At a national level, Bárcena indicated that to close structural gaps, countries must forge compacts for equality that ensure, among other factors, universal social protection, the governance of natural resources, a progressive and redistributive taxation system, and greater investment, both public and private-oriented towards industrialisation and productive diversification that gives more weight to technology and knowledge.

Other participants in this dialogue included the Executive Secretaries of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) Carlos Lopes; of the Economic

On August 25-26, Bolivia will host in the city of Tarija a meeting of Ministers of Industry, Mining, Finance or similarly high-ranking authorities from the Group of 77 and China on the governance of natural resources and industrialisation, in coordination with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), ECLAC, ECA, ESCWA and ESCAP.

ECLAC’s Executive Secretary proposed at the event held on Wednesday that meetings like the one scheduled in Tarija should take place more frequently, at least twice a year, since they open up an important collaborative space between the regional commissions and the countries of the G77 and China, within the framework of the Declaration of Santa Cruz.

In another meeting organised by ECLAC and the United Nations Development Group-Latin America and the Caribbean (UNDG-LAC), Alicia Bárcena presented to the Ambassadors of Latin American and Caribbean countries to the United Nations, ECLAC’s document Preliminary reflections on Latin America and the Caribbean in the Post-2015 Development Agenda based on the trilogy of equality, in the presence of the Director of the Regional Bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean of the United Nations Development Programme (PNUD), Jessica Faieta. Finally, the senior officials from the five regional commissions also met with the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations Jan Eliasson, and the Under Secretary General for Economic and Social Affairs Wu Hongbo.

Nothing unconstitutional in restoring disapproved funds – Finance Minister

Even as criticisms mount over moves by the Government to spend $4.5 billion in disapproved funds, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh on Thursday maintained that his actions are in keeping with the Constitution of Guyana.

During a recent televised press conference at the National Communications Network (NCN), he sought to clear up a series of misconceptions that have been created by the Opposition’s “mouth pieces”.

“I maintain that this Government has used the Contingency Fund in a prudent and judicious manner; in a manner that has met fully the requirements of the law,” the Minister said.

Alluding to Article 220:1 of the Constitution, Dr Singh said it provides for the Finance Minister to make advances from the Contingency Fund if there is an urgent need for expenditure for which no other provision exists, while Section 41 of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act of 2003 also gives the Finance Minister the “sole authority” to release monies from the Contingencies Fund.

“The Minister shall have the sole authority for the release of monies from the Fund… an authority which shall not be delegated. The Minister, when satisfied that an urgent, unavoidable and unforeseen need for expenditure has risen, for which no monies have been appropriated or for which the sum appropriated is insufficient or for which monies cannot be reallocated or provided for which cannot be differed, may approve a Contingencies Fun advance as an expenditure out of the Consolidated Fund by the issuance of a drawing right,” Singh quoted from the article.

However, the Finance Minister made it clear that systems have been instituted to guarantee transparency and accountability in the utilisation of the funds, as he alluded to the Contingencies Fund Advance Request procedure.

Provisions

“There is a standard request procedure. The request originates from the head of the Budget Agency which is the Permanent Secretary of the requesting Ministry. The request has to be certified by the Permanent Secretary, head of the Budget Agency and by the subject Minister that the request has been made in the conformity with the conditions specified in the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act. Once this is done, it then has to be examined by the technical staff and the Finance Secretary and once it has withstood the scrutiny there, it then comes to

the Minister for approval. That process was followed in respect to the entire contingency request made subsequently made to Parliament for approval in the 10th Parliament. The Minister is not operating on an island by himself,” Dr Singh explained.

The Minister further explained that though the Opposition parties are now crying foul at what they have termed “unlawful spending”; the records are telling a different story since it was they themselves who had approved it when it was proposed in the National Assembly.

He said though the table has turned in favour of the Opposition, 92.6 per cent of the Contingency Fund transactions have been approved during the 10th Parliament.

He explained that during the 10th Parliament, six financial papers were submitted to the National Assembly in relation to the Contingency Fund; Number Seven of 2011, Number Nine of 2011, Number Four of 2012, Number Six of 2012, Number Two of 2013 and Number Four of 2013; carrying a total value of $9.4 billion.

Approval

From the $9.4 billion, approximately $8.7 billion in Contingency Fund transactions was approved by the House.

“Of the total of $9.4 billion worth, requested in Contingency Fund, advance approval of the Parliament, the sum of $8.7 billion approved by the National Assembly... that is not an insignificant fact. The budget agency Minister, line Minister has to exercise a judgment, the technical staff of the Finance Minister has to exercise a judgment and ultimately the Minister of Finance.

“So you have all those level of

scrutiny and at the apex of this, you have the Parliament exercising an ultimate judgment and the 10th Parliament of Guyana spoke very clearly, I have seen some of the Opposition mouth pieces saying the Parliament approving these things with a heavy heart, well I am saying the Parliament votes ‘yes’ or ‘no’ and the Parliament is free to vote ‘no’ as it has vote in the past; it is not like this is a Parliament that is afraid to say ‘no’. This Parliament acting in its deliberate judgment approved 93 per cent of the value of all the Contingency Fund advance request, this Opposition controlled Parliament deliberately examine all of the transactions that can’t be dismissed as an insignificant fact, and represents a resounding endorsement a Parliament that has been so willing and prepared to express its disapproval with Government action,” the Minister declared.

Dr Singh noted that the recent statements made by the Opposition parties were nothing more than political gimmicky.

Personal vendetta

“There is a political objective… this is an inescapable fact… so what you are seeing playing out here is a personal vendetta against the Finance Minister. It is a politically-motivated campaign that it driven on the basis of distortion…,” he said.

Meanwhile, as it relates to the Statements of Excess, the Minister related that these too were presented to the National Assembly and had so too received approval.

“The instrument of the Statement of Excess has been used in the Parliament before, in fact the same Opposition that is now speaking about disrespect for the Parliament and speaking about wanting to make a report to the Police that... what they are not saying is that they themselves in the Parliament controlled by them, have approved previous Statement of Excess; this Statement of Excess going to Parliament is not the first Statement of Excess that has gone to the Parliament, is not the second or third, it is the fourth Statement of Excess to be considered by this Parliament in 2012.

“Since the convening of the 10th Parliament, three financial papers comprising statements of excess have been tabled in the National Assembly and were considered by the National Assembly with more than a half of those items, 58.9 per cent of the items approved, but suddenly now they wake up and want to create a holalubu,” Dr Singh stated.

Manickchand lauds Golden Grove Primary for “excellent work”

Teachers of the Golden Grove Primary School, East Coast Demerara were praised by parents for the impressive job they have been doing, which has resulted in the students excelling at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), and Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Examination. The school was made a primary top in 2001.

During a visit to the school on Thursday, Education Minister Priya Manickchand interacted with parents and teachers on the procedure for the distribution of the $10,000 cash grant, which is scheduled to be disbursed in September.

Minister Manickchand lauded the hundreds of parents/guardians who were present at the event, and commended the teachers for the excellent job they are doing which has resulted in two students gaining entry in one of the top schools in Georgetown.

Studies have shown that educating the world’s people will change circumstances and can be used as a pillar for economic growth. It is for this reason, the Government of Guyana has been investing billions of dollars in the education sector, providing the much needed infrastructure, and creating policies and programmes to ensure the country’s children receive quality education.

Minister Manickchand told the parents the while the Government is providing the necessary infrastructure and materials needed, their full involvement in their children's lives is very important in order for the child to excel academically.

Minister Manickchand took the opportunity to highlight the many changes that have occurred in the education sector over the past two decades.

Achievements

Today, 70 per cent of teachers across Guyana are trained; every primary age child can access prima-

ry education and is equipped with Mathematics, English, Science and Social Studies text books to take home.

Having achieved Universal Primary Education, Government is now working on achieving Universal Secondary Education.

Regions Two, Four, Five and 10 have already achieved Universal Secondary Education, while Regions One, Three, Six, Seven, Eight and Nine are set to achieve this goal by the end of 2015.

When asked about the distribution of the cash grant, the parents told the Minister that they prefer the money be disbursed through Western Union, which they say will be more convenient for them. Minister Manickchand told the parents that the Ministry is still to consult with the other schools and based on other requests, a decision will be taken.

This initiative was introduced this year by Government, which will see the sum of $10,000 being allocated to every child in the public system. The initiative is expected to benefit 188,406 families of the students of nursery, primary, and secondary schools, and will cost a total of $2 billion.

During the meeting, parents also received the annual uniform vouchers, to be used to make purchases at accredited stores.

Parents also had the opportunity to raise concerns among which was the need for the school to be painted. They are also requesting that the Ministry look into the constant water issue the school has been encountering.

Minister Manickchand said the Ministry will look at painting the school in the near future. As it relates to the water issue, she said that it has always been a problem in the area; however, the Ministry will make representation through the relevant agency. (GINA)

New roadmap for boosting small-scale and family forest producers

Indigenous peoples, local communities and private smallholders own or manage a growing proportion of the world’s forests and can play a significant role in tackling deforestation and reducing poverty - especially if they band together in producer organisations, say two new publications released today by FAO and a group of its partners.

In many rural economies, the forest enterprises of families and communities are major contributors to local livelihoods. Unfortunately, the vital role that they play is often overlooked in government policies. A crucial constraint is their isolation from each other, from markets, information, business services, policymakers, financing and investment opportunities.

Two policy papers, published to-

day by the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) - a partnership between FAO, the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) - argue that a better policy environment, coupled with targeted support to help small-scale forest and farm producers organize themselves into forest producer organisations could turn this situation around.

“Coming together in forest and farm producer organisations can help overcome their isolation as well as other very real constraints, such as a lack of secure forest tenure and financial and business development instruments”, said FAO Forestry Officer Jeffrey Campbell. “They must compete with large-scale businesses that often receive preferential treat-

ment, access to markets, financing and resources”.

“Governments need to provide legal status and services for organisations of small-scale forest and farm producers, which will serve their interests and help reduce rural poverty”, he added. “The support for forest and farm producers, encapsulated within the Forest and Farm Facility, is critical. It is critical to unleash the potential of locally controlled forestry - reducing poverty and protecting forests - together”, said Duncan Macqueen, Principal Researcher of IIED.

“As a group, smallholders and community and Indigenous Peoples forest producers play a major role in global trade, and yet are often overlooked when we talk about the role of the private sector in forest land-

scape management and restoration.” says Chris Buss, Deputy Director of IUCN’s Forest and Climate Change Programme. “It is crucial therefore to ensure forest producer organisations are strengthened and empowered if we are to scale up efforts in order to achieve goals such as Bonn Challenge to restore 150 million hectares of degraded and deforested lands by 2020, which will in turn contribute to delivery on international climate, biodiversity and development targets.”

The new policy brief offers six key recommendations to develop effective forest producer organisations, reduce poverty and improve livelihoods of forest-dependent people: Encouraging knowledge sharing and increasing the visibility of forest and farm producer organisations in policymaking; Developing incen-

tives to strengthen locally controlled forestry and facilitating networking among forest and farm organisations; Creating supporting legal frameworks, protecting forest tenure rights of indigenous people, local communities, removing regulatory barriers, securing access to support services, especially extension services; providing forest and farm organisations and their members with greater access to financial services, such as affordable credit and insurance; connecting forest smallholders to markets and services, including negotiation of fair market prices and provision of realtime market information and building a worldwide coalition of forest and farm producer organisations to influence policymaking and generate momentum for greater support.

SUDOKU

Keep your finances and legal documents stored securely away. Don’t trust anyone who is prying into your personal affairs. Listen and observe, and you will avoid meddling.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

You can accomplish plenty if you let your inhibitions go and your imagination run wild. Your plans will fall effortlessly into place. Romance and love will play a big part in your day.

Feel free to make suggestions, but remember that others aren’t obliged to do as you say. Don’t be grumpy if you can’t get what you want. Accept the inevitable.

You can form a gratifying partnership with someone who shares your values and your high standards. Good communication and mutual respect will help you to meet your financial target.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

Reduce the drudgery of your domestic chores by enlisting the help of friends. By spreading the work around, you will have time left over to enjoy a meal together.

(March 21-April 19)

Be agreeable and adaptable today. You may end up heading in a different direction, but going along with the crowd for now will take the pressure off of you to make thing happen.

(April 20-May 20)

To decide the best course of action, different viewpoints are essential. Discussions with others in your chosen field will help you to make the right decisions. Network with others and learn.

(May 21June 20)

Lighthearted entertainment is exactly what you need. Your friends will be delighted if you take part in an event or activity that requires someone with skills like yours.

Don’t be overwhelmed by your agenda. Take one step at a time until you reach your destination. Learn from experience and savour the moments that bring you joy.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

You need to face up to the issues that you’ve been avoiding. It’s quite possible that you have blown things out of proportion. Stop procrastinating, and do what needs to be done.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Don’t be too quick to sign on the dotted line. Your time and money are precious and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Get all the facts before you consider a new project.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

You have a knack for commanding attention. Your entertaining way of speaking will make you an impressive leader at any event or function. Have fun and enjoy the moment.

Guyana Amazon Warriors trio looking forward to Limacol CPL

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

With the start of the Limacol Caribbean Premier League (CPL) just a week away, players on the six participating franchises are putting the final touches on their preparation with the aim of leading their respective teams to championship honours come August 16.

Among those looking to steal the limelight for top honours in the ‘Biggest Party in Sport’ are the Guyana Amazon Warriors trio of New Zealand opening batsman Martin Guptill, Guyanese middle-order batsman Leon Johnson and his compatriot, West Indies Under-19 opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul.

Guyana Times Sport caught up with the three players during a promotional event on Friday at Courts Main Street branch where they mingled with fans and obliged them with a few photographs and autographs.

Guptill, the powerfully built right-hander, was among the leading batsmen for the Guyana Amazon Warriors last year, scoring

198 runs from seven games at a strike rate of 126.51. This time around, the 27-year-old is determined to ensure the Amazon Warriors go one step further and lift the title, after losing to Jamaica Tallawahs in the final in 2013. “Last year we lost at the final hurdle, but we’ve put that down to expe-

rience and hopefully we can go one step further and win it,” he said.

During the 2013 competition, Guptill formed a strong alliance with Trinidad and Tobago opener Lendl Simmons, consistently giving the Amazon Warriors a solid platform on which to build.

While Guptill is once again looking to link up with his fellow right-hander at the top of the order, overall team success is utmost in his mind.

“I just want to be the best I can be really. If I can score a few runs and help Guyana to win the tournament then that would be a huge success

for me. Hopefully, I can get back at the top of the order with Lendl and put in some big partnerships for the team,” he concluded.

The left-handed Johnson, a newcomer to the Limacol CPL, is also looking forward to solid performances during the tournament.

Despite being involved predominantly in FirstClass and List A cricket so far this year, the West Indies Test selectee during the just concluded series against New Zealand, is confident of making the adjustment and contributing to the team’s success.

“We’re all professionals and you have to make adjustments…once you have a solid foundation and technique, you would be able to adjust to any form of cricket,” Johnson, who will be celebrating his 27th birthday during the tournament on August 8, remarked.

Looking at the Guyana Amazon Warriors chances of bettering their runner-up spot from last year, Johnson was adamant the South American-based franchise can cop the title.

“I think the chances are

Digicel Schools Football Tournament…

good; if you look at the other teams they’ve strengthened up a bit, but with Guyana a lot of the core players are back so I think we can go one better this year and win it,” the former West Indies Under-19 captain said.

Tagenarine, the son of prolific West Indies middleorder batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, is part of a group of six Under-19 players who have been assembled to train alongside the main squad of 15 players.

For Tagenarine, the opportunity could not have come at a better time. “It’s been good so far, we’ve been doing some training and practice sessions and I’m sure it will be good for us as Under-19 players; it’s been good exposure for us so far.”

Tagenarine apart, the other Under-19 players are Shimron Hetmyer, Daniel Basdeo, Akshaya Persaud, Kemo Paul and Kevin Paul.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors will be involved in the first match of the competition, against the Antigua Hawksbills on July 11 at 14:00 hours at St George’s, Grenada.

Charlestown produces strong showing against Brickdam

By TReisTon Joseph

Charlestown

Secondary School

showcased their goal scoring ability when they came up against Brickdam Secondary School when the Digicel Schools Football competition continued on Friday at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue.

It was evident from the beginning of the encounter which was the better team under the wet conditions as Charlestown was able to breakdown the defence of Brickdam with their speed and agility.

Only three minutes into the game and Charlestown’s Aroydy Brandford broke free to spike in a goal to give his team the early lead. Brickdam had a few good possessions where they produced good build ups but never really threatened

Charlestown’s goal keeper.

Omari James would then strike for Charlestown in the 25th minute to give Charlestown a 2-0 lead heading into halftime.

On the resumption, Charlestown scored early again from the boot of Brandford in the 38th minute.

Tomol Mingo would then receive a cross to easily slot in a shot in the 66th minute before James dribbled past two defenders hold off another and blast a strike in the back of the net for his second goal in the final minute of the game.

“This performance is usual for me, I just want to praise my teammates because it was a successful win,” James stated after the win.

Meanwhile, in another Georgetown clash at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, North

Ruimveldt Secondary School secured a 2-0 victory over Tucville Secondary School.

Matthew Harrison

scored the game’s opening goal in the 15th minute for the first half’s only goal while Jeremy Garrett would

cap off the performance in the 61st minute to move North Ruimveldt to the second round.

Meanwhile Queen’s College (QC) edged Carmel Secondary School on Thursday after the game ended with QC winning on penalty kicks after a 2-2 draw.

Carmel, who initially defeated QC 2-1 earlier in the week, had to replay the game after QC filed an appeal due to Carmel having 12 players on the field until 10 minutes into the second half of their first encounter.

Marlon Allen scored in the 10 minute for Carmel and registered his second thirty minutes later before QC’s Joel Richards would strike three minutes into the second half.

QC’s Shemar Britton, who is the best junior table tennis player in the country, showed his versatility as an athlete with an equalizing strike in the 78th minute. QC would go on to win 4-3 on penalties.

Enthusiastic Guyanese cash in on Amazon Warriors merchandise

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

Hundreds of enthusiastic Guyanese flocked the Courts Main Street branch on Friday to cash in on Guyana Amazon Warriors merchandise and share a moment with some of the players as the 2014 Limacol Caribbean Premier League continues to gain momentum ahead of the July 11 start in Grenada.

The furniture and appliance store was a hive of activity as fans grabbed

the opportunity to purchase their own Amazon Warriors branded products at a reduced cost, as well as collect Limacol giveaways.

These included Guyana Amazon Warriors shirts, bags, caps and pins and Limacol samples, diaries and shirts. Marketing Associate of NEW GPC INC, the producers of Limacol, Livasti Bhooplall, was enthused by the response from Guyanese.

“It’s been overwhelming; fans have been coming in and purchasing mer-

chandise and the excitment is building for this Limacol CPL,” a beaming Bhooplall said.

Marketing Manager of NEW GPC INC, Trevor Bassoo, said Friday’s activity would certainly not be the end of Limacol’s benevolence, as a number of other promotions have been formulated to ensure patrons get a lot more than the exciting on-field action during the July 11 to August 16 tournament.

“Just to give you a little idea, we’re giving away some promotional items at the Stadium and what

we’re doing we’re not just doing it in Guyana; we’re doing it across the region. And I think the fans are more interested in this one- we have the Limacol Cool Fan award again this year, so we’re encouraging the fans to come out and dress to the extreme, come out with outrageous outfits and enegetic looking constumes,” Bassoo explained.

The fan who is adjudged to have best portrayed what the panel is looking for will be US$100 richer and will also have his/her claim to fame by being displayed on the massive screens that

will be erected around the venues.

Meanwhile, customers at the store were also given an opportunity to win prizes during a ‘bowl out’ competition.

During the activity, the Guyana Amazon Warriors cricketers – opening batsman Martin Guptill of New Zealand, middle-order batsman Leon Johnson and West Indies Under-19 opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul – willingly shared a photo moment with customers, fans and

staff of Courts branch, and even agreed to autograph Amazon Warriors memorabilia on the spot.

Exciting action in the Limacol Caribbean Premier League will commence on July 11 in Grenada and conclude on August 16 in St Kitts. The Chris Gayle-led Jamaica Tallawahs will put their title on the line against the Amazon Warriors, Barbados Tridents, Antigua Hawksbills, St Lucia Zouks and Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel.

Germany beat France to reach semi-finals Stunning Luiz goal sends Brazil through

Germany became the first nation to reach four consecutive World Cup semi-finals as Mats Hummels’ early header proved enough to see them past France at the Maracana. The threetime champions needed extra time to beat Algeria in the last 16 and suffered a bout of illness in midweek, but they were comfortable victors over a disappointing France in Rio de Janeiro.

Hummels got the better of Raphael Varane to score what proved to be the winning goal and Germany can now prepare for a meeting with Brazil in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday after the hosts beat Colombia. Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer gave another faultless performance and Joachim Low’s men deserved their win against a France side who failed to hit the heights of earlier in the tournament.

It is 60 years to the day since Germany overturned a two-goal deficit to upset Hungary in the 1954 final, and this will go down as another memorable day in their history.

In the build-up, Low dismissed talk of France seeking revenge for 1982, when Germany goalkeeper Harald Schumacher escaped punishment for a brutal challenge on Patrick Battiston and went on to save two penalties as his side came through a shootout to reach

the final.

But what could not be ignored was Germany’s greater experience and, despite a reconfigured starting lineup and doubts over their health, they again showed their international pedigree. Hummels returned to central defence after a bout of “flu-like symptoms”, with Per Mertesacker unexpectedly the man to make way as Germany looked to contain France’s quick forwards. Philipp Lahm moved from midfield to rightback in place of Shkodran Mustafi, Sami Khedira coming into midfield, and there was a surprise start for 36-year-old Miroslav Klose in attack. Germany looked far more balanced than against Algeria in their last match, and a period of sustained pressure told when Hummels held off Varane to guide home a Toni Kroos free-kick.

It was the first time France had gone behind in the tournament and the first time they had conceded in the opening half. Their afternoon could have got worse when Mathieu Debuchy challenged Klose in the box, only for referee Nestor Pitana to ignore the Germany appeals. Les Bleus were struggling to find any rhythm as Bastian Schweinsteiger, Khedira and the excellent Kroos dominated the midfield, but they soon began to expose Germany’s dangerous-

ly high defensive line.

Antoine Griezmann broke clear and crossed for Mathieu Valbuena to force Neuer into a stunning onehanded save and Karim Benzema’s close-range follow-up was deflected over the bar. Benzema went close twice more as France gained some momentum before half-time, and they maintained it after the break as Yohan Cabaye, Paul Pogba and Blaise Matuidi gained control of the central areas, allowing Griezmann and Valbuena to cause damage from wide.

But Germany appeared to realise the increased threat, dropping deeper and limiting France to a Varane header and Matuidi strike that were both comfortably saved by Neuer. Low introduced Andre Schurrle from the bench and he significantly boosted the tiring Germans, although he might have done better with two opportunities on the counter attack. France manager Didier Deschamps turned to Olivier Giroud, who set up Benzema in stoppage time, only for Neuer to repel his angled drive with a strong fist.

The atmosphere inside this iconic ground was relatively flat, reflecting an unspectacular encounter, but at the end the Germany celebrations and France tears illustrated just how much the result meant. (BBC Sport)

Brazil secured a World Cup semi-final against Germany with a 2-1 victory over Colombia on a night of gripping tension and passion in Fortaleza. Captain Thiago Silva set Luiz Felipe Scolari’s side on the way with an early goal, and Brazil looked to be set for a comfortable passage into the last four after David Luiz’s brilliant second-half free-kick.

In a magnificent atmosphere built on a cascade of colour and a wall of sound, new World Cup star James Rodriguez set up a thrilling finale when he pulled a goal back from the penalty spot with 10 minutes left. In a frantic closing phase, Colombia were unable to force the chance that could have brought extra time, and it is the hosts who will meet Germany in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday.

But Brazil will be without superstar and main striking hope Neymar, who has been ruled out of the World Cup with a fractured vertebra after being kneed in the back by Juan Zuniga. They will also be missing captain Thiago Silva, who is suspended after being booked.

Colombia had complaints of their own, chiefly the lack of protection offered to Rodriguez, who was on the receiving end of some fierce challenges as Brazil sought to nullify his influence. He broke down in tears at the final whistle as he was consoled by the Brazil players who had offered him none of that com-

modity during a harrowing physical ordeal which proved he has the courage to go with his natural ability.

Brazil and their supporters, in contrast, went wild with elation at the final whistle. The goal of reaching the final - and making up for the 1950 World Cup loss to Uruguay in Rio that is still one of this nation’s darkest sporting days - lives on.

Germany, who beat France 1-0 in their quarter-final, will need to show mental strength to cope with the tidal wave of emotion and support that Scolari hopes will carry Brazil to the Maracana a week on Sunday. Fortaleza offered up a cauldron of noise and a sea of yellow shirts in an atmosphere that ensured Brazil would launch into a series of adrenalin-fuelled attacks.

Scolari’s hope was to push Colombia into unknown territory and the strategy was helped by a goal built largely on defensive carelessness after seven minutes.

Neymar’s corner was a routine affair with little serious menace but it was allowed to drift to the far post, where Carlos Sanchez switched off to allow Silva to bundle home. Scolari and his players were just as aware of the threat posed by Juan Cuadrado as the celebrated Rodriguez, and he illustrated exactly why with a shot that was inches away from 20 yards.

This was much more like it from Brazil, though, and it would have been no surprise

had they extended their advantage by the interval as they showed genuine threat against a somewhat timid Colombian side. It was down to keeper David Ospina that they did not as he twice saved well from the excellent Hulk, on the second occasion recovering well to then clutch Oscar’s long-range effort.

Scolari insisted Brazil had formulated no special plans to deal with Rodriguez, but it was clear they were determined to test the 22-year-old in a succession of reckless physical challenges. It was after Rodriguez was shown a yellow card for a foul on Hulk by the extraordinarily lenient referee Carlos Velasco Carballo that Brazil scored the goal that effectively sent them into the last four.

Luiz came in off his long run to strike a 25-yard freekick that left the stretching Ospina clutching at thin air as it flew high to his left. The vast bowl of a stadium reverberated to an expression of relief as well as celebration. It came just after Colombia thought they were back in the game, only to see Mario Yepes’s goal ruled out for an earlier offside. To his credit, Rodriguez was undeterred by Brazil’s close attentions and it was his astute pass that led to substitute Carlos Bacca being upended by Julio Cesar. After a short delay, and some well-chosen words from Luiz, Rodriguez was calmness personified to send the keeper the wrong way. (BBC Sport)

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Neymar ruled out of World Cup

Brazil forward Neymar has been ruled out of the World Cup after being injured in the 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia. The 22-year-old was carried off on a stretcher and taken to hospital after being kneed in the back by Juan Zuniga.

A team doctor confirmed the Barcelona player fractured a vertebra in his back.

Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said: “Neymar was going to be hunted. For three matches that has been happening.”

Wimbledon

Team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told Brazil’s SportTV: “Unfortunately, he’s not going to be able to play. “It’s not serious in the sense that it doesn’t need surgery, but he’ll need to immobilise it to recover.”

Lasmar added that he expected the recovery period to take at least a few weeks.

Neymar recovered from thigh and knee injuries sustained in the secondround win over Chile to play against Colombia. He

has featured in all five of Brazil’s matches at the 2014 Fifa World Cup and is their top scorer with four goals. Neymar had a quiet game in Fortaleza and was replaced in the 88th minute when Colombia defender Juan Zuniga challenged him in an incident that went unpunished by referee Carlos Velasco Carballo.

Scolari said: “Not even a yellow card, nothing. People think Germany, these or the others, only they are hunted but not Neymar.”

2014 women's final: Eugenie Bouchard v Petra Kvitova

Petra Kvitova will attempt to win the women's singles at Wimbledon for the second time when she meets Eugenie Bouchard in Saturday's final.

Czech Kvitova, the 24-year-old sixth seed, has not reached a Grand Slam final since she beat Maria Sharapova to win the Wimbledon title in 2011.

Bouchard, 20, is the first Canadian to play in a major singles final.

The 13th seed, who reached the last four of the Australian and French Opens this year, is yet to drop a set.

For much of this year's Wimbledon Championships, talk has surrounded a supposed changing of the guard in both the men's and women's games.

Though the men's final features familiar faces Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, we witness the beginning of a new era in the women's game, with two players born in the 1990s in a Grand Slam final

for the first time.

For Bouchard, the 2012 girls' champion, a run to the final might represent natural progression following two Grand Slam semi-final appearances already this year, but this is still only her sixth appearance in one of the top four tournaments.

Her route to the final could have been blocked by Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova but, instead, she disposed of their respective conquerors, Alize Cornet and Angelique Kerber.

But she saved her most impressive performance for the semi-final, brushing aside Simona Halep, the third seed and form player of the past 12 months, in straight sets.

If she is successful, Bouchard will become the youngest Grand Slam winner since Sharapova's victory in the 2006 US Open final aged 19.

For that to happen, she must find a way past Kvitova, a name not often mentioned

as part of the new breed, but still only 24.

The left-hander is bidding to become only the fourth multiple Wimbledon champion since 1990, following Steffi Graf and the Williams sisters.

On her run to the final, Kvitova has not had to beat an opponent ranked inside the world's top 10, a trend that will continue when she meets world number 13 Bouchard.

However, she did defeat five-time champion Venus Williams in round three before beating fellow Czechs Barbora Zahlavova Strycova and Lucie Safarova in the quarter-finals and semi-finals respectively.

Regardless of the result, 2014 is the third successive year in which the first three Grand Slams will be won by three different players, following Li Na's success at the Australian Open and Sharapova's Roland Garros victory. (BBC Sports)

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Federer sets up Djokovic

Seven-time champion Roger Federer dismantled the big-serving game of Canadian Milos Raonic to reach his ninth Wimbledon final. The Swiss, 32, broke Raonic in the first game and went on to win 6-4 6-4 6-4 in one hour and 42 minutes.

He will take on top seed Novak Djokovic in Sunday’s final, after the Serb beat Grigor Dimitrov in four sets. Federer is trying to win his 18th Grand Slam title, and his first since beating Andy Murray at Wimbledon in 2012. Fifteen years after mak-

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Federer has the chance to extend the record he has

already set for major victories and break new ground for Wimbledon titles in the men’s game.

22 Amazon Warriors to play two practice games against Guyana Select Team

As part of their preparations for this year’s Limacol Caribbean Premier League T20 Tournament, the local franchise will be engaging a Guyana Select Team in two day/night practice encounters later this afternoon and on Sunday at the Guyana National Stadium.

Both games commence at 14:00h and admission to the National Stadium is free.

The Warriors will be without Captain Denesh Ramdin, Lendl Simmons, Krishmar Santokie and Sunil Narine, local star Christopher Barnwell and James Neesham, who replaced the injured Corey Anderson.

Those players are expected to feature in the West Indies/New Zealand T20 series. New Zealand and West Indies will play two T20 Internationals on July 5 and 6.

Pakistan’s Mohammad Hafeez will join the team sometime today, according to manager Omar Khan.

The other players, international player New Zealander Martin Guptill, Veerasammy Permaul, Ronsford Beaton, Navin Stewart, Steven Jacobs, Leon Johnson, Robin Bacchus and Trevon Griffith along with the six Under-19 players Shimron Hetmeyer, Akshaya

Persaud, Kevin Paul, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Daniel Basdeo and Kemo Paul will make up the Warriors line-up. However, Paul will not be available for Sunday’s game. He will join the Guyana Under-17 squad for this year’s regional youth tournament, beginning next Tuesday in Trinidad and Tobago.

Regional U-17 Tournament...

Guyana will be seek-

ing the only accolade that has eluded its youth team when the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) regional Under-17 tournament bowls off next week in Trinidad and Tobago.

And, according to coach Gavin Nedd, the team’s allround ability is Guyana’s main weapon for success.

Nedd, during an exclusive interview with Guyana

Guyana Select Team reads: Shemroy Barrington, Andrew Lyght Jr, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Chris Pattadin, Anthony Bramble, Ricardo Adams, Troy Gonsalves, Randy Lindore, Keon Joseph, Raun Johnson, Anthony Adams, Devendra Bishoo, Reul Brown, Randolph Knight and Jamal Hinckson.

Women put on stellar performances at National Senior Squash C/ships

Action in the women’s preliminary rounds of the 2014 National Senior Squash Championships got underway with some stellar performances at the Georgetown Club on Thursday evening.

The tournament, organized by the Guyana Squash Association (GSA), in collaboration with Digicel, saw former junior champion Tiffany Solomon falling to arguably Guyana’s best hockey goal keeper Alysa Xavier.

Solomon gritted out a tough first set that ended 13-11before Xavier dominated to win three straight sets, 11-9, 11-8 and 12-10, to end the match with a 4-1 victory.

Budding star Taylor Fernandes played lights out against former junior Caribbean champion Andrea King with a remarkable 3-2 comeback victory.

King displayed why she was a junior Caribbean champion, showing off her speed and accuracy to win the first two sets at 12-10 and 11-7.

Times Sport on Friday said he is backing his charges to make Guyana proud, adding that the team would be going all out to win the title.

“Overall we have a very a good all-round team. We have players with the ability to perform at this level and win matches. The main strength of this side, however, is the team unity and self-belief. The players are a mentally strong group of young men. At the moment

the players are thinking about their contribution to the team and the overall team goals.”

Nedd continued, “We have a positive attitude in the camp, team spirit and the level of discipline are very high and that the players are eager to get into action”.

Speaking about the players in the squad, the former youth player said, “We have a talented squad with capable batsmen and wicket-taking bowlers.”

He stated that he expects a lot from vice cap-

However, with both players playing at a peak level Fernandes broke a 9-9 deadlock in the third set to win the crucial set point at 11-9.

Exhaustion was visible on King’s side as Fernandes,

tain Renaldo Ali-Mohamed and fast bowling all-rounder Kemo Paul.

“These are two senior guys in the team; I know what they are capable of and I am looking forward to their support in every department,” added Nedd.

the fitter of the two, took advantage and capitalised to win the final two sets easily at 11-5 and 11-1 to complete the come from behind win.

Another former junior Caribbean champion, Kathy Ten-Pow easily took care of Under-15 junior champion Rebecca Low in straight sets, 11-6, 11-4 and 11-7.

Larissa Wiltshire dominated junior player Sarah Lewis despite working hard to win the final set of the match.

Wiltshire cruised to a two set lead at 11-4 and 11-2 before Lewis would put some effort into the match but it was only enough to make Wiltshire break a sweat as the latter won 12-10.

The men’s open category saw former national champion Regan Pollard defeating junior player Alec Melville in three straight sets, 119, 11-3 and 11-9, while overseas-based Richard Chin, who is also a former Caribbean Champion, won easily against Haopei Yang11-1, 11-2 and 11-6.

Nicholas Narain then

Guyana will be in action on Tuesday against the Leeward Islands.

played one of the best games of the day, defeating Oliver Kear-Downes 4-1. Narain won the first two sets 11-9 and 11-7 before Kear-Downes found some rhythm to win the third 115.

However, with KearDownes up 10-8 in the fourth set and looking to force a fifth and final set, Narain would make a final push to win the fourth set and the game at 14-12. Full results of the night:-

Women’s Open

Taylor Fernandes def.

Andrea King 10 - 12, 7 - 11, 11 - 9, 11 - 5, 11 - 1 Alysa Xavier def. Tiffany Solomon 11- 13, 11 - 9, 118, 12 - 10

Kathy Ten-Pow def. Rebecca Low 11 - 6, 11 - 4, 11 - 7

Larissa Wiltshire def. Sarah Lewis 11 - 4, 11 - 2, 12 - 10

Men’s Open Regan Pollard def. Alec Melville 11 - 9, 11 - 3, 11 - 9

Nicholas Narain def. Oliver kear-Downes 11 - 9, 11 - 7, 5 - 11, 12 - 10

Richard Chin def. Haopei Yang 11 - 1, 11 - 2, 11 - 6. Nyron Joseph def. Ian Mekdeci 11 - 7, 11 - 1, 11 - 5

Deje Dias def. Robert Hiscock 11 - 1, 11 - 3, 11 - 9

Jason Ray Khalil def. Antonio Joseph 11 - 3, 110, 11 - 0

Ben Mekdeci def. Joshua Abdool 11 - 6, 11 - 1, 11 - 5

Veterans Men’s Over 50 Mike Atherly def. Robin Low 11 - 3, 11 - 3, 11 - 3

Men’s Open Plate Jamaal Douglas received a walkover from Dustani Barrow

The Guyanese will then play Barbados on July 9, hosts Trinidad and Tobago on July 11, Jamaica on July 13, and Windward Islands on July 15.

The tournament will comprise five rounds and 15 50-over matches that will be played on a round robin format.

The full squad reads: Travis Persaud (captain), Renaldo AliMohamed (vice-captain), Adrian Sukwah, Raymond Perez, Ronaldo Rene, Sherfane Rutherford, Ramnarine Chatura, Timothy McAlmont, Brandon Prasad, Keemo Paul, Kelvin Shewprasad, Akenie Adams, Richie Looknauth and Ratash Umrao. Manager: Nazeer Mohamed and coach Gavin Nedd.

The squad will depart for Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday.

Organisers of the inaugural ‘Cricket For Unity’ T20 match between Roraima Strikers and Kaieteur Thunders today at the Demerara Cricket Club ground, Queenstown, have advised that the game has been called off due to the current inclement weather. Rain has left the venue in a soggy state which has forced the postponement of the game. A new date of Saturday July 26 has been fixed for the game at the same venue. Players from the respective teams are asked to take note.

Fortune medals in T&T Senior Championships

Local sprinter Alisha Fortune showed no signs of slowing down as she grabbed a silver medal at the Trinidad Senior Championships held from June 20 to 22 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.

The veteran sprinter won silver in the 200 metres with a time of 24.51s while taking bronze in the women’s 100 metres with a time of 12.02s.

100 metres event to cap off a good showing at the championships.

10 seconds while doing her personal best in the 800 metres with a time of 2 minutes 19s.

Fortune, who told Guyana Times Sport that she “feels good” about the performances, also won gold in the Master’s

West Indies back to format they relish

Having had to scrap every inch of the way to secure a historic Test series win, it’s only natural if New Zealand’s intensity dips to an extent for the two T20s that end their tour. The fact that they haven’t bothered to fly in any limitedovers specialists specifically for the T20 series only adds to the feeling that New Zealand aren’t looking at this as a particularly high-priority task. .

Kane Williamson sought to play this down ahead of the first T20 on July 5 at Roseau.

“It can be a challenge when you spend so much time away from home and you get close to leaving, but the guys are all focused on these two T20s and they want to enjoy them and it would be great to come away with some wins,” he said. “We are always backing ourselves. We know the West Indies are one of the best teams in the world, if not the best team in the world, at this format so we know it will be a good challenge.”

West Indies are close to being at full-strength, apart from their resting of Chris Gayle, and will present New Zealand very different questions from the ones they answered so comprehensively in whites.

Krishmar Santokie, Sunil Narine and Samuel Badree represent, arguably, the best T20 attack in the world, and it will be a test for New Zealand’s batsmen to adjust to facing things like slower balls and carrom balls all over again.

Ross Taylor and Brendon McCullum, meanwhile, will want some runs after an ordinary time in whites,

while Corey Anderson and Luke Ronchi will welcome some action having played no part in the Tests.

West Indies, by now, are familiar with the situation they face - a side full of limited-overs specialists looking to salvage a win or two after their team has lost a Test series. But within that are a few key personnel changes in the batting department. Dwayne Bravo is still quite a way from recovering from his knee injury, but that is balanced by the return of Keiron Pollard after a year out of international cricket. Lendl Simmons will look to carry the form from a successful IPL season into the international level, having had a relatively quiet T20I career so far. Marlon Samuels is out of the middle order, and Darren Bravo will most likely take his place.

Darren Sammy returns to lead the side in the only format in which he captains West Indies. With a host of other short-form stars also back, West Indies are a formidable side even in the absence of Gayle and Dwayne Bravo.

West Indies (probable) 1 Dwayne Smith, 2 Lendl Simmons, 3 Andre Fletcher, 4 Darren Bravo, 5 Kieron Pollard, 6 Darren Sammy (capt), 7 Denesh Ramdin (wk), 8 Andre Russell, 9 Sunil Narine, 10 Samuel Badree, 11 Krishmar Santokie

New Zealand (possible) 1 Kane Williamson, 2 Jimmy Neesham, 3 Brendon McCullum (capt), 4 Ross Taylor, 5 Tom Latham/BJ Watling, 6 Corey Anderson, 6 , 7 Luke Ronchi (wk), 8 Mark Craig, 9 Tim Southee, 10 Neil Wagner/Mark Craig, 11 Trent Boult

Meanwhile, Carifta 1500 metres bronze medalist Andrea Foster also put in a good showing at the event, capturing silver in the 1500 metre with a time of 5 minutes,

However, last Sunday Foster won the You Decide 7 kilometres event in Trinidad with a time of 27 minutes and 36 seconds.

Lloyd welcomes passage of Cricket Administration Bill

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Legendary former West Indies

Cricket Captain Clive Lloyd says the passage of the Cricket Administration Bill is certainly not an upheaval but it can categorically offer this nation the opportunity to make Guyana great again as a contributor to regional and world cricket.

Lloyd made the disclosure during an exclusive interview with Guyana Times Sport on Friday.

Considered one of the most successful captains of all time, Lloyd said he is encouraged that the Cricket Administration Bill seeks to bring transparency, honesty, and accountability to the administration of the game, adding that when the Bill is signed into law it will be an era in which cricket in Guyana can once again be administered in a proper manner.

“I am hoping that there will not too many amendments to it. This is something that will show transparency, free and fair elections and hopefully the right people will be selected, people who are interesting in promoting the sport,” Lloyd revealed.

He continued, “This Bill has been some three years in the making. It is the fruit of serious thinking about the future of Guyanese cricket and consultation with the widest possible cross section of the Guyanese public, including a parliamentary select committee”.

Lloyd, who played in 110 tests and

87 one-day internationals for West Indies between 1974 and 1985, further disclosed that the Bill is an important step in solving the problems and difficulties facing the game here.

“The need for Guyana’s cricket to be provided with an environment in which it can flourish does not need an elaborate argument. Cricket in Guyana has been an agent for national unity, for bringing communities together, for ensuring Guyana’s recognition beyond its borders and for providing the means by which our individual cricketers could realise an

Guyana Amazon Warriors trio

upward movement in their social status. In addition, Guyana must be able to return to the position in which it is a major contributor of talent, both in terms of cricketers and administrators, to West Indies and world cricket,” Lloyd stressed.

President Donald Ramotar had said last Saturday that he is ready to sign the Cricket Administration Bill into law.

President Ramotar had also stated that the Bill is open to amendments, which could be done after he assents to it.