Guyana Times Daily

Wanted: witnesses for Rodney inquiry

Former TT Prime Minister to address GMSA dinner Amid protests, Venezuela remembers Chavéz

Body of man found in Mandela Avenue trench

GPSCCU not a department of Dharm Shala – Granger tells public servants Region Eight RDC struggling to monitor projects

Guyana urged to address threats of wildlife smuggling

City Hall budget bloated with goodies for staff –Whittaker

Month of activities to honour Jagans launched

2 news

wednesday, March 5, 2014| guyanatiMesgy.coM

U.S. wants Guyana to extradite more drug lords

The United States government has acknowledged the strides Guyana has made in its drug fight, but is looking forward to tangible progress on investigations, prosecutions, extraditions, security sector, and port security capacity enhancement.

It also said serious work needs to be done to engage atrisk communities and enforce laws against money laundering and financial crimes. The comments were contained in the U.S. 2014 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (INCSR).

The report is an annual publication by the Department of State to Congress prepared in accordance with the Foreign Assistance Act.

It describes the efforts of key countries to attack all aspects of the international drug trade in Calendar Year 2013. Volume I covers drug and chemical control activities, while Volume II covers money laundering and financial crimes.

Law enforcement

In the report, the U.S. said efforts to increase law enforcement capabilities, protect borders and ports, strengthen workforce development, and promote anti-money laundering effectiveness directly address priority concerns shared by Guyana and itself. Washington said the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI)-funded programmes support Guyana’s maritime operations by providing interdiction assets, including riverine patrol boats

delivered in December 2013 and relevant command and control systems, as well as associated logistical support and training.

In 2013, the U.S. provided port and maritime training to Guyana’s Coast Guard.

“Initiatives also target law enforcement professionalisation, and more effective narcotics investigations,” the report states, adding that by strengthening Guyana’s counternarcotics capabilities, the U.S. seeks to enhance interagency coordination and help gather better intelligence on drug trafficking routes.

“The United States would welcome increased levels of cooperation with the Government of Guyana to advance mutual interests against the threat of international drug trafficking,” the report continues.

According to the U.S., Guyana is a transit country for cocaine destined for its shores, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, and West Africa. Cocaine originating in Colombia is smuggled to Venezuela and onward to Guyana by sea or air.

Smugglers also transit land borders with Brazil, Venezuela, and Suriname. Cocaine is often concealed in legitimate commodities and smuggled via commercial maritime vessels, air transport, human couriers, or various postal methods.

The U.S said too that the influence of narcotics trafficking is evident in the country’s political and criminal justice systems. “Traffickers are at-

tracted by the country’s poorly monitored ports, remote airstrips, intricate river networks, porous land borders, and weak security sector capacity,” the report states.

Additionally, the report states that Guyana has legislation in place that could enable a more effective response to the threat of drug trafficking.

Investigative capabilities

“The Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act of 2009, the Interception of Communications Act of 2008, and the Criminal Law Procedure Act (revised in 1998) were designed to enhance the investigative capabilities of law enforcement authorities and prosecutors in obtaining convictions of drug traffickers. To date, however, the government has sought no prosecutions under these laws.”

Washington mentioned that the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) has informed Guyana that failure to demonstrate effective implementation of anti-money laundering mechanisms could lead to Guyana being designated internationally as a country with significant financial sector risks. Such a designation would increase the costs of Guyana’s international financial transactions and also impact insurance rates.

Guyanese authorities have pledged to increase efforts to comply with international anti-money laundering

standards and have presented amendments in Parliament to improve existing legislation. America supports the Government of Guyana’s efforts in this area and has offered technical assistance.

Meanwhile, the report notes that Guyana is drafting anti-gang legislation and developing an Integrated Crime Information System to monitor trends in crime through

a network linking the Home Affairs Ministry to the public hospitals, prisons, and police stations. Some police stations in remote areas, however, continue to lack reliable telecommunication service, the U.S. observed.

Guyana is party to the Inter-American Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters, and the InterAmerican Convention Against Corruption.

The 1931 Extradition Treaty between the United States and the United Kingdom is applicable to the United States and Guyana. In 2008, Guyana acceded to the Inter-American Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters, to which the U.S. is also a party. The country has since filed information requests under the treaty.

In the area of drug seizures, the report notes that the Guyana Police Force (GPF); Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU); and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) have reported drug-related

seizures and convictions for the first six months of 2013. Through June, the GPF reported seizing 418.09 kilograms (kg) of cocaine and 125.61 metric tonnes of cannabis. CANU reported seizing 55.39 kg of cocaine and 2.62 kg of cannabis. The GRA seized 359.8 kg of cocaine, but no cannabis. Guyanese authorities convicted 201 persons on drugrelated charges during the first six months of 2013. In September, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) met with its Guyanese counterparts to advance efforts to investigate and dismantle drug trafficking organisations. During their visit, DEA officials participated in a GPF eradication of cannabis fields discovered in the interior, chopping down and destroying an estimated 124 metric tonnes of cannabis plants. “The volume of cannabis reflects the increasing trend of farm-grown marijuana for local use and international export.

Carpenter to spend two weeks in prison for slapping wife

Twenty-nine-yearold Mahendra Bridgenarine of James Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, was on Tuesday sentenced to two weeks imprisonment after pleading guilty to slapping his wife three times. The defendant appeared in the Georgetown

Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. It is alleged that on March 2, he unlawfully and maliciously assaulted Christine Gangadin, the mother of his three children.

Bridgenarine told the court that he was sorry for his actions after admitting to the charge. Police Prosecutor Micheal Grant told the court that on the day in question, the defendant consumed alcohol shortly before retiring upstairs where he abused the virtual complainant. The matter was reported and he was subsequently arrested.

Body of man found in Mandela Avenue trench

The body of an elderly man was found in a trench on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown, in the vicinity of BK International on Tuesday afternoon. The discovery was made sometime around 16:00h by a vagrant in the area.

According to information reaching Guyana Times, the junkie was reportedly searching for bottles in the trench when he made the discovery. Reports indicate that the he felt the man’s foot and alerted residents who rushed to the scene and subsequently summoned the police.

A staff attached to BK International told this newspaper that when persons heard about the body,

they went out to have a look. The worker stated that the body bore no visible sign of violence and there were no trace of blood.

He explained that the man is of East Indian decent and appears to be in his late 50s. Shortly after the discovery, police arrived at the scene and took possession of the body. The corpse was taken to a city morgue.

Persons in the area claim that the man was seen on Monday evening consuming alcohol at a shop and was last seen walking along Mandela Avenue. They believe that the man, in a drunken stupor, may have fallen into the trench and drowned.

Countrywide: Light rain showers can be expected during the day with heavy rain showers in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius.

Wind: North easterly between zero and 3.61 metres per second.

High Tide: 07:04h and 19:27h reaching maximum heights of 2.72 metres and 2.60 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 00:03h and 12:23h reaching minimum heights of 0.43 metre and0.39 metre respectively.

Wanted: witnesses for Rodney inquiry

– WPA not pleased with terms of reference

BY ALEXIS RODNEY

The Commission appointed to inquire into the death of the late historian Dr Walter Rodney is seeking the assistance of the public to submit written statements on the decadesold crime.

In a newspaper advertisement, the Commission’s Secretariat said that persons wishing to testify before the Commission are invited to submit their statements containing the nature and substance of their proposed evidence. Persons who wish to tender books, plans and documents are also invited to submit same.

A three-member Commission was on Tuesday last sworn in at the Office of the President to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the late co-founder of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr Rodney, who was killed when a bomb exploded in the car in which he was sitting 33 years ago.

Barbadian Queen’s Counsel Richard Cheltenham has been appointed Chairman of the Commission by President Donald Ramotar. He will serve alongside Jamaican Queen’s Counsel Jacqueline Samuels-Brown, and Guyanese-Trinidadian Senior Counsel Seenauth Jairam.

Terms of reference

Meanwhile, WPA executives met on Monday to discuss and address the terms of reference for the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry.

Party leader, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine said that although the alliance was never informed or invited to the appointment of the commissioners, its members still found it

necessary to review the terms of reference.

“I believe most of the people around the table were seeing the terms of reference for the first time. The terms of reference were published in the Official Gazette but not made widely public,” Dr Roopnaraine told Guyana Times

While he declined to disclose what exactly was discussed, he noted that all concerns raised will be communicated to President Donald Ramotar.

Among the issues reviewed was that of persons being granted absolute pardon in respect of, or incidental to all acts or things done, including offences committed in connection to the death of Dr Rodney.

Dr Roopnaraine said that the current procedures planned for the inquiry are far from what the WPA had in mind when the motion was first passed in the National Assembly in 2005.

In that motion, he said, the WPA was able to craft compromises and amendments to ensure it received the unanimous support of the National Assembly.

“The reason I raised it is because, at the time, I believe it was felt that the best way to establish the kind of Commission we want was through the widest possible consultation on the way forward and that has not happened in this Commission,” he said.

The terms of reference will also examine the role, if any, which the late Gregory Smith, then Sergeant of the Guyana Defence Force, (GDF) played in the death of Dr Rodney.

Earlier investigations

And if so, to ascertain who may have counselled, procured, aided and or abetted him to do so, including facilitating his departure from Guyana after Dr Rodney’s death. It will also examine and report on earlier investigations and inquiries done into the death of the political leader.

Dr Roopnaraine said the WPA will be rendering its full cooperation towards the completion of the work by the Commission.

A day after their appointment last week, members of the Commission of Inquiry met with the secretariat and

had fruitful discussions. The Commission’s Chairman Richard Cheltenham had revealed, however, that much work was yet to be done before the inquiry begins.

Cheltenham said he, along with Samuels-Brown and Jairam, had commenced work in accordance with the terms of reference published in the Official Gazette and would continue doing so leading up to the commencement of the public hearings. The two groups met in the boardroom of the Supreme Court Library Building.

However, Cheltenham, speaking with Guyana Times just after the meeting, had said that from all indications, there are a few hiccups to the inquiry.

“The commissioners regret that time has not allowed us on this occasion to engage in as many comprehensive pre-hearing meetings and courtesy calls with organisations and individuals as intended. However, arrangements are in place for this to be completed in the near future,” he told this publication.

The information received from the secretariat, he said, revealed that over 90 individuals and agencies have been identified to testify at the inquiry. However, these persons have not yet been approached.

After meeting with the secretariat last week, the three commissioners departed to their homeland. They are expected back in Guyana between four to six weeks; when the inquiry is expected to commence.

Meanwhile, the Commission’s Secretariat on Wednesday began soliciting the assistance of interested persons to submit written witness statements to its office at the Supreme Court building.

Editor: Nigel Williams

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

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

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

Editorial

Guns in the wrong hands

If in one single day, our news can bear three headlines of gun robberies, then it is time for us to look deeply into what is the prevailing culture. The three pieces (America Street money-changer gunned down by bandits; Painter shot dead in Albouystown; and Man shot, wife robbed by motorcycle bandits) must now spur us to get very aggressive in dealing with gun crimes, more so that the statistics show that the number of incidents are ever on the increase.

Guns have always been a controversial topic since the very beginning of modern civilisation. Governments have always controlled people’s rights, as regards possession of firearms. Recent media coverage and firearm-related deaths here have caused the Guyana Government to come under increasing pressure, where the issuance of fire arms licences is concerned.

On the one hand, we have a vigorous police force, mandated with the right to protect, even if it means fatality for perpetrators of gun crimes. The flip side is that in no country will the police be 100 per cent effective; this provides the claim for selected groups to legally bear firearms, as they are the targeted ones for criminals. The dilemma is that these potential legal bearers of firearms are human beings, untrained in law enforcement, but who feel the need for extra-protection.

In order to discuss firearms, we must understand its definition. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a firearm is “a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder – usually used of small arms”. The Oxford Dictionary simply states that a firearm is “a rifle, pistol, or other portable gun”.

These definitions are vague and somewhat confusing to those who are not very knowledgeable in the firearm subject. Many reporters and anti-firearm organisations also include assault weapons and semi-automatic weapons. The bottom line is that firearms can kill and any killing, if not done legitimately, is deemed to be an act of murder. The issue as we can see is not one that can be handled easily at all.

We can now go to anti-firearm groups and these have been around since time immemorial. These organisations believe that gun ownership should be limited and very strict. Their quest is to reduce violence, ensure that the government enacts national regulations, ban all types of weapons, and restrict the number of guns individuals can own. Anti-firearm organisations feel that private citizens should not be allowed to own them.

On the opposite side, are the pro gun activists, who believe that people should have the right to go and obtain a gun or firearm, if they feel the need for self-protection or for the guarding of their moveable assets. Of course, there are many other reasons why a person would want to own a gun.

For example, recreational shooting is one hobby that many people enjoy these days. Another reason some citizens might feel the need to own a firearm is that they do not live in a safe, environment, so they want to be pre-emptive.

Overall, no citizen should feel unsafe in his own home. So in this regard, having the right to a firearm to protect oneself should not be taken away from any citizen. We must also care about criminals, who attack the innocent and must be stopped, even before law enforcement can be realised. This is another dimension to bearing legal weapons.

We do believe that citizens should have a right to protect themselves. After all it is not guns that kill people; it is people who kill people with guns. Guns do not decide to get up and shoot all by themselves. They must have a finger to pull the trigger – a human finger. People kill people. We human beings are animate, alive, and we have the freedom of choice.

Private citizens are threatened by criminals, and they have the choice and means to kill; therein lies the need for protection, when the law is not respected and cannot reach in time. Criminals will always find a way to acquire weapons, and, therefore, good private citizens must join and support the police, so that a nation of people will live, sleep and work in safety.

It is time to rethink and change our position

Dear Editor, News media seem to handle the natural environment as a backdrop to the daily dramas and delights of human life. But in this century, our dramas are driving nature’s destruction, and that destruction threatens an end to our delights. However, the news carries on regardless, relegating nature to the background. It is time for us to rethink and change our position on our approach to nature; it’s time for a change.

Recently, we have had a number of issues that have enormous implications for environmental and public health – the pollution of the Kara Kara Creek, in Region 10, the possibility of the importation of contaminated vehicles from Japan, the pollution of our waterways due to crude mining activities in our hinterlands, and the run-off of chemicals from agricultural and other industrial activities.

Also, the fact that we do not have the appropriate technologies and competencies to investigate, test and evaluate many of these incidents and events, our rural and urban areas, make us much more vulnerable to all sorts of environmental challenges.

Still, not one of these incidents attracted the front page or dominant headlines of any of our dailies. The headlines were about politics, economics, crime and sports. Not that anything is

on approach to nature

wrong with flagging up such political, social and economic issues, but how could the media in all public responsibility and civic consciousness relegate nature to a mere backdrop to the unending social dramas in human society without, by that very action, facilitating the destruction of it. I am very worried about the way our news media are registering and representing the unfolding story of our planet’s actual ecological collapse. And yes, it is collapsing.

Indeed, there are no historical precedents for our current failure to grasp the moral significance of the ecological collapse of the biosphere.

Quite frankly, I believe that it is time to re-examine and rethink the criteria of significance that guide the daily construction of “the news”? The news has, after all, assumed the status of supreme arbiter of significance in our society: almost everyone stops all activities, at least once a day, to read, listen or watch news reports. No other source of information currently enjoys such prestige and currency.

Unhappily, this prestige is being wasted, if those who construct the news focus generally on items of relative triviality while simply ignoring the literally earthmoving changes that are happening at a very rapid pace all around us.

Perhaps, the newspapers that arose to express the as-

sumptions of the industrial, pre-environmental era in mid-19th to late-20th century are now merely artefacts of an age that has long passed. Perhaps, too, this is true of many other contemporary current affairs outlets as well, whether print or electronic. Most such publications and outlets carry over the 19th century assumption that the natural world, perennial and relatively unchanging, is a mere backdrop to the high dramas of human society. With this 19th century assumption goes the further assumption that what happens within the realm of nature is not our responsibility: nature looks after itself and we cannot intervene in its intricately ordered systems. Not so. In fact, our very presence, here, is affecting patterns and the general functionality of nature.

As the natural world undergoes a huge assortment of anthropogenic changes in this century, the future and fates of different species of all living things are attaining new moral meaning for all of us. In this new “era”, known now as the Anthropocene, we are entering a new moral universe, a universe in which the old parameters of meaning are shifting. There are new emerging paradigms about the natural environment and our role in it, at the global and local level.

Our media, still, so stubbornly old-fashioned despite

the much-heralded technological advances in delivery, do not reflect this shift and are tragically failing to convey it. Instead, they are creating the impression that items about the ecological collapse of the planet and the destruction of our natural environment are on a par, in terms of moral significance, with everyday items about crime, celebrities, sports, scandals, financial vicissitudes, and trends in lifestyle.

Perhaps, this is the deeper reason why our newspapers, and websites based on them, are rapidly losing relevance. As they attempt to cater more and more deliberately to what they think are the tastes of the market, they lose their entitlement to names like “guardian”, “leader”, “tribune” or “courier”, let alone “mirror” or “truth”.

At the very least, the 19th century category of “the news” needs to be thoroughly reviewed. Headlines need to be reserved for what matters most, and the truly earth-shattering developments that mark our “times” need to be properly flagged, not relegated to low-key, special-interest sub-spots uninvitingly headlined in the back pages of old-style newspapers.

Yours faithfully, Royston King Executive Director ECHO

your

I was looking forward to the showdown between Albion and Rose

Dear Editor,

What a letdown! I was really looking forward for the showdown between Albion Community Centre and Rose Hall Town Farfan and Mendes, but the match between the joint champions of the 2013 Tenelec Inc Under-15 cricket competition in Berbice unfortunately never materialised.

Heavy rains caused some 190 minutes of play to be lost in the two-day final. The premature end left the game without a first innings decision, and hence the results.

I cannot express how furious I am, since this particular competition was greatly put together and encompassed a galore of enthusiastic youths and fierce completion. The

match ended most anticlimactically and all because of a little bit of bad weather.

I recall some years ago when the favourite for a 110-metre hurdle final ended in absolute disarray. An unknown took the gold because one athlete stumbled, knocked down one of her hurdles and fell in line with the hot gold pick for the race. This was so disgraceful.

Of course it was very unfair for all those athletes who were affected by the fall. They were ruled out because of no fault of theirs. Ideally, that race should have been halted and a re-run offered. Similarly in this case, two top teams had to settle for shared supremacy and through no fault of anyone.

Hall Town

This should never happen; in fact I think that there must be a way to resolve these final sporting conflicts.

Cricket is an outdoor sport and it is not usually played under a roof for any reason, and so this rules out any guaranteed playing condition. Personally, I do not mind waiting out a few days of bad weather for a final to be played.

In this case, for sure, it was not money which was a factor. I think it was about cricketing pride and bringing a great cricket competition to an end.

Moreover, let me say daringly that Berbice is really showing all Guyana how to run the game of cricket. Many young Berbicians are well groomed to the point that they become equipped very young

to make a living out of the game, even without representing Guyana.

I must say that I am looking forward to the 2014 youth competitions, scheduled to start very soon. This will allow the lads to start preparation in terms of making a run for places at the inter-county competition, slated for late March. Lastly, if I had my way, I would personally make sure that the results of these buildup tournaments be aired. The print is not enough; in fact, I would go so far as to have match summaries on television and radio. We have the outlets so we might as well utilise them.

Sincerely, Deonauth

Seepaul

The use of pesticides, fertilisers in rice farming

Dear Editor,

The recent swirl of opinions in the media over the use of pesticides and fertilisers on the Rupununi mega-farm highlights the fact that there is a widespread misunderstanding and this is troubling because of the impact it could have on the environment.

Problems caused by the use of chemicals and fertilisers in cultivation of rice cover a very wide range of activities. The problem with chemicals and fertilisers also illustrates an important point – it is useful to note that in cultivation of paddy it, cannot easily be divorced from the wider issue of the environment and in this case eco-systems of the wetlands of the North Rupununi.

Aside from the problems of toxicity, the environmental consequences of continuous use of high quantities of pesticides are well known: pollution of land and marine environ-

ments and aquifers and reduction in bio-diversity, with possible extinction in some cases, especially in fragile marine and estuarine environments.

It is said that Guyana has one of the most pesticide-polluted marine environments in the world, and residues in the food chain and in the produce we eat pose a risk to human health.

Among the 16 elements used for the production of rice in the Rupununi for normal growth are nitrogen (urea), phosphorous and potassium, which are considered the primary plant food elements.

Nitrogen is the most limiting nutrient for rice production in Guyana except in soils deficient in some other element. Phosphorous is the next most limiting element in rice production. Unlike nitrogen, it accumulates in the soil after repeated applications. Phosphorous application is recommended on the wet-

lands of the savannahs plain of Guyana. Potassium should be confined to the riverine areas.

Rice is one the heaviest users of pesticides. Growing recognition should be given to the role of integrated pest management, as insects and weeds pose the greatest threat to rice crops and the company should examine ways of reducing the use of chemicals, while ensuring the maintenance of biodiversity.

Agrochemicals comprise a category of products, which perhaps are the most abused chemicals in the cultivation of paddy. They include crop protection chemicals – insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and nematicides, etc.

Although there is much said about genetically engineered crops, which are resistant to pests or diseases, and so in theory do not require intensive pesticide interventions, they are not yet commer-

Remembering a man of his time – Moses Dwarka

Dear Editor, I refer to a recent letter to the editor published in your newspaper about former long distance runner Moses Dwarka. I thought the letter was very timely, and wanted to add a few of my own thoughts.

On a regular day, before the dew was displaced by the scorching sun, Dwarka would leave barefooted impressions in a passage of a lone figure long gone, while his peers were still in deep slumber.

He was not the tallest person, nor was he different from any of the locals struggling in the colonial times of a sugar belt plantation.

cially available.

The pesticides business is still expanding, therefore, and developing countries represent a major market. Within this framework, control of insects, diseases and weeds for crop protection is the primary aim, while pesticides are also used extensively in livestock production and domestically.

However, in Guyana, guidelines for safe application of chemicals are not enshrined in law. Since there is no law governing pesticides and fertilisers application, there will be no official surveillance on the mega-farm in the Rupununi.

In countries such as the U.S.A., regulations are not only strict but also enforced. Serious infringements of the rule will result in fines or even imprisonment.

Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan

To many younger boys at the time, he was only a name, an uncle, a brother, a neighbour or a friend. At about 11 years old, I heard the name Moses, but it did not mean anything to me except of an older guy who was apparently a good runner.

Understanding and making sense of concepts in reality came later when a friend and I were caught stealing ginips.

Moses was visiting at a nearby logie not far from the pay office in Vryheid’s Lust, the plantation where many of us were born before the exodus to Better Hope around 1950-1.

We heard a voice shouting at us. My friend then shouted, “Moses, run.” My friend ran faster and I was still trying to come to terms with the concepts ‘runner’ and ‘Moses’, while at the same time trying to catch up with my runaway friend.

For a small chap, Moses was larger than life itself. He was well known, not only for his ability, but for his simplicity and kindness. At six miles he was unstoppable. I recall the crowd at the Public Road lining the sides from Montrose all the way to Better Hope. In the 1950s and beyond, ‘road race’ was a big event, and it didn’t become any bigger when Moses was running. We all wanted to see our champ in action. From a distance the shouts reached us like a Mexican wave, “Moses in de lead”. And there he was, a slight relaxed crouch, mouth opened, sweating and barefooted, his legs responding to the shouts and cries of the supportive and frenzied crowd. With a renewed lease of energy and burst of speed, he would leave his competitors in his wake, as they would fail to muster a challenge to the silver bullet in white vest and pants.

What an individual. What a runner. What a countryman. Our hero. Our legend. Our ‘Better Hopean’.

Sincerely, Ameer Ali

Moses caught up with me in a few easy strides. I for one was out of breath, tearful and very frightened. But Moses looked at me and, knowing my parents, was probably more bemused by the incident. He said, “Guh home an’ nah mek me ketch yu again.” On hindsight there might have been a message there! I have never forgotten him since, and indeed the concepts – ‘runner’ and ‘Moses’ – left an indelible impression and a story that I recall with laughter and amusement to this day.

Page Foundation

Ways to motivate your child to do better in school

BY DEBBIE PINCUS

“My son is a smart child, but he doesn’t work hard in school. Now the teacher said he’s in danger of getting F’s in most of his subjects.”

“My daughter just does enough to get by, instead of trying her best. When I talk to her about how important it is to get good grades in high school, she rolls her eyes and tells me she doesn’t care and that it’s boring. It’s enough to make me pull my hair out.”

The truth is, most children are motivated, but not by what we think should motivate them.

Do you have a child who comes home with failing grades year after year – or straight C’s when you know he could get A’s? You assume, based on his abilities, that he should be more successful in school. It’s enough to drive you crazy – especially because you know how important it is for him to do well so he can get into college or university someday – or even just graduate. You’re worried sick about his future, so you nag and get on his case about his laziness, lack of motivation and irresponsibility. You just don’t get why he’s so uninterested in doing well, so you try everything you can think

of to motivate him. But try as you might, the situation doesn’t get better – in fact, it gets worse.

As a parent, it’s difficult not to become invested in our child’s academic life because we know how important it is for their future. From our perspective, it makes no sense that our children would put things like friends or electronics before their work. The truth is, most children are motivated, but not by what we think should motivate them. Look at it this way: your child is probably highly motivated and not at all lazy when it comes to things that excite him, like video games, music, Facebook and what cool new jeans to buy. One thing for certain is that if you pressure your child in order to motivate him, it almost always makes things worse. Understand that children need to buy into the value of doing well. Think about it in terms of your own life – even as an adult, you may know it’s best to eat right, but actually following through is another story! In a way, your child must own the importance of doing well himself. Of course external factors may also get in the way (mental or physical illnesses, learning disabilities or behavioural disorders, family issues and substance abuse,

to name a few.)

For some people, all the stars are aligned at the right time – motivation, skill and attitude combine to create a successful outcome. But for most of us, it’s way trickier and a much more uneven path to motivation and success. When you think about it, not every child asks teachers for help,

functioning often does not develop until much later in the adolescent years. This is particularly tough if you are a parent who was responsible at an early age, but you now have a child lagging behind. It’s hard to imagine that they’re not just lazy, irresponsible and unmotivated. Of course, if you start believing these things about

does all their homework on time all the time, reviews the material they learned each night and puts aside all the other distractions to get down to their studies. The ones who do are typically the children who have what is called “good executive functioning,” because the front part of their brain is more developed. This plays a significant role in school achievement. It helps the regulation of emotions, attention span, perseverance, and flexibility. For many, many children their

your child, you will simply get annoyed, frustrated, angry, and reactive to their laziness – which will contribute to the power struggle and to their to their defiance. How can you avoid doing this?

Keep a relationship with your children that is open, respectful and positive Stay on your children’ team, don’t play against them. This will allow you to be most influential with them, which is your most

important parenting tool. Punishing, preaching, threatening and manipulating will get you nowhere and will be detrimental to your relationship and to their ultimate motivation. Your feelings of anxiety, frustration and fear are normal and understandable. But reacting to your children out of these emotions will be ineffective. Remember, your child is not behaving this way on purpose to make your life miserable or because they are lazy goodfor-nothings. When you feel yourself getting worked up, try saying to yourself, “My child is just not there yet.” Remember, your job is to help them learn how to be responsible. If you get negative and make this a moral issue, then your child might become defiant, reacting to you instead of thinking through things himself.

Incorporate the “when you” rule

One of life’s lessons is that we get the goodies after we do the work. When you practise shooting hoops every day, you start making more baskets. You get paid after you work at your job. So start saying things like, “When you finish studying, you are welcome to go to Gavin’s house.” Or “When your homework is completed, we can discuss watching

that movie you wanted to see on Netflix.” Enforce this rule and stick to it. If your child does not yet have the ability to plan and initiate and persevere, by sticking to this rule, you are helping them learn how to do what their own brain is not yet equipped to do, which is to create the structure for him.

When you are invited in If your child is not studying and his grades are dropping, you’re invited in whether he wants you or there or not. Again, you’re there to help set up a structure that he is not able to create for himself. The structure might include scheduled study times, having the computer out in a public place in your home, and saying, “No video games or TV until after homework is done.” You might decide that he must spend a certain amount of hours devoted to study time. During this time, no electronics or other distractions are allowed. You might make the rule that even if he finishes all his homework, he must complete study time by reviewing, reading, or editing. You might make the rule that he devotes an hour-and-a-half to quiet time, no electronics, and just doing his work. Understand that it’s not meant as punishment; rather, this is helping him develop a good work ethic and to focus on his school subjects. Some children do better listening to music while they study, but no other electronics or multi-tasking is recommended.

Ask the teacher

If your child’s grades and work habits are not up to par, you can set up a plan by sitting down with him and his teachers. He might have to check with them to make sure he has everything before leaving school, and then check with you before going back to school to make sure all his work is in his bag. Once your child gets better at managing his time, completing his work and reviewing his subjects before tests, then it’s time for you to back off.

Identify a study spot

You may need to sit with your child while she’s doing her work or at least be nearby to help her stay on track. She may need a quiet location away from brothers and sisters or she may do better in a room near others. You can help her experiment. But once you find what works best, keep her in that location. You will not do her work for her, but you may need to review her work and ask her if a certain paragraph makes sense to her, for example.

(Empowering Parents)

Region Eight RDC struggling to monitor projects

– recoup outstanding overpayments to contractors

By Svetlana MarShall

he Public Accounts

TCommittee (PAC) on Monday urged the Region Eight Council to put stricter systems in place to safeguard against sloppy work by contractors and to also go after overpaid contractors who are yet to make restitution.

Region Eight Executive Officer (REO) Ronald Harsaywack told the PAC on Monday that the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) has garnered the support of Toshaos to monitor projects.

He said due to the mountainous characteristics of the district, the monitoring of capital and recurrent projects is often challenging. He explained that many communities cannot be accessed by road but rather by air.

“As a result, Toshaos have been asked to monitor projects in their respective communities,” Harsaywack told the committee chaired by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Carl Greenidge.

Admitting that Toshaos or community leaders may not be technically inclined, Harsaywack said they will use the project documents as guides and report to the region’s Works Department. In the past, the RDC’s Works Department had a shortage of inspectors to monitor projects, but this deficiency has been addressed, the REO told the PAC.

However, the PAC was informed that overpayments totalling $2.631 million made to contractors in 2009 have not been recovered.

At the time, the contractors were responsible for the rehabilitation of the Mahdia dormitory, Kato Primary School and the generator hut at Mahdia Hospital among

other works.

Contractors were reportedly written on the outstanding funds but only one contractor responded.

According to the REO, the contractor Mohammed Yusuf, who was awarded the contract for rehabilitation to the Mahdia Hospital had indicated that payments would have been made in full by August 2012. But to date, he has not made good on his promise.

In the AG’s 2011 Report, it was stated that $135.045 million was allocated for repairs to be executed to the Kanapang Teachers Quarters but as of December 31, 2011, $134.04 million was expended. Included in the amount of $134.04 million was the sum of $1.945 million.

Physical verification

“The full provisional sum was paid to the contractor but no details of the payment were provided. A physical verification of the project revealed that the works were completed and overpayments totalling $1.618 million were made to the contractor,” the report stated.

However, the REO explained that the overpayments were investigated and it was found that provisional sums were as a result of poor documentation on the part of the Public Works Department.

“The entire section that deals with the roofing was done as an ITEM, thus the bill of quantity was very vague. No details of required work were outlined, thus this is difficult to measure,” the REO explained.

The RDC has since promised to locate and present the relevant documentation from additional sources.

Another contentious matter was one concerning the payment of $2.987 million for the purchase of furniture; however, these items could not be accounted for.

According to the RDC, steps are being taken to have the outstanding items delivered. It was stated that the supplier (Regal) had made a verbal commitment to supply the 100 outstanding student combination chairs and four book cupboards.

These are three of the 16 cases of overpayments presented to the PAC, with the majority alluding to overpayments to contractors and the subsequent recovery of state funds.

But government’s spokeswoman Gail Teixeira, who is a member of PAC , said while the region ought to be applauded for taking the necessary steps to reduce overpayments, there are still many outstanding problems.

“I am saddened by the fact that documents are not available, aren’t made ready, aren’t handed over, when all this grief and this is a grief that started in 2011,” sae said.

She asked why the matter regarding repairs to the (kanapang) Teachers Quarters was not rectified, lamenting it is “now 2014”. She further pointed out that the AG’s report was released since September 2012. “Do people wait until they are hauled before the PAC to make decision?” she queried.

Another government member of the PAC, Bibi Shaddick, added that contractors who have committed to repaying overpayments should be taken before the court, if they fail to honour their promises. She said too that in addition to dispatching letters, the region must pay visits to the companies.

Region Two Chairman inspects 'rip rap' sea defence at Johanna Cecila

By IndrawattIe natraM

Residents of Johanna Cecila Village on the Essequibo Coast are now protected from heavy flooding and the Atlantic Ocean with a 300-metre 'rip rap' sea defence. Residents expressed their gratitude to the Public Works Ministry and the Region Two Administration for undertaking the project that safeguards them.

The $125 million contract was awarded to BK International. Speaking on behalf of residents was Mohan Persaud, a retired headmaster, who said the Public Works Ministry must be commended for the project.

He noted that the previous structure – an earthen embankment was seriously eroded and many persons’ lands were flooded constantly by high tides. Residents had expressed their concerns during a visit by Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud and Sea Defence Engineer Shaheed Mohamed.

Addressing scores of residents, Chairman Persaud

said when he saw how eroded the area was, he forwarded the complaints to the relevant authorities. He said he made representation to the Public Works Ministry for permanent works to be carried out in an effort to protect residents’ properties and crops.

Commenting on the project, the Chairman said he was satisfied with the work

done and promised residents that another section will be constructed before the end of 2014.

Meanwhile, Mohamed informed that another project was done at Zorg. Mohamed said the project was contracted at a cost of $104 million during 2013, and residents in that area benefited from 260 metres of rip rap sea defence.

Burglar remanded to prison for alleged murder

Orin Kevin Roberts was remanded to prison on Tuesday after not being required to plea to the indictable charge of murder. It is alleged that during the peri-

od of August 18-19, 2011, in the Georgetown magisterial district, he murdered Harold Rajpaul during the course of robbery and burglary.

Bail was refused by

Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The defendant is expected to make another court appearance on March 24 pending investigations.

wednesday, march 5, 2014|

Six-year-old hospitalised after being hit by motorcyclist

Asix-year-old child is in severe pain at the Suddie Public Hospital on the Essequibo Coast after he was struck down by a speeding motorcyclist on the Bush Lot Public Road on the Essequibo Coast. Seriously injured is Raja Ram of Bush Lot Village. He sustained injuries to his back and legs.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Ram’s mother, Nandranie (only name given) said her son, a pupil at the CV Nunes Primary School, was at the back of their village when he was struck down. The saddened mother said her son had asked her for permission to go take a dip in the nearby trench and that was when the incident occurred.

She explained that she did not see what happened, but received a call stating that

her son was involved in a motorcycle accident.

According to Nandranie, she immediately rushed to the scene and then rushed her child to the Suddie Public Hospital. The distressed mother claimed that the motorcyclist did not offer any assistance to her crying child. She said he is instead demanding money from her family to assist in repairing his motorcycle.

Nandranie further said the motorcyclist visited the child at the hospital and never offered any assistance. The matter was reported to the police station.

Kitty man refused bail on cocaine trafficking charge

Joseph Ramsey of Lot 17 Railway, Kitty, Georgetown, was remanded to prison on Tuesday. It is alleged that on Monday last, at the same address, he had in his posses-

sion 19 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-

Beharry in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The defendant is expected to make another court appearance on March 19 for report and fixtures.

Queenstown painter accused of causing bodily harm

Ruddi Gobin, 24, a painter from Queenstown Village on the Essequibo Coast was granted $20,000 bail for causing bodily harm. Gobin appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce on Tuesday at the Anna Regina

Magistrate’s Court. He pleaded not guilty to the charge. According to police, on November 9, 2013, Gobin caused bodily harm to Leroy Halls of Queenstown Village. Gobin was represented by Attorney Hemraj Rajkumar. In an

application for bail for his client, Rajkumar stated that Gobin was not a flight risk and had a permanent place of address.

Prosecutor Krishna Dat Ramana did not object to bail. Gobin is expected to return to court on March 19 for trial.

Eyew tness The (WPA) Gnat...

...and APNU (the Elephant)

Seems the WPA’s mightily displeased with APNU. In fact, in its own words, the WPA’s “disgusted” at the manner in which APNU’s taking the fight to the government on the AML/CFT Bill. As if precipitating international sanctions on Guyana isn’t enough! Clive Thomas ringingly declared to the membership of the WPA – all four of them:

“Let us advance the cause of the Rodneyite masses!!! Let us not relent, but plan for the eventualities, which would flow from our principled position!!! Let us not forget we are on the correct side of history in our fight for a better future for all Guyanese!!!” Thomas seems to forget that his party has absolutely no following and only “got a squeeze” from APNU. The whole episode reminds us of a story your Eyewitness heard when he was a boy.

“Once upon a time there was a gnat. His name was WPA, and he was known, because of his sensitivity, as WPA the Bright. WPA decided, after reflection upon his state, and for good and sufficient reasons, to move house. The place which he chose as eminently suitable was the ear of a certain elephant. All that remained to do was to make the move, and quite soon WPA had installed himself in the large and highly attractive quarters.

“Time passed. WPA reared several families of gnatlets, and he sent them out into the world. As the years rolled past, he knew the usual moments of tension and relaxation, the feelings of joy and sorrow, of questing and achievement which are the lot of the gnat wherever he may be found.

“Naturally WPA hadn’t moved into the house without due ceremony and a regard for the proper observances. On the very first day, just before moving in, he had cried, at the top of his tiny voice, his decision. ‘Oh Elephant!’ he’d shouted, ‘Know that none other than I, WPA the Gnat, known as WPA the Bright, propose to make this place my abode.

“As it is your ear, I am giving you the customary notice of my intention.’ The elephant had raised no objection. But WPA didn’t know the elephant hadn’t even heard him. Neither, for that matter, had his host felt the entry (or even the presence and absence) of the gnat and his various families. Not to labour the point unduly, he had no idea that gnats were there at all.

...departure

And when the time came when WPA the Bright decided, for what were to him compelling and important reasons, that he would move house again, he reflected that he must do so in accordance with established and hallowed custom. He prepared himself for the formal declaration of his abandonment of the elephant’s ear.

“Thus it was that, the decision finally and irrevocably taken and his words sufficiently rehearsed, WPA shouted once more into the elephant’s ear. He shouted once, and no answer came. He shouted again, and the elephant was still silent. The third time, gathering the whole strength of his voice in his determination to register his urgent yet eloquent words, he cried: ‘Oh Elephant! Know that I, the WPA the Bright Gnat, propose to leave my hearth and home, to quit my residence in this ear of yours where I have dwelt for so very long. And this is for a sufficient and significant reason which I am prepared to explain to you.’

...the end

“Now finally the words of the gnat came to the hearing of the elephant, and the gnat-cry penetrated. As the elephant pondered the words, WPA shouted: ‘What have you to say in answer to my news? What are your feelings about my departure?’ The elephant raised his great head and trumpeted a little.

And this trumpeting contained the sense: ‘Go in peace – for in truth your going is of as much interest and significance to me as was your coming.’

GPSCCU not a department of Dharm Shala

– Granger tells public servants

Opposition Leader

David Granger on Monday said the public service sector is the country’s richest source of talent with the largest and most varied collection of skills in the country.

He was at the time speaking at the Guyana Public Service Cooperative Credit Union’s (GPSCCU) 50th anniversary celebration.

The union kicked off its Gold Jubilee anniversary with an opening ceremony, followed by a series of activities throughout the week. Under the theme “Moving Resolutely Forward for Sustained Development”, the ceremony was held at the National Cultural Centre (NCC).

Members gathered as they reflected on the establishment of the union and the struggles it endured to be the success it is today.

Attending the opening ceremony were Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster, Opposition Leader David Granger, along with senior current and past members of the union.

Struggle

Granger recalled the era and circumstances during which the union was born. He spoke about the struggles of the civil servants who had staged an 80-day strike to get the then PPP government to withdraw the Labour Relations Bill which it had tabled in 1963.

This, he noted was a major defeat for the government.

Granger pointed out that the strike was also done in retaliation of the government’s refusal to grant the level of wages the public felt they deserved.

“The civil servants recognised that the gruelling 80 days strike of 1963 had taken a toll on their standard of living,” he stated.

The Opposition Leader noted that while credit unions have been able to assist public servants to enjoy a better life, its services should not be considered as rescuing civil servants from poverty.

“It must not be seen purely as a relief organisation, as a subsidiary to your monthly salaries,” he added.

Long fight

Granger said the credit union members have been fighting for 50 years for economic freedom; however, those within the realm of the public service realised that turning the age of 55 and living on the government’s pension is not an option.

“I do not see the GPSCCU as a department of the Dharam Shala; I see it as a platform for enterprise, I see it as a foundation for combining a source of cheap capital with the acquired competencies that you public servants have acquired over your service, I see it as a combination of capital and experience of enterprise that you have within you,”

Granger said.

GPSCCU Chairman Thomas Nestor, in his opening remarks, said that members should be proud of the achievements gained by the union.

He reflected on the hardship faced by public servants which caused the nine founding members to establish the GPSCCU which was not a smooth journey.

Nestor noted that the union has come a long way in satisfying and assisting members in a variety of ways, including building their homes.

He recognised the sterling service given by the pioneer members who worked assiduously over the years to make the union a successful institution, giving kudos to the lone female member Eileen Cox.

The Chairman said mem-

bers have benefited from services which were non-discriminatory. He added that the union as part of its social goal has promoted the education of its officers and employees while noting that recently it has even moved to provide training for members.

On this note, he disclosed that the union has even organised for facilitators to conduct training in Regions Five, Six and 10.

Operations

“The Guyana Public Service Cooperative Credit Union is working on improving its operations to make it more member-friendly and to date, the financial operations of the credit union have been augmented.

"Work is moving apace to enable members to access their financial information

and initiate transactions via the Internet,” he stated.

Nestor said the union has been diligent in following local and international laws, which govern the operations of a credit union, noting that no one member has benefited from the union at the detriment of another member.

The Chairman noted that the GPSCCU has even established a Modernisation Committee, which studies and proposes measures that will provide optimal benefits to members without straying from the union’s objective.

Cooperation

Nestor urged the members gathered to deliberate on ways they can contribute to further developing the institution. He told the members that the development of the union can only be seen through cooperation among it 15,000 plus members.

Meanwhile, delivering the feature address, Minister Webster urged that in the spirit of the cooperative movement, the union should leave behind the past and look into the future to build a better Guyana for its people.

Webster said that the GPSCCU has evolved over the years as a strong umbrella which has been providing loans to citizens. She, too, acknowledged the role of Cox as a founding GPSCCU member.

The minister told the members that what the un-

ion has achieved since its existence is remarkable.

“You have done a tremendous job but there is a need for you as leaders of this institution to keep the institution resolutely on course.

"I know that with the astute leadership of the members of your Management Committee led by Mr Thomas Nestor, that you can look forward to your cooperative credit union growing from strength to strength as you seek to find new and innovative ways to enable your cooperative credit union to grow from strength to strength,” she said.

Assets

Webster highlighted the fact that the GPSCCU currently has assets worth in excess $2 billion after starting with a mere $50, indicates that the union has stood the test of time and can do so for another 50 years.

The minister added that the GPSCCU has not only contributed financially to public servants, but also did a lot of work through its community outreaches.

“The success story of this society must be recorded in the history books of Guyana, as this is the largest functioning credit union in Guyana, second to none,” she added.

The National School of Dance, Circle of Love and Kathleen Henriquo performed several lively items during the opening ceremony.

GWI launches "Operation Reconnect"

The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has launched a new programme called "Operation Reconnect" to offer disconnected customers the opportunity to reconnect their service without penalty fees.

According to Customer Services Manager Jeanette Thomas, “We are receiving alarming reports of customers reconnecting their service illegally which had a significantly negative impact on revenue collection for Georgetown in February 2014.”

Thomas explained that the utility has no other option but to remove the entire service of these customers; however, GWI water service inspectors will be visiting areas in which GWI has previously disconnected to distribute letters urging customers to reconnect their service.

“It is our last resort to remove the entire service of a disconnected customer since that customer will have to pay the full cost of a new service,” said Thomas, adding that: “commencing March 4, 2014, disconnected customers are only required to pay their outstanding ser-

vice charges if payment is made within three working days; we are waiving all reconnection and tampering fees”.

GWI said customers who have tampered with GWI’s service connections in order to reconnect their service will not be charged penalty fees; the same waiver will be applied for disconnection fees.

“It is our priority to reconnect customers rather than remove their service,” stated Thomas, “however, if no payments are made following receipt of service removal warning letters, we will be forced to remove all services which were disconnected and illegally reconnected by customers”.

GWI’s "Wallet-friendly Payment Plans" are also a feature of Operation Reconnect; these will allow disconnected customers with large debt to pay in small, flexible amounts de-

signed to suit their income and budget.

“A wide range of options is available to our customers,” Thomas said. “We urge all disconnected customers to make payments and avoid the expense of having their services removed and applying for a new GWI connection.”

Operation Reconnect will initially focus on Georgetown customers; however, the programme will be executed via other GWI branches by April 2014.

Disconnected customers with queries can contact GWI’s Customer Services Call Centre on 227-8701/03/04; e-mail GWI Public Relations via pro@ gwi.gy or post queries via social media: www.facebook. com/everydropcountsgy.

More information on Operation Reconnect is available at www.gwiguyana.com.

Cry of the Loud

Satiricus was not surprised. As a newshound, with more years in the business than he cared to remember, he’d seen it all – and then some. But yet, he wondered how low even opposition politicians could sink. Satiricus didn’t have anything against opposition politicians as such – but in view of them being on the outside looking in, and all that, he’d noticed they did tend to play fast and loose where ethics and morality were concerned.

Satiricus was fuming at how LinkCon the Loud had been treated by his erstwhile friends Rum Jhaat and RoopNaRain in Parliament. Here it was, LinkCon, the pre-eminent labour leader of his times (well in shouting, at least), had cast aside the interests of his constituents and spent all his time pushing their political cause. Sugar problems? Later for that! Public Servants wages? Try again! But protesting at Linden with the Opposition MP’s? Count LinkCon in!! All LinkCon wanted was the $30 million subvention for his private school for the children of labour. So what if governments don’t support private schools. Except, of course, during colonial times when the private schools were all owned by the Church. But then, some said, the Church and the Colonial government were one and the same.

Anyhow it also had nothing to do with the fact that the school was where LinkCon had his air conditioned office (larger than the President’s at OP!) with secretaries and everything. LinkCon was a principled man who would, for instance, never have a company buy him a car when he was bargaining for workers with them. As his private school, LinkCon had not surprisingly decided who was going to be on the Board. Wasn’t this how he’s seen all these businessmen with their fancy suits, do things?

“LinkCon was a businessman for labour, that’s what he was!!” thought Satiricus, as he wiped away a tear from his eye discreetly. And here it was that those backstabbing politicians Rum Jhaat and RoopNaRain had conspired with the lowdown government to place some other labourers on the Board of LinkCon’s school. The damned nerve!!! There were no other labour leaders but LinkCon the Loud. The man straddled the labour field like a colossus – and his stentorian voice didn’t hurt at all.

Just because the government was going to fork out $30 million every year to the school (“Air conditioners don’t run on air, you know,” thought Satiricus.) that gave them the right to interfere. LinkCon knew it was a sell out Rum Jhaat and RoopNaRain. He knew a lot about sell-outs.

And it was not because he’d dropped the representation of bauxite workers, after he found a brand new car that no one wanted to claim one day. He couldn’t just leave it on the road, could he? That would’ve been littering.

“LinkCon might be loud and not too vigorous in reporting ‘found cars’...but he was no litterer,” thought Satiricus.

Escaped prisoner jailed for two years

Jermaine Joel, who was sentenced to two years' imprisonment for escaping from lawful custody by Magistrate Geeta ChandanEdmond, on Monday pleaded guilty to the charges.

It is alleged that on February 28 at South Road, in the vicinity of the High Court, the defendant being in lawful custody of Corporal James Garnett, escaped.

Police Prosecutor Renetta Bentham told the court that on February 28 around 08:55h, the defendant was being escorted by Corporal Garnett to Court 10 of the Georgetown Magistrates’

Courts to face charges. Prosecutor Bentham went on to say that the defendant kicked off his slipper into the vicinity of the High Court and ran East of South Road, then North in King Street.

Corporal Garnett gave chase but the accused made good his escape.

The prosecutor added that on Sunday, March 2 the escaped prisoner was seen by Corporal Garnett on Cummings Street and was arrested. Joel was fined $15,000 with an alternative of 20 days imprisonment.

Guyana urged to address threats of wildlife smuggling PAC slams Region One REO for contract overpayments

With the recent announcement made by U.S. President Barack Obama of a National Strategy for Combating Wildlife Trafficking, officials from the U.S. embassy in Guyana are urging all Guyanese to work toward addressing the serious threat posed by the illegal practice.

In commemoration of World Wildlife Day, the embassy held a simple ceremony at its Barrack Street, Kingston Office on Monday. Economic and Commercial Officer of the United States Embassy in Guyana Jeff Barrus said Guyana was among the richest countries on Earth in terms of biodiversity.

He noted that the country’s wildlife has been long regarded a national treasure. “From the magnificent jaguar to giant anteaters and river otters to iconic birds like the scarlet macaw and toco toucan, Guyana’s abundance of unique wildlife sets it apart from much of the world,” he told the gathering of embassy staff and University of Guyana students.

Criminal enterprise

Wildlife trafficking is a multibillion-dollar criminal enterprise, Barrus revealed. He said the practice has shifted from a conservation concern to an acute security threat.

“The increasing involvement of organised crime in poaching and wildlife trafficking promotes corruption, threatens the peace and security of fragile regions, strengthens illicit trade routes, destabilises economies and communities that depend on wildlife for their

livelihoods, and contributes to the spread of disease,” he said.

Barrus said that while the United States government has an important role to play in addressing the issue, it cannot do the work alone. As one of the world’s major markets for wildlife and wildlife products, he said, the United States believes “that we must work with our partners around the globe if we are to find a global solution to this problem”.

Shared efforts

The U.S. representative promised that his country will continue to lead global efforts to protect the world’s iconic animals and preserve the planet’s natural beauty for the future generations. He reminded the gathering that the combating of wildlife trafficking will require the shared understanding, commitment and efforts of the world’s governments, non-governmental organisations, civil society, and individuals.

Last month, President Obama announced the National Strategy, which is aimed at strengthening enforcement and cooperation

with partner countries to reduce the demand for illegally traded wildlife. The strategy includes a ban on the U.S. commercial trade of elephant ivory, which is illegal to traffic in and is considered very valuable on the African and Asian black markets.

The President in a letter on the strategy early last month wrote that trade is decimating iconic animal populations. "Today, because of the actions of poachers, species like elephants and rhinoceroses face the risk of significant decline or even extinction. But it does not have to be that way. We can take action to stop these illicit networks and ensure that our children have the chance to grow up in a world with and experience for themselves the wildlife we know and love,” he said.

Wildlife has become the fourth-largest illicitly traded good in the world, generating US$19 billion annually. A spike in poaching and trafficking in recent years has pushed animals like the Black Rhino toward extinction and reportedly financed operations for the al Qaedalinked group Al- Shabaab in Somalia.

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament slammed Regional Executive Officer (REO), Region One Nigel Fisher on Monday over millions of dollars released for incomplete projects, giving rise to the issue of accountability.

From all indications, Fisher was unprepared for the meeting when he appeared before the PAC chaired by A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Carl Greenidge.

Referencing to overpayments totalling $1.079 million made to B Buddoo General Construction Services for the rehabilitation of the Regional Administration Office, Mabaruma, Presidential Advisor on Governance Gail Teixeira asked why inspections were not done before the funds were released. “It is not just the overpayment, it is also the liquidated damages,” she lamented.

Legal action

The region had stated that it would be pursuing legal action to recover the amount overpaid, but this response was deemed unacceptable by Teixeira, since the matter emanated out of the Auditor General Report for 2011. “So between 2011 – this document came out in 2012 – we are now in 2014, so you mean the region has not gone yet to take legal actions on this?” she asked.

The PAC was informed that the Region One RDC has been unable to locate the contractor. It was explained that the regional administration wrote the contractor to recover the amount overpaid; however, the registered mail was returned. The region is now of the opinion that the contractor is no longer in business.

“We cannot locate the contractor… the building that the company used is locked and we cannot find any of the directors of the company,” she said.

But the PAC members did not buy this explanation.

Teixeira opined that there was no alacrity in the matter that occurred since 2011.

The Regional Executive Officer got into further trouble when he told the PAC that the rehabilitation of the Regional Administration Office at Mabaruma was being completed using other funds from the 2013 Current Programme. According to him, the project has cost less since it is being executed via force contract.

“What bothers us in the PAC, not just the opposition but the government too, that these things are happening and no one seems to be chasing after them. Even if you fail, even if you go to court and the case is thrown out… the regions and the ministries are looking like they are not even going after these issues,” Teixeira stressed.

Incomplete project

She further recommended that the engineer who signed off on the incomplete project be taken before the court. She said either the engineer takes responsibility for his action or the REO faces the music.

“If the REOs are not prepared to point their fingers to those who approved the projects when they are not half way done, then someone else has to face the music,” she said.

The PAC Chairman expressed similar disappointment. Greenidge said, “It has to be clear that the committee

is completely dissatisfied with the treatment of this matter, what arose in the first instance and what appears to be is the absence of any meaningful action.”

Greenidge gave the REO three months to resolve the matter, noting that it was an issue on the table since 2011 and brought to public light in 2012.

People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Member Bibi Shaddick added that the REO must be held accountable.

“I am hearing ‘engineer signed off’, but it was not the engineer who pays the money, it is the REO, the engineer is not the accounting officer. Any money that is paid to anybody, the REO had to be satisfied that the money is payable," she said.

The REO was also bashed for his inability to reclaim some $4.797 million in overpayments made to a contractor for the construction of the Students Dormitory at Port Kaituma.

In its report to the PAC, the region stated that it terminated the contract and subsequently wrote the contractor requesting that the money be repaid. Legal action is expected, the report prepared by the region said. But this has been the response of the region since 2013 when it appeared before the PAC for the first time on the matter.

The region also has to recover $272,100, due to incomplete work done at the Tobago Primary School. Additionally, the AG report pointed out that there were other discrepancies observed with respect to the contract.

Additional outstanding funds to be recovered for the year 2011 also include; $132,980 for the construction of a sanitary block at Kamwatta Primary School, Moruca; $418,700 for extension work to the Health Hut at Kariabo, Barima; and $603,500 for work to the Wauna Nursery School’s sanitary block. Fisher was cautioned to take corrective measures.

wednesday, march 5, 2014 |

Month of activities to honour Jagans launched

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Monday announced that a month of activities have been planned to reflect on the stellar contributions made by its late founders, Dr Cheddi Jagan and his wife, Janet Jagan, both former Presidents.

According to PPP Executive Secretary Zulficar Mustapha, the activities were launched last weekend with the hosting of the West Demerara leg of the Cheddi Jagan Cycle Race.

The Berbice leg of the event will commence in New Amsterdam in the wee hours of the morning and conclude at the Babu John monument.

Mustapha underscored the importance of the activities planned while contending that Dr Jagan remains the “Father of the Nation” when one factors in the depth and importance of his contributions to the social and economic fibre of Guyanese society.

Activities have been planned for all 10 of the administrative regions and include the annual memorial service at Babu John, Port Mourant, the eagerly-anticipated Cheddi Jagan Fitness Walk, and the Family Fun Day and Picnic on the lawns

Dr Cheddi Jagan

of State House. A PPP office will also be launched in Aishalton, Region Nine.

Son of the soil

Dr Jagan was born on March 22, 1918 on a sugar plantation in Port Mourant, Berbice, the son of indentured sugar workers.

His parents Jagan and Bachoni had arrived in the then British Guiana as infants with their mothers, who came as indentured immigrants from the district of Basti in Uttar Pradesh, India in 1901.

The young Jagan attended primary school and two years of secondary school in his area. At the age of 15, his father decided to send him to Queen’s College. After high

school, he found it difficult to find a job, and went to the United States to study dentistry at Howard University in Washington, DC in September 1935.

After two years at Howard, he earned himself a place at Northwestern University, in Chicago, Illinois, where he would spend the next five years.

In 1942, he graduated with a degree in Dental Surgery (DDS), and a Bachelor of Sciences (BSc).

One year later, on August 5, he married Janet Rosenberg without the consent of either parents.

In October 1943, he returned home without his wife, who arrived just before Christmas.

Dr Jagan then set about establishing a practice in Georgetown, with his wife assisting him as the hygienist and office assistant.

His low fees caused a public battle with the Dental Association, as Dr Jagan fought for his principle of non-exploitation of his patients.

According to his official website, www.jagan.org, while he liked his profession, Dr Jagan longed to become involved in “something more meaningful”. And he achieved that goal par ex-

cellence, after becoming involved in the fight to better workers’ lives. Dr Jagan and his wife would go on to help found the Political Affairs Committee (PAC), the forerunner of the PPP and the PPP itself.

In November 1947, Dr Jagan would be elected to political office for the first time, serving as a member of the Legislative Council of Guyana.

Popular support

Despite British machinations and armed occupation over fears of communism, jail time and persecution, a split in the party he cofounded and hence popular support and race riots, Dr Jagan would persist in the fight for the poor and disenfranchised, becoming Chief Minister and later Premier of British Guiana (1961 to 1964), prior to independence.

He later was elected President of Guyana from 1992 to 1997, after 28 years in opposition against the People’s National Congress, persevering over vote-rigging, persecution, and unimaginable odds.

Dr Jagan died of a heart attack in Washington on March 6, 1997 while in office, leaving behind a formidable legacy.

Action needed to end HIV/AIDS discrimination in Caribbean

“Zero Discrimination Day” was marked for the first time on March 1, spearheaded by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).

The commemoration promotes everyone’s right to lead full and dignified lives regardless of what they look like, where they come from and who they love.

According to a release, the global campaign underlines the fact that “we cannot combat HIV without addressing attitudes and the way people relate”.

In the Caribbean, more than 100,000 persons living with HIV are on life-saving treatment. Since 2001, there has been a 54 per cent decline in AIDS-related deaths and a 49 per cent fall in new infections.

But the ostracism and stigma faced by people living with HIV, men who have sex with men, sex workers, transgendered people and other key populations, continue to slow progress toward reducing new HIV infections and preventing AIDS-related deaths.

“Notwithstanding the strides we have made in prevention and treatment, our attitudes, the way we treat one another and fear about being discriminated against continue to undermine our efforts,” said the United Nations Secretary General’s Special Envoy on HIV to the Caribbean, Dr Edward Greene.

People are less likely to get

City Hall budget bloated with goodies for staff – Whittaker

Acting Local Government and Regional Development Minister Norman Whittaker on Monday said more than 70 per cent of the Georgetown City Council budget is for increases in salaries and the number of employees of the council.

Whittaker was at the time speaking at a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) news conference. He related that 56 per cent of the total budgetary allocations were for employees of the Council, who in the view of the Local Government and Regional Development

Ministry, were performing poorly. He noted too that among the allocations of the budget were increases for the stipend of the councillors and some amount of gratuity. He further related that only 28 per cent of the money allocated in the budget was for new works around the city.

Whittaker contended that the City Hall budget presentation was in actuality an exercise in ad hocery. He noted that the Council’s poor management of the city has left it in a troubling state. “A quick glance around the City of Georgetown… could only lead to us to believe that the

Council has no plans for improving the conditions under which the citizens of Georgetown live.” Hence, he explained the budget can only be deemed “merely an exercise of ad hocery.”

Shortly after the Mayor had announced that he was going to proceed with the budget that was rejected by Whittaker, the Local Government Minister told Guyana Times that the Council can go ahead with the deficit- heavy budget, but the Ministry will not be supporting it. He said it was the recognised practice that the budget is sent to the

Ministry to be perused and scrutinised. “Former mayors saw it as a benefit for central government to peruse and scrutinise the budget… it has been done for a number of years, I don’t see why the Mayor would want to change that,”

In the same vein, Whittaker told this publication that, over the years, the quality of service provided by the Mayor and City Council has left much to be desired, noting that the budget is “overly ambitious”. He said he did not know how the deficit in the budget will be financed.

tested for HIV if they will be treated with scorn or derision by healthcare workers, friends, family members and their communities.

Soon-to-be-released findings from public opinion surveys commissioned by the UNAIDS Caribbean Regional Support Team in several Caribbean countries show that the main reason people are discouraged from getting tested for HIV is their concern about the stigma they would face if news of a positive result gets out.

“We now know that early and full HIV treatment can both save lives and prevent new HIV infections. However, the fear of going to clinics for medicines and check-ups leads many people to delay starting treatment. Others stop taking their medicines because they become despondent about the discrimination they face.”

The special envoy is spearheading the “Justice for All” initiative. Led by the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) and supported by UNAIDS, this series of country-level and regional dialogue will engage government, civil society, faith groups, the private sector and young people on how to build solidarity and tolerance for all people, regardless of race, class, gender or sexual orientation.

Greene stressed that even as the dialogues and awareness-raising continue, governments have a responsibility to take practical measures to protect the rights of the most vulnerable and give them access to protection, health and justice.

“The AIDS response can teach the Caribbean lessons about tolerance and compassion. Everyone has a right to health and dignity. People must insist on it and governments must assure it,” Greene said.

GTUC, FITUG urged to put differences aside

Alliance For Change (AFC) executive member Moses Nagamootoo said the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) and its rival, the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) should work together and not cling to the “the arithmetic of power” while the Critchlow Labour College (CLC) continues to suffer.

He contended that the position of the GTUC is not helpful, at least not to the students of the college.

Speaking with Guyana Times in a recent interview, Nagamootoo lauded the decision of the House for voting to restore subvention to the college, pointing out that it has been a long time since the National Assembly unanimously agreed on a matter.

On this note, he said there should be no room for “trivial” issues now that the subvention to the college has been restored.

The Member of Parliament (MP), who seconded the motion in Parliament and the subsequent amendment, said a process of consultation should commence between the two labour factions to the benefit of the CLC.

The GTUC on Monday said the move by AFC and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) to support the

People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) in changing the composition of the CLC’s Board may have “ominous undertones”.

GTUC is demanding that the National Assembly take corrective measures following Thursday’s resolution which will now see the CLC’s Board comprising four representatives from GTUC and four from FITUG.

Out manoeuvred

Addressing the press on Monday, GTUC President Leslie Gonsalves said when the AFC’s motion which sought to reintroduce subvention for CLC was passed in the National Assembly on Thursday with amendment;

Woman fined for illegal fuel

Camille Marcus pleaded guilty to being in possession of illegal petrol when she appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Charity Magistrate’s Court.

The prosecution’s case was that on February 19, 2013 inspectors from the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) discovered approximately 24 gallons of gasoline at the defendant’s residence. Lab analysis confirmed that the fuel did not contain the required concentration of fuel marker and was, therefore, illegal. Marcus accepted ownership of the fuel and admitted to the prosecution’s facts. She claimed that the fuel was brought there by her husband who transports passengers to the North West District.

In a stirring plea for mitigation, Marcus’ attorney said

the defendant was apologetic for what transpired and was not using the fuel for any personal gain. Magistrate Scarce, however, rebutted this statement, noting that the illegal fuel was used in their business. He sentenced Marcus to pay a fine of $150,000 or alternatively serve a term of nine months’ imprisonment.

This marks the 27th conviction for the Fuel Marking Division of the GEA since the programme’s introduction in 2007. GEA said it remains committed in its efforts to combat fuel smuggling and continues to intensify its enforcement operations in this regard. It is also encouraging all persons who may have information relating to fuel smuggling and possession of illegal fuel to contact the agency at 226-0394 or 6245905.

GTUC had thought that “the opposition was out manoeuvred as can happen in politics”.

But Gonsalves said AFC leader Khemraj Ramjattan and APNU Co-Chairman, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine's sentiments in the Stabroek Newspaper have now changed the perception of the union. Both leaders had expressed disappointment with the GTUC’s rejection of the proposal. “Now the GTUC is convinced that the vote taken in Parliament has more ominous undertones.”

According to the GTUC President, the National Assembly has used GTUC and CLC as an example to make clear to the nation its collective policy position that all non-governmental organisations that are recipients of “taxpayers money” will now be subjected to government’s indirect ownership. But this move will not be condoned by GTUC, Gonsalves declared, stating clearly it will not compromise its rights. “We are unrelenting when it comes to

violating our rights to determine the composition of the CLC’s board.”

GTUC misguided

However, the PPP/C on Monday took to task the GTUC for its opposition to a National Assembly’s vote to broaden the representation on the CLC Board to guarantee state funding.

Last week, the House approved a motion with

amendments which would see GTUC’s rival, FITUG having the same number of representatives on the CLC Board. However, GTUC General Secretary Lincoln Lewis swiftly denounced the National Assembly which unanimously voted to restore the subvention.

In a hard-hitting statement on Monday, the PPP/C said for the past six years, there have been calls from many quarters, especially the political opposition and anti-government public figures, to restore the subvention which the government had suspended, citing that there must be accountability and democratic governance within the CLC.

“The rejection by the GTUC of the National Assembly’s unanimous motion is a clear indication that all the hullabaloo they made about the restoration of the subvention, had nothing to do about money and the students, but was merely about politics,” PPP/C MP Manzoor Nadir said.

He noted that the GTUC

leadership has stood steadfast that it would prefer to “rule over ruin”, a sick philosophy of many in the People’s National Congress (PNC), rather than come to a consensus that would be in the interest of all stakeholders of the college and the national labour movement as a whole.

Amid protests, Venezuela remembers Chavez

Venezuela geared up on Tuesday for commemorations of socialist leader Hugo Chavez’s death despite continued protests against his successor that have shaken the OPEC member and threatened the legacy of “El Comandante.”

Even as students maintained barricades in some cities and activists held new rallies, President Nicolas Maduro’s government was making lavish plans to honor Chavez on Wednesday’s anniversary of his death from cancer.

Maduro, who announced Chavez’s death in tears to a shell-shocked nation on March 5 last year, has made preserving Chavez’s controversial legacy the guiding force of his presidency despite opposition from about half of Venezuelans.

The president was to preside over a military parade in Caracas on Wednesday, followed by a ceremony

at the mausoleum housing Chavez’s remains on a hilltop shantytown. Latin American allies, including Bolivian leader Evo Morales and Nicaraguan counterpart Daniel Ortega, were to attend. Maduro, 51, narrowly won election in April 2013 to replace his late mentor but has seen economic problems worsen, made little headway against violent crime, and faced street protests since early February in the nation of 29 million people.

Those demonstrations have brought Venezuela’s worst unrest in a decade, with 18 people killed as demonstrators have faced off with security forces and Maduro supporters. Yet there seems to be little chance of a Ukrainestyle change at the top, given numbers on the street are not massive, the military appears to remain behind Maduro, and opposition leaders are not winning

over ‘Chavistas’ in poor areas. The current crisis has, though, exposed genuine discontent among Venezuelans on all sides, with the highest inflation in the Americas, shortages of products from toilet paper to milk, and violent crime rates among the worst in the world.

“We were better off with Chavez. Maduro has to work harder because if not, the people who elected him will be the people who end up getting rid of him,” Evelyn Vegas, 53, a housewife, said in a state-run supermarket. That comment echoed a common sentiment among ‘Chavistas’, who remain loyal to Maduro since that was Chavez’s dying wish, but are far from thrilled with his government. Critics say it is irrelevant to be remembering Chavez and spending money on a military parade when Venezuela has so many pressing problems to resolve. (Reuters)

Six homeless after Crabwood Creek fire

Afire suspected to be electrical in origin on Monday afternoon completely destroyed two houses at Crabwood Creek, leaving six persons home-

less including two children. The blaze reportedly started about 17:30h. According to information received, the fire reportedly began in a room on the upper flat of the house situated at Grant 1651, Lot 65 Crabwood Creek. The house was occupied by the Lilman family

Speaking to Guyana Times, Satesh Lilman, 32, a farmer, said he was resting in a hammock at the bottom flat of his home after a hard day’s work in the farm when he heard his neighbours shouting loudly.

“Me hear hollering and me git up fa see wha ah happen, den me hear me neba ah halla fiya, fiya in aayo house, Bai, me tun stupid me na know wha fa do… me tell meh wife run… she tek dem pickney and run out ah de yard, me try fa run upstairs fa cut off ah main switch but the heat too much, Man, me bin can’t even open ah door, deh house bin already ketch fiya inside,” he recalled.

Run for

safety

Lilman said he had to rush downstairs and run for safety as he became fearful that the raging inferno would cause the building to collapse and he would be trapped.

“We na get fa save notin, all abbie ting bun up and we na know wha we go do now, me feel like me want dead me self hey, dis too much, Man,” he tearfully said.

The man said when neighbours summoned the fire service at Springlands, no one answered.

“Yo wuk all yo life fa get sumting and becas ah downkaydamness yo loss all wha yo wuk fa, dis na fair,” he cried. Lilman totals his losses at $10 million.

The other house destroyed in the blaze was occupied by Dropadi Baichu, 83, a pensioner and her Husband Rajkumar Lokahi, 56, both overseas-based

Guyanese living in New York who are in Guyana on vacation.

Baichu was inconsolable, and as such, was unable to speak with reporters.

However, her niece Indra (only name given) told this publication that her aunt had to be “rushed out of the house” to safety.

“After several calls to the fire tenders and no answer, we called the Springlands Police Station, they then tried calling too but still no answer, we then called Georgetown and then I understand that the people made contact with them and that was when they came,” she stated.

Indra said her aunt was forced to flee the house in her nightgown.

Losses

Nothing in the house was saved, Indra said, estimating the losses at some $13 million.

“Everything went up in flames, all their passports, social security cards and important documents too,” she revealed

Indra commended the ranks at Springlands Police Station for their assistance and cooperation, acknowledging that they did all they could have done.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Fire Service was heavily criticised by residents, who related that by the time the fire tenders arrived, two of the buildings were already gutted.

According to the residents, they are planning to stage a protest in response to the poor work of the Guyana Fire Service.

On February 28, an early morning fire at Number 72 Village, Corentyne, completely ravaged three buildings, leaving 11 homeless, including three children. In that incident, the Fire Service was also heavily criticised for their late response to the scene.

Nandlall sues Kaieteur News over "Dem boys seh" articles

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall on Tuesday was successful in securing an injunction against Kaieteur News, restraining it from publishing any further defamatory contents against him as was allegedly done in two previous editions of its daily column “Dem boys seh”.

The ex parte injunction was issued by acting Chief Justice Ian Chang on Tuesday pending additional court documents to be served. The affidavit named Editor Adam Harris, Publisher Glenn Lall and the National Media Publishing Company as respondents.

In the affidavit filed by Nandlall’s group of attorneys, which includes Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos, Sase Gunraj, Euclin Gomes and Ganesh Hira, the minister is claiming some $30 million for the public embarrassment caused by the two articles.

his attorney had wrote the newspaper’s Editor-in-Chief Adam Harris, instructing that a retraction be published within 24 hours and warned if not done, legal actions would be pursued.

Nandlall added that he had spoken to Harris about retracting the articles and was told that it was published based upon the instructions of Lall; however, the Editor-in-Chief did promised that a retraction along with an apology would be published. He said too

that he had spoken with Lall who also promise that a retraction would be done, but no such actions were taken.

The Attorney General is asking for damages in excess of $10,000,000 each for the libel contained in the articles titled “Tax Dollars Going to Sleep-In” and “Ah Kneel Deh Pun A Hustle”. In excess of $10,000,000 is also being asked for aggravated and exemplary damages caused.

In addition, Nandlall requested an injunction re-

straining the respondents from furthering publishing any similar libel concerning him.

“That I now pray that this Honourable Court would grant the following order: an injunction restraining the respondents/defendants and each of them by themselves, their servants and/or agents or otherwise whomsoever, or howsoever, from further publishing the said or any similar libel about and concerning the applicant/plaintiff,” the affidavit said.

“The aforesaid libel was calculated to cause and did cause me great public embarrassment, held me up to odium and ridicule and to disparage me as the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs and Member of Parliament, both nationally and internationally,” he said.

The columns referred to by Nandlall were published on February 28 and March 2 titled “Tax Dollars Going to Sleep-In” and “Ah Kneel Deh Pun A Hustle” respectively. The minister also stated in the court document that

Putin: Military force would be “last resort” in Ukraine

President Vladimir Putin delivered a robust defence of Russia’s actions in Crimea on Tuesday, and said he would use force in Ukraine only as a last resort, easing market fears that EastWest tension over the former Soviet republic could lead to war.

But tension remained high on the ground. Russian forces fired warning shots in a confrontation with Ukrainian servicemen at an air base, and Russian navy ships were reported to have blockaded the strait separating the Ukrainian Black Sea peninsula from Russia.

At his first news conference since the crisis began, Putin said Russia reserved the right to use all options to protect compatriots who were living in “terror” in Ukraine, but force was not needed for now.

His comments, coupled with the end of Russian war

games near Ukraine’s borders, lifted Russian bonds and stock markets around the world after a panic selloff on Monday.

Putin denied the Russian armed forces were directly engaged in the bloodless seizure of Crimea, saying the uniformed troops without national insignia were “local self-defence forces”.

“As for bringing in forces, for now there is no such need, but such a possibility exists,” he said. “What could serve as a reason to use military force? It would naturally be the last resort, absolutely the last.”

Western sanctions under consideration against Russia would be counter-productive, he said. A senior U.S. official said Washington was ready to impose them in days rather than weeks. The Russian Foreign Ministry warned that Moscow would retaliate. (Excerpt from Reuters)

wednesday, march 5, 2014| guyanatimesgy.com

Govt renews call for AML bill to be passed without amendments –

APNU revises seizure of cash, jewellery to $10M

BY SVETLANA MARSHALL

The ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) said its proposal with regards to the fight against money laundering and the financing of terrorism is the best avenue to avert Guyana from further blacklisting. The ruling party is pushing for the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment)

Bill 2013, which is in keeping with the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) standards, to be passed in the National Assembly.

According to the government, the A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) proposed amendments to the AML/ CFT Act of 2009 can be subsequently tabled in the National

Assembly, passed and assented to by President Donald Ramotar once the green light is given by CFATF. Today, the Parliamentary Special Select Committee will meet at the Parliament Building to discuss APNU’s proposed amendments. It is expected that the Chief Parliamentary Counsel Cecil Dhurjon will submit the draft amendments, but from all indications, the parties will not arrive at a consensus any time soon.

Presidential Advisor Gail Teixeira, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall and junior Finance Minister Bishop Juan Edghill reinforced this position on Tuesday during a press conference in the National Communications Network (NCN) studios.

Teixeira, the chairperson of the select committee said

the opposition is holding the bill “hostage”. She explained that APNU on February 26 presented to President Donal Ramotar a maximum position, stating clearly that the AML/CFT (Amendment) Bill will not return to the House if its proposed amendments are not included. But even if the amendments are collectively presented in the National Assembly, the coalition said the president must assent to the non-assented bills. Further, the opposition is calling for the commencement order for the Local Government Commission to be issued.

Bi-partisan committee

On February 10, President Ramotar suggested to APNU that the AML/CFT (Amendment) Bill 2013, which was agreed on by all parties sitting on the Special Select Committee, be sent to the House. He had further proposed that a joint bi-partisan committee be set up to examine the unassented bill. But this proposal was thrown out by APNU.

The coalition’s amendments are seeking to remove the powers of the Finance Minister to appoint the Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and give it to a committee of the National Assembly. Initially, APNU had also proposed the seizure of cash over $2 million as well as jewellery by the police or customs officials once there are reasonable suspicions. However, APNU Member of Parliament (MP) Joseph Harmon has announced that the coalition has upped this amount to $10 million.

“Over the weekend, we have been looking at a variety of FIU’s around the world and we cannot find anyone in which the Parliament plays a role in the appointment of anti-money laundering authori-

Former Trinidad and Tobago (TT) Prime Minister Basdeo Panday will deliver the feature address at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Annual Awards Presentation and Dinner Thursday evening.

The event will be held at the Pegasus Hotel at 19:00h, the GMSA said in a release.

Born on May 25, 1933, Panday was the fifth Prime Minister of TT from 1995 to 2001 and has served as Opposition Leader from 1976–1977; 1978–1986; 1989–1995; and 2001–2010. He was first elected to Parliament in 1976 as the member for Couva North. He is the former Chairman and party leader of the op-

Singh reiterated that the approved bill can be returned to the House and on a later date government can be engaged on the additional amendments. “Were they to be unable to reach agreement with us on their amendment, they have the majority which is required to take the amendments to the House anyhow and to enact their amendments anyhow, they have the majority,” he pointed out.

ty and or even a setting up of a FIU. So it is very clear that the bill is being held hostage,” Teixeira highlighted.

AFC’s position

The Alliance For Change (AFC) led by Khemraj Ramjattan from the inception of the committee in 2013, made it clear that it will not support the AML bill until the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) was established, operationalised and budgetary provision made available, but during the February 26 meeting, the alliance backed the coalition, saying the amendments to the principal act must be included in the bills too.

According to Teixeira, AFC’s position came after a Mashramani Agreement was made involving the party and government. “The February 26 meeting revealed to the government that the opposition in particular the AFC had reneged from the Mashramani Agreement,” she complained. Since the February 26 meeting, she said there has been no indication from the AFC or APNU that “they have climbed down from their maximum position”.

CFATF Financial Advisor Roger Hernandez on his visit to Guyana had said that the proposed amendments to the principal act can put Guyana at risk of being non-compliant.

Minister Singh said: “The proposal by the opposition is fundamentally problematic, requires careful study, requires consultation, and requires reformulation to make them workable.” However, pitching the president’s proposal, Dr

position United National Congress. In 2006, Panday was convicted of failing to declare a bank account in

But when asked what assurance the government will give the opposition that the bill if passed in the House will be assented, the Finance Minister explained that the “the President didn’t say that he was guaranteeing that the amendments will be enacted as is. What he said was, he is willing to consult with CFATF and once CFATF comes back and endorses the amendments as acceptable… then he is providing the leader of the opposition with an assurance that his government will support the amendments.”

Feeling the squeeze Nevertheless, he said Guyana is already feeling the consequences of a stalled AML/CFT Bill. “I received an account yesterday (Monday) of an individual who was told their account in an overseas bank account will be closed if they continue to do transactions with Guyana,” he position.

The Finance Minister further added that an overseas bank is refusing to transfer funds until detailed information is presented. “These are new instances of transactions being delayed,” he lamented. Supporting his colleagues, Minister Nandlall said APNU through its amendments is attempting to hijack the functions of the Executive and “placing it in the bosom of the Legislature”.

Asked why Dhurjon was having so many difficulties with the opposition-sponsored amendments, the Attorney General said the man is not a mechanical scribe, but a legally trained officer in the area of law. He noted too that Dhurjon would have studied CFATF recommendations and guidelines.

London and imprisoned but on March 20, 2007, that conviction had been quashed by the Court of Appeal. He was granted bail on April 28 pending the outcome of his appeal due to his health condition and the poor state of health facilities at the Arouca prison. On May 1, he decided to resign as Chairman of the United National Congress, but the party’s executive refused to accept his resignation. However, he lost the party’s internal elections on January 24, 2010 to Deputy Leader Kamla PersadBissessar by a large margin. In 2006, he was awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman by the Overseas Indian Affairs Ministry.

“12 Years a

Slave” makes history with Best Picture Oscar

– “Everyone deserves not just to survive but to live, this is the most important legacy of Solomon Northup” – Director Steve McQueen

The slavery drama “12

Years a Slave” won the Academy Award for best picture on Sunday, making history as the first movie from a black director to win the film industry’s highest honour in 86 years of the Oscars.

British Director Steve McQueen’s unflinching portrayal of pre-Civil War American slavery also won two other Oscars, including best supporting actress for newcomer Lupita Nyong’o and best adapted screenplay based on the memoir of Solomon Northup, a free man kidnapped and sold into slavery in Louisiana.

“Everyone deserves not just to survive but to live, this is the most important legacy of Solomon Northup,” said McQueen in his acceptance speech.

It prevailed over space thriller “Gravity” from Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron, which nevertheless racked up the most Oscars of the night with seven, including the best director honour for Cuaron, a first for a Latin American director.

Groundbreaking work

“Gravity,” starring Sandra Bullock as a stranded astronaut, swept the technical awards like visual effects and cinematography, a reward for its groundbreaking work on conveying space and weightlessness.

In one of the strongest years for film in recent memory, the 6000-plus voters of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences scattered golden Oscar statuettes

among the many acclaimed movies in contention.

It was a good night for the scrappy, low-budget film “Dallas Buyers Club”, a biopic of an early AIDS activist two decades in the making that won three Oscars, including the two male acting awards. Matthew McConaughey, in a validation of a remarkable career turnaround, won best actor for his portrayal of the homophobe turned AIDS victim turned treatment crusader Ron Woodroof, a role for which he lost 23 kilograms (50 pounds).

His co-star, Jared Leto, won best supporting actor for his role as Woodroof’s unlikely business sidekick, the transgender woman Rayon, for which he also slimmed down drastically.

Australia’s Cate Blanchett won the Best Actress Oscar

for her acclaimed role as the socialite unhinged by her husband’s financial crimes in Woody Allen’s “Blue Jasmine”. “Thank you so much, Woody, for casting me,” Blanchett said.

The tale of Nordic princesses “Frozen” won best animated film, a first for Disney Animation Studios since the category was introduced in 2002.

Comedian and talk show star Ellen DeGeneres returned as Oscar host on Sunday in an appearance many saw as calculated to project a lighter, more affable tone for Hollywood’s biggest night after the provocative performance of her immediate predecessor, Seth MacFarlane.

In the comedian’s easy breezy style, DeGeneres mixed with the crowd, tak-

ing a star-studded selfie with the likes of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie that broke the record for retweets on Twitter.

The big loser of the night was director David O Russell’s 1970s crime caper “American Hustle”, which walked away empty-handed despite earning 10 nominations, the same number as “Gravity”. Martin Scorsese’s tale of financial greed, “The Wolf of Wall

Street”, also failed to take home Oscars.

Kenyan actress Nyong’o was one of the big stars of the night, not only for her winning pale blue Prada gown on the red carpet, but for her touching speech.

In accepting the first award of the night for “12 Years a Slave”, Nyong’o, 31, paid homage to her character. “It doesn’t escape me for one moment that so much joy in my life is thanks to so much pain in someone else’s, and so I want to salute the spirit of Patsey, for her guidance,” a tearful Nyong’o told the audience.

High acclaim Sunday capped an unusually long awards season, extended by the Winter Olympics, and for “12 Years a Slave” it spells the end of six months of both high acclaim and uncertainty over awards stemming from the perception that it was a hard film to watch.

The film from studio Fox Searchlight compelled Oscar voters to go see the film with the ad “It’s Time”, fearing that they might skip it and throw their weight behind “Gravity”.

It has earned nearly US$140 million at the worldwide box office, a fraction of the US$700 million for “Gravity.”

Right to the end, McQueen and his fellow producers, including Pitt, stuck to his line that slavery was a theme that is not only historical but also current. “We just hope this film remains a gentle reminder that we are all equal,” said Pitt backstage.

Interest in Northup’s 19th Century memoir has been revived following the success of the film, with many public high schools adding it to their curricula and reading lists.

Cinemas in the United States are scheduling extra screenings of “12 Years a Slave” after it won the Best Picture Oscar. Steve McQueen’s drama will play at more than 1000 locations in the U.S. and Canada from Friday, up from 411 last weekend, according to Variety. The memoir on which the film is based has seen a similar boost, jumping more than 300 places in Amazon.com’s chart. Northup’s book is now in 16th place, having previously been ranked in 326th place before Sunday’s ceremony. (Reuters/BBC News)

SUDOKU

Spend time with people who inspire you. A meaningful relationship is based on mutual interests and ideals. Sharing your ideas will improve your connection to someone special.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Avoid anyone trying to meddle with your plans. Rather than go along with someone else’s ideas, you should fulfill the projects that are important to you.

20-March 20)

Your involvement in charitable organisations will help raise your profile. The result will encourage you to increase your efforts and will spur even greater support. Positive action brings stellar results.

(March 21-April 19)

You will be able to improve your position through the power of persuasion. Share your views, and stress the positive results that will ensue if your plans are put into action.

(April 20-May 20)

Opportunities will come your way if you share your aspirations with others. You may have to make some minor adjustments to your plans, but in the end, you will achieve the desired outcome.

(May 21June 20)

Concentrate on your duties, and use discretion when speaking your mind. Someone could try to use your words against you. Don’t be tempted to join in a heated discussion.

You are a talented individual with a unique way of helping others. Unleashing your creativity will enable you to offer significant improvements and solutions. Your generosity will be inspiring.

(July 23Aug. 22)

It’s in your best interest to listen to those around you. You will discover information pertinent to a decision that you need to make. Reserve your opinion until you have all the facts.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Your inquisitive nature is looking for a new creative outlet. Explore new activities, challenges and topics that you find stimulating in order to meet people who share similar interests.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Take on a task that’s been hanging over your head for too long. Stop making excuses and start acting decisively so you can move on to more pleasurable activities.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

To maintain your good reputation, you should acquaint yourself with all the relevant information required prior to engaging in a new venture or partnership. Deception will lead to a broken agreement.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Your leadership prospects will be improved if you are a team player. Establish yourself as a hard worker. Someone who is easy to get along with could be a valuable asset to your cohort.

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Couple homeless after Devonshire Castle fire

– husband’s ex-lover suspected to have started blaze

Acouple from Devonshire Castle, Essequibo Coast are now homeless after their home went up in flames on Friday. The incident occurred around 20:30h while the couple were at a relative’s home watching a movie.

The couple estimated their losses to be around $500,000, noting that they lost beds, clothing, furniture, and other articles in the fire.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Dhaniram “Christmas” Chattergoon said he and his wife, Gomattie Ramroop, secured their house Friday afternoon and left to visit a nearby relative. The fisherman said they spent the night at the relative’s home, and he received a call early Saturday morning from another relative, stating that his house was burnt down around 20:30h Friday.

Chattergoon said he and his wife and relatives quickly rushed to the scene and found the house completely burnt. With tears in his eyes, the fisherman

The fisherman standing in front of the little shed he has erected for shelter on the spot where his house once stood

said most of the things that were consumed in the fire were not fully paid for. He said he and his wife worked hard to better themselves and even owed a lumberyard money for materials they had purchased for the house.

He believes the fire was started by his ex-lover with whom he had shared a

common-law relationship. He said his ex had threatened him earlier that she would destroy his marriage and his house. According to reports, the woman, when questioned by police officers, denied the allegation. She was, however, arrested by police, but later released. Investigations are continuing.

Bangladesh v Pakistan, Asia Cup, Mirpur… Sensational Afridi seals final berth

Ahmed Shehzad’s fifth ODI century set it up, but Pakistan needed special innings from Fawad Alam and Shahid Afridi, who blazed an 18-ball fifty, to pull off their highest chase in ODIs

and book a place in the Asia Cup final, against Sri Lanka. Afridi ransacked 59 off 25 balls, hitting seven sixes during a 69-run stand for the sixth wicket with Fawad Alam that took only 5.3 overs. They res-

urrected a flagging Pakistan chase, after Bangladesh had surpassed expectations to post 326-3, their best ODI score. The game was decided with only one ball to spare. Bangladesh’s bowling and

fielding let them down - they were sloppy on the boundary and Mushfiqur Rahim dropped Afridi on 52 in the final moments - and they failed to defend 300-plus for the first time in four attempts.

Pakistan’s chase was led by Shehzad, who made 103 off 123 balls, accelerating after a sedate start and adding 105 runs for the fourth wicket with Fawad at 6.70 per over. He fell in the 39th over, and after the curious promotion of Abdur Rehman as pinch-hitter failed, only Afridi could make or break the game. Pakistan needed 102 off 52 balls, and he smote the ball so hard and far during an assault that will not be forgotten by those at the Shere Bangla Stadium. Several faces in the crowd revealed anguish as Afridi bludgeoned the home side.

Between overs 41.2 overs and 46.5, when he was finally run out, Afridi launched sixes over long on, extra cover, long off, midwicket and fine leg. Five of his seven sixes came in his first nine deliveries. His stand with Fawad came at 12.54 an over. He took the bowling and Mirpur by surprise. During the onslaught from Afridi and Fawad, Mahmudullah gave 16 in an over, Shakib 20, Shafiul 16 and Razzak 18 as the asking rate plummeted in the last ten overs.

When Afridi was dismissed, struggling with cramp, Pakistan still needed 33 off 19 but Fawad stepped up, clouting Razzak twice over the midwicket boundary to kill the contest. The turnaround Afridi engineered had been so sudden because Pakistan had lost their way

after a 97-run first wicket stand between Shehzad and Mohammad Hafeez, as three wickets fell for eight runs. Unlike their bowling that fell apart, however, Bangladesh’s batting had been impeccable. For the first time since the Fatullah chase against New Zealand in November last year, every batsman’s plans worked.

Anamul’s century played the central role and he made sure Pakistan were denied early wickets. Despite his reputation as a shot-maker, his 132-ball knock was chanceless, and he played second fiddle during the early stages of his 150-run opening stand with Imrul Kayes, who rode his luck to score a half-century in his comeback game.

Anamul had laid the platform and then watched Mushfiqur Rahim and Mominul Haque reach fifties, and Shakib smash 44 off 16 balls after returning from a three-match ban. Bangladesh took 121 runs off the last ten overs but even that was not enough to survive a battering from Afridi.

This loss will hurt Bangladesh as much as the one against Afghanistan did and they have only pride to play for in the final league game against Sri Lanka. Pakistan, on the other hand, were deserving finalists, having clinched last-over finishes against both India and Bangladesh. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Bangladesh innings (50 overs maximum)

Anamul Haque† c Ahmed Shehzad b Saeed Ajmal 100 Imrul Kayes c †Umar Akmal b Mohammad Talha 59

Mominul Haque c Mohammad Hafeez b Saeed Ajmal 51 Mushfiqur Rahim* not out 51

Shakib Al Hasan not out 44

Extras: (lb-3, w-15, nb-3) 21

Total: (3 wickets; 50 overs) 326

Fall of wickets: 1-150 (Imrul Kayes, 28.4 ov), 2-204 (Anamul Haque, 39.1 ov), 3-249 (Mominul Haque, 44.2 ov)

Bowling: Mohammad Hafeez 10-0-27-0, Umar Gul 10-1-760 (3-w), Abdur Rehman 0-0-80 (3-nb), Fawad Alam 2-0-120, Mohammad Talha 7-0-68-1 (1-w), Saeed Ajmal 10-0-61-2 (1-w), Shahid Afridi 10-0-64-0 (2-w), Sohaib Maqsood 1-0-7-0

Pakistan innings (target: 327 runs from 50 overs)

Ahmed Shehzad b Abdur Razzak 103

Mohammad Hafeez c Imrul Kayes b Mominul Haque 52

Misbah-ul-Haq* b Shakib Al Hasan 4

Sohaib Maqsood c †Anamul Haque b Mominul Haque 2 Fawad Alam run out (†Anamul Haque/Al-Amin Hossain) 74 Abdur Rehman c Ziaur Rahman b Mahmudullah 8 Shahid Afridi run out (Shakib Al Hasan) 59 Umar Akmal† not out 14 Umar Gul not out 0

Extras: (b-1, lb-3, w-9) 13

Total: (7 wickets; 49.5 overs) 329 Fall of wickets: 1-97 (Mohammad Hafeez, 20.4 ov), 2-102 (Misbah-ul-Haq, 21.5 ov), 3-105 (Sohaib Maqsood, 22.5 ov), 4-210 (Ahmed Shehzad, 38.3 ov), 5-225 (Abdur Rehman, 41.2 ov), 6-294 (Shahid Afridi, 46.5 ov), 7-325 (Fawad Alam, 49.4 ov) Bowling: Shafiul Islam 5-0-490 (3-w), Al-Amin Hossain 6.50-50-0 (2-w), Shakib Al Hasan 10-2-53-1 (2-w), Abdur Razzak 9-0-72-1 (1-w), Mominul Haque 9-1-37-2, Mahmudullah 7-147-1, Nasir Hossain 3-0-17-0

Hemraj eager on cementing middleorder spot –

says consistency is the key

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Batsman Chanderpaul

Hemraj is considered one of region’s brightest prospects, and having earned a recall to the national First-Class squad, the left-hander is keen to cash in and cement his place in the Guyana side.

The talented middle-order batsman and the in-form Tagnarine Chanderpaul have replaced the injured West Indies middle order batsmen Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan for Guyana’s second game in the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Regional Four-day tournament from March 7-10.

Guyana will take on Barbados at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara under lights from 15:00h daily.

Golden opportunity

However, the Everest Cricket Club (GCC) batsman, who played the last of his three First-Class matches against Jamaica at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, in April last year, said the recall represents a golden opportunity to secure a long-term role in the national side.

An average of just 09.50 with a topscore of 29, the 20-year-old, Hemraj, who career did not get off to the best of starts, with just 57 runs off six innings, told Guyana Times Sport on Tuesday that “this is probably the best chance to resurrect his FirstClass career”.

“I am back in the reckoning, and this time I am determined to make it count,” Hemraj said.

Hemraj, who recently completed the first phase at the Sagicor High Performance Centre (HPC)

at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus said, “I worked very hard, both physically and on my game, while at the HPC, so I feel this is the best time to revive my career”.

With both Chanderpaul and Sarwan out due to separate injuries, and judging from the present form displayed by the only fit 11 in Jamaica, where Guyana were beaten by seven wickets, Hemraj can find himself in the starting X1 lineup for Friday’s match.

However, once giving the opportunity, consistency is the watchword for the former West Indies under-19 batsman.

“If I make the final X1, I want to grab this opportunity with both hands, I just want to score runs and be as consistent as possible,” Hemraj said.

The Guyana squad for the second round reads: Christopher Barnwell (Captain), Sewnarine Chattergoon, Assad Fudadin, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Narsingh Deonarine, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Anthony Bramble, Amir Khan, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Ronsford Beaton, Keon Joseph and Vishaul Singh.

CIDI onboard with 11-race cycling

Beverage distributor

CIDI has become the latest in a long list of sponsors that have supported cycling events being promoted by national coach Hassan Mohamed over the years.

The long-serving coach told this publication on Tuesday that the company has willingly come on board by sponsoring this Saturday’s 11-race cycling meet at the inner circuit of the National Park.

The entity has agreed to sponsor the day’s activities, which will get underway at 09:00 hours, under its Thrill soft drink and Blue Life Water products.

As usual, the programme will conclude with the gruelling 35-lap School

Cheddi Jagan memorial cycling… Jeffrey set to defend Berbice leg this Sunday

After successfully staging the first leg on the West Demerara roadways on Sunday last, organisers of the Cheddi Jagan memorial cycling trilogy will take the event to the Ancient County of Berbice on Sunday, as has been the case for more than a decade and a half.

This Sunday’s race will pedal off at 09:00h in front of Freedom House, New Amsterdam; proceed to Number 55 Village before returning to Port Mourant for the finish, a distance of 50 miles.

The veterans, mountain bikers and females will turn at Hogg Style on the upward journey and finish at Port Mourant, while the senior and junior riders will do the full distance.

The talented Raynauth Jeffrey of Team Coco (Guyana) is set to defend the senior title, having won last year’s event in a time of two hours, 13 minutes, 26 seconds (02h: 13m: 26s),

while Raul Leal, who recently returned to competitive cycling after a horrific accident, is the defending champion of the junior race.

The experienced Kennard Lovell won the veteran category last year, while Ozia McUally and Hazina Barrett were also winners on the day, copping

the mountain bike and female divisions respectively.

The first six finishers in the Open category and the top three in the junior, veteran, mountain bike and female will be rewarded, while eight prime prizes will be at stake.

According to national coach and organiser of

the day’s activities, Hassan Mohamed, transporation for cyclists and officials will leave for Berbice on Sunday morning at 05:00h from the National Sports Commission (NSC) building on Middle Street.

This is the 17th year the event is being held in Berbice and is once again being sponsored by BK International.

Meanwhile, Jeffrey has emerged as the top rider of the event over the last two years under the points system that was introduced in 2012.

In the six races in 2012 and 2013, Jeffrey accumulated 38 points, followed by Robin Persaud (30) and Orville Hinds (21). Under the points system, the first six finishers were given 10 points for a win; eight for second; six for third; four for fourth, three for fifth and two for sixth.

According to Mohamed, Jeffrey will be presented with his prize on Sunday.

Boys and Invitational race, which will feature the leading senior riders and the up and coming talents.

Quite naturally, the cyclists will use the event to test their readiness for the Berbice leg of the Cheddi Jagan memorial 50-mile road race on Sunday, and given the level of rivalry expected in the Ancient County, a fast-paced is in the making come Saturday.

Other events planned for the day include the BMX Open, 6-9, 9-12 and 12-14, mountain bikes, veterans under-50, over-50 and over-50. Representatives of CIDI are expected to assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion of the races.

Smith facing defeat in final Test as Australia dominate

Graeme Smith appears destined to be defeated in his final Test before retirement as Australia closed in on a series victory against South Africa.

The Proteas, chasing 511 for victory, were reduced to 71-4 in their second innings by the end of the fourth day.

Smith, who announced his imminent internation-

al retirement on Monday, scored three runs before being caught at short-leg off Mitchell Johnson.

Alviro Petersen, Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla were also out before the close.

It means South Africa, who are ranked number one in the world Test rankings, face a huge battle to avoid their first series defeat

SCOREBOARD

since losing to Australia at home in 2008-09.

With the three-match series locked at 1-1 heading into this match in Cape Town, Australia have bounced back brilliantly from their 231-run defeat in the second Test at at Port Elizabeth.

Resuming their second innings on 27-0 with a lead of 234, Michael Clarke’s men dominated the Proteas bowling attack.

Belligerent opener David Warner led the way as he bludgeoned 145 from 156 balls to score his second century of the match and take his runs total in the series to 543 at an average of 91.

Warner received support from Chris Rogers (39) and Steve Smith (36 not out), but was the dominant figure in all his partnerships as he scored nearly half his side’s runs before edging a Kyle Abbott slower ball behind.

Harris 8-5-10-1, Johnson 13-3-31-2, Pattinson 9-6-13-1, Lyon 5-3-3-0, Watson 3-2-1-0, Smith 3-0-13-0 Fall of wickets: 12 (Petersen), 12 (Smith), 15 (Elgar), 68 (Amla)

Australia eventually declared on 303-5 from just 58 overs, giving the hosts six overs to bat before the tea break. (BBC Sport)

Vizion Sounds Inter-club football kicks off today

By Avenash Ramzan

All systems are in place for the staging of the highly anticipated Vizion Sounds Inter-Club football championship, set to kick off this evening in Georgetown.

The three-day Goodwill activity is being staged by Vizion Sports and Entertainment Agency in collaboration with the Georgetown Football Association.

The four-team competition will involve local sides Alpha United, Slingerz FC and Buxton United and Jamaica club side, Boys Town FC.

The first double-header will be on this evening at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, Bourda, while the action will switch to the Buxton ground, East Coast Demerara, on Friday. On Sunday, the long awaited event will wrap up with the final set of matches at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, Bourda.

One of the chief coordinators, Wally Fraser, was excited that the event is finally underway, having been postponed

late last year.

He complimented the sponsors for staying the course, and thanked the club, especially Boys Town FC for honouring their commitment to being part of the event.

The tournament has attracted corporate support from Banks DIH Limited and Caribbean Airlines, who representatives were both delighted to partner with the organisers.

Communications Manager of Banks DIH Limited, Troy Peters, said the event is “good for Caribbean integration and Caribbean football development”, noting that his company is pleased to be partner with Vizion Sounds and the other stakeholders.

Dion Inniss of Caribbean Airlines echoed similar sentiments, adding that the championship has come at an “opportune time” when Guyanese are “crying out” for exciting football.

He lauded Fraser and his team for hosting the event and pledged Caribbean Airlines’ commitment to future competition staged by the organisers.

Coach of Jamaica’s

Boystown FC, Andrew Price, said his club was disappointed with the postponement last year, but nevertheless is eagerly looking forward to trading skills with the Guyanese footballers.

Price admitted that his camp is not too familiar with the three local clubs that would be competing, but is confident his boys will give a good account of themselves during the three days of action.

Meanwhile, the coaches of the local clubs all expressed confidence of doing well during the coming days.

Slingerz FC, under the guidance of former national player Charles “Lily” Pollard will face overseas opponents for the first time, Alpha United, led by coach Wayne “Wiggy” Dover, will use the event as preparation for the Caribbean Club championship, while Buxton United will look to give its young footballers some much needed exposure, according to secretary of the club, Eton Moses.

On each night, local and regional artistes will entertain fans with an after concert.

“Dutch Boy” joins Slingerz FC for Vizion Sounds Goodwill tournament

He didn’t win the Gergetown Football Association (GFA) Banks Beer Cup playing for Santos given the fact that Slingerz defeated them 3-2 in the final on January 1, however, he certainly made a name for himself in Guyana and now, has returned to further stamp his authority.

Surinamese striker Wensley “Dutch Boy” Christoph will play for Slingerz FC against Jamaica’s Boys Town

Football Club, Buxton United and the lone team that handed them their only two loses - Alpha Unitedin the Vizion Sounds Entertainment Goodwill football tournament that kicks off tonight at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground. In fact, the game of itself is historic, with the last time a Jamaican club team visited Guyana was 21 years ago and the clash between Slingerz and Boys’ Town tonight at 20:00h will be the

first game of its kind since the disbanded Caribbean Professional Football League.

With the organisers allowing each team to use three guess players, drawn from anywhere in the world, Slingerz FC sought the goal scoring expertise of the Surinamese international from SV Excelsior football club.

Christoph will join national goalkeeper Richard Reynolds, who also plays his club football in the Dutch-

speaking country and defender Solomon Austin from Pele football club as the guest players for Slingerz FC.

The club seeking the help of the Surinamese came as no surprise after he made light work of their defence on New Year’s Day, scoring both goals for Santos but now with him teaming up with the likes of Anthony Abrams and Devon Millington could be trouble for Alpha United, Boys Town and Buxton United.

Abrams signed to the Vergenoegen based club last month and has so far scored seven goals in two matches and leading the team to

the final of Saturday’s Stag Beer West Side Mashramani Championship against Den Amstel.

Prior to Abrams joining the team, Millington was the side’s leading goal scorer and has now transformed into the facilitator of Abrams goals.

Slingerz FC coach Charles “Lily” Pollard said “we have a busy schedule ahead and we welcome the additional players to the squad. These games are important to us and we welcome the challenge.”

Slingerz will play the Jamaicans tonight and Alpha United on Friday at the Buxton Community Centre ground, followed by their first meeting with Buxton United on Sunday at the GCC ground.

RHTY&SC continues to give much needed help in Berbice

The eight cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) continue to assist others under their “Cricketers making a difference programme.”

The teams - Farfan and Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Females and Gizmos and Gadgets Under-21 and First Division- last week received a special request from the Blairmont Abundant Life Church for assistance for a

book fair, while the Parents Teachers Association of the Tutorial Academy school of New Amsterdam requested assistance in the form of sport gear.

Pastor Cecil Kishun of the Blairmont Abundant Life Church received a collection of reading books, basketballs, cosmetics and toys. The books were donated under the teams’ multi-million dollars “Say yes to Reading” programme, which seeks to encourage youths involved in sport to develop a passion for research and reading.

The Tutorial Academy, based in Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, received a collection of sport gear that included basketballs, footballs, volleyballs, dominoes sets, monopoly, a cricket scorebook, a cricket trophy and indoor children games.

The school’s Parent Teachers Association (PTA) had approached Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the club Hilbert Foster, requesting assistance after thieves broke into the school and carted off all of its sport gear.

Foster, in handing over the items to the two organisations, stated that the RHTY&SC strongly believes in assisting youths to fulfill their potentials, especially in sport and in the class-

room.

He stated that the RHTY&SC, while being mainly a cricket club, was proud of the fact that it was able to touch and change lives as it strongly believes that all sportsmen should not only be outstanding on the field, but be role models and agents of positive change.

Smith announces retirement

South Africa captain Graeme Smith has announced he will retire from international cricket after the third Test against Australia.

The current match at Newlands is the 33-yearold’s 347th for South Africa, including 116 Tests, while his 109 matches as a Test captain is a record.

“This has been the most difficult decision I’ve ever made,” he said.

“It’s a decision I’ve been considering since my ankle surgery in April. I have a young family to consider.”

He added: “I felt that retiring at Newlands would be the best way to end it because I have called this place home since I was 18 years old.”

Entering the third and final match against Australia at his home ground, the lefthander had scored 9,257 Test runs at an average of 48.72, behind only the 13,289 of Jacques Kallis on the list of South Africa’s alltime leading runscorers.

On the world list, only India’s Sunil Gavaskar has scored more runs as an opener.

“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the support from my par-

ents and brother, my wife and children, my friends, my sponsors, my fans and to Cricket South Africa,” added Smith.

“I thank and honour the players who I have played with and those who have supported me and helped me to be the person and captain I am today.

“I will cherish these memories for the rest of my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I bid my career a fond yet sad farewell.”

Smith was first appointed as captain in 2003 having previously only played eight

Tests.

At the age of 22, he was given the task of leading a team that had just been knocked out of its home World Cup in the first round and only a year on from the death of disgraced former captain Hansie Cronje.

Captaining on his first tour to England in 2003, Smith scored a double hundred in the first Test at Edgbaston before repeating the feat in the next Test at Lord’s.

Overall, he has drawn one series and won two on his three Test tours of

England, with each visit resulting in the resignation of an England captain - Nasser Hussain in 2003, Michael Vaughan in 2008 and Andrew Strauss in 2012.

The 2-0 series victory of 2012 lifted South Africa to the top of the world Test rankings, a place they will still occupy even if Australia dent the Proteas run of only one series defeat in their last 25.

“I have been fortunate to have had many highs, amongst them leading and being part of the best Test team in the world,” said Smith.

“I have always been someone who has left everything out there on the field for my team and for my country.

“I’m extremely honoured and proud to have had the privilege to lead so many wonderful players and to have been a part of building the Proteas culture to what it is today.”

Smith’s exit comes only two months after Kallis quit Test cricket and, with Mark Boucher forced into retirement in 2012, the Proteas have lost a combined 430 Tests’ worth of experience in less than two years. (BBC Sport)

He wished the Abundant Life Church success in hosting the book fair and also committed the RHTY&SC cricket teams to assisting the Tutorial Academy in the future.

The Secretary/CEO also issued an appeal to every other sport organisation/ club in Guyana to teach their members to assist oth-

ers, especially their peers. Pastor Cecil Kishun and president of the Tutorial Academy Odetta Fraser both expressed gratitude to the RHTY&SC and it’s cricket teams for responding positively to their requests for assistance and also wished all eight teams a highly successful 2014 on the cricket field.

Roy Hodgson criticises petition to ban Tom Cleverley from finals

England boss Roy Hodgson has defended Tom Cleverley after an online petition was set up calling for the Manchester United midfielder to be banned from selection for his World Cup squad.

The petition, which accuses Cleverley of "inept" displays, has gained over 10,000 signatures since it was posted.

Hodgson, who has included the 24-year-old in Wednesday's squad to face Denmark, said: "It doesn't impress me.

"He deserves to be in this 30-man group. He's done an awful lot of good."

Cleverley has been part of a Manchester United side which has struggled in manager David Moyes's first season in charge and sit seventh in the Premier League table.

But Hodgson said: "I don't think it's correct people should single out one player for Manchester United's lack of success this season.

"I would like to think that I'm not going to have the England team selected

in the future by petitions from various people who are holding it against one person for a team's lack of success.

"You can't expect a football coach to have any sympathy with it."

While Hodgson is adamant Cleverley warrants his place in the party to face Denmark at Wembley, he added he can offer no guarantees the midfielder will be make his final party for this summer's finals in Brazil.

He added: "Whether he'll make the 23 or not will of course depend on a lot of things, not least of all how he does in the next couple of months.

"But that doesn't just apply to Tom Cleverley, that applies to a good many players. I'm disappointed that Tom, as a sensitive young man, has got to bear that burden.

"But I know one thinghe will come through it and when he does come through it and Manchester United start winning again and he's starting to get praise for his performances, he'll be stronger for it."

(BBC Sport)

GTTA awards Mash winners

The Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) closed their Mashramani table tennis tournament with a small awards ceremony on Tuesday at the National Gymnasium.

Director of Sport Neil Kumar, who was present at the event, congratulated all of the players, noting that more table tennis needs to be played in schools.

“I was pleased to see this

much participation in the tournament and the schools should use the table tennis boards more. I want the GTTA to monitor it and once you know of schools in need of boards, tell somebody so we can get them the boards.

“This is your family, play together, keep together and Guyana will be proud of you,” Kumar told the gathering, as he indicated that the government will play its role in developing the sport.

Meanwhile, President of the GTTA Godfrey Munroe was pleased with the tournament and urged the players to “keep engaged”, as more tournaments will be coming soon, both nationally and internationally.

Some of the top performers in the tournament included Chelsea Edghill, Shamar Britton, Nevaeh Clarkston, Elishaba Johnson, Khalil and Kayson Ninvalle. (Treiston Joseph)

Courts pumps cash into NPCG Sports Festival

As part of their co-operate responsibility, appliance and furniture company, Courts (Guyana) Inc has thrown its support behind this Sunday’s “Paralympic” sports festival, which is scheduled for the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ground, commencing from 09:30h.

The one-day event which is organised by the National Paralympics Committee of Guyana (NPCG) is for persons with all forms of disabilities.

According to National Paralympics Committee of Guyana President Wilton Spencer, the inaugural event will see in excess of

250 athletes, participating in 32 events.

Meanwhile, at a presentation ceremony at its Main Street branch on Tuesday, Director of Marketing at Courts Molly Hassan presented a cheque of $742,248 to treasurer of the NPCG of Guyana Anand Mangru.

The cash will serve to offset the costs for Sunday’s highly anticipated event.

Delighted

Speaking at the occasion, Hassan said that Courts is certainly delighted to be associated with the event, adding that the company believes that persons with disabilities also play an im-

portant role in society.

“Courts feels very strongly in supporting events of such nature, it's part of the company’s corporate responsibility,” Hassan said.

Hassan then took the opportunity to wish all the participants a good day whether they win or lose, adding that they are all leaders and winners in their own right.

Spencer thanked the management and staff of the company for their input, noting that their support is vital for a successful event.

The event was originally scheduled for last month, but was postponed due to inclement weather. (Rajiv Bisnauth)