Guyana Times Daily

Int’l media groups urged to condemn threats to press freedom in Guyana

Media fear and intimidation

The simultaneous resignations of three reporters from this newspaper following the refusal of one of them to read a story involving the proprietor of the Kaieteur News, as an anchor on the affiliated Evening News of Television Guyana (TVG) raises the issue of fear that has been generated in the hearts of many by Glenn Lall and his newspaper.

It is now clear that the fear of being harmed by Lall has spread into the journalistic fraternity, who are supposed to investigate entities and individuals who exert such a chilling effect on such a wide swathe of society.

The launching of this newspaper in 2008 earned the ire of the Kaieteur News and its owner, who, up to then, had been very supportive of the incumbent government and its officials. The announced strategy of this newspaper, to adopt a "developmentalist" approach to its reporting, which rejected a reflexive antagonistic approach to the government in the quest to further human development here, must have stirred fears of the Kaieteur News' viability.

This was made clearer when early on, Guyana Times garnered wide acceptance, even though it also eschewed the sensationalistic approach of the Kaieteur News.

Using its well-honed techniques of

yellow journalism, however, the latter went after Guyana Times, accusing it of benefiting from "favours" from the government. One of those was the receipt of advertisements from the government, of which the Kaieteur News had a monopoly when its older rival, Stabroek News, did not receive such ads and was forced to protest.

The Kaieteur News, during that period, reaped the benefits of its monopoly and never once displayed support for the Stabroek News’ complaint. In fact, it derided that

newspaper.

But with the three private papers sharing the government advertisements with the state-owned Guyana Chronicle, the Kaieteur News kept up its vendetta against Guyana Times, its owner and soon, the other companies owned by the latter.

When the government did not relent in its policy of encouraging a widening of the media space, the government itself became the target of the Kaieteur News’ yellow journalism. A campaign to expose "government corruption" soon became a weapon to settle scores with anyone who dared to disagree with Glenn Lall.

Lall's reputation also intimidated many of his victims from responding. In a cable from the local U.S. embassy's political officer, to the U.S. State Department, as revealed by WikiLeaks, Lall had been described as having a "sketchy past" with ties to the criminal "underworld", and engaging in backtracking or "alien smuggling".

It was revealed that he regularly passed on information about his friends and acquaintances in the business world to the U.S. embassy, accusing them of criminal activities.

His visa had been revoked in 2006 and it is surmised he engaged in such "snitching" to have his visa renewed, which it eventually was.

In the wake of recent efforts by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) to have Guyana comply with its international proposals to curb the international flow of funds from illegal activities by passing the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill (AMLCFT), Guyana Times and its affiliated media outlets decided to conduct a series of investigative journalistic pieces about the practices of Glenn Lall as alleged by the U.S. embassy.

This investigation into Lall's public reputation began as far back as the early 1990s when he was accused of being involved in the killing of an individual in Agricola. Numerous stories of his backtracking activities, which breached the vaunted Homeland Security, which the U.S. threw up after 2001, surfaced.

It was also alleged that he is the real owner of a Georgetown shopping mall, hidden by a wall of frontmen and paper corporations, which suggested an alleged massive money laundering operation by Lall.

The fear of the reporters of Glenn Lall is real and is also expressed by others who have remained with the company. If the journalistic fraternity of Guyana is to be taken seriously, it must not back away from investigating the source of this fear. The Guyana Times remains committed to its duty.

thursday, november 7, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com

Mayor’s wife pays up taxes

–

but Lall, Ram yet to do so

The wife of Georgetown Mayor Hamilton Green, Jenifer BasdeoGreen has paid the full $10.2 million owed in rates and taxes for her Jelante Pharmacy on Mandela Avenue to the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown (M&CC).

This is according to M&CC acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba. She said on Wednesday there was some misunderstanding regarding this issue, but she was happy that the payment was made in such a timely manner.

“I am happy to say that Mayor Hamilton Green whose wife was indebted to this council for $10.2 million and who has done all kinds of things in writing has paid in full,” Sooba stated. She said payment was made by way of a manager’s cheque and she personally thanked the mayor for allowing good sense to

prevail in the matter.

“Mayor Green has set the pace and, therefore, Glenn Lall and Bhena Lall and Christopher Ram should either follow the example of Mayor Green’s wife who paid in full her rates and taxes or face the court of law,” Sooba declared. The acting town clerk stated that media reports that seem to suggest that the M&CC will no longer collect owed taxes from Christopher Ram and the Lalls, who are being sued for the outstanding amounts, are false.

She said there was no deal made to have their taxes reduced or omitted from the books. Sooba also asserted that the position of the public relations officer of the council, Royston King, is not necessarily the same as the council, as he is speaking for himself and not the council.

Several persons have been sued by the City Council for non-payment of rates and taxes.

Rajpati Latchmansingh owes $9.2 million for his Lot 38 Cummings Street, Alberttown, Georgetown property. Garland Lodge owes $2.4 million for Lot 134 Fifth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown; and Charles James, $5.2 million for Lot 21 Werk-En-Rust, Georgetown. Ram is indebted to the council for $11.3 million for properties on Waterloo Street, Georgetown, while Lall and his wife owe more than $5.6 million in taxes for a Lot 24 Saffon Street, Georgetown property. The cases were filed by Attorney Sandil Kissoon from the Kissoon and Kissoon Law Firm on behalf of the M&CC.

New Yo’great flavours coming, product to hit Caribbean markets

Sterling Products Limited (SPL) commissioned its brand new Yo’great Yogurt manufacturing plant on Friday last at its Providence, East Bank Demerara location.

The facility, equipped with the latest state-of-theart technology, is fully operational, producing the now popular Yo’great Yogurt for distribution across the country, the company said in a release.

Speaking at the commissioning, SPL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramsay Ali said the new product has exceeded the expectations of the company, to the extent that efforts are now being made to add several new flavours as well as enter two key Caribbean markets.

“Yo’great has exceeded our expectations. We are now in the process of looking back at some of the research we have done since we launched. We will be adding new flavours and putting out natural yogurt as well as cooking yogurt. There has been a huge request from different segments of the population. We also received two very serious inquiries for export to Barbados and Trinidad. That is being worked out as we speak and hopefully we can get that by the first quarter of next year. The yogurt has done very well; it’s something we are very proud of here, especially as it relates to the processing of the product,” the CEO stated.

He pointed out that SPL’s decision to use products grown and manufactured in Guyana in the production of Yo’great is something the company is very proud of.

“The use of fresh cow’s milk

and the use of locally grown fruits in the product is something that we are extremely proud of. Sterling Products is slowing but surely building a name and reputation of working with small agro-farmers and agro-businesses, supporting the industry in Guyana. Our CSR programme is specifically designed to work with small agro-processors and when we do our report next year, we will be highlighting a significant part of that programme that we have spent over the last year developing with some extremely good results,” he said.

Adding to the CEO’s comments on SPL’s support for the local agro-processing industry, Assistant Manufacturing Manager Sharlene Roberts said, “We count it as a priv-

ilege to use local fruits and fresh cow’s milk. This is something that we are very proud of because we are supporting local agro-processing and the farmers who are involved in the industry in Guyana.” In his remarks, board chairman, Dr Leslie Chin pointed out that the introduction of Yo’great was a major step for the company and one which has had positive results to date.

He said despite several challenges, Yo’great must be seen as a stepping stone for the company and an indication of greater things to come.

Yo’great Yogurt is currently available in five flavours: sour sop, pineapple, guava, strawberry and vanilla, and is available at locations countrywide.

Ramotar signs into law three local govt bills

– fourth still being reviewed

President Donald Ramotar has assented to three of the four local government reform bills passed in the National Assembly on August 8. The Fiscal Transfer Act, the Municipal and District Council Amendment Act, and the Local Government Commission Act became law on Wednesday with the president’s assent. The president’s assent came close to three months after the bills crucial to the holding of local government elections under a new regime were passed.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon made this disclosure on Wednesday at the Office of the President. According to him, the three acts are now before the Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs.

However, the contentious Local Government Amendment Bill under which the opposition vested financial and administrative powers in the Local Government Commission, removing them from the subject ministry, is still before President Ramotar.

The bills were the source of heated debate between the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic and the joint parlia-

mentary opposition comprising the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC). After being passed in the National Assembly, the bills were sent to the attorney general’s chambers for scrutiny. Politicians subsequently became involved in a back-and-forth discussion over the length of time the bills were before the attorney general, with even the diplomatic community weighing in on the situation.

Approximately one week ago, United States Ambassador to Guyana, D Brent Hardt and British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre expressed concern over the delay, noting that the legislative process should

Retired teacher found dead in home

The partly decomposed body of former teacher and educator Eric Baird was last evening discovered inside his Industrial Area, Mackenzie, Linden home.

According to reports, Baird, who lived alone and was employed at the Region 10 Education Department, was last seen by neighbours and co-workers last Thursday.

Reports are that he had complained of feeling unwell, which prompted him

to leave work earlier than usual on Thursday. One of Baird’s neighbours said she became suspicious after not seeing him for a few days. She then reportedly informed other neighbours who contacted the police.

Baird also served as a resource officer for the Region 10 Education Department prior to his death. Ranks who conducted a search and investigation of Baird’s home discovered his partly decomposed body inside. Investigations are ongoing.

reign supreme.

“Let’s get on with the elections early next year, and let’s have a new start for Guyana local government... I think that this could have a transformational impact on the country by reconnecting people with their government,” Ambassador Ayre was quoted as saying.

Whether the final bill will be assented to remains a major question. Dr Luncheon had this to say on that issue: “Just like time has resolved the three, I assumed that time will resolve the fourth.”

After 19 years of waiting for local government elections, which were last held in 1994, Local Government Minister Ganga Persaud said the bills are not a prerequisite. He noted that the polls can be executed under the Local Authorities (Elections Amendment) Act that was assented to by former President Bharrat Jagdeo in 2009. This partic-

ular legislation cleared the way for GECOM to carry out its mandate of hosting local elections through the introduction of a new system. The minister had said that “the ministry has all that is required for the holding of local government elections... and based on that premise if we have everything in readiness, we should go ahead.” Minister Persaud added that Guyana could expect local government elections by the third quarter of 2014. The ministry is currently monitoring the work of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

The commission has conducted approximately 7000 transactions ahead of the closing of its fifth cycle of continuous registration on November 23. The Local Government Ministry also has given the green-light for GECOM to commence its public awareness programme.

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

Fighting HIV/AIDS

World AIDS Day, which will be observed on December 1, brings together people from around the world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate international solidarity in face of the pandemic. Countries pledged in 2011 to take specific steps to achieve ambitious goals by 2015 as it relates to the HIV/AIDS fight.

While some have already made measurable progress and are closer to achieving the targets agreed to, there is still much work for others to do before they can get the desired results. According to a report by UNAIDS, 34 million people around the world are now thought to have the virus that causes AIDS. It should also be noted that the number of new infections in adults has stayed broadly stable for the past four years – at about 2.5 million new cases a year.

We here in the Caribbean region can boast of several successes in relation to our HIV response and perhaps other countries can use our experiences as a model to design and implement critical HIV/AIDS programmes.

Regional health officials have confirmed recently that there has been a reduction in the number of new HIV infections annually in the Caribbean. At a high level Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV/AIDS (PANCAP) meeting of National AIDS Programme managers, senior health officials and HIV and AIDS regional partners held in Port of Spain, outlined several accomplishments.

These include improved access to HIV treatment and care and a high likelihood of eliminating mother to child transmission of HIV in the Caribbean.

It was further noted that significant progress had been made in reducing HIV stigma throughout the region. Participants were, however, concerned that recent studies showed that stigma and discrimination within the health sector still remained and needed to be systematically addressed and the practice of confidentiality reinforced.

Of interest too is that the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting noted that the region could benefit from more open acknowledgement and discussion of sex and sexuality so that more accurate information flows to youths and maturing adults could be fostered. It was also observed that the current approach to youth sexuality was impaired by personal discomfort and outmoded norms.

The importance of achieving universal access to HIV treatment and the value of providing earlier lifelong treatment for persons living with HIV, while ensuring that the quality of care and adherence to medication were maintained was also emphasised.

Additionally, it was agreed at the meeting that through the PANCAP Justice for All Programme, the region had an opportunity to accelerate its HIV response and include persons at higher risk who continued to face real discrimination in their daily lives.

UNAIDS Caribbean Regional Support Team Director, Dr Ernest Massiah, said that more needs to be done to address the prejudice and social inequities that operate to make some people, both more vulnerable to HIV infection and less likely to access prevention, testing, treatment and care services.

He was quoted as saying that young people, men who have sex with men and sex workers are among the populations that need targeted investments and more protective environments through a combination of social dialogue, increased tolerance and law reform.

We applaud the efforts made by the Caribbean, including Guyana, in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and urge that no room is left for complacency. While we have noted the challenge of funding for crucial HIV/AIDS programmes in the region, we believe that in order to sustain the advances made, governments and international donor partners need to put more money and effort towards ensuring that their HIV programmes can be sustained. The region cannot afford to take chances in dealing with this dreaded disease.

Recklessness on the road

Dear Editor, I must applaud the traffic police for their commendable work on the road way recently. I’ve witnessed quite a few of them frequently directing traffic and performing routine road inspections. In addition to the breathalyzer test, the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) is urging the Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department to implement other mechanisms capable of detecting the use of other illegal substances by drivers.

Drunken driving has for sometime been one of the leading causes of fatal accidents in Guyana. Additionally, statistics show that speeding and reckless driving also contributes significantly to the occurrences of accidents.

It is evident that there is an inadequate amount of traffic officers available to monitor traffic country wide. A recommendation was recently put forward to appoint traffic wardens who would be responsible for supervising and monitoring

traffic and further identifying and charging errant drivers on the road ways.

Hopefully with time, drivers will see the need to become more responsible road users. Taxi drivers and minibus operators are known for breaching many traffic rules including speeding, undertaking, encroaching on major roads; and erratic stopping.

Most drivers are aware of the acts that are considered as breaching traffic rules, unfortunately, because they manage to elude

all consequences that they can possibly face by the law, they continue to be delinquents.

Implementing the placement of traffic wardens around the city may actually be a good idea. The GNRSC must continue to monitor and promote safety on our road ways. Road safety is every individual’s concern and should be addressed accordingly when necessary.

Sincerely, Simone

Griffith

Police officer’s action inexplicable

Dear Editor,

It is evident that our road culture in Guyana is slowly eroding and an incident that occurred in Berbice recently involving a collision with a Guyana Police Force (GPF) vehicle and a car has prompted me speak of my experience.

Just last weekend I was in Essequibo and the car I was travelling in found itself trailing below speed

limit behind a police vehicle. However, after growing tiresome of the slow pace the driver of the vehicle, I proceeded to overtake the officer.

Soon after, the officer sped up and intercepted the car I was in and to our surprise, instead of turning on his siren he proceeded to shout at the driver of the car to come to a halt. Upon pulling over, we waited in the

car for the officer to address us, but to our revelation he did not exit his vehicle. This prompted the car driver to exit his car and proceed to the officer’s vehicle with his documents in hand.

At that point, it was noted that the said officer was actually off duty owing to the fact that he was casually dressed. The officer then instructed him to go to the Aurora Police Station.

2013 Rockstone Fish Festival was a

Dear Editor,

Withstanding the bleak weather, the Rockstone Fish Festival proved itself to be yet again a success. The festival managed to attract scores of people of all ages including local fishermen who grabbed the opportunity to boast about their skills and experience in deep sea fishing.

The organisers of this year’s event managed to improve and expand on the variety of activities offered at the fish festival. Participants were able to indulge in activities such as camping, birdwatching, a fish clay modelling competition, and tours of Essequibo area. Visitors were able to participate in many compe-

titions including fish catching and deboning, cooking and watermelon eating. This remarkable event provided entertainment, enjoyment, and relaxation for individuals of all ages.

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) stated that the festival has been progressing significantly over the years. As a key potential

I was highly annoyed by this incident and the approach that this officer took in his attempt to perform his late night responsibilities. It was appalling and I couldn’t help but to wonder if his approach was considered as normal protocol for police countrywide.

Yours sincerely, Larry Walton

great success

boost in tourism, we must continue to promote the event held yearly in Guyana. Additionally, this activity should ideally receive more coverage in order to spread further awareness.

With regards, Oudit Jairaj

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Cevons Waste Management clears air on garbage disposal

Dear Editor, It has been indicated that Cevons Waste Management/ Dartmouth Skips Rental is being paid $38 million for the moving of garbage from the Stabroek Market and we would be happy to clear the air.

Stabroek Market

At this market, we were responsible for the provision of a waste compactor to store and compress the waste. The city council workers were responsible for collecting the garbage in and around the Stabroek Market and bring-

ing same to our compactor for storage and disposal.

At Stabroek Market, our compactor was working from 07:00h to 18:00h for G$23,657 daily or G$2150.00 per hour inclusive of Sundays and holidays moving about 11 truckloads of garbage per day. This equates to $2150.00 to take a truckload of garbage to the Eccles landfill site.

Bourda Market

At the Bourda Market, we were responsible for providing a waste compac-

tor from 07:00h to 17:00h, but we were working up to 23:00h at no extra cost to the city council. We were being paid G$28,800 daily or G$1800 per hour inclusive of Sundays and holidays moving about 17 truckloads of garbage per day. This equates to $1694 to take a truckload of garbage to the Eccles landfill site.

Total Payment

Any Common Entrance student would work out that the above amount is way below the $38 million per year

that is being touted in the media.

We have noted the number of equipment inclusive of backhoes, tractor and trailer, trucks and labour currently employed by the council to move the same waste and would be happy to know the cost savings notwithstanding value for money.

Morris Archer, Development and Marketing Cevons Waste Management

GRPA should lobby government to protect interest of rice farmers

Dear Editor, Farmers of Region Two are gearing up for the cultivation of the 2013 Autumn crop. It is relatively a big crop, considering that all 35,500 acres would be sown and a projected yield of 40 bags per acre is possible.

This is contingent upon these farmers managing to buy their three doses of urea fertilisers at the present prices of $6500 per bag and TSP at $8000. With such high costs of production, signs are pointing in the direction for the same price of $3900 for the highest grade of paddy that millers will want to pay.

It was reported that the Guyana Rice Producers

Association held a meeting with rice farmers at the seed bond two weeks ago and offered one bag of fertiliser to an acre of rice and the minimum of 30 acres at $5000 per bag. The farmers were told that they will have to get the other two doses from Geddes Grant Guyana Limited or any agricultural products supplier. Fertilisers are quite literally the starting point for rice crop cultivation. As such, its importance cannot be over-stated, as reduced dosage affects productivity and thus farmers’ income.

A transparent and efficient regulatory system by the Agriculture Ministry

is essential to ensure that rice farmers have access to the $500 million fund that was allocated for fertilisers.The consequences of these high prices for fertilisers, fuel, insecticides, ploughing, harvesting, transportation, seed paddy, polly bags, back blade, spraying and broadcasting are already being felt by rice farmers across the rice growing regions.

One of the visions for the rice industry that Dr Cheddi Jagan shared was to increase the income of small rice farmers and introduce subsidies on fertilisers and other agri-inputs that would have resulted in an improved quality of life for them.

Courbane Park CPG praised for good work

Dear Editor,

I would like to take this opportunity to firstly congratulate the newly elected members of the committee of the Courbane Park, Annandale Community Policing Group (CPG) and at the same time compliment them for the work they have done since their existence in June 2011.

I have been an ardent follower of their achievements of peace, safety and stability in their community as well as in nearby communities. Hence, I am happy that the Courbane Park community has chosen wise when they chose Rohan Persaud, aka Anand, to be their new chairman.

Persaud has been the driving force behind this group from its inception and has encouraged some of the members who were willing to go on the late night patrols to join him in preventing all manner of violence, forsaking his personal life and putting his life in danger just to safeguard his community, while others are comfortably asleep at nights.

This kind of dedication to this voluntary cause should be an example to those individuals out there who condemn the work done by CPGs.

CPG is a voluntary group who works along

with the police to maintain peace and order in their community, so we should give them our gratitude for being present to protect us, not defame them! These guys have their lives to live too, but their community’s best interest and safety are foremost to them.

Once again, kudos to Persaud, Sursati Morgan, Rudra Singh, Chris Gooding and the rest of the group for their outstanding job on preserving peace and order in their community. Keep up the good work guys!

Yours truly,

RASP

Annandale CPG

However, the wind of change has not protected the rice farmers who are toiling under harsh and backbreaking methods of high production that have all surpassed last year’s target.

Considering the critical nature of the current situation as regards subsidies, it will be necessary for the GRPA to lobby the government to protect the interest of the rice farmers. The GRPA must be in the vanguard of the struggles for a fair deal for rice producers, or it will lose its status as a farmers organisation.

Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan

Catering for all ages

Dear Editor,

Just recently, a modern play park, compliments of Banks DIH, was established at the New Amsterdam QikServ. The spacious facility is expected to provide a recreational area where young children can have fun under supervision. At the launching, it was stated that the new facility belongs to the people of the town, and it is, therefore, everyone’s responsibility to ensure it is cared for and maintained.

Qikserv now offers parents and guardians

a conducive facility for their children to play in a safe environment while they wait to place and uplift their orders. A recent BBC documentary stated that recreational activities are healthy for children. Researchers further confirmed that at least 30 minutes per day of playing is vital for a child’s development. I look forward to the establishment of more recreational facilities countrywide for our children.

Sincerely, Allan Alphonso

“Ad-a-bench”

initiative should be countrywide

Dear Editor,

For many years now, the National Park and sea wall have been flocked with athletes and other individuals who make use of the facilities. It is quite evident that many Guyanese try to maintain a healthy lifestyle where exercise is concerned.

The National Park is utilised by members of the public of all age groups. The environment is often considered relaxing and serene and can many times be seen filled with playing children.

Recently, the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, in collaboration with the Protected Areas Commission and Guyenterprise, launched the “Ad-a-bench” campaign. Their primary aim is to restore public seating in the park, while facilitating the sponsors’ advertisements.

This dual initiative can also be implemented in the play area for children. Sponsored swings and slides can be provided and maintained for recreational use and can

also be branded with advertisements. Aside from public facilities, emphasis can also be placed on maintaining community centres and facilities countrywide. A similar approach can be taken to pursue collaborative efforts between the community and business stakeholders who can provide some level of sponsorship to aid in enhancing the community.

Yours faithfully, Xavier Charles

Throwing it all away: when good children make bad choices (part two)

BY DEBBIE PINCUS

How to draw clear boundaries

The idea of drawing clear boundaries can be confusing. I think it’s really about saying, “I’m on your side, I’m on your team, we love you and we care about you. We don’t like the choices you’re making and this is how we are going to stop enabling you.” If you have very strong, clear boundaries that you maintain around what you will and won’t do for your child, that’s different than constantly trying to figure out how to control or change him.

In your relationship, you’ll want to draw those lines and maintain them. You can say, “You can’t live here without following these rules. I’m not handing you money if I suspect you’re doing drugs.” Or “I’m not driving you to that party.” You’re clearly stating what you will do and what you won’t do. It’s the difference between taking charge of yourself versus trying to control your child’s actions.

Remind your child that this is not about punishment or disobedience – it’s about his welfare. You might say, “We love and care about you, that’s why we’re doing this. This is not punishment for breaking a rule. We’re going to do whatever it takes to keep you safe.”

The best part is that you really are controlling what you can control. That’s always the way influence works. “I’m not telling you what to do and I’m not going

to scream and yell. I’m simply going to do what I think is best. I’m not going to enable you by giving you rides and money. Those liberties are taken away until you can be responsible for yourself.”

So you just close those doors. There is a huge difference between taking your child by the collar and locking him in a room versus taking charge by giving him the appropriate consequences.

Recognise and acknowledge

First, recognise and acknowledge your own feelings of panic, despair, powerlessness, frustration, and disappointment. All you have to do at this stage is simply acknowledge these emotions. Don’t react by judging yourself or your child. Blaming, yelling, hovering, distancing and becoming very controlling – or whatever ways you typically manage your anxiety – will only cause you to have more pain to manage and will be damaging to your relationship with your teen. It will also make your child wrestle with you instead of wrestling with the choices he needs to make. Don’t hand him the opportunity to avoid responsibility for those key decisions. You don’t want him fighting for his autonomy by doing the exact opposite of what you’d like him to do. Instead, acknowledge your own fears and feelings, and handle them without asking your child to handle them for you. Take walks, listen to music, do yoga, talk to your family or friends, get

more involved in your own career – do whatever it takes to avoid over-focusing on your child. Stay in your box – don’t let your anxiety cause you to jump into your child’s box.

Observe

Observe, think and change your contribution to any negative patterns in your relationship. When you’re calmer, you will be able to think more effectively about the best way to guide and lead – and not control – your adolescent. Guiding and leading requires you to change your behaviours as a parent instead of trying to get your adolescent to change his. Step way back and see if you can observe what might be going on. Ask yourself these questions:

* When did these poor behaviours begin?

* Were there any triggers?

* Are there any ways you or your spouse contribute to the problem?

* Have you felt overly responsible for the choices your child makes?

* Do you believe that it’s your job to get your children to make all the right choices?

* If so, have you been over-functioning for your child by babying her and contributing to her irresponsible ways?

* Have you provided too many rules or too few?

* Has your spouse been too hard on your child, while you’ve been too soft? Perhaps both of you have been mak-

ing lots of noise, but no one has really taken charge.

* Is your child functioning in reaction to you, for some reason, instead of functioning for him or herself?

* It might be time to stop your part of this two-step dance. When you carefully observe your own patterns and tendencies, you can decide if there are any steps in your dance that can change. Don’t take control –take charge

Take charge rather than take control. Again, you do not have control over all of your children’s choices, but you can help influence their decisions. If your teen insists on going out and returning at three in the morning, you cannot lock her in her room every night just because you’d like to. You can’t control her without hurting your relationship. But you can tell her this: “If you return after your curfew, there will be a consequence. You won’t be able to use the car or go out with your friends again this weekend.” In other words, she can make a poor choice, but you will respond to her poor choice by making her feel the painful consequences of that choice. Don’t make it easy for her to continue bad behaviour. If she breaks rules, confront her and let her know the rules remain in place. Maintain strong, clear boundaries in a loving and connective and matter of fact way. Be the adult she needs. (Empowering Parents)

How to raise children who stand up for their beliefs

(CONTINUED FROM WEDNESDAY)

Ask moral questions to stretch moral development

Questioning is an important parenting tool for enhancing children’s consciences and strengthening moral beliefs. The right kind of questions can help children expand their ability to take another perspective and ask themselves: “Is this the right thing to do?” Both are critical precursors to taking any moral stand. Here are a few questions parents can ask that stretch your child’s moral thinking: “How would you feel if someone treated you that way?” “If you don’t follow through on your word, what do you think would happen?

“If everybody acted that way (ie cheated, shoplifted) what would happen?”

Boost empathy

Children who stick up for others are children who feel for others. Empathy is what motivates that feeling, halts cruel behaviour and urges children to take a stand. Here are two powerful ways to nurture empathy:

Ask: How would you feel?

Ask children to ponder how another person feels using situations in books, TV, and movies as well as real life. It forces them to think about other peoples’ concerns.

Use role playing. It helps children imagine others’ feelings so ask your child

to think how the other person would feel if roles were reversed. “Switch sides: what would the other person say and do?” Young children can use puppets or toy figures to act out the problem from both sides.

Reinforce assertiveness not compliance

If you want to raise a child who can stand up for his beliefs, then reinforce assertiveness – not compliance. Encourage him to share his opinions and stand up for what is right. And do so from early age so he can weather the storm of negative peer influence. Parents who raise morally courageous children expect their children to act morally – even demand that they do.

Teach assertive skills

The truth is that it takes real moral strength to go against peer pressure and to stick up for your beliefs. So teach your child assertive skills so he can take the right kind of stand whenever he’s confronted with a moral dilemma. Here are three ways to boost moral courage: Teach assertive posture. Teach your child to stand up for his beliefs by using confident, assertive posture: stand tall with feet slightly apart, head held high, and look the person straight in the eye.

Say no firmly. Stress that he must say his beliefs using a friendly, but determined voice. Then don’t give in. His job is not to try changing the other person’s mind, but to follow his beliefs.

Tell reasons why. Tell him to give the person the reason for his stand. It helps strengthen his conviction: “Stop bullying him: it’s cruel.” Or: “No, it’s illegal and wrong.” Repeating the belief several times boosts assertiveness and helps your child not to back down from his stance.

Keep in mind that your child’s moral growth is an ongoing process that will span the course of her lifetime. The moral knowledge, beliefs, and habits you instil in her now will become the foundation she’ll use forever. So savour this time with your child and use it wisely, for although she has the potential to achieve moral goodness, it is far from guaranteed. It must be nurtured, influenced, modelled, and taught. Doing so will be your greatest legacy for your child and the best hope that she can rise to the occasion and demonstrate moral courage whenever it may be needed. (Parenting Bookmark)

Guyana expanding bioenergy opportunities

– with the aim of further promoting renewable agro-energy

The benefits of bioenergy in reducing the use of fossil fuel, feasible investment opportunities and the formulation of a strategy to harness the country’s bioenergy production potentials were some of the key objectives derived from the technical cooperation agreement inked between the Guyana government and the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

At a “Close-out” symposium held in the boardroom of the Agriculture Ministry, the gathering was informed of the progress made thus far through the technical cooperation agreement that was inked in August 2007.

The agreement, which was held under the theme, “Expanding Bioenergy Opportunities in Guyana”, paved the way for projects to be promoted on renewable energy, energy efficiency and bioenergy in the Caribbean.

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy in delivering remarks at the event, alluded to the fact that Guyana understands the importance bioenergy plays and encouraged all to play their part.

while this is the close-out ceremony of the technical agreement, the bioenergy programme in Guyana will not stop here but will rather be further expanded,” he said.

Ambition

This, he said is necessary as the ministry is working to ensure that Guyana becomes a lead agro-energy country in the region.

The country’s bioenergy policy is currently under review for consideration by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and a team of technical officers to have a blend of 10 per cent biofuel to the regular gas.

ceptions which have been peddled in the media, the agriculture minister made it clear that while the country has tremendous opportunity to use sugar cane for the production of bioethanol, the lands which will be used for the latter will be additional lands that are currently available in the intermediate savannah.

Lead the revolution

The minister made a call for the country to stand as a nation and to lead in the bioenergy revolution.

nologies and institutional strengthening, among others.

“The programme will also be looking at short, medium and long-term initiatives including the creating of working group to review and oversee the implementation of recommendation contained in the Numark Associates Inc final report,” he said.

Guyana presently uses some 14,000 barrels of fossil fuel per day, 6000 barrels of which alone goes to supply vehicles on the country’s roadways.

“While I address you all here today, let me make it clear and give government’s commitment that

“However, if we were to consider a blend for fuel, it must not be from a product that we import… we must ensure at all times the bioethanol we produce come from our own products,” he said.

In clearing up miscon -

The gathering was also briefed on objectives and deliverables of the technical cooperation agreement by Bioenergy Programme Manager, Dr Clairmont Clementson.

Dr Clementson stated that while there have been some challenges, several factors were achieved, including the development of viable investment opportunities, transfer of tech -

The technical cooperation agreement is being spearheaded by Caricom and Caribbean Renewable Energy Development Programme (CREDP), through a collaborative effort of the Inter-American Development Bank IIDB) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), with support from the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA), the Organisation of American States (OAS), and the Guyana government.

Anti-money laundering bill... Govt warns opposition of fallout if bill not passed

The ruling administration said the combined opposition will not escape the consequences, if they fail to support the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill when it comes before the National Assembly today.

The bill is expected to be read for the third time, after the parliamentary special select committee presents its report when the House reconvenes following August recess.

The minority People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government is hoping to garner the votes of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) to pass the bill, to prevent Guyana from being blacklisted.

However, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon said there was a high degree of uncertainty.

“The parliamentary opposition, they contribute to maintain lack of certainty, they contribute to a high degree of uncertainty, promote uncertainty about the outcome of the parliamentary consideration of that bill,” he said.

Dr Luncheon posited that the opposition has held its position despite an outcry by the banking and financial sector, which will undergo unwarranted scrutiny if Guyana fails to comply with the 16 Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) requirements. He made it clear that if Guyana was blacklisted, even the regular man in the street would be affected. “No doubt, the

parliamentary opposition feels that it could escape the consequences of its action to oppose enactment, and Cabinet considers that sheer delusion,” the government spokesman added.

“The fact is in the worstcase scenario, the average Guyanese, any Guyanese disadvantaged in his or her foreign financial dealings –purchasing, selling, transferring, remitting – all of those transactions once adversely affected, to the disadvantage of the average Guyanese, it will remind them that indeed it was the perfidy of the opposition that landed Guyana in this mess.”

Looming deadline

In May, Guyana was taken to task by the CFATF in a “public statement” for failing to meet all 16 requirements by the stipulated deadline. CFATF, however, extended the deadline to November 18, granting the country the opportunity to make the necessary amendments to the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Tourism Act to avoid blacklisting.

The AFC, in its most recent statement on the matter, said it would support the bill, if the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) is established. On the other hand, the APNU has only said it has major issues with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), which is responsible for enforcement of the anti-laundering act. The coalition said section eight of the act, which states that the finance minister shall appoint the FIU director to carry out the unit’s stipulated functions, should be amended to transfer that power to the National Assembly.

The act also states that the FIU director may only be removed from office by the president of Guyana.

Standing firm

Opposition Leader David Granger, during a telephone interview with Guyana Times on Wednesday, said the opposition’s position remains the same. He explained that the government side of the parliamentary special select committee abruptly ended the body’s work. “We feel that the process of deliberating on the amendment at the level of the parliamentary select committee is an important one, but it must be concluded,” Granger told Guyana Times

In addition to the anti-money laundering bill, the Public Procurement Commission (Amendment) Bill will be read in the National Assembly, for the first time.

The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) recently condemned Granger for reportedly saying that

the “establishment of the Public Procurement Commission is not a concern that the APNU shares at this time, more so with respect to tying it with the passing of the anti-money laundering legislation”.

But Granger told Guyana Times that the re-

port misrepresented what he had said at a recent press conference.

“The reaction was perhaps misplaced,” he posited. He made it clear that the procurement commission is of paramount importance to the coalition, but the APNU was not prepared to make a “swap”. Granger said the main opposition grouping will not indulge in a tradeoff – the establishment of the procurement commission in return for the passing of the anti-money laundering amendment bill. “We want both, and it’s clear that I was misunderstood.”

thursday, november 7, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com

Four receive CoS 2012/ 2013 CSEC Awards

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Tuesday presented its 2012/2013 Chief-ofStaff Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) Awards, to four deserving young women.

Receiving the awards were Maya Phillips, daughter of Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips; Roopa Devi Seenarine, daughter of the late Lieutenant Commander Coast Guard, Latchman Seenarine; Belinda Frelicia Bess, daughter of Lieutenant Colonel Godfrey Bess; and Crystal Crawford, daughter of GDF civilian employee, Michelle Crawford.

Each was awarded $100,000 for gaining at least five grade ones, with an additional $25,000 being awarded for every additional grade one earned.

Seenarine gained 10 grade ones. Phillips and Bess scored seven a piece, while Crawford earned five grade ones.

Congratulating and toasting the awardees, Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Phillips urged the young ladies to press on to higher heights.

“We are happy to present you with these awards and, although the force does not offer a reward at the ter-

tiary level, we wish you to press forward. We believe that it is fitting that the children of our servicemen and women benefit from their parents service to the force and the nation,” he said, adding: “We look forward to your continued excellence and wish you well in your chosen fields of study. You are to become professionals and serve Guyana. Continue achieving and do your best; the sky is the limit.”

Seenarine, who aspires

to a career in either business or accountancy, thanked the chief-of-staff and the GDF for appreciating and acknowledging the achievements of herself and fellow awardees. She aims to soon be employed and simultaneously pursue private management and accounting studies.

Phillips and Crawford are already students at the University of Guyana pursuing a bachelor’s of science degree in medical technology and associate degree in phys-

ics programmes respectively. Both are aspiring doctors. Meanwhile, Bess, an aspiring auditor, is pursuing the foundation in accountancy programme at the Accountancy Training Centre.

The GDF Chief-of-Staff’s CSEC Awards are presented annually, to the children of serving officers and ranks, and civilian employees of the force. To be eligible, one must have gained a minimum of five grade ones at CSEC.

Minibus driver charged for wounding

On Wednesday, a minibus driver was placed on $100,000 bail after he appeared before

Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to the charge of wounding.

Thirty-five-year-old Mugabi Hunte, of Lot 467 Wisroc Housing Scheme, Linden, pleaded not guilty

to the charge which stated that on October 19 at Hadfield Street, Georgetown, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Collin Cummerbatch.

According to the prosecution’s facts, the complainant and defendant are known to each other for over six years. On the day in question, about 17:30h, the two were standing at the Linden bus park when a misunderstanding occurred between the two, which resulted in a scuffle. Hunte, who was armed with a knife, wounded Cummerbatch to his left chest and hip. He then fled the scene and boarded a motorcar making his escape. Cummerbatch was taken to a city hospital where he was examined by a doctor. Investigations were carried out and Hunte was subsequently arrested and charged.

Hunte was represented by Attorney Paul FungA-Fat who stated that there was a fight and the complainant was pushed into a drain where he received a cut to his chest.

Attorney Fung-A-Fat also maintained that his client was not armed with a knife. In his application for reasonable bail he stated that Hunte has never been in trouble with the law before.

There were no objections to bail raised by the prosecution and it was granted. The matter was transferred to Court Six for November 19.

Eyew tness

Fear and...

...the media

As a columnist for this newspaper, your Eyewitness doesn’t get the opportunity to interact much with the day to day reporters on the beat. With the recent walkout of three reporters – in fear for their lives if they report on television about the escapades of the MuckrakerKN’s Mohan “Glenn” Lall – we have a most interesting development in the journalistic fraternity. Why is it that none of the reporters are willing to concede their fears in public?

They were willing to talk about those fears behind closed doors – but the moment they left the Guyana Times building, they offered “journalistic integrity” as their reason for walking off their jobs. Now, that is all well and good and noble, but does it have anything to do with what played out? The reporter who triggered the walkout now says she hadn’t written the script about Lall which she was handed to read on air and couldn’t vouch for its veracity.

One wonders if she would’ve been willing to do the investigative work from the beginning if she were asked. We’re told that the administration will now be asking the remaining reporters about being journalists with “integrity” to do their own investigative stories. We shall see what unfolds. But the larger question is, “Why has the journalism fraternity been unwilling to check out the source of the reporters’ fears?”

In the media, there are constant charges of “drug empires”, smuggling, human smuggling, money laundering etc, which obviously would involve individuals who would go to great lengths to protect their identities. If for no other reason than the fact that the U.S. has “renditioned” a number of drug lords. So if there were no fear there should’ve been a heck of a lot more investigative reporting than we’ve seen.

Point of fact is that Guyana Times investigative pieces are nothing more than follow-ups to a cable from the U.S. embassy’s political officer. From the one that mentioned Glenn Lall’s exploits and the others revealed by WikiLeaks, it’s obvious that the political officer certainly has his ears to the (Guyanese) ground. The question is – once again – why did all the other media houses refuse to touch the allegations with a 10-foot pole.

If the reporters that quit – or any other reporter or journalist, whether honing to the ethics taught by the University of Guyana (UG) Centre for Communication Studies or whatever – doubted the veracity of the news unearthed by Guyana Times, why don’t they do the journalistic thing and do their own digging?

...politics and economics

There isn’t only fear in the journalistic community about what skeletons might be uncovered – a lot of that commodity abounds in the political realm. But here we don’t have to even do any digging – it’s all out there right in the open. The new kid in the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) block Tarron Khemraj who walked over from the Alliance For Change (AFC) – was given back his column in the Stabber News. (It doesn’t matter to the Stabber – once the columnist isn’t People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

He weighed in on the notion of “political risk”...but we thought he danced around the issue – very well as he had to, seeing that his new party presents the greatest political risk to this country’s development.

Imagine Granger had informed the international business community that if APNU were to form a new government (would Khemraj be given the finance slot ahead of the old codger Carl Greenidge?) they would not honour contracts entered into by the present government.

Now even if Khemraj studied Samuelson in Econ 101, he would know this is the kiss of death to the “probability” future substantial Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) for the next decade.

...Diwali

Can you believe that the festival of Diwali, which is supposed to be one of peace and tranquility, in which one becomes enraptured by lights, is now being hijacked by thugs hurling squibs? Why can’t the police enforce the ban on this explosive device?

Caricom outlines areas for partnership with Belgium

Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque on Wednesday outlined a number of areas through which Belgium and the regional body could continue partnership.

He was speaking a ceremony at the Caricom Secretariat headquarters, Turkeyen, Guyana, where Ambassador to Caricom from Belgium Godelieve van den Bergh presented her credentials. Ambassador van den Bergh is the first Belgian ambassador to Caricom.

Among the areas for partnership outlined by Ambassador LaRocque was human resources development, which he said was an area on which Caricom placed great emphasis.

Another area of cooperation mentioned by the secretary general was health. He outlined that Caricom states have placed themselves at the forefront of the challenge to focus global attention on the negative impact of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

“We look forward to working with Belgium in advancing the plans outlined in the Declaration of the United Nations High Level

Meeting in 2011 to reduce the impact of NCDs on the health of our citizens and on our economies,” he said.

Turning to the issue of citizen security in member states, Ambassador LaRocque said stemming the flow of illegal arms was of great importance to Caricom. He said Caricom would welcome the opportunity for Belgium to join in maintaining the momentum created with the adoption of the United Nations Arms Treaty.

Another topic which the secretary general said

was pressing was climate change. LaRocque noted that strong global partnerships were needed to advance climate change negotiations. He said Caricom looked forward to Belgium’s support in that regard.

Secretary General LaRocque also discussed the Post-2015 Development Agenda, stating that it held much promise for addressing development challenges in a holistic way.

He said it was “an opportunity to redefine development and move away from the narrow statistical appli-

cation of per capita income as its basis”.

In her remarks, Ambassador van den Bergh said Belgium was particularly aware of the numerous challenges of Caribbean states, such as regional integration as well as the advantages and disadvantages of an open economy.

She said her country has always requested more attention for the Caribbean as well as a complete inclusion of the region in dialogue between the EU and the countries of Latin America.

She also expressed a renewed interest on behalf of her country for “mutual support of the respective candidatures of the Caricom member states and of Belgium in the United Nations”. (Caricom

De headitor and de Mook like deh behind and under

Old people seh it still got some people who does like to tek dem s*it and daub it pun other people behind. And talkin bout behind, de headitor is de chief of dem all who like de idea of bein behind. He like to hide behind he boss Mook Lall and tell people how is de Mook want he to lie bout this and that and claim he only carryin out instructions.

De headitor tell nuff big ones wid he own soup drinkin, bamzee lickin mouth that Mook Lall is de intructor and that he does only be under instruction. But one of dem boys who seh dem is boys who does send out de Mook official photos, dancin or not, seh de headitor does also be under de intructor and behind de instructor. He seh both de Mook and de headitor like bein behind and under.

De Mook, of course, does hide behind another one name Rum Lall and seh he don’t own de Regent Street buildin and he never thief no G-PEE-Hell transformer. Now when Mook Lall and de headitor get expose, dem cry out how other people get expose. When dem lie, dem seh other people lie.

But de headitor is a expert at lickin bamzee since de days of Burnt Ham. By now he lick so much bamzee that he mouth turn like bamzee. At this rate, de headitor gon have to lick de same bamzee fuh de rest of he life because no body ain’t gon want that face after all dem bamzee lickin.

And dem boys who seh dem is boys done tell all dem other boys who also seh dem is boys that de Mook bamzee is not de best bamzee in town.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Well, at this rate, de Mook gon soon be lookin fuh some other bamzee lickers! Just wait and see!

Int’l media groups urged to condemn threats to press freedom in Guyana

Guyana Times, which is part of a media group that also includes Television Guyana Inc (TVG), Radio Guyana Inc (RGI), and publications in New York and Canada, is calling on all international press associations to condemn the threats to press freedom and media intimidation in Guyana.

The call is being made by the newspaper on the heels of a recent incident which has seen one of its staff members resigning on November 5 out of fear for her life, after she was asked to present a news report, as anchor, on the owner of the Kaieteur News, Mohan Lall, aka Glenn Lall. The group has informed several

regional and international associations about the circumstances surrounding the resignation, which was followed by two others on the same day in sympathy for their colleague’s fear.

As of November 6, more newsroom staff expressed similar fear for their safety and lives, in particular if they are asked to pursue

any stories with respect to Lall, including those that have to do with his ownership of companies through the corporate veil of personalities being used as aprons.

The group regrets the decision taken by the reporters who have departed and wishes them well for the future. “It is indeed a

sad day when journalists have to operate in fear of certain personalities, because they dare to investigate them and make public their findings,” the group said.

It added that journalists ought to be able to do their jobs without any fear of consequences at the hands of those whom they

publish stories on. The media group is in the process of bolstering security for its staff in view of this recent development. The group is, therefore, calling earnestly on media associations in the region and beyond to speak out against such intimidation and threats to freedom of the press in Guyana.

Media body concerned about reporters’ fear

The Independent Media Workers Association of Guyana (IMAG) has expressed its deep concern over the resignation of Guyana Times reporter/Television Guyana news anchor Leana Bradshaw and her colleagues Whitney Persaud and Sabatini Daniels.

In a statement, IMAG said it understands that Bradshaw resigned because she was afraid for her life after being asked to present a news item concerning the owner and publisher of the Kaieteur newspaper, Glenn Lall.

“IMAG believes that the expression of fear in the execution of professional journalistic duties is a troubling development in the Guyana media landscape, which is deserving of much attention and discussion. IMAG is in solidarity with the reporters who resigned as it considers

the safety and well-being of journalists to be a most sacrosanct cornerstone of the profession.”

Concerns

The body said it stood in the defence of the media’s right to report fearlessly on any public official or issue where the news is in the public’s interest. In particular, Guyana Times’ efforts to pursue issues it considers to be in the public’s interest should also be safeguarded within the confines of freedom of the press. IMAG has contacted Bradshaw and her colleagues to discuss their concerns.

Bradshaw, resigned on Tuesday, citing fear for her safety in light of a recent series of explosive, investigative articles about Kaieteur News’ owner and publisher Mohan Lall, aka Glenn Lall. On Sunday, the reporter had initially met with an editor

and explained that she had serious reservations about reading a story concerning Lall on television, as she believed she could be identified and targeted.

Later that afternoon, when the reporter was told to read the story, she demurred and subsequently, without the knowledge and approval of the editor, excised the story about Lall from the newscast for the Sunday Evening News.

Regretful

“I am of the view that reading such articles puts my life at risk, as persons can associate the content with me, contrary to the newspaper reports where no by-lines are given or faces shown,” Bradshaw said in an email communication to the editor.

So great was her fear of retaliation from Lall that Bradshaw told her editor

FFTP opens $80M housing scheme at Swan

Food For the Poor Guyana Inc on Tuesday opened an $80 million housing scheme at Swan, Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

The scheme, which falls under the Swan Community Development Housing Project, contains 65 houses, along with a community centre and a water project that was established with the help of Guyana Water Inc.

The project started in May 2012 following some benefactors’ visit to the area a few years ago during which they saw the conditions under which the people of the village were living

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Community Development

Councils National Director Philomena Sahoye-Shury said the history of Food For The Poor Guyana Inc is long and the organisation did not just build houses for the poorer communities, they distributed hampers and helped villages provide for themselves.

She went on to say that many of the older Amerindians lived in poverty, want and pressure and today, they could say that they are coming alive, thanks to the help they received from the FFTP. She also encouraged the members of the village to give thanks to those who have helped them and to their Creator, and to help whomever they can. “We shall pass

through this world once and anything we can do to help our fellow men from exploitation and want, let us do it, for we will not pass this way again,” Sahoye-Shury said.

Swan Village Management Committee Chairman James Domingo expressed gratitude to the benefactors present at the opening, stating that when the village was first established, it was sheer bush. He recalled that the first couple who settled in the area spent the first three nights under a tree.

He went on to say that since the community was now developing, the children need transportation to take them to school. He stated that at the 2011 national toshaos meeting he asked for transportation to be provided for the children, but there has not yet been any response.

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai’s representative, Sharon Hicks, promised to look into the matter, since education was vital. Residents openly expressed their appreciation to the benefactors for giving the community a push in the right direction, saying that it was nice to have a proper roof over their heads.

The residents will also benefit from the solar panels which were installed so that they can have electricity.

that she was willing to voice the script once her face was not shown on television. This was confirmed by one of her colleagues who quit in sympathy.

Bradshaw’s stance showed she had no substantive problem with the script, but reacted out of fear.

That expression of fear was repeated at an editorial meeting and was further supported by one of the reporters who quit.

The management of Guyana Times/Television Guyana regrets the decision taken by the reporters and wishes them well for the future. “It is indeed a sad day when journalists have to operate in fear of certain personalities because they dare to investigate them and make public their findings,” Guyana Times/ Television Guyana (TVG)/ Radio Guyana Inc General Manager Daniel Singh said.

“Journalists ought to be able to do their jobs without any fear of consequences at the hands of those whom they publish stories about,” he added.

“I take this opportunity to wish them well and thank them for their services to Guyana Times/Television Guyana.” Singh added that, even after her complaints, one of the editors of the media group met with Bradshaw and assured her of the company’s support as well as for other staff members who feel threatened.

The editor also held similar discussions with all three of the reporters, minutes before they left the office, following their resignations. The management of Guyana Times/TVG/ Radio Guyana is in the process of bolstering security for its staff in view of this recent development.

Police confirm cocaine present in sweets

The Guyana Police Force has confirmed that the substance found in the sweets ingested by three North West children was cocaine.

In a release, police said tests were conducted on several sweets that were confiscated and the presence of the substance was confirmed. “A number of the sweets seized by the police from a vendor and children… have tested positive for the presence of cocaine,” the release stated.

The three children from White Water, North West District fell ill over the weekend after they had eaten the “goldfinger” sweets that they had purchased from a village shop.

The children, ages three, eight and 12, were rushed to the Mabaruma Hospital where they were treated and spent the night under observation.

According to reports reaching Guyana Times, the children bought the sweets from the shop and thought they tasted weird, so they called an older relative who then examined the sweets and discovered the white substance inside. The children subsequently took ill and were taken to seek medical attention. They also suffered from diarrhoea and vomiting.

This newspaper was told that

the shop owner and the distributor from whom he bought the sweets in Kumaka were both questioned and statements were obtained. Both men had denied knowledge of the substance. At the time, no arrest was made since the police were unsure whether the substance was indeed cocaine.

Speaking to this publication, Region One Chairman Paul Pierre expressed concern about the discovery, noting that this was the first time such an incident has occurred. Pierre said he was not told about the substance testing positive for cocaine, since he has not been in contact with the police since the sweets were confiscated.

The regional chairman revealed that he spoke to the doctor who had tended to the affected children and was told that they were out of danger and there were no long-term sideeffects.

When asked whether there was a possibility that the sweets had been used as a medium to smuggle the drug across the border to neighbouring Venezuela, Pierre said he did not believe so.

He said the shop owner was a reputable elderly person who has been in business for over a decade in the village.

thursday, november 7, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com

Laparkan participating in Americas cargo show, conference

Laparkan Shipping was among hundreds of international logistics providers participating in the Americas Air and Sea Cargo Show and Conference which opened on Wednesday at the Doubletree Hotel and Convention Centre, Miami, U.S.A.

Laparkan’s delegation to the show and conference is led by its chairman, Glen Khan and includes Vice Chairman Hussein Haniff and Laparkan Airways Network Manager John Green. Laparkan also have a booth at the exhibition.

Prior to the opening, Khan had described the conference as “an important forum for the cargo industry as it provides an opportunity for the major players in the business to assess current trends in trade and the transport of goods around the world. We will also be looking at issues such as rates, port and airport facilities and the very critical issue of security.”

The show and conference will conclude on November 8, and will provide an opportunity for manufacturers and distributors to discuss their logistics needs,

especially as they embark on product and market diversification.

Another aspect of the discussions will be proposed changes to key regulations in various countries and compliance with the new laws and requirements.

Laparkan Airways Network Manager John Green said the event also provides an opportunity for negotiations with other air cargo provid-

ers about collaboration arrangements designed to provide cost efficient service to customers.

The show, which was inaugurated in 1991, is held every two years.

Customer Appreciation Day

On Saturday, at a Customer Appreciation Day, persons shipping both personnel effects and commercial air and ocean cargo to

A similar event will be held on Saturday, October 19 in Brooklyn, New York.

the Caribbean for the holiday season will be updated on regulatory requirements of government agencies, both in the U.S. and at the destination.

Saturday’s event, to be held at the company’s office and warehouse at 3750 West Oakland Park Boulevard in Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, from 11:00h to 14:00h, is one in a series Laparkan is hosting in an effort to educate and inform its customers about requirements, packing tips, sailing schedules and documentation preparation so as to avoid unnecessary delays with customers being able to access their cargo during the busy holiday season.

In addition to the provision of shipping information, Laparkan will also be showing its appreciation to customers by handing out shopping bags, water bottles, keychains and other useful giveaways, as well as providing discount coupons for future shipments and offering refreshment.

Informative

A highlight of this Saturday’s event will be an opportunity for customers to get an autographed replica of the cricket ball used by former West Indies world record wicket taker Lance Gibbs, who will be on hand to sign the cricket balls, and to have photographs taken with customers.

“This will be a very festive yet informative event

and we invite all our customers to come out and join us as this is also part of the celebration of Laparkan’s 30th anniversary,” said Gibbs, a marketing representative of Laparkan. Gibbs explained that during the peak season, ports around the Caribbean are quite busy and at times even congested, so it is important that shippers know and understand the requirements and procedures, fill out documentation correctly and ship in a timely manner so as to ensure their cargo reaches its destination when they require it.

“This is equally important for both business owners shipping commercial items to stock their enterprises for the holiday season and for those sending barrels and boxes with gifts to their loved ones. Our aim here is to help our customers so that they can avoid unnecessary delays,” Gibbs pointed out.

He said the company’s chairman, Glen Khan, Air Network Manager John Green and Traffic Supervisor Juanita Phillips, will be among the host of company officials on hand to provide information to and answer questions from customers.

The event will be broadcast live on south Florida popular Caribbean radio WAVS 1170 AM from 11:00h to 13:00h. Persons outside of south Florida can log on to www.wavs1170.com.

Reports indicating an elevated deforestation rate misleading – Natural Resources Ministry

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry has dismissed comments and articles on Guyana’s Third National Report, indicating an elevated deforestation rate, as misinterpretations.

In a release, the ministry noted that the third national report stating the deforestation rate for the year 2012, under the Monitoring Reporting and Verification (MRV) System for REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation Plus Sustainable Forest Management), has been jointly produced by the Guyana Forestry Commission and Indufor, and is currently being subjected to an independent accuracy assessment conducted by the University of Durham, United Kingdom.

The report summarises change of forest to non-forest, excluding degradation between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2012, at an estimated 14,655 hectares. Over the Year Three reporting period, this equates to a total deforestation rate of 0.079 per cent. This rate of change is higher than Year Two period (15 months), which was reported as 0.054 per cent.

Recognition

Similar to that of the Year Two period, mining remains the main driver of deforestation in Year Three. Mining accounts for 92 per cent or 13,516 hectares of the total deforestation figure recorded in 2012. However, it is important to note that mining marginally increased from the previous year from 9175 hectares to 13,516 hectares, thus resulting in a difference of 4341 hectares. Of the 4341 hectares, mining infrastructure (road construction) accounted for 1434 hectares; hence, mining activities saw an increase of only 2907 hectares.

“Considering the issues with timely accessing of Norway funds, we need to appreciate the guaranteed and increasing funds that are flowing from our mining sector every year. The positive contributions from the mining sector should not be hastily disre-

garded, as it contributes to approximately 11 per cent of the country’s GDP and, directly and indirectly employs roughly 30,000 people. For the same Year Three period, the mining industry earned the government US$716 million in foreign exchange.

“Further, we must remain cognisant of the fact that the spatial distribution of mining activities remains very much unchanged. The maps in the report illustrate that mining is heavily concentrated in the mining belts, particularly in the north-west region of Guyana. It is important not to be misguided that the mining sector at large occurs haphazardly and in an uncontrolled manner. There is no basis for a presumption that an increase in mining activity in Guyana, leading to the observed increase in deforestation for the year 2012, is on account of widespread illegal mining activity. With the high prices of gold in 2012, supported by the associated increase in demand for permits, claims and licences, there is evidence of an increase in legal mining activities for this period,” the ministry said.

Other notable aspects

In addition to this element of the result in the Year Three assessment, other notable aspects of the report point to a number of equally important areas of result: the annual average of deforestation for year 2012 is well below the agreed combined reference level of 0.275 per cent in the GuyanaNorway agreement; forest degradation area in 2012 was reduced to 1963 hectares from 5467 hectares in 2011; and forestry related change has remained relatively stable between Year One to Three.

It should further be clarified that in this third report, Rapid-Eye 5m resolution satellite imagery was used to detect area change for Year Three, whereas previous reports utilised satellite imagery at 30m resolution.

As a result of the enhanced resolution of the imaging technology, a greater level of detail and accuracy was achieved,

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud

which may account for some of the observed increase in deforestation rate.

The current agreement between Guyana and Norway expressly recognises the possible future growth trajectory for Guyana and accompanying annual fluctuations in deforestation rates. The joint concept note of the GuyanaNorway agreement expresses that “pending the introduction of a global incentive system, it would defeat the purpose of making REDD+ an attractive development option for forest countries if this REDD+ agreement meant that no increases at all be allowed in Guyana’s historically low deforestation rates. First, the rates are so small that the margin of error of measurements in itself could yield significant annual variations (as measured in per cent).

Second, insisting on such strict limitations would probably yield an insufficient incentive structure for the people of Guyana to stick to a low-deforestation development path, as the economic downsides would be disappropriate to the incentive offered.

Third, the relevance of historical trends when deforestation rates are extremely low is not as useful as a predictor of future pressures on the forest as it is in countries with higher historic rates of deforestation.

The ministry said, this, therefore, means that the bilateral agreement makes pro-

vision for annual fluctuations in the deforestation rate up to 0.1 per cent. “As can be seen in the 2010 period when deforestation was recorded at 0.056 per cent and then in 2011, the rate was reduced to 0.054 per cent.”

The ministry approaches the development of natural resources in an integrated manner and had voiced its continued support to the cooperation agreement between Guyana and Norway.

“In doing so, consideration is given not only to the needs and livelihoods of Guyanese and the economic and social development of the people, but also towards striking a balanced approach to maintaining good environmental management, and in doing so; this will create the development space for this to occur effectively. In this context, reporting on development from all perspectives: economic, social and environmental must not be separated,” the release noted.

Standpoint

Through this process, the ministry remains committed to effectively managing the deforestation rate from a mitigation standpoint, while continuing to implement programmes that will contribute to the maintenance of a low rate of deforestation in Guyana.

“Moving forward, we must recognise the ministry’s and its agencies’ (namely, the GFC, GGMC) interventions to date, which have been recently wellelaborated in the press. More than this, we must realise that much more is left to be done if we are to rein in our deforestation rate in support of our Low Carbon Development Strategy.

“However, these extensive efforts of the ministry must be supported by other important stakeholders across all sectors involved if progress is to be realised and sustained.

“With a robust and evolving MRVS system in place, improved technology and access to credible information, future collaborative efforts can now be more focused,” the ministry concluded.

Cabinet approves some $300M in contracts

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon

Government has approved some $300 million in contracts for public works, drainage and irrigation and the justice sectors.

Speaking at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday at the Office of the President, head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon said Cabinet met on Tuesday and granted its no-objection for the rehabilitation and construction of miscellaneous roads in Region Four, to the tune of $143 million.

This project will be executed in three lots. On the East Coast of Demerara, roads between Mon Repos and Annandale will be reha-

bilitated and constructed using some $72 million, while in the vicinity of Buxton and Dazzle Housing Scheme, similar works will be executed at a cost of $46 million.

Finally, in the third lot, roads within Prospect, East Bank Demerara will be upgraded to the tune of $25 million.

Meanwhile, in the area of drainage and irrigation, $100 million has been allocated for the supply of eight miniexcavators to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).

Cabinet also approved for the printing of High Court rules and the revised laws of Guyana to the tune of $48.5 million.

CJIA tests readiness to respond to emergencies

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Wednesday conducted a simulation exercise involving more than 300 persons inclusive of airport, airline, hospital, fire service and other emergency personnel, testing their readiness to respond to an emergency.

Public Works Minister Robeson Benn, who witnessed the full-scale emergency exercise, explained that it is staged every two years, and is a requirement of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

“These simulations are part of the certification requirements for an international airport. So every six months, there is table-top exercise, every year there is a partial simulation ex-

ercise, and every two years there is a mass casualty exercise simulation, which today’s event [a fake plane crash] was about,” he said on Wednesday. Benn explained that the exercise was done to make sure that the airport, its operatives and all the resources which ought to be called upon for an event of the kind that was simulated are able to respond quickly, with the proper resources, knowledge and expertise to help the injured or traumatised.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS); the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Customs and Immigration; the Health Ministry; the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority; the Guyana Red Cross; and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) were among the stakeholders involved in the mock ex-

ercise. Minister Benn explained that evaluators from the ICAO would have observed the exercise and evaluated it “dispassionately” to assess the performance of all involved.

The minister noted that there were some aspects in the exercise where “more energy and assertiveness and control” could have been had, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Shamdeo Persaud believes the exercise went smoothly. “I think it worked well, with everyone being clear about their responsibilities

on how to contribute in a crisis,” he said. He pointed out that success in such health crisis exercises is very dependent on how well organised the response is, and how smoothly the response personnel move the persons who are assessed to be critical to care facilities.

Dr Persaud particularly praised the high level of response of the medical personnel from the Diamond and Georgetown hospitals. Dr Persaud noted that the staff responded immediately to their signals. “I think that was good that the local medical personnel were able to respond so quickly. All three

sites responded adequately,” he said.

Planned logistics

According to the planned logistics, in the eventuality of a real crash, both Diamond and Georgetown hospitals must send an ambulance, as well as some support medical staff.

The exercise began with the GFS first arriving at the crash scene and putting out the fire created by the crash.

The firefighters also did the initial extraction of the ‘passengers’ from the crash site to a collection area. The persons were then moved from there to a triage area that

was set up by the GDF, the second responders to the crash. Dr Persaud said the triage area was to allow the health workers to function, up to standard and away from the danger of the crash site. He explained that the triage area is to provide immediate treatment and to sort and tag persons into three broad groups – dead, critical and not so critical. The crash victims were then moved to a more organised care area before being transported to nearby hospitals. Preparation for the simulation exercise began almost six months ago.

U.S. hijacker to return from Cuba

An American man who hijacked a plane in 1984 and forced it to fly to Cuba says he will return to the U.S. on Wednesday.

William Potts commandeered a commercial flight from New Jersey to Florida with 56 passengers aboard.

Potts, 56, a member of the militant AfricanAmerican Black Panthers, expected the Cuban government to give him guerrilla training.

Instead, Cuba jailed him for 13 years for piracy. He

later settled in Havana but is now keen to return to the U.S.

He said he is seeking “closure” by facing the U.S. justice system, which he hopes will be lenient.

“I’m ready for whatever. My position is, of course, I did the crime and I did the time, and the United States has to recognise that,” he told the Associated Press news agency.

“What happens after that I couldn’t tell you,” he said.

In the 1960s and early 1970s, dozens of U.S. planes were hijacked to Cuba as the Cold War with the then-Cuban leader Fidel Castro intensified. But by the 1980s, such incidents had become less frequent and Cuba swiftly convicted Potts. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Potts has been in contact with U.S. diplomats in Havana, who, he said, had told him that he could leave on a charter flight to Miami on Wednesday. He said he expected to he handed over to U.S. marshals upon his arrival in Florida.

TT man kills sister, drinks poison

Amurder-suicide has rocked the quiet village of Mount Grace, Tobago. Dead are 50-yearold Charmaine Phillips and her brother, 52-year-old Winston Phillips. Shortly after 17:00h on Monday, Charmaine Phillips was involved in an altercation with her brother at their family’s home on Providence Road. Police responded after neighbours reported hearing threats and disturbance. On arrival, the police

found Charmaine Phillips’ lifeless body in a bedroom.

A senior police officer said she had been chopped across her neck and stomach. A cutlass was found on the scene. Meanwhile, Winston Phillips was found frothing from the mouth a short distance away. It is believed he drank a poisonous liquid. He was taken to the Scarborough General Hospital in an ambulance, but died a short while later. The TT Guardian

learned that another young relative was at home during the incident but was unharmed. Relatives described Charmaine Phillips as a quiet and loving person and Winston Phillips as mentally unstable. District Medical Officer, Dr Hoyte visited the scene and ordered the body removed to the Scarborough Mortuary. The Tobago Homicide Bureau is continuing investigations. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Arafat may have been poisoned

The late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat may have been poisoned with radioactive polonium, said a Swiss forensic report obtained by al-Jazeera.

Arafat’s official medical records say he died in 2004 from a stroke resulting from a blood disorder.

But his body was exhumed last year amid continuing claims he was murdered.

The Swiss report said tests on the body showed “unexpected high activity” of polonium, which “moderately” supported the poisoning theory.

The scientists – from

the Vaudois University Hospital Centre (CHUV) in Lausanne, Switzerland – carried out a detailed ex-

amination of Arafat’s medical records, samples taken from his remains and items he had taken into the hospi-

tal in Paris where he died in 2004.

They stressed that there were several critical problems with their investigations, including the time passed since Arafat’s death, the limited samples available and the confused “chain of custody” of some of the specimens.

But they concluded: “Taking into account the analytical limitations aforementioned, mostly time lapse since death and the nature and quality of the specimens, the results moderately support the proposition that the death was the consequence of poisoning with polonium-210.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

Syria agrees to fresh talks

Syrian government officials will attend the international conference dubbed “Geneva II” that is charged with bringing about an end to the violence that has wracked the country since March 2011, the state-run Syrian Arab News Agency reported Wednesday.

Presidential adviser Bouthaina Shaaban

told Russia Today TV on Tuesday that the government would attend without preconditions and with the goal of stopping violence and terrorism in the country, SANA reported.

She ridiculed the opposition coalition as a front for Saudi intelligence. “Who does the coalition represent?” she asked rhetorically, and then cited two groups

described as terrorist by the U.S. State Department. “Is it Al Qaeda or Jabhat alNusra?”

Shaaban described the Syrian government as a legitimate and elected representative of the Syrian people.

In Beirut, Lebanese caretaker Foreign Minister Adnan Mansour said in a statement issued Tuesday

that Geneva II is the only solution to the crisis and that Lebanon would participate, if invited, SANA reported.

The long-delayed conference would not occur before December, Russian state news agency Itar-Tass reported Tuesday, citing a source close to talks among the United Nations, Russia and the United States. (Excerpt from CNN)

U.S. secretary of state: Israeli settlements are illegitimate

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has said that Israeli settlements in the occupied territories are “illegitimate” and not helpful to ongoing efforts for peace between Palestine and Israel.

Kerry’s comments on Wednesday came after he met Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian president, in Bethlehem.

“Let me emphasise that the position of the United States is that we consider now, and have always considered, the settlements to be illegitimate,” he said.

He added that there was no deal that the Palestinians recognised

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry

the illegal settlements in return for peace.

“I want to make it extremely clear that at no time did the Palestinians in any way agree, as a matter of going back to the talks, that they could somehow condone or accept the settlements,” he said.

Al Jazeera’s Mike Hanna, in Jerusalem, said Kerry’s statement was strong for a U.S. politician. “In the past, the phrase has been that the Israeli settlements are ‘not helpful’,” he said.

Kerry also announced that the U.S. would provide US$75 million to aid the Palestinian economy.

Earlier in the day, af-

U.S. puts bounty on Mexican drug lord

Months after a surprise ruling from a Mexican judge made him a free man, U.S. authorities have placed a new bounty for the capture of accused Mexican drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero.

The U.S. State Department says it will pay up to US$5 million for information leading to Caro Quintero’s arrest or conviction. Caro Quintero, 61, once leader of Mexico’s now-defunct Guadalajara Cartel, is accused in the 1985 kidnap-

ping and killing of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena and his pilot, Alfredo Zavala Avelar.

He had served 28 years of a 40-year sentence for the killings when a judge in Mexico’s Jalisco state overturned his conviction in August.

“Caro Quintero was the organiser and mastermind of this atrocious act, and his unexpected release from a Mexican prison was shocking and disturbing to law enforcement professionals

on both sides of the border,” DEA Administrator Michele Leonhart said in a statement Tuesday. She said the U.S. government “will utilise every tool available, including the State Department Narcotics Rewards Programme, to bring Caro Quintero to justice”.

After a meeting in Washington in September, Mexican Attorney General Jesús Murillo Karam promised that authorities in his country would reapprehend Caro Quintero.

(Excerpt from CNN)

Egypt court upholds Muslim Brotherhood ban

An Egyptian court has upheld a ruling that banned the Muslim Brotherhood and ordered its assets confiscated.

The Muslim Brotherhood, Egypt’s oldest and most influential Islamist group, was banned in September after President Mohamed Morsi was toppled by the army following mass protests against his government on July 3.

Osama el-Helw, a Brotherhood lawyer, said the group will appeal the ruling, which was reported by the state MENA news agency.

ter meeting the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Shimon Peres, the Israeli president, in occupied Jerusalem, he acknowledged peace talks had run into difficulties.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

In the initial September 23 verdict, the court ordered the Brotherhood’s assets seized until criminal courts delivered their verdicts in the ongoing trials of the group’s leaders and members.

Egypt’s military-backed authorities have formed a committee to review the Muslim Brotherhood assets, but have not moved against its finances until the verdict is final.

The leftist Tagammu party had issued a counter suit asking the court to dismiss the Brotherhood’s motion.

Al Jazeera’s Rory Challands, reporting from Cairo, said: “We have been speaking to charities that are affiliated with the organisation who say that over the past couple of months, things have gotten very difficult for them indeed, and their donations have all but totally dried up. But now we will see things get even tougher for the Muslim Brotherhood as a financial entity and as a political entity too.” (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Promote region as Brand Caribbean, says CTO boss

Caribbean countries have been asked to reexamine their tourism policies to ensure the survival of the industry as the region observes Tourism Month. Chairman of the board of the Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), Chantal Figueroa, said there was also the need to invest in tourism marketing, air services and travel trade agreements, as well as revise visa policies, provide industry workers with language train-

ing, make menu adjustments and augment banking services.

“We can make great strides by promoting ourselves under Brand Caribbean and are eager to partner with interested territories to develop a marketing strategy grounded in sustainable tourism principles in order to capitalise on these new opportunities,” she said. Figueroa said the region should continue to explore market potential in the so-called BRICS countries,

Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, which continue to show great potential as new tourism source markets for the Caribbean.

Figueroa said that tourism continued to be the mainstay of the economic development of regional countries and that all stakeholders should be encouraged during the month to renew their commitment to the sector, which was being promoted as one sea, one Voice, one Caribbean.

(Trinidad Guardian)

Wall Street climbs on European data, Fed expectations

U.S. stocks rose on Wednesday buoyed by strong economic data from Europe, while investors bought a flurry of new public offerings one day ahead of Twitter’s much-anticipated IPO. German industrial orders rose by more than expected, which is significant as the country is the economic engine of the euro zone.

“All told, it’s been a pretty

good morning – you have had strong overseas data,” said Dan Greenhaus, chief strategist at BTIG in New York. Dutch banking and insurance group ING helped European equities set a five-year high after the company’s earnings beat expectations.

Microsoft Inc had the biggest positive influence on the S&P 500 after Reuters reported that the company narrowed

its CEO search to five people. The shares rose US$1.35, or 3.7 per cent, to US$37.99. The stock touched its highest level since June 2001 earlier in the session.

The Dow Jones industrial average rose 88.17 points or 0.56 per cent, to 15,706.39, the S&P 500 gained 4.69 points or 0.27 per cent, to 1767.66 and the Nasdaq Composite dropped 9.129 points or 0.23 per cent, to 3930.735. (Reuters)

BAE ends shipbuilding in Portsmouth and axes 1800 jobs

BAE Systems is cutting almost 1800 jobs as it calls an end to more than 500 years of shipbuilding in Portsmouth. The shipyard will close by the end of 2015, with heavy job losses there and in Scotland.

The end of shipbuilding in Portsmouth brings the curtain down on a centuries old industry in a city that built the Tudor warship the Mary Rose.

The defence giant announced on Wednesday morn-

ing that 940 shipbuilding jobs will be lost in Portsmouth. A further 835 jobs are to go, mostly in Glasgow, but also in Rosyth near Dunfermline and Filton near Bristol. The jobs of an additional 3200 BAE staff employed in maintaining and servicing Royal Navy ships at the Portsmouth naval base are not affected, although business leaders voiced fears about the knock-on effects for businesses supplying the dockyards. Union leaders described the plans to

cut 1775 jobs – far more than previously expected – as “a huge blow to Britain’s manufacturing and industrial base”.

The long-awaited announcement comes after BAE Systems experienced the biggest peak in UK shipbuilding since the second world war, but now faces a shortfall of work with too many staff for its next big order, the Type 26 frigates that will replace the current generation of combat ships. (The Guardian)

Inga Dams – Momentum quickens after South Africa treaty

An energy treaty between the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa breathes life into the long-delayed Inga Dam project, offering a potential energy boost for southern Africa.

South Africa’s new energy treaty with the Democratic Republic of Congo has prompted a fresh round of talk about the mother of all infrastructure projects: the Inga dams.

Harnessing the power of Africa’s second biggest river

after the Nile, and the world’s second largest by volume after the Amazon, Inga is an ensemble of hydropower installations on the Congo River which, at a cost of around US$80 billion, would be the biggest such project in the world.

Two existing dams – Inga I and II – have been running for 40 and 30 years respectively, but have underperformed due to lack of upkeep. The hope is that Inga III, combined with renovation work on the existing

projects, and the construction of a further four to six dams and related infrastructures, will culminate in a 40,000MW hydro system whose output will be double that of China’s Three Gorges Dam. The energy would be cheap by any standards, let alone green ones; less than 0.02 –US$3/kWh, compared to 0.40 – US$1.00/kWh for solar and 0.10 – $0.15/kWh for wind – and would save 100 million tonnes of fossil fuel burning every year. (allAfrica)

China meeting likely to chart economic agenda

All eyes are on China as the country prepares for a highly anticipated meeting of the ruling Communist Party.

After decades of exponential expansion, the world’s second-largest economy is entering a period of slower growth, and Beijing is under pressure to address issues that threaten further economic develop-

Middle East

ment and social stability.

Set for November 9 to 12, the meeting is the first major opportunity for President Xi Jinping to aggressively pursue a reform agenda – with major implications for the global economy.

“For many China observers and market participants, this is the ‘make or break’ moment,” said UBS economist

Tao Wang. “If the new government does not launch sweeping reforms now, many people believe China’s economy is heading for the ruins.”

Others – including Wang herself – are more sanguine, arguing that China’s economy will continue to grow at a solid pace for the next few years even without drastic changes. (CNN)

Dubai H1 GDP growth accelerates to 4.9 per cent

Dubai’s economic growth accelerated in the first half of 2013 to 4.9 per cent year-on-year, buoyed by strong expansion of trade and tourism, the government’s statistics department said on Wednesday. The economy grew 4.4 per cent in 2012 as a whole and 4.0 per cent in the first half of 2012. Dubai’s real estate market has been rebounding this year from its crash of 2009-2010, helped by

an influx of foreign money and supporting an economic boom which can be seen in the performance of the stock market, up 79 per cent year-to-date.

The hotel and restaurants sector grew 13.7 per cent in the first half of this year, the statistics department said.

The number of hotel guests jumped 11.1 per cent to 5.6 million, while the number of rooms available increased by 4729 to 58,950.

The wholesale and retail trade sector, which accounts for nearly one-third of GDP, expanded 4.1 per cent from a year earlier. Manufacturing increased 13.3 per cent, helped by strong exports. The real estate and business services sector, which accounts for about 13 per cent of GDP, grew 3.3 per cent year-on-year, accelerating from 1.7 per cent growth in all of 2012. The financial sector expanded 2.7 per cent. (Gulf Business)

Starting a home business (Part two)

Organise your ideas

* Decide which ones are feasible

* Write down a comprehensive business plan

If you are focusing on an outsourced contract service, you may need to build a work portfolio to advertise your previous works. For example, graphic and web designers need comprehensive portfolios to show clients. Virtual assistants need testimonials and free consultations for clients.

If you wish to focus on a product based business, such as making quilts or gift baskets, you need to have a realistic production bottleneck based on your current capabilities. Assess the base cost of your product and the profit margin. If you are a one-man operation, it is not realistic to meet 100

orders daily. Start small, and don’t bite off more than you can chew. Grow slowly, and hire more people to help if you have steady orders coming in. Set order limits to avoid being swamped with orders and losing punctual credibility.

Reviewing your business model and cash flow

Now you have to see if your business model can actually be profitable. If you were previously living pay cheque to pay cheque with little cash savings, then starting a home business can be an incredibly stressful venture. If you have substantial savings, however, this can be far easier and allow more clarity in your decisions.

For example, if you decide to sell small handmade gifts for US$20 each, and you are

able to produce and sell 10 per day at a materials cost of US$15, you could theoretically earn US$50 per day, and up to US$1500 per month. That’s an extremely optimistic example, and even working without a break 365 days through the calendar year, you would only make US$18,000 annually. That seems like a lot of work for a mediocre pay cheque. However, if you ramp up your production capabilities and hire some assembly line workers, you could easily double or triple your salary. Even better, you could hire on a team manager to oversee the operations and be able to take some time off as your venture runs itself. The time and effort needed to make a product is a key variable in the survivability of most home businesses. (Business Dictionary)

Republic Bank welcomes 29 apprentices

The sixth batch of apprentices was welcomed to the Republic Bank family at the launch of the bank’s Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme last Friday, in the Woodbine Room of the Cara Lodge Hotel, Quamina Street, Georgetown.

The programme commenced at 16:00h with a prayer, followed by speeches and cocktails.

This batch of 29 apprentices will delight in the same experiences the young men and women have enjoyed over the past five years during their respective sevenmonth stints, the bank said in a release.

The new apprentices will be exposed to both classroom and on-the-job training. They will also, through the “Care-A-Van” be introduced to the element of care and compassion for the less fortunate. A day of fun and

relaxation at a specially selected location will also be part of the youth link experience.

Started over two decades ago at Republic Bank Limited, Trinidad and Tobago, and introduced in Guyana in 2008, the programme sought to bridge the gap between the end of the participants’ school life and the start of their career. Through the apprenticeship, participants are enabled to be more marketable in their career pursuits and are also offered the tools and insights that they can only get on the job.

The apprenticeship programme is geared to guide the apprentices through a process of personal and professional growth and includes facets that when combined, will teach the youths valuable skills for professional and social development.

Man gets 10 years for 2008 Guinness

Bar stabbing

A30-year-old man was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment on Tuesday for stabbing another man to death in the Guinness Bar in 2008.

Kisean Azore of Lot 79 Joseph Pollydore Street, Lodge, Georgetown, was indicted with the murder of Kurtland Kendall, 28, of 71 Hill Street, Lodge, on March 18, 2008. When the indictment was read to the accused, he pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter and the presiding judge, Justice Diana Insanally, subsequently ordered a probation report to be prepared. Azore was represented by Attorney Mark Waldron.

According to the prosecution’s case, led by State Counsel Dhanika Singh, the deceased was liming outside of the Guinness Bar when the accused confronted him, telling him “let we done this now”. Azore began stabbing Kendall, who then ran into the bar. The accused followed the man and continued stabbing him, this time to the back. Kendall died in the bar after he sustained 13 stab wounds about his body.

On Tuesday, when the matter was called, the report was presented and read in court. In the report, the accused was described as a kind person who made a mistake on the day in question. It also noted that persons in the community recalled Azore as a quiet person who never displayed aggressive behaviour.

After the report was read to the court, Justice Insanally began reviewing the state’s case against the

accused. She highlighted that the two men knew each other growing up and their families had shared a close relationship; however, a misunderstanding caused a fallout between the two men.

The judge noted that the deceased used to provoke the accused, who decided to take matters into his own hands. In handing down the sentence, the trial judge informed the court that she will be taking into consideration the fact that the accused pleaded guilty in the early stage of the proceedings, thereby saving the court’s time and resources by not holding a trial. She also considered the time Azore spent incarcerated awaiting trial.

Justice Insanally began the sentence with a base of 20 years, deducing two years for the accused guilty plea; five years for the time he spent incarcerated and an additional three years for the mitigating factors mentioned in the probation report. The deductions left 10 years remaining, which the trial judge said is reasonable in her mind, considering the circumstances of the case. She noted that Azore took matters into his own hands with the intention of not only injuring the accused, but to kill him, by stabbing him 13 times.

“I cannot condone that action,” said Justice Insanally. After the sentence was imposed, a stunned Azore was escorted out of the courtroom where his emotional relatives were gathered. They tried to console him while he was being taken to the court’s holding area.

SUDOKU

Step up and be counted. You will have the ability to make others listen and respond. You can wield power and dominate a situation to suit your concerns and needs.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Don’t wait until you are forced into a tricky situation. Make decisions that counter what others want you to do. Assert your right to choose by standing up for what you want.

Show everyone how much fun you can be today. Getting involved in activities that have a creative or unusual twist will allow you to show off your talents. Follow your heart wherever it may lead. Don’t leave room for complaints regarding your job performance. Take care of business before you make plans to party. A different environment will be tempting, but you need to make sure that it’s conducive to getting things done.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

State your position forthrightly and with candor. The less you leave untold, the better. You want everyone to have a clear idea of your position. If you and others know where you stand, you’ll succeed.

(March 21-April 19)

Control will be necessary. Instead of simply reacting, re-evaluate a situation and consider all the possible consequences as well as the pros and cons of a major decision. Strive for simplicity, moderation and order.

(April 20-May 20)

Your thirst for knowledge will lead to engaging conversations and research that will help you mastermind some big projects. A supportive individual will point you in the right direction.

(May 21June 20)

Make sure that you have the correct information before you make a move. You are likely to be disillusioned regarding what someone or something is offering you. Get everything in writing.

You always have a choice, and as long as you don’t let someone play mind games with you, it will be easy for you to make the right decisions. Let your intuition guide you.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Work hard and finish everything that’s expected of you. Don’t let your productivity suffer because of what someone says or does. Give it your best and stay within your budget.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Attend events that will help you reconnect with your past. The opportunity to try something new or to give an old idea a facelift will prove enlightening.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Slow down and take a moment to look before you leap. Impulse will be the enemy, unless it is confined to the privacy of your home. A false sense of security should be discouraged.

thursDay, november 7, 2013

Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte St, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034

SAT/AP/CXC/IGCSE English classes, personalized tutoring. Phone: 6124821 after 4pm, 274-0437 after 7pm.

Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

life, improve relationships and develop higher states of consciousness. A technique that works for everyone. For the next introductory lecture, contact: Ashoke (certified TM teacher) Phone: 233-6921, 609-3701. Email kashokejp_68@yahoo.com.

Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 339-3536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 943-1515 for the perfect trendy touch.

SALE 1 property at reasonable price, located in Bareroot, East Coast Demerara. Phone: 612-6417.

Spare parts for 1-2-3-4 and 6 cylinder diesel engines for Lister, Pieter, Kobota, Perkins, Veutz, Fiat, John Deer, Case IH, Cummings, Bedford and Leyland Daf . Phone 619-4483, 601-7883, 226-6325

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Are you suffering from abnormal behaviors, addictions, stresses, or psychosomatic sickness? Feeling suicidal, low self-esteem, loneliness, unloved, anger, conflicts and relationship problems? For appointments call 592-621-0552. 12:00pm -6:00pm, Email: healthworldhc@gmail.com

Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/ visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 225-1540, 622-8308, 655-3105. Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca

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Newspaper vendor dies in road accident

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1 three-building centrally located downtown in Thomas Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown, recently renovated, fully air conditioned, ideal for office with spaces for boardroom, or any other business. Immediate possession. Phone: 609-2876.

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Suriname astrology palmist and Djuka healer. The most powerful spiritualist in the world. Are you suffering from the following problems? (any religions) love, marriage, family, health, business, husband and wife relationships, property, court, children, promotion, visa, pregnancy, education, depression, job, sexual, jealousy, enemy, money, drinking, also you can have all evil forces destroyed such as black magic, witchcraft, voodoo, obeyah, etc, and gives powerful protection. Private and confidential. Phone: 674-2112.

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Business place for rent , Plantain Walk ,Vreed –en Hoop. Phone:649-0707.

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Two modern apartments at Campbellville, hot & cold water etc. Call: 219-4535

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One customs clerk with at least three subjects CXC including English Language, mathematics. Applicant must be computer literate. Please submit application before the October 11, 2013 to email: windsortechhomes@gmail.com or call 669-6874 or 682-3481

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A61-year-old newspaper vendor from Lima Village on the Essequibo Coast died Wednesday afternoon following an accident on the Sparta Public Road, Essequibo Coast.

Dead is Bhagwandin Narine, who was riding a bicycle at the time of the accident. Police said the accident occurred about 12:10h. Investigations have revealed that Narine was riding his motorcycle along the roadway, when it is alleged that he attempted to cross to the other side of the road and was struck down by a motor van that was travelling behind. He was taken to the Suddie Public Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Narine arrived unconscious at the Suddie Public Hospital and doctors tried desperately to save his life, but failed. Relatives said

Narine had a history of diabetes and was a patient at the Suddie Diabetic Foot Centre.

Reports indicated that the newspaper vendor, who usually sells Sunday Chronicle, Stabroek and Guyana Times

newspapers to residents from Anna Regina to Somerset and Berks on the Essequibo Coast, was on his way home after distributing newspapers when a speeding van that was proceeding to Charity in a northern direction, hit his motorcycle.

The paper vendor’s right leg was severed and he ended up in a nearby drain due to the impact of the hit.

Pages from newspapers were seen flying in all directions on the public road. The driver of the van is in police custody assisting with investigations. Relatives of the vendor said he had left to go on the road to distribute newspapers.

One relative said she received a call just after the accident, stating that she must go out on the Sparta Public Road.

JAP’s meat centre ordered to close operations

City Hall acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba said the JAP’s meat centre located at 58 Robb Street, Georgetown, has been issued with a notice to close down its operations with immediate effect.

It was discovered that the centre was selling wormy beef. Sooba told a media conference on Wednesday that after an inspection was carried out by the City Council’s chief meat and food inspector, it was discovered that the entity is unlicensed and unregistered.

The acting town clerk said though the notice was served on the owner, he refused to accept it, and from all indications, the meat centre is still in operation.

The City Council, she said will be moving to take stricter measures against the owner of the business.

This aside, Sooba said she and a group of senior Mayor and City Council (M&CC) officials will be making visits to the various municipalities, to ensure that butcher stalls and meat centres are operating under proper standards. Sooba said those found to be doing otherwise will be sanctioned.

The visits are to ensure that these businesses are operating within basic hygienic and operation standards, and are in compliance with the laws.

After receiving complaints about worms being found in meat sold at

the JAP’s Meat Centre, the Guyana Police Force and M&CC officials visited the facility and found it wanting.

Ranks and employees of the centre were lately seen fetching out the wormy beef, which was allegedly illegally imported. Some 589 kilograms of decomposing meat was among the parcels that were found in 11 freezers at the centre.

A senior City Council official had said the meat centre was buying meat from countries that are not compliant with the standards of the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department. The proprietor of the meat centre, Ahmad Rahaman was taken into custody and questioned by police.

South Africa go 2-1 up with easy win

South Africa’s batting improved to match their bowling effort and with both departments at a similar standard, took a 2-1 lead in the five-match series on Wednesday.

Half-centuries from Faf du Plessis and JP Duminy helped South Africa post their first total over 250 in 11 innings before another impressive effort from their attack made sure Pakistan were just about out of the match before the batting Powerplay of their innings was over. The last time Pakistan successfully chased a total of over 250 was more than two years and nine months ago, when they beat New Zealand in Napier. After the start Ahmed Shehzad and Mohammad Hafeez gave, it seemed that could change in Abu Dhabi. They posted 50 in 47 balls with 80% of the runs coming in boundaries but between them and Wahab Riaz and Sohail Tanvir’s blitz, there was little else from a line-up which is prone to collapses.

South Africa had both their big names players back in the XI with Hashim

Amla slotting in at the top of the order and Dale Steyn included as well. Amla made little difference, bowled for 10 by Mohammad Irfan, but Steyn struck the blow that turned the match.

After Shehzad and Hafeez got on top of South Africa, with Morne Morkel and Lonwabo Tsotsobe struggling to hit the right lengths in their opening spell, Steyn made the decisive inroad. His first delivery was short and angling away. Shehzad prodded and was caught behind and Pakistan’s momentum was abruptly halted.

Shehzad had played with freedom to that point, driving, pulling and cutting to leave the new ball bowlers looking out of sorts. Once he was gone, South Africa asserted their authority, removing Hafeez in the next over through a good catch by du Plessis at point.

Steyn left the field after his initial three-over spell and seemed to be clutching his hamstring but returned to bowl soon after. He handed over to Tsotsobe, who bowled a controlled second

spell, headlined by 21 dot balls in succession to build pressure even while Imran Tahir was leaking runs at the other end.

Tsotsobe was rewarded for his miserliness. His 19th dot was edged by Umar Amin and even though he wasn’t given out on field, the review revealed a clear nick. Eight balls later, Tahir trapped Misbah lbw with the googly - the Pakistan captain was too late to review but it would not have mattered - and Pakistan had unravelled.

Having swelled with confidence, Tahir bowled a range of variations and picked up two more wickets not off his best balls but because of poor shot selection - Umar Akmal who returned a full toss to the legspinner and Asad Shafiq who gifted a catch to cover. Ryan McLaren’s wily effort could easily have gone unnoticed but his mixture of change of pace and immaculate line helped him claim the wicket of Shahid Afridi to leave the Pakistan tail to end the match with dignity.

Wahab and Tanvir had

Batsmen help New Zealand seal first win on tour

More than four weeks after arriving in Bangladesh, New Zealand finally won a game. They beat Bangladesh by 15 runs in the one-off Twenty20 in Mirpur, a testament to their prowess in this format over the hosts.

Colin Munro and Anton Devcich gave them the platform after which their bowlers merely had to ride out Bangladesh’s over aggressiveness in the chase.

New Zealand’s 204 for 5 was the highest score against Bangladesh in this format, and there have only been four successful chases of over 200. Bangladesh fell 15 short of their target.

The home bowlers, however, were not at their best after the stand-in captain Kyle Mills decided to bat first. New Zealand started off briskly, before slowing down and later gathering pace. Devcich, who began the onslaught, scored New Zealand’s second fastest Twenty20 fifty, off 24 balls. He made the best of a let-off in the first over of the game when Al-Amin Hossain dropped him at short fine leg off Mashrafe Mortaza. He struck six boundaries in the first 2.3 overs, before slogging Sohag Gazi for a six over midwicket in the fourth over that cost 16.

He was finally dismissed in the tenth over when he was caught at wide long-on for 59 off 31 balls with ten fours and a six, an excellent start to his international Twenty20 career.

While Bangladesh would

have hoped that they had recovered from the Devcich onslaught, Munro’s attack left the bowlers with no answers. Bangladesh conceded 118 off the last ten overs, 55 of which came in the last five as the batsmen threw everything at the ball.

Munro batted at a higher gear after facing just five deliveries. He exploited the poor bowling lengths by striking four sixes off the next eight balls. Abdur Razzak was hit over midwicket and longon in the 12th over before Mahmudullah conceded an enormous switch hit six for which Munro turned around, leant back and smashed the short ball to a right-hander’s

midwicket. He continued in the same vein, ending up on an unbeaten 73 off 39 balls with five sixes and three fours.

Debutant Al-Amin took two wickets for 31 runs from his four overs but his more experienced colleagues had a humbling time with the ball. Mortaza gave away 46 from four overs while neither Gazi nor Razzak bowled their full quota. Bangladesh’s Twenty20 bowling has been a worry for a very long time, and with the World T20 a few months away, this area should keep the captain, coaching staff and bowlers busy throughout the winter. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

New Zealand innings

A Devcich c Shamsur Rahman b Abdur Razzak 59

H Rutherford c Nasir Hossain

b Sohag Gazi 17

R Taylor c Naeem Islam b Ziaur Rahman 28

C Munro not out 73

C Anderson b Al-Amin Hossain 18

L Ronchi† c & b Al-Amin Hossain 0

N McCullum not out 0

Extras: (lb 2, w 7) 9

Total: (5 wkts, 20 overs) 204

Fall of wickets: 1-73, 2-83, 3-176, 4-200, 5-200

Bowling: Mashrafe Mortaza

4-0-46-0, Sohag Gazi 3-0-30-1, Al-Amin Hossain 4-0-31-2, Nasir

Hossain 1-0-16-0, Mahmudullah 4-0-34-0, Abdur Razzak 2-019-1, Ziaur Rahman 2-0-26-1

Bangladesh innings

Shamsur Rahman c

some fun, swinging their way to a stand of 61, the highest of the innings but by then it was too late. Pakistan needed partnerships earlier, like South Africa had to be able to chase down the total.

Quinton de Kock and du Plessis put on 77 in a display of the former’s newfound maturity and the latter’s return to form. De Kock has obviously tightened around the offstump after the torrid time he had in Sri Lanka while the move to promote du Plessis to No.3 paid off.

He was struggling against spin in the previous matches and giving him time against a newer ball proved the right decision. Du Plessis had time to settle in and batted with more patience and composed an innings for the first time in many months. Both he and de Kock were out to Afridi, in what could have allowed Pakistan to run through South Africa but the middle-order held firm.

JP Duminy was given out lbw off Irfan, who struggled with his lines, on three but reviewed successfully -

the first time that has happened in the series - and survived a run-out chance. Irfan dropped a catch in his follow through from

de Villiers but didn’t get a finger on the ball as it hit the non-striker’s stumps, where Duminy was out of his ground. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

South Africa innings

H Amla b Mohammad Irfan 10

Q de Kock† st †Umar Akmal

b Shahid Afridi 40

F du Plessis st †Umar Akmal

b Shahid Afridi 55

JP Duminy c Misbah-ul-Haq b Sohail Tanvir 64

AB de Villiers* c Mohammad Hafeez b Saeed Ajmal 34

D Miller b Saeed Ajmal 34

R McLaren lbw b Mohammad Irfan 13

D Steyn c Ahmed Shehzad

b Mohammad Irfan 2

M Morkel not out 0

L Tsotsobe not out 0

McClenaghan b Southee 4

Ziaur Rahman b Southee 6

Mominul Haque c Mills

b McClenaghan 9

Mushfiqur Rahim*† c Taylor

b Anderson 50

Naeem Islam c Southee b Mills 18

Nasir Hossain c & b McCullum 28

Mahmudullah c Taylor b Anderson 34

Sohag Gazi run out (McCullum/† Ronchi) 24

Mashrafe Mortaza not out 7

Abdur Razzak b Southee 0

Al-Amin Hossain not out 5

Extras: (lb 3, w 1) 4

Total: (9 wkts, 20 overs) 189

Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-11, 3-19, 4-62, 5-116, 6-120, 7-177, 8-177, 9-183

Bowling: T Southee 4-0-383, M McClenaghan 3-0-45-1, K Mills 4-0-32-1, N McCullum

2-0-18-1, A Devcich 3-0-320, C Anderson 4-0-21-2

Vice president of SVG football federation resigns citing misappropriation of funds

KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent - Lloyd Small has resigned as First Vice-President of the St.Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), citing misappropriation of funds and rampant violations among 21 reasons that prompted his decision.

Small says he resigned because of the “misappropriation of funds” specifically earmarked for grassroots development, “the lack of documentation supporting disbursements” of $95,205 from the Federation’s account and the “micro-management” of the secretariat by president Venold Coombs.

Small handed in his resignation letter to General Secretary Trevor Huggins accusing the executive of refusing to implement “the Arnos Vale Declaration”, between FIFA and the Federation dealing with the administration of football clubs in the country.

“Based on the foregoing reasons, it has become untenable for me to continue to be a member of the Executive Committee of the SVGFF, as it 1st VicePresident,” Small said.

“Some members of the Executive have compromised their principles ... in exchange of favours and monthly stipend paid to them. Having taken a thorough look at the performance of the Executive Committee and the current state of the game, I there-

fore tender my resignation with immediate effect”.

In his resignation letter, Small complained of “dogmatic breaches” of FIFA’s Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct, lack of accountability of equipment and materials received from FIFA for training courses and said monthly or quarterly financial statements were not presented at meetings of the federation’s Executive.

He complained as well about the establishment of a cash savings account at a local bank “without a resolution taken by the Executive Committee, and without proper knowledge and approval of the majority of its

members”.

Coombs told I-Witness News in St. Vincent recently that he established the account to receive funds from FIFA.

“The administration of the sport is laced with nepotism and a check list of conflicts of interest,” Small said.

“I will continue to give my unreserved support and contribute to the lovely game “. The resignation on Tuesday comes ahead of the Federation’s general meeting this Saturday, which was postponed from last week Saturday allowing Coombs and other members of the Federation to meet with auditors.

James scores 35 as Heat beat Raptors 104-95

– Pacers still unbeaten after beating Pistons 99-91

TORONTO - LeBron James reached his latest milestone in signature style. James scored a season-high 35 points, Dwyane Wade had 20 and the Miami Heat beat the Toronto Raptors 104-95 on Tuesday for their first road victory in three tries this season.

Ray Allen scored 14 points for Miami, which lost at Philadelphia on October 30 and was beaten 101-100 at Brooklyn on November 1.

James also had a season-high eight rebounds and handed out eight assists as Miami topped 100 points for the fifth straight game, extending their team-record run to begin the season.

With a putback dunk at 2:31 of the first quarter, James became the fifth player in NBA history to score 10

points or more in 500 consecutive games.

‘’When I see a stat like that, I’m like ‘Wow,’ because I know the history of the game, I know the guys who paved the way for myself and my teammates,’’ James said. ‘’To be in such a great class like that, it’s an amazing feeling.’’

James said he was humbled to join Kareem AbdulJabbar (with streaks of 787 and 508 games), Michael Jordan (866), Karl Malone (575) and Moses Malone (526) as the only players to accomplish the feat.

‘’That’s apt company,’’ teammate Shane Battier said. It was the 162nd time during the streak that James has reached 10 points in the opening quarter.

Meanwhile, at Auburn

Hills, the Indiana Pacers lost six of their first nine games last season - and they seem intent on making up for that in 2013.

‘’We just want play well and get out of the gates,’’ center Roy Hibbert said. ‘’We’re an experienced team and we know every win’s important.’’

Paul George scored 31 points, and the Pacers remained the NBA’s only unbeaten team with a 99-91 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night.

Indiana matched its best start in franchise history. The Pacers are 4-0 for the first time since the 2004-05 season.

Indiana blew a 15-point lead in the first half but took control again with a strong third quarter. C.J. Watson

had 15 points and David West finished with 12 for the Pacers. Hibbert had eight points, 10 rebounds and seven blocks.

Indiana tried to extend its unbeaten run Wednesday night against Chicago.

‘’It would be a big win, a huge confidence booster,’’ George said. ‘’But it’s no statement. The season’s still early.’’

Brandon Jennings scored 17 points for the Pistons, who were done in by their 5-for-25 shooting from 3-point range.

Detroit led 44-40 early in the third quarter before the Pacers went on a 15-2 run capped by an alleyoop to George. He scored 14 points in the quarter, and Indiana led 74-63 entering the fourth. (AP)

Arsenal earn famous victory in Dortmund

Aaron Ramsey’s header gave Arsenal a battling victory over Borussia Dortmund to keep Arsene Wenger’s side top of Champions League Group F. Wojciech Szczesny denied Marco Reus and Jakub Blaszczykowski as Arsenal looked to contain Dortmund in the first hour.

The Gunners scored with their first effort at goal when Ramsey forced home Mesut Ozil’s cross after 62 minutes.

Ramsey almost made it 2-0 moments later and an increasingly desperate Dortmund side could not deny them a famous win.

Arsenal became the first English team to win at Dortmund’s imposing Westfalenstadion home with their 14th win in 15 unbeaten away games.

That run started in March with a victory at Bayern Munich - the eventual European championsand this result against the team Bayern beat in last

season’s final was just as impressive.

Ramsey’s goal secured the points, but the win came on the back of a measured performance that saw Arsenal keep Dortmund at arm’s length for long periods and score with a classic counter-attack.

The Gunners concentrated on keeping possession in the first half but their conservative approach meant they had just one corner to show for it.

At the other end, Dortmund were producing some typically inventive approach play but struggled to find a way through the visitors’ defence, and were unable to find a finish when they did.

Neven Subotic hooked a volley wide after Ramsey inadvertently headed a Reus free-kick back into the danger zone, and Blaszczykowski was also off target when he met Kevin Grosskreutz’s cross.

The home side’s best

chance before the break fell to Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who was teed up by Blaszczykowski but fired wide after trying to pick his spot from the edge of the area.

Trying to keep a team with as much attacking flair as Dortmund quiet appeared a risky tactic, especially when the home side upped the tempo early in the second half.

A Reus header zipped up off the slick surface and forced Szczesny into his first save of the night, quickly followed by his second from a Blaszczykowski snap-shot following a quick break. Reus buried the follow-up but the flag was already up for offside.

Just as the Dortmund pressure was building, however, Arsenal struck with their first meaningful attack.

Olivier Giroud caused havoc in the area from Ozil’s cross and Ramsey darted in to beat Neven Subotic to the dropping ball, stoop-

Nadal seals number one ranking

Rafael Nadal ensured he will end the year as world number one with victory over Stanislas Wawrinka at the ATP World Tour Finals in London.

The Spaniard, 27, won 7-6 (7-5) 7-6 (8-6) to secure a semi-final place and guarantee he cannot be overtaken by world number two Novak Djokovic.

It will be the third time Nadal - who called it “the perfect scenario” - has finished a year top of the rankings.

Tomas Berdych plays David Ferrer in the day’s other Group A match at 20:00 GMT.

Nadal has admitted he doubted whether he would ever recapture his best form when he was forced out of the sport for over seven months with a serious knee injury.

Since returning in February, his results have been spectacular.

He arrived in London with a career-best record of 72 wins and six losses for the year, 10 tournament victories and Grand Slam titles at the French and US Opens that took his tally of majors to 13 - four behind all-time leader Roger Federer.

“Today (Wednesday) it was important to secure the number one at the end of the season,” said Nadal.

“During all the season I said it’s not my goal, but the real thing is after all the success I had, after all that happened last year, I felt I deserved to be there at the end of the season.

“It’s one of the best things that I did in my career - to come back to number one after three seasons. That’s very difficult in our sport, and after a very important injury.

“That’s an emotional thing for me, for sure.”

fire a forehand past him and take a grip on the match.

The frustration of yet again failing to win a set after 61 minutes of hard work boiled over and Wawrinka was warned for racquet abuse as he headed to his chair.

In a tense start to the second set he complained to umpire Carlos Bernardes about the noise coming from the watching Nadal camp. However, the official took no action despite admitting it was “not normal”.

Nadal needed no help from his camp or his large following among the 17,000 spectators to get the key break in game four as Wawrinka dumped a volley in the net and made two forehand errors.

The Swiss challenge looked all but over at 4-1 down, but Wawrinka was still creating opportunities and, after a couple of suspect volleys earlier in the match, a kind net cord helped him get back on level terms.

ing to head past Roman Weidenfeller.

What had been a cagey game suddenly became wide open and moments later another Arsenal counterattack almost saw them extend their lead. Ramsey was again on the end of it but this time his shot was pushed away by Weidenfeller.

Dortmund threatened an immediate response when Reus failed to convert Lewandowski’s cross but there was more happening at the other end, with Nuri Sahin clearing off the line and Per Mertesacker almost getting on the end of an inviting delivery.

In the end one goal was enough. Dortmund had failed to score only once in their last 60 home games and had won their last eight home ties in the Champions League, but their search for an equaliser constantly ran into dead ends and Szczesny did not have another serious save to make before the end.

(BBC

Two straight-sets wins within 24 hours have seen Nadal qualify from the group as efficiently as possible, and he remains on track to land the most significant title still absent from his CV.

Wawrinka, 28, might be enjoying the best year of his career but Nadal remains too great a challenge for the Swiss, who has now lost all of their 12 matches without winning a single set.

He got close to breaking that duck at the 25th and 26th attempts, but Nadal once again proved himself to be a supreme competitor.

Under pressure at 5-5 in the first tie-break, the Spaniard played a brilliant defensive backhand that dropped on the baseline and Wawrinka pulled a backhand wide to offer up set point.

When Wawrinka stumbled at the net, the world number one swooped in to

Wawrinka was playing the more spectacular winners but, just as in the first set, it was Nadal who prevailed when the pressure was really on in the tiebreak.

A smash saved set point and the Spaniard clinched victory after two hours and 12 minutes when Wawrinka made his 23rd forehand error of the match.

Asked about his complaints to the umpire in the second set, Wawrinka said: “It’s nothing personal against Rafa or against Toni [Nadal, coach and uncle].

“We all know, players and umpire, that Toni is always trying to help Rafa. That’s normal. That’s part of the game. But when it’s too much, it’s too much.

“Today I didn’t agree with the umpire that he didn’t tell him something or he didn’t give him second warning just because it was Rafa.” Meanwhile, Tomas Berdych reignited his hopes of reaching the semi-finals with a straight-sets 6-4 6-4 win over David Ferrer in the evening session. (BBC Sport)

South Georgetown strategically planning for “Nationals”

By Treiston Joseph

The National School’s Athletics, Swimming and Cycling Championships is on the horizon and most districts are in preparation for the 53rd edition of the event set to take place from November 18 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

The historic event has been dominated by three districts in the defending champions North Georgetown/ District 11 (13 wins), Upper Demerara River and Kwakwani/District 10 (13 wins) and the East Coast Demerara/District four (seven wins).

However, in a telephone interview with the assistant manager of the South Georgetown/District 13 Troy Allen, Guyana Times Sport learnt understands that the team will be planning to pull off an upset win through strategic planning.

“Based on last year results we have a committee set up to critically study and analyze the various events so we can place our athletes to maximize winning

and that is critical for points which are important.

Even if we don’t win and we are going there to win we want to improve on our position from last year,” Allen told this publication.

Looking at the preparation for the event, Allen noted that the team is about 90 percent ready to compete when the event begins in two weeks time.

“So far we have had our sports, in inter house and inter schools and so far we are 90 percent on our way we are still are putting some things in place and we should be able to compete to the highest level at National,” Allen noted during the telephone interview.

Allen also informed this publication that since his tenure which began last year, South Georgetown is set to maximize on the athletes that they have in order to possibly pull off an upset victory.

“Sincethis is my second year we have athletes that will be competing in all the events and we think we will stand a better chance of winning,” Allen highlighted.

Eto’o inspires Chelsea against Schalke

Samuel Eto’o struck twice as Chelsea took charge of Champions League Group E with victory over Schalke. The German side started positively and twice could have gone ahead as Julian Draxler and Adam Szalai fired wide.

But they gifted Chelsea the opener when goalkeeper Timo Hildebrand had his kick charged down by Eto’o.

Draxler had a shot saved after the break before Eto’o collected Willian’s pass to fire in with Demba Ba scoring a volley on the turn late on. Victory for Chelsea moves them three points clear at the top of the group and a draw in their next game at Basel will guarantee their passage into the competition’s last 16.

While it was not a devastating response to the 2-0 defeat by Newcastle last Saturday, where Blues boss Jose Mourinho said he made 11 mistakes in referring to his team selection, it earned Chelsea their third successive win in Europe. And it showed that despite his age, 32-year-old Eto’o has a big part to play in Mourinho’s plans this season after scoring his 28th and 29th Champions League

Samuels hits sparkling half-century

KOLKATA, India –Marlon Samuels said West Indies fell short of the batting targets they had set for themselves, but they were prepared to fight hard to remain competitive in the first Test against India on Tuesday.

Samuels hit the top score of 65, but Test newcomer Mohammad Shami grabbed 4-71 from 17 overs, as the Windies, choosing to bat, were bowled out for 234 in their first innings on the opening day on Wednesday at Eden Gardens.

It was the third time in as many matches that Samuels has past 50 at this venue. His maiden Test

goals. Eto’o, who was in the side in place of the injured Fernando Torres, was one of six changes to the team, with Eden Hazard not making the squad after Mourinho said he “missed a crucial training session”.

The Chelsea manager also said his team had forgotten “why we win” after losing in the north east last weekend and they still looked like they were having memory problems as they gifted the ball too easily to Schalke early on. The two near misses by the visitors, who are sixth in the Bundesliga, seemed to shake Chelsea from their slumber, though, and after beginning to string their passes together, Andre Schurrle tested Hildebrand with a curling free-kick after 20 minutes.

That led to a better spell for the hosts but they could not have foreseen the present they were given after 31 minutes. There appeared to be no danger as Hildebrand shaped to kick the ball out but he took his eye off the onrushing Eto’o, who closed the 34-year-old German goalkeeper down and deflected the ball into an open goal.

hundred of 104 came 11 years ago here and he also scored 84 in the second innings two years ago.

The 32-year-old Samuels has risen to become one of the linchpins of the visitors’ batting over the last two years. He was looking typically in cruise mode when he was undone by a delivery from Shami that kept low and moved back sharply to extract his middle stump.

“I wouldn’t say we achieved all we wanted,” said Samuels. “We set out to achieve a particular total, but we fell short.

“We are very disappointed. It is something we have to go back to the dressing

room and discuss. The runs however, are on the board and it is our duty to make India fight very hard to past that total first.”

He added: “Whenever you play Tests in India, you always look to score a total in excess of 400 in the first innings, particularly if you are batting first. This would help you set up the Test match and almost guarantee taking it into the fifth day.”

Samuels said the Indians bowled tightly and were consistent in their home conditions.

“The Indian bowlers did not give us anything,” he said. “They were very disciplined in their bowling, attacking the stumps, attacking the stumps. You had to work hard to get your runs, but I back myself and took my chances.”

He also reckoned the pitch played a few tricks: “There was a bit of awkward bounce and a few deliveries kept low, so the bounce [from the pitch] was not consistent, but it was still a good pitch to bat on.”

About the way he has been batting in recent years, Samuels said: “When you

play a format consistently, you learn a lot about it, spending hours in the middle. Because I have batted a lot in Tests over the last couple of years, my batting is coming together. Most importantly, it is because I love batting in Tests.”

Samuels said he was hugely disappointed not to have transformed his score into a hundred – after all, one of his cricketing heroes was watching from close proximity.

“I was very disappointed, mainly because Sachin was on the field and I couldn’t get yet another hundred in front of him,” he said.

“He is the greatest cricketer to have ever played cricket and my idol. I am shattered to have missed out on scoring a hundred. I am sure he is enjoying himself right now, but we will try to get him out early. I don’t mind him scoring a little 20. We don’t have plenty of runs on the board and we have to play very hard from here.”

India resume on the second day from 37 without loss with Shikhar Dhawan, not out on 21, and Murali Vijay, not out on 16. (WICB)

SCOREBOARD

West Indies 1st innings

C Gayle c Vijay b Kumar 18

K Powell c Kumar b Mohammed Shami 28

DM Bravo run out (Mohammed Shami/†Dhoni) 23

M Samuels b Mohammed Shami 65

S Chanderpaul b Ashwin 36

D Ramdin† b Mohammed Shami 4

D Sammy* c Kumar b Ojha 16

S Shillingford lbw b Tendulkar 5

V Permaul c & b Ashwin 14

T Best not out 14

S Cottrell b Mohammed Shami 0

Extras: (b 4, lb 7) 11

Total: (all out, 78 overs)

234

Fall of wickets: 1-34, 2-47, 3-138, 4-138, 5-143, 6-172, 7-192, 8-211, 9-233, 10-234 Bowling: B Kumar 14-6-33-1, Mohammed Shami 17-2-71-4, R Ashwin 21-9-52-2, P Ojha 246-62-1, S Tendulkar 2-1-5-1 India 1st innings S Dhawan not out 21 M Vijay not out 16 Total: (0 wkt, 12 overs) 37 Bowling: T Best 2-0-15-0, S Cottrell 5-2-13-0, S Shillingford 4-2-8-0,

Messi stars as Barcelona reach last 16

Lionel Messi scored twice for Barcelona as they booked their place in the knockout stages of the Champions League with a comfortable win over AC Milan on Wednesday.

Messi scored his first goal in four games with a penalty after Neymar had been fouled by Ignazio Abate.

Sergio Busquets headed in a second from Xavi’s freekick before the lead was reduced when Kaka’s cross was turned in by the unfortunate Gerard Pique.

Messi clipped in his second after a swift one-two with Cesc Fabregas.

The result extends the Catalan side’s lead at the top of Group H to five points over the Italian club, who have five points with two games to play.

Milan now travel to Celtic knowing that victory could also see them progress into the next round.

Barcelona had 63% possession and 19 shots on target - more than four times

Milan’s total.

Neymar came close early on when he collected Messi’s through-ball only to see his strike blocked by Urby Emanuelson.

Milan keeper Christian Abbiati then denied Neymar and Alexis Sanchez be-

fore Barca finally made the breakthrough from the spot.

Xavi chipped a ball over the Milan defence for Neymar, who was tugged back in the area by Milan defender Abate.

Messi smashed in the resulting penalty for his first

goal since scoring in the reverse fixture against Milan two weeks ago.

Barca then doubled their lead when midfielder Busquets stooped to head past Abbiati from Xavi’s teasing delivery from a freekick. Just before half-time, Milan were given a lifeline when Pique turned Kaka’s low delivery into his own net.

Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri, whose side are only 11th in the Serie A table, brought on striker Mario Balotelli for the ineffective Robinho after the break but it made little difference as Barca dominated.

Abbiati produced a great save to prevent Andres Iniesta from scoring before the keeper pushed away Sanchez’s point-blank effort. But he could do little to stop Messi from scoring the third, when the Argentine linked up with Fabregas before skipping through the defence and lifting his shot high into the net. (BBC Sport)

Guyana Softball Cup III bowls off Friday

By Avenash Ramzan

Over 20 local and overseas teams will begin the battle for supremacy on Friday when the Guyana Softball Cup III bowls off at VARIOUS venues in Georgetown.

Organised by the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA), the third annual tournament has attracted participation from teams Florida, New York, Canada and Guyana.

Chief coordinator and Vice-president of the GFSCA, Ricky Deonarian, said all the necessary logistics have are falling into place, and the organisers are confident of a successful tournament.

“As we speak everything is in place; most of the overseas teams are already here while the others, includ-

ing the defending champion of the Open category, New York Cricket League All Stars, are expected in tomorrow [today],” Deonarain told this publication.

Deonarain said his team of organisers has been working assiduously to get the grounds in condition for the three-day event, while placing extra effort in ensuring proper arrangements are in place for the large influx of visiting teams and their band of supporters.

According to Deonarain, the teams will be hosted at the official opening ceremony from 17:30 hours this afternoon at the main pavillion of the world famous Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, Bourda. Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony is slated to deliver feature remarks at the event.

The chief coordinator also informed that the teams are required to assemble at the GCC ground on Friday morning at 08:00 hours for a photo shoot. The teams are expected to be fully uniformed.

Format

Preliminary action in the competition will take place on Friday and Saturday with the grand finals of the two categories- the Open 20/20 and the Masters 20/20- set for Sunday at the GCC ground, Bourda.

During the two days of preliminary action, which will comprise 36 games, the

venues will be the GCC, Police, Sport Ministry, Demerara Cricket Club, YMCA and Education Ministry grounds.

In the Open 20/20 competition, which was won last year by New York Softball Cricket League All Stars, the teams will battle for a first prize of $800,000 and a massive trophy, with the runner-up team carting off $200,000 and a trophy.

The Man-of-the-Match in the final will be the recipient of a trophy, while the player of the tournament will receive a gold bracelet, compliments of Steve’s Jewellery.

In the Masters 20/20 segment, of which Savage XI of Guyana are the defending champions, the participating teams will vie for the coveted prize of $600,000 and a trophy, with the losing finalist having to settle for $150,000 and a trophy. Like the Open category, the Manof-the-Match in the championship game and the player of the tournament will receive a trophy and a gold bracelet respectively.

On Sunday, prior to the two category finals, there will be three female exhibition games, featuring four of the leading teams on the distaff side- Trophy Stall Angels, 4R Lioness, Karibee Girls and Mike’s Wellwoman.

Two semi-finals will be followed by a grand final, with the winner pocketing $50,000 and the loser

$25,000. The MVP will collect $5,000 and a trophy. While admission to the venue for the first two days is free, a fee of $500 will be charged per patron on the final day, with the first ball set to be bowled at 10:00 hours.

Zones For the Open 20/20 competition, the 12 teams have been placed into three zones. Zone A comprises South Florida Softball Cricket League, Regal XI, Wolf’s Warriors and Smith’s XI; Zone B consists of defending champions New York Softball Cricket League All Stars, 2011 winners Cotton

Diva Flames receive sneakers from Women’s Association

The Little Diva Flames FC on Monday received a quantity of football sneakers from the National Association for Women’s Football (NAWF).

The presentation of 20 pairs of footwear was done at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC), ground, Bourda, prior to one of the club’s training sessions.

Aaliyah Stanley, one of five national Under-17 players in the club, collected the donation from Dickenson.

The sneakers were donated to the NAWF by a sponsor, who wished to remain anonymous, although he/she has promised to continue supporting the development of female football.

The other beneficiaries of the club were Mariska Corbin, Shaunna Taylor, Siedha Dummett, Jennel Brown, Atabia James, Precious Johnson, Shania Riley, Tandica La Rose, Althea Holligan, Gabriella English, Dacaycia Norville,

Gardner.

The girls usually practice at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, Bourda, where sessions are being conducted by Joseph Wilson and Sheron Abrams. National player Vurlon Mills also attends the session on a regular basis and assist in the coaching process.

Field Wild Oats, Corriverton and Farm XI; while Zone C is made up of Ontario Softball Cricket League, Berbice Titans, Karibee Boys and Trophy Stall.

The 14 teams in the Masters 20/20 segment have been divided into four zones. New York Better Hope, Brooklyn Legends, reigning champions Savage XI and Floodlight make up Zone A; Zone B comprises SCI Miami, New York President’s XI, 2011 champions Regal Masters and Industry Super Kings; Zone C will see rivalry amongst New York Seaview, Ontario Masters Softball

International and Wellman XI; while New York Softball Cricket League Legends, Parika Defenders and Superior Woods Success Masters have been placed in Zone D.

The event has attracted corporate support from Top Brandz Distributors, the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, Trophy Stall, Survival Supermarket, Mike’s Pharmacy, Nauth’s Motor Spares, Rohan Auto Spares, Clear Waters, Steve’s Jewellery, Guyana Beverage Company, Rubis (Bel Air), Metro Office and Computer Supplies and Motor Trend.

Cricket Administration Bill...

From back page

In relation to elections to the executive committee, Part 11, Clause 7 of the bill says that the first elections shall be held in accordance with section 17 on the date appointed in writing by the Minister acting in consultation with the WICB. In respect of this election, the minister, after meaningful consultations with the WICB shall be responsible for the appointment of a Cricket Ombudsman, who shall be responsible for the verification of the Register of Clubs and for performing the functions of Returning Officer.

Following the first election, the bill makes it clear that the minister has no part to play in respect of the holding of subsequent elections of the GCB and the election and appointment of the ombudsman. The ombudsman, the bill says, shall hold office for a period of three years after he/she has been elected by a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting at an extraordinary meeting of the GCB. The primary task of the cricket ombudsman shall be the responsibility for the verification of the Register of Clubs and for performing the functions of Returning Officer for the elections of the membership of the GCB.

Part 11, Clause 5 of the bill deals with the transfer of rights to the GCB. When the bill is signed into law, all employees of the former GCB are deemed to be employed by the GCB. All assets, funds and resources and movable and immovable property held by the former Board now stand transferred to the GCB. In addition, the rights, inter-

ests, obligations and liabilities of the former GCB existing on or before the commencement of the Act, now stand transferred to the GCB. Contracts or instruments shall be of the same force and effect against or in favour of the GCB and shall be enforceable as fully and effectively, as if instead of the former GCB, the GCB has been named or had been a party to. In similar vein, proceedings or actions taken by or against the former GCB shall be continued by or against the GCB. Similar provisions are made for county boards.

Books

The bill makes provision for the books of the GCB and county boards to be audited and the report shall be laid before the National Assembly within a month of the completion of the audit. The bodies, not later than May 31 every year, shall present to the National Sports Commission copies of the auditor’s report and the annual report on its work and activities for the period of 12 months preceding the date of the report, and the plan of action and activities of the Board for the ensuing 12 months.

Meantime, the Constitution of the GCB sets out term limits for the president who shall serve for a period not exceeding three terms. A term is two years. There are no term limits for other executive committee members.

The current president of the GCB is Drubahadur who was elected in January but once passed and signed into law; new elections could be held.

Raj Singh Insurance Brokers/Trophy Stall Over-40 2Cricket Competition…

Georgetown Bears, EB Lions, EC Bulls and WBD Mavericks record third round victories

Georgetown Bears, Lower East Bank Lions, Lower East Coast Bulls and West Bank Demerara Mavericks recorded victories in the third round of the Raj Singh Insurance Brokers/ Trophy Stall Over-40 T20 competition played on Wednesday at four venues in the Georgetown and West Bank Demerara.

At the Everest Cricket Club ground, Georgetown Bears edged Upper East Bank Colts by six runs.

Batting first the City side managed a commanding total of 167 for 5 with Clive Grimmond hitting a topscore of 59. He received support from Surendra Heralall with 37. In reply the Upper East Bank Colts fell short of the winning target and eventually scored 161 for 7. Vijay Ramgobin was their main contributor with 57 while skipper

Rohan Sarjoo made a fighting 37 on a losing cost.

Carlos Reid and Heralall claimed figures of 3-13 and 2-21 respectively bowling for the winners.

At the Wales Community Centre ground, Lower East Bank Lions defeated West Coast Demerara Seals by three wickets.

The eventually winners chased down 131 off 19.2 overs with Jai Singh being the rescuer with 55. He received valuable support from Latchman Persaud and Basil Persaud with 25 and 23 respectively. In West Coast Demerara Seals’ innings B Persaud topscored with 29 while D Persaud and Rabindranauth Seeram supported with 26 not out and 24 respectively. Rakesh Gangaram picked up three wickets for one run in a disciplined bowling effort.

Batting first at the Bourda

ground, Fitzroy Colley’s belligerent 77 was not enough to prevent the Georgetown Buffaloes from going down by six wickets to the Lower East Coast Bulls in their encounter.

Colley, who hammered 12 fours and one huge six in his knock, was supported by Burty Carmichael who scored 28.

In reply the Bulls registered 159 for 4 in 19.1 overs, courtesy of Man-of-the-Match Clifton Anderson who scored 58. Seemangal Yadram (29) and L Gobin (23) were the other contributors. Over at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, the East Coast Tigers suffered a 23run defeat loss at the hands of the West Bank Demerara Mavericks, who posted a mammoth 179 for 8 from their 20 overs.

Man-of-the-match Eon Williams crafted 51 and claimed

Cricket Administration Bill for second reading in Parliament today

Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony will move the second reading of the Cricket Administration Bill when the 63rd sitting of the National Assembly of the 10th parliament reconvenes later this afternoon.

The parliament office confirmed on Wednesday that the Bill has been listed on the Order Paper for its second reading. The bill was returned to the National Assembly on August 7, but was deferred until the parliamentary recess ended0 in October.

The bill sought to establish the GCB and county boards as corporate bodies and was tabled by government last December in a bid to end the impasse over the national game here. It provided constitutions for the GCB, the Demerara, Berbice and the Essequibo Cricket Boards.

The absence of a corporate structure for the county boards had been exposed when secretary of the Berbice Cricket Board Angela Haniff challenged

Dr Frank Anthony Angela Haniff

the validity of the GCB elections of June 10, 2011.

Chief Justice Ian Chang threw out the matter on the grounds that all of the associations embroiled in the matter were legal non entities and had been so from their inception. Therefore they could not sue or be sued.

In the name of Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, the bill tabled in Parliament seeks to remedy this by establishing the boards as bodies corporate and conserves their status and operations.

The bill was tabled following an acrimonious row between the government of Guyana and its Interim Management Committee (IMC) and the embattled Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) over the state of cricket in Guyana.

Major changes to bill

The bill was sent to a Special Select Committee after it was laid in the National Assembly by Minister of Sport Dr. Frank Anthony.

Several amendments have been made to the bill including changes to provisions that the WICB had objected to. In the initial bill, one of the provisions stated that the “rules, regulations, bylaws and constitutions of the former Guyana Cricket Board are replaced by the Constitution of the Guyana Cricket Board” and further that “each and every office established under the rules, regulations, bylaws and constitutions of the former Guyana Cricket Board shall cease to exist at the commencement of this Act.”

This provision was at the crux of the cricket impasse as the WICB had said it will not recognise any dissolution of the GCB.

In the amended bill, the term “former Guyana Cricket Board” means the entity, institution, association, society, company, body or collection of persons known as or functioning as the Guyana Cricket Board immediately before the commencement of the Act.

two wickets for the winning team. Emran Sullivan scored an unbeaten 37 to assist in the huge total. J Hardat 2 for 16 was the Tigers best bowler.

The East Coast team in their chase only managed 157 for 8 in their 20 overs, with contributions from Mark Malone (30) and Jagdesh Persaud (25).

The fourth round of the tournament is scheduled for Friday from 13:00h. Lower East Bank Lions will play Georgetown Buffaloes at the Everest Cricket Club ground, West Bank Demerara Mavericks taking on Georgetown Bears at the Wales Community Centre ground, Upper East Coast Tigers hosts Upper East Bank Colts at the Enmore Community Centre ground and Lower East Coast Bulls and West Coast Demerara Seals do battle at the Zeeburg Community Centre ground.

OlKata, India –marlon samuels said West Indies fell short of the batting targets they had set for themselves, but they were prepared to fight hard to remain competitive in the first test against India on tuesday. samuels hit the top score of 65, but test newcomer mohammad shami grabbed 4-71 from 17 overs, as the Windies, choosing to bat, were bowled out for 234 in their first innings on the opening day on Wednesday at eden Gardens.

See STory on page 22

Marlon Samuels raises the bat after reaching his fifty (BCCI)