Guyana Times

wednesday, december 18, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com

Gold shines bright in 2013

History has been created in the mining industry, with Guyana recording the highest gold declaration of 458,105 ounces.

The announcement was made by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud on Tuesday.

This declaration surpasses the previous highest level of 455,918 ounces, which was achieved in 2001, with the combined efforts of Omai and small scale operations. Speaking at his Brickdam’s office, Persaud said the achievement is a stepping stone for Guyana.

“This is a proud moment for all those who work in the sector. It shows dedication and commitment of the miners and also addresses the concerns about underdeclaration of gold or the claims of gold smuggling,” he posited.

Optimistic that the figures would increase by the end of 2013, Persaud said all of Guyana should rally with the mining sector.

“We as Guyanese, we should celebrate, be proud of this and we should not demonise or chastise these hard working men and women.”

According to the Guyana Gold Board, in 2011, gold declaration stood at approximately 363,083 ounces, but the figure jumped at the end of

2012, with Guyana recording 438,645 ounces. The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry this year has placed major emphasis on green development within the extractive sector, which is within the framework of its low carbon economy.

Increased investment in the sector has resulted in innovative technology being utilised to affect more efficient recovery and production, the Natural Resources Ministry said.

In 2012, gold and bauxite exports represented 50 per cent and 10 per cent respectively of total export revenues, the ministry posited, noting that gold export earnings totalled US$716.9 million; 38.7 per cent higher than the 2011 level.

The average export price per ounce of gold in-

creased by six per cent to US$1575.4 per ounce from US$1486.5 per ounce in 2011, the ministry pointed out.

“Mining is an important part of the Guyanese economy, contributing 10.6 per cent to the nation’s annual GDP in 2012. Between 2007 and 2012, there was 14 per cent growth of the total export value of min-

ing. In 2011, it was estimated that 13,800 people are directly employed in small and medium scale gold and diamond operations and 19,000 indirectly employed in mining support industries.”

Based on the ongoing trend, the ministry anticipates that mining will continue to be the key driver in Guyana’s economy.

In an effort to alleviate the negative impacts of mining and promote sustainable development in the industry, the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry said its 2013-2018 strategic framework will reduce environmental degradation in the mining sector. Improving reclamation of mined out areas, and providing initiatives to address impacts on deforestation and forest degradation from mining are among areas to be tackled within the strategic framework.

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

Guyana’s sovereignty

In the opposition-induced feeding frenzy over claims that Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud had issued “mining permits” to a Brazilian company (registered in Guyana), there appears to be a troubling willingness by that opposition to compromise the sovereignty of our nation in their quest to score political points.

As to the claim itself, this is a question of fact and, like all issues from this quarter, will be settled by reasonable people after considering the evidence presented by both sides.

What is undisputed is that it was a permission for geological and geophysical survey (PGGS) that had been issued to Muri Brazil Ventures Guyana and not a mining permit. As might be evident from its name, a PGGS grants its holder permission to survey a demarcated area for the presence of specified mineral deposits.

It is also undisputed that other PGGSs have been issued in the past. The initial reason offered by the opposition for raising the brouhaha, was that the minister, when questioned by the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Natural Resources, parsed his answer very carefully to only deny the issuance of any mining licence. The pertinent dialogue was:

Lieutenant Colonel (retired) [Joe Harmon]: “Thank you very much minister. Is there though any permission or anything for any activity other than mining say for example forestry or forestry concessions issued for in that area?”

Robert Persaud: “I am advised by the technical officer… I am told by the staff that there is no permitted forestry operation in that particular area.”

In retrospect, it is evident that details of the Muri PGGS, which was subsequently leaked to sections of the press friendly to the opposition, had already been in the latter’s possession and was used to “set up” the minister.

As such there was no further follow up as to whether there was permission for “any activity other than mining or forestry”. The minister’s equivocal answer was then used to accuse him of lying to the committee. “Mining”, however, is defined by the relevant legislation as quite different from a “survey” or “prospecting” licence and the minister is adamant that he answered the question posed.

Leader of the opposition David Granger then raised a fresh red herring: that the southern Suriname border and the Brazilian border in the Rupununi are “sensitive areas”, in light of respectively, an invasion by Suriname military personnel and an uprising in the Rupununi, both occuring in 1969.

It appears that the defence board has to sign off on any sustained activities, such as settlements and mining, up to10 miles from the border. We expect that when prospecting and mining do take place in the area, the necessary permission will be solicited.

But in the flurry of “he said” “she said” and “had not said” were the aforementioned disturbing undermining of Guyanese sovereignty by the opposition, which raises the bona fides of this opposition to represent Guyana.

In a letter to the minister, the Deputy Chairman of A Partner for National Unity (APNU) Dr Rupert Roopnaraine asserted that any mining “activity would certainly give rise to a fresh surge of anxiety and agitation from our eastern neighbours”. It is no secret that Suriname claims the New River Triangle and it is just as clear that we have always maintained that the current demarcation that allocated the area to Guyana is unalterable. Why, then, should the exploitation of our sovereign territory be held in abeyance because of Suriname’s “anxiety and agitation”? To paraphrase what was held unanimously by all Guyanese when Venezuela rattled its sword at our western border, “every blade of grass” is ours to do whatever we see fit with it.

While we believe most Guyanese will agree, in hindsight, that the minister might have volunteered the information on the PGGS and not allowed himself to be ambushed, hindsight, we know is always 20/20.

On the other hand, the opposition must be brought to task for being more concerned with Suriname’s territorial claims rather than our sovereign rights to develop our country.

Muri survey holds great promise for Guyana and is a legal agreement that must be honoured

Dear Editor, It has been with great consternation that I have been reading the past week’s Stabroek News and now the Kaieteur News in relation to the utterings over the award of a Permission of Geological and Geophysical Survey (PGSS) in the south of Guyana to the Guyanese company Muri Brasil Ventures Inc.

I am puzzled as to the motive behind all the negative light in which this potentially large scale investment is being cast. This is a survey which holds great promise for Guyana, yet the motives of many of the objectors such as the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in the person of Joseph Harmon, and several political pundits remain, at the best, unknown.

I am yet to comprehend what it is that they want, despite reading all of the complaints, accusations and demands. Some I have seen call for the resignation of the Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud, the rescinding of the PGSS, a separation of ministerial duties and protection of the environment.

I have also noticed that this matter only came to the fore when there was a discussion about an illegal road being built by a Brazilian in the Parabara area. For the record, the builders of that road and Muri Brasil Ventures Inc are not connected, nor is Muri involved in any road building.

So far all of the articles seem to hint and make the assumption that there is some level of corruption involved. However, to date, I have not heard anyone stating that the agreement signed between the minister and the company is illegal. In my humble opinion, once it is a legal agreement it must be honoured.

It is time that the government state this fact, regardless of the reasons given by some

persons who feel, that this legal agreement, is not in the best interest of Guyana. I would like to state why legal binding agreements must be honoured. I refer to two more popular cases from our recent history: 1) The agreement with the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) which created a “monopoly” and 2) the Omai mine agreement, both of these agreements were questioned by all and sundry and attempts were made to rescind them. The GT&T issue is still ongoing and I will not comment.

Following the change of government in 1992 there was an official investigation and inquiry into the Omai agreement, led by Dr Maurice Odle. The determination was that the agreement was fully compliant with the law.

On a historical note, this is not the first time the area in question is being studied visà-vis research activities to determine the type of minerals. Were there any previous studies in this area? The answer is yes. Several decades ago studies were done by:

• The United Nations (UN) Revolving Fund Programme whose findings are a matter of public record;

• The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) headed by geologist Chris Barron in the late 1970s; Gordon Nestor of GGMC, under the stewardship of Commissioner William Woolford – these findings should also be public knowledge;

A Guyana/Brazil team over the Muri area, I am not aware if these findings have been made available to the public.

The above is proof that studies for minerals in this area were conducted by government over its territory. The only difference today, is that

the studies are being carried out by a private firm. So why all the fuss about this study?

There are many statements being placed for public consumption that are at best most misleading. The first is that of the map purporting to show mining on the borders.

Any preliminary investigation would show that there is a definitive area on all Guyana’s borders in which mining can and cannot be conducted. This is the law of the land.

The second bit of information which states that this agreement is a “sell-out” and that 2.2 million acres (approximately four per cent of Guyana) has been granted to this company is ingenious in its ambiguity and designed to arouse the patriotism of Guyanese citizens.

The fact however remains that the major beneficiary of this research, which would involve a foreign investment of tens of millions of U.S. dollars, is Guyana. PGSS agreements have been implemented simply because the GGMC does not have the technical or financial resources to do this type of research.

Yes, there is an agreement that after a few years Muri will have the option to apply for prospecting licences, however, what is not stated is these licences will not be chosen from the 2.2 million acres being researched.

As with all previous agreements (I have not seen the Muri agreement) areas have to be released by the companies each year as per a schedule that allows for approximately 50 per cent in the first year and 25 per cent in the second year and so on.

From what I understand, this agreement will see at least a 30 per cent release of the first year. So exactly how many acres are being given in the form of prospecting licences? Based on what has been the precedent, the average prospecting licence is 12,000 acres. It means that the acreage to

be prospected could be around 216,000 acres.

Needless to say if after years of prospecting one decides to apply for a mining licence, the maximum acres is 20,000 acres. I am also aware that there have been applications by local miners to do prospecting in the area and I recall the minister stating that he has not approved any prospecting licences in the area, only a PGSS.

As a matter of policy, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has always stated that all applications must be accepted by the GGMC and following the proper checks and research, the applicant must be informed if he can or cannot be issued a permission and reasons must be given.

It is sad to see that there has been no comment or response from the GGMC or its board on this matter. The Private Sector Commission (PSC), whose current chairman was the chairman of GGMC, has remained largely silent on this issue which threatens to drive away, not only this, but future foreign investment into Guyana.

In conclusion, Guyanese are aware of the claims by the Venezuelan government in the Essequibo which has, and will continue to restrict large-scale development such as the Upper Mazaruni Hydro Development Project and the Beal Space Project.

We are also aware about the claims by Suriname which is apparently also restricting development in the New River Triangle Area. Personally, I can understand where these foreign countries are coming from, but it is totally incomprehensible to me why our own people (Guyanese) are against the development of Guyana for the benefit of all Guyanese.

Yours faithfully, Edward Shields Former director of GGMC Retired executive director GGDMA

18, 2013

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

Josiah could always be called on by Help and Shelter

Dear Editor,

Help and Shelter would like to offer sincere condolences to the family of the late Assistant Commissioner Derrick Josiah and the members of the Guyana Police Force. Guyana has lost one of its best and most capable advocates in the fight against the scourge of domestic violence, which continues to plague our country.

Josiah could always be called on by Help and Shelter and many other organisations to render professional assistance to survivors and victims of domestic violence in keeping with the Guyana Police Force’s domestic violence policy and guidelines, and will always be remembered as a champion in the fight against domestic violence in Guyana.

When Help and Shelter was identifying persons to be interviewed for our documen-

tary on domestic violence, we knew that there was no one more capable than Josiah to outline the role of the Guyana Police Force on domestic violence, and with the permission of the then commissioner, he willingly agreed to do the interview and gave an articulate, thoughtful and honest commentary on the role of the Guyana Police Force in addressing domestic violence.

Even though he is no longer physically with us, the late Josiah’s interview has been captured for all to see whenever our “Break the Silence, Stop the Violence” is shown.

Yours faithfully, Danuta Radzik, Denise Dias, Patricia Gray, Pamela Nauth Josephine Whitehead For Help and Shelter

GPL needs to be more responsive

Dear Editor,

Not so long ago, my community endured an entire day of no electricity and up until now, there has been no word from the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) as to why this problem existed. Additionally, there is a tree that is threatening several power lines adjacent to the church that I attend. I have made several attempts to contact GPL and when I finally got through; I was told the tree is not their responsibility.

If I were to remember correctly, GPL has been advising people regularly to inform them of any tree or pole that may be threatening to fall on existing wires; having said that, I find the response that I received absolutely absurd. Should that tree on Brickdam bring down those

power lines, who should be blamed?

I strongly believe that GPL should scour for rotting poles and trees that can affect power lines. I also think that they should be more responsive and accommodating when individuals make reports.

I expect better from GPL, if they have indeed strengthened their emergency response services and have intensified efforts to remove all encumbering vegetation along the corridor of transmission lines across Guyana. Aside from the inconveniences that snapped power lines will bring, they can also be extremely dangerous and lethal to both man and animals.

Yours truly, Colin Davidson

Concerns about CXC SBA requirements

Dear Editor, Just recently, approximately 300 teachers and principals from all across Guyana assembled at the International Conference Centre in aid of attending the 45th meeting with the executive members of the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC).

The meeting allowed for concerns plaguing Guyana’s education system to be brought to light and further discussed. Additionally, a lot of emphasis was placed on the importance of School Based Assessments (SBAs).

It was stated that this particular method of assessment will continue to be used. He further explained that SBAs are intended to capture the learning capabilities of students by allowing them to incorporate what they were taught, as well as exercise their civic responsibilities and creativities into one product that will reflect their overall knowledge.

Subject teachers must be able to determine whether or not the work displayed in the assignments reflect the capability of their students.

The concerns for many as it relates to SBAs is the honesty and transparency of the work produced, and if it is in fact genuine and not plagiarised.

Every educational institution is expected to abide by a mark scheme that is established by the council for the grading of SBAs. These mark schemes are also used as a guideline when setting written exams. However, it is wise to note that mark schemes may vary from subject to subject.

I have observed that children who are preparing for CXC and are required to complete SBAs often seek relevant assistance and guidance from multiple sources, particularly in study areas where they are weaker.

Overall, I was extremely pleased with the performance of the students this year; several of them managed to

and

Page Foundation

Page Foundation

Is your child hyperactive?

BY FRANCES CAMPBELL

Many children are labelled as ‘hyperactive’ but the disorder is rarely explained fully. Psychotherapist Frances Campbell takes us through some of the symptoms and treatments of Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder in pre-teen children.

Spotting the signs

We often hear children described as hyperactive, but what exactly does this mean? Most happy, normal children have a lot of energy, so how do you distinguish between an excited child and someone suffering from ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder)? The answer is that it can be difficult.

This disorder can vary in intensity and most children will express some of the symptoms some of the time. Unfortunately,

there are no specific tests for ADHD, so a diagnosis is based on the child’s behaviour.

Below are some of the symptoms exhibited by children suffering from attention deficit hyperactive disorder. It should be stressed though, that the condition is revealed differently in each child.

Lack of concentration

The name of this disorder gives us an obvious clue as to one of the major symptoms. Children suffering from an Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder find it difficult to concentrate and tend to be extremely restless. They won’t be able to stay seated for long and can’t settle down to tasks or play. Of course, anyone who’s worked with pre-teens would rightly say that this description covers a lot of the children they deal with, so how else can we

spot something is wrong?

Unusually aggressive

One of the best ways to tell if a child is hyperactive is to watch how he or

also barge into games and conver sations they are interested in, with out being asked.

Although most children appear frighteningly unaware of potential hazards, this trait can be more extreme in children with ADHD. They may wander off, to be found later at the top of a high tree or setting fire to the house

Impulsive

This is part of the same anti-social, restless behaviour already described. If the child has something to say then he or she will blurt it out, even if it’s in a social situation where other children know they should be quiet. They may

Children with ADHD may seem emotionally younger than their contemporaries. Again, this is difficult to recognise – children develop differently. For example, a group of 10 five-year-olds might exhibit a range of ‘mental’ ages and all be quite healthy and normal. Schoolwork can be examined – children with ADHD will often lag behind their classmates, mainly because they are unable to concentrate.

Forgetful and/or clumsy

Okay, all children lose

The symptoms normally become evident when the child is three or four years old, partly because this is the age when children are forced to interact with each other much more, either at nursery or school. Finally, boys are five times more likely to be affected than girls.

What can the parents do

The most important point to stress is that full-blown ADHD is a neurological problem and not the fault of the parents. Children with this syndrome can be impossible to manage both at school and home, and parents often feel this reflects badly on them.

ful and clumsy than other children.

Attention-seeking

All of the above symptoms are examples of attention-seeking. Hyperactive children are extremely demanding and their behaviour forces the parent or teacher to spend more time with them than anyone else.

If a child is suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, he or she will express more than one of the above symptoms for a prolonged period of time.

As we’ve seen, it can be hard to diagnose ADHD. Children suffering from an unhappy home or school life can express many of the same symptoms. If you are worried about your child, it is worth taking an honest look at your home environment and talking to your child’s teachers (if he or she is school-age) to see if your child is reacting to social factors.

If you think this is the case then you should still seek help. Your family doctor is a good place to start, as she or he will be able to recommend counselling help for your child or whole family, if necessary. (ivillage.co.uk)

New Grenadian envoy to Caricom applauds reform process

The work that has been done with the Caricom Reform Process is to be applauded, newly-appointed plenipotentiary representative of Grenada to Caricom, Dr Patrick Antoine said.

The ambassador was speaking during a ceremony at the Caricom Secretariat in Georgetown, Guyana where he handed over his credentials to Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque.

Dr Antoine said there were challenges that needed to be addressed in relation to the reform process, but the work so far was to be commended. According to him, more attention needed to be given to some issues and the contours of the assignment needed to be further defined. “This assignment provides Caricom with the opportunity to prove our worth and our mettle,” he said.

Ambassador Antoine

Woman wakes up to find flatscreen TV in her yard

ASheet Anchor woman on Monday woke up and discovered that a 72-inch flat screen television was lying in her yard and rather than thinking that it was an early Christmas gift, she called the police.

Now police in Berbice are looking for a man who they believe can assist in the investigation of a break and enter and larceny from a business place. This follows an incident which occurred on Monday morning at Whinke, New Amsterdam.

Reports are that some time between 01:00h and 05:30h on Monday, a man broke into Creole Restaurant and stole a flat screen television valued $156,000 and a quantity of alcoholic beverages valued at $60,000.

Owner of the restaurant Andrew Angel told Guyana Times that he went into his

business place on Monday morning and noticed that one of the freezers was opened.

Upon further checks, he realised that all of the alcoholic beverages and a flat screen television were missing.

“Is all the profit he gone with and the bottles are more expensive than the contents itself,” Angel said. According to Angel, the intruder gained entry by prising open a window of the house.

The businessman later received information that a television set was discovered in a yard in East Canje about a mile away. He was able to provide proof that the television found was his. The television was returned to him, but the beverages have not been found.

said there were a number of issues that needed to be examined during this important time of the regional integration process. He referred to the completion of the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME), including the contentious issue of free movement of labour, the movement of goods and developing a strategy and outlook for 2013 and be-

yond within the construct of Caricom as a community for all. He said the community should find a way to bring the diaspora and the private sector on board in developing this agenda.

“Caricom is not a project. Caricom has been part of our ingrained aspirations as a community,” the ambassador said. In relation to Information

Communication Technology (ICT), Ambassador Antoine said there was also much work to be done in this area.

However, he thanked the Caricom secretary general for an initiative taken by Caricom in ensuring that an offer made by U.S. Vice President Joe Biden to provide financing for a single Caricom ICT space was pursued. “I want to thank the

secretariat for continuing this work and for following up on an excellent opportunity.”

He said further that it was an excellent time to call for a meeting of the “mega players” in ICT in Caricom member states to harness the benefits and learning and vision of these players for the benefit of the community.

GTC retirees take picket to finance ministry

Guyana Telecommunications Corporation (GTC) pensioners on Tuesday moved their picketing exercise to the Finance Ministry, demanding that the government increase its pensions based on an original agreement.

Guyana Postal and Telecommunications Workers’ Union (GPTWU)

President Harold Shepherd said that despite their ongoing struggle, no one from the government has contacted the union to have a discussion.

This is in addition to numerous letters sent to President Donald Ramotar; Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh; and head of the presidential secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon. He said that each and every worker that serves the GTC deserves an increase in their pension, as the current pension of $18,000 per month is not adequate.

The amount is paid to all GTC pensioners across the board. Shepherd stated that owing to the non-re-

sponse from the various government agencies, they are forced to take to the streets in the form of a peaceful protest to let their voices be heard.

Shepherd explained that the minimum pensionable emolument should have been $50,000 per month, while the maximum should be somewhere around $100,000 for general managers. He added that based on an agreement, the former employees upon retirement from GTC were supposed to have received their pensions and gratuities from the present government through the Finance Ministry in keeping with the Pension Act and the Corporation Act.

After the telephone company was privatised, there was an agreement for workers to continue working, but this was not the case. Upon the privatisation of the company, workers were not given a choice to resign or retire, but were given the boot.

Since 1990, they have had numerous meetings

to discuss the issue, but have all have been in vain. He said that once workers’ services are continuous, it means that their pensionable emoluments would have been two-thirds of the salaries that they were earning at the time of retirement.

Shepherd also disclosed that after GTC was privatised, there was some $600 million that the company benefited from, and contended that, it should have been used to pay the workers.

The GTC pensioners were initially promised by the Privatisation Unit, now the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), that they would be paid their correct pensions, but the payouts are yet to be made after 23 years.

In March, NICIL had approved the payments of gratuity due from the GTC calculation as at December, 1990. Some payments were made while other pensioners are still to receive their payments.

Eyew tness

Christmas...

...marches for public servants

We’ve got to hand it to Patrick Yarde. Not because he’s got to be at least 70 years old and is head of an organisation where members have to retire at 55, but because he promised he’ll lead public servants on marches around Georgetown between December 21-31. Now we know the Pied Piper led a march back in the town of Hamelin, Germany back in the day.

That’s when the Piper led all the rats into a river where they all drowned. In the recent flood of Georgetown, we know an awful lot of rats were flushed out from the sewers. We wonder if they’ll come out for Yarde. They’d better because we don’t see public servants marching around on Christmas Day – when they could be home munching their black cake and quaffing their ginger beer.

Unless, of course, he’ll have them carolling and handing out Christmas goodies to the long suffering citizens of the city. But when we took a look at the route he asked for, we doubt he has carolling on his mind.

And he isn’t calling for marches only on Christmas Day. The fella wants to shutdown the city – and hit the business community where it hurts most – their cash registers. Yarde wants the public servants to march up the entire length of Regent Street, the city’s busiest shopping venue. Can you imagine the scene?

Even without any marchers, you can hardly get from point A to point B on Regent Street –what with the cars and the shoppers, marching public servants will mean utter bedlam. But this is exactly what Yarde wants. He wants to rile up citizens – who’ll be trampled underfoot – against the government. If some “rough boys” join the march and “take” some Christmas “gifts” from the Regent store shops, he’ll be even happier.

As we’ve said before, Yarde remembers his strike of 1999 with more than nostalgia. It’s his moment of glory...his 15 minutes of fame in which he still basks. He wants to

relive the paralysis of the city... the shotgun pellets against strikers...the shutdown of Georgetown Public Hospital..., among others. And then to top it off, the panel – selected by Dr Henry Jeffrey – handed down a whopping 33 per cent pay raise to public servants. Ahhh...those were the days. Yarde, however, forgets that “this time na lang time...”. The police has to deny him permission until after the holidays. In the meantime, he can round up some rats.

...tale

Around this time of the year, there’s a lot of vino and booze flowing around offices. But it appears that maybe something stronger floated around the MuckrakerKN’s publisher’s office. Imagine the Mook actually accused a top woman in the city of “picking fare” back in the day. We haven’t seen anything in print but it’s obvious somebody told them in no uncertain terms exactly what kind of low lying 40 scums he and his editor were. We hope it was a woman...if they don’t speak up for one of their own...well, it could be them the next time.

Anyhow, the Mook came up with one of the lamest excuses ever. Well, his name is “Mook”, isn’t it? Name and nature. The fella now says, it wasn’t what they wrote. Somebody hacked into their computer and wrote the scandalous lowdown charge! The fact that the woman they threw mud at had taken them to court for non-payment of taxes had nothing to do with the column!!

Maybe the Mook should’ve said, “The Devil made me do it”. It would’ve been more believable, in light of the close relationship.

...party

It’s the time of the year for Christmas parties, also. And your Eyewitness is pleased as punch (of which he imbibed more than his fair share) to have danced the night away at the Palm Court last night courtesy of the Guyana Times boss. Let the good times roll!!!

Almost 16,000 visit Guyanaso far for 2013

With a series of flights booked for the festive season, Guyana is close to achieving its target of 16,000 visitors here through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) this year.

Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Director Indranauth Haralsingh said the achievements rounds off a productive year for the tourism sector.

Arrival in November was 15 per cent higher than the previous year.

“That puts Guyana among only three other Caricom Countries and members of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, which is among 34 destinations,” the GTA director said.

Haralsingh also pointed out that the increase in the number of airlines coming to Guyana has enabled positive competition in the air transport market, to the benefit of Guyanese.

Guyana over the years has received rave reviews as a tourism destination and only recently, it was listed by National Geographic Traveller magazine as among the top 21 destina-

ing the Christmas holidays, were among the various treats

CJIA Chief Executive Officer Ramesh Ghir said all the staff at the airport are in a jolly mood and are spreading Christmas cheer. He said for the airport, the event is more than just activities; it is a time when they give back to the community, adding that it will be hosting a Santa parade on Friday.

New system

Ghir noted that the airport has implemented a new system where customer care representatives help visitors with whatever assistance they may need.

come to Guyana next year.

“We are currently in talk with at least another four airlines; actually, it’s more

like eight, but four we are seeing more progress with and I’m almost certain come next year, we will have another major airline announcing flights here to Guyana,” he added.

The airport has been moving to upgrade its facilities to international standards, and Ghir pointed out that the expansion project will be a helpful boost in this regard.

He remained positive that the National Assembly will see the need for the expansion of the facility and grant the necessary funding to complete the project.

tions in the world to visit in 2014.

On Monday, the GTA and the CJIA teamed up to welcome visitors to Guyana for the Christmas season.

The incoming passengers were given a taste of Christmas, Guyanese style, as the airport continued its tradition of celebrating the major holidays in Guyana. Black cake, which is synonymous with Guyanese celebrations, especially dur-

This, he noted is part of a plan to improve the service offered to an international standard. The chief executive officer said with the increase in visitors for the season, measures have been put in place to intensify security.

He disclosed that the CJIA is collaborating with an international company to help market Guyana as a tourist destination, and already, three airlines have begun operations here in the last quarter of the year.

Ghir pointed out that in order to provide better services and options to passengers flying in and out of Guyana, efforts are being made to get more airlines to

Ali apologises for congested CJIA

Acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali has expressed deepest apologies to visitors and Guyanese arriving at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

His regrets come in the wake of the continued massive congestion at the arrival and departure areas at the airport, and the inconvenience and delays it is causing.

“If we are serious about expanding our market and promoting initiatives, such as the Rediscover Home Campaign, and if we want

our product to take centre stage, then it is incumbent on all Guyanese to see the merits of the CJIA expansion,” Minister Ali explained in a press release.

He reminded too that when guests arrive at the airport, the impression created from their experience is often a lasting one. In this regard, he stressed that all Guyanese, with any sense of nationalistic pride, should recognise the need for the expansion of facilities at the CJIA and to take immediate steps to support the expansion.

While conveying his apologies, the tourism minister did express optimism that good sense would prevail that will allow for the much needed “transformational” project to get underway, and that all persons interested in the development of the country will support this essential project that will undoubtedly lead to Guyana’s transformation.

Peace on Earth...

Satiricus sighed. If only...That’s what a little voice inside his head was telling him. The little voice spoke often to Satiricus nowadays. It was the season to be jolly and Satiricus was not one to miss out on any jollity or jollification that might be going on.

He was jolly often and he was jolly long. And the little voice was telling him, “If only prezzie had taken GrainJa to South Africa.”

The problem was that the little voice would say no more. So Satiricus had to fill in the blanks. He lay back in his hammock, closed his eyes and saw the two leaders in the plane jetting across the Atlantic Ocean.

Too bad it wasn’t the plane Kamra had chartered for her contingent. That one had a real Trini atmosphere... rum flowing like water, chutney and kaiso blasting from the speakers, with the captain as the DJ and fellas running around screaming, “Doan hold me back!!! Doan hold me back!!!”

Nope. Here was Prezzie, with wide open, outstretched arms walking towards GrainJa. “How ya doin’ Grainj??”

“What business is that to you?” replied GrainJa brusquely. “You know I’m a military man, and my health is a military secret. If I tell you, I’ll have to kill you afterwards.” Prezzie had moved back defensively. “Hey, Grainj...I only asking, boy!! Making conversation, you know?”

“Listen, Mr President. I don’t make conversation, even with my wife,” GrainJa snapped. “She refuses to call me Brigadier.”

“Boy, you real serious,” noted Prezzie. “Don’t you ever smile?”

“Smile? Well, if you tell me some good news, I might,” promised GrainJa. “Like if you tell me GreenBridge stop running for PNC leader.”

“Well, I doan think GreenBridge giving that up for nobody,” said Prezzie. “But listen, man, we gon be flying for eight hours to London and then 10 hours to South Africa. How about if we sit down?”

“OK,” said GrainJa as a concession, as Prezzie looked at him.

Finally, Prezzie couldn’t hold it in any longer, “Man, is how you back so stiff even when you sitting down,” he marvelled.

“Well, don’t tell anyone. They think is because I was in the army,” confessed GrainJa. “But I’ll tell you the truth. One time I was parachuting in the jungle, I landed on a tree. I still have a stick up my a55.”

Prezzie’s eyes had opened wide,”Sheesh! That must be painful,” he said solicitously.

“Not as painful as that pain in the ass, GreenBridge,” noted GrainJa with a sigh.

wednesday, december 18, 2013 |

ECLAC projects 4.6 per cent growth for Guyana next year

The Guyana economy is projected to grow by 4.6 per cent next year, a new report by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) has said.

The report also said that economies of Latin America and the Caribbean will expand by 3.2 per cent in 2014, which is higher than the 2.6 per cent from the end of 2013.

In its annual report Preliminary Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean 2013, ECLAC points out that less buoyant external demand, greater international financial volatility and falling consumption were the factors determining the more modest economic performance of countries in 2013, which brought down the three per cent estimate put forward by the commission in July.

The next year is expected to see a moderately more favourable external environment help boost external demand, and in turn the

region’s exports. Private consumption will also continue to grow, although more slowly than in previous periods. In the meantime, increasing investment in the region remains a challenge.

As she presented the report, ECLAC Executive Secretary Alicia Bárcena stated “The world economic situation in 2014 provides opportunities and threats for Latin America and the Caribbean.”

Opportunities

According to Bárcena, “opportunities include increased international trade and the possibility of harnessing currency depreciations to ensure sustained changes in relative prices. This, along with industrial policies to support growth, boost regional integration and help small and medium-sized enterprises, could help to increase investment in diversifying production in tradable goods and to reduce the region’s structural heter-

Four charged for cocaine, marijuana possession

Four persons have been charged for possession of cocaine and cannabis when they appeared before Magistrate Rondell Weaver at the Mibicuri Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

The four persons nabbed on Monday were Vishal Rameshwar called “Camodee”, 28; Jaikarran Ramkarran, called “Dinesh”, 44, of Number 71 Village, Corentyne, Berbice; Denish Rampersaud, 26, of Lot 335 Number 77 Housing Scheme; and Conrad Byass, 45, of Lot 105 Number 77 Housing Scheme.

Rameshwar and Ramkarran who were found with cocaine were each jailed for three years, while Rampersaud and Byass were each sentenced to three months' community service and fined $5000.

Based on reports received, about 11:10h on Monday, Cadet Officer Jermaine Dufu and a party of policemen were on mobile patrol in the vicinity of Number 77 Housing Scheme Entrance, when Rameshwar was seen standing under a shed, acting in a suspicious manner.

The police ranks reportedly stopped and asked to search Remeshwar and found a piece of whitish rocklike substance wrapped in a transparent plastic suspected to be cocaine, in his right front pants pocket.

Rameshwar was cautioned, arrested and taken to Springlands Police Station where the substance was weighed and tested amounting to one gram of cocaine.

On the same day about 11:40h, Dufu and his party

ogeneity.”

The threats facing the region include ongoing volatility in the global economy and higher external financing costs, as well as a smaller contribution by consumption to GDP growth and a worsening regional current account.

According to the Preliminary Overview by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), region-

al growth in 2014 will be led by Panama (with seven per cent), followed by Bolivia (5.5 per cent), Peru (5.5 per cent), Nicaragua (five per cent), Dominican Republic (five per cent), and Colombia, Haiti, Ecuador and Paraguay (all four with 4.5 per cent). Growth is predicted to be 2.6 per cent in Argentina and Brazil, four per cent in Chile and Costa Rica, 3.5 per cent in Guatemala, Mexico and Uruguay, and one per cent in Venezuela.

Recovery

Next year, the Caribbean will experience a recovery and post a figure of 2.1 per cent (following just 1.3 per cent growth in 2013). The report stated that the main challenge facing Latin American and Caribbean governments is to drive through social covenants for investment to boost productivity and growth with equality.

These social covenants

must have an institutional framework that provides certainty and clear rules, shortterm policies to provide nominal and real stability and long-term policies that encourage more diverse investment in tradable goods sectors.

According to ECLAC, in 2013 consumption made a smaller contribution to regional growth owing to a slowdown in the wage bill and credit. The slightly higher contribution by investment and the smaller negative impact of net exports failed to offset reduced consumer buoyancy.

This year, regional growth was led by Paraguay (13 per cent), followed by Panama (7.5 per cent), Bolivia (6.4 per cent), Peru (5.2 per cent), Nicaragua (4.6 per cent), Uruguay (4.5 per cent), Argentina (4.5 per cent) and Chile (4.2 per cent).

In terms of the labour market, the unemployment rate remained more or less stable,

going from 6.4 per cent in 2012 to 6.3 per cent in 2013.

Dip

This dip was caused by a lower overall labour participation rate. Inflation remained below five per cent in most of the region’s countries.

A widespread worsening of the terms of trade – on the back of continued commodity price reductions – contributed to the balance-of-payments current account deficit widening from 1.8 per cent of GDP in 2012 to 2.5 per cent in 2013 (mainly as the result of a higher increase in merchandise imports relative to exports).

Given this context of lower inflation, slower economic growth and financial instability, many countries implemented moderately countercyclical policies aimed at shoring up internal demand and tackling international financial volatility.

of policemen were patrolling at Dukestown, Corriverton, when Ramkarran was seen standing on the public road looking suspicious.

A search was conducted on his person during which three pieces of whitish, rocklike substance suspected to be cocaine wrapped in a transparent plastic, in a piece of grease proof paper, was found in his right pants pocket.

He was cautioned, arrested and taken to Springlands Police Station where the suspected cocaine was weighed, and tested amounting to 20 grams.

On the same day between 10:00h and 10:20h, Dufu and his team conducted a raid on the home of Denish Rampersaud for arms, ammunition, narcotics and stolen articles.

During the raid, a transparent plastic containing leaves, seeds and stems, suspected to be cannabis was found in Rampersaud's right pants pocket. He was arrested and taken to Springlands Police Station where the suspected cannabis was weighed and test, amounting to 0.5 gram.

On the same day, between 10:40h and 10:55h, the cadet officer and his men also carried out a raid on the home of Conrad Byass, for arms, ammunition and narcotics.

During the operation, a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems, substance which proved to be to be cannabis, was found in his right hand. The suspected cannabis was weighed and amounted to one gram.

Nothing opaque about survey deal – Muri Brasil

.. says it is a locally-registered company

Muri Brasil Ventures Inc said there was nothing opaque about its deal with the Natural Resources Ministry to gain Permission for Geographical and Geophysical Survey (PGGS). It also clarified that it is a local company and not Brazilian and that it was encouraged to apply for the PGGS following an advertisement by the administration. Approximately one week ago, the PGGS document signed between the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and Muri Brasil Ventures Inc was leaked to the press, sparking controversy, as Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud was accused of withholding information – an allegation he has denied. The minister was among signatories, for the PGGS, which was issued on November 7, 2012 for several types of minerals in the New River area in south-east Berbice. The opposition and the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) claim that the minister misled them on questions concerning the PGGS.

In a two-page press statement, Muri Brasil Ventures Inc, firstly, dispelled what it said is a misconception that it is a Brazilian-registered entity, clarifying it was registered in Guyana under the Companies Act, with Guyanese shareholders and directors. The company was reportedly encouraged to apply for the PGGS following the publication of an invitation for the exploration of rare earth elements in the Muri Mountain area in March 20, 2012.

“Exploration activities have not commenced, because permission is being

awaited for the construction of a small airstrip to facilitate the airborne aspect of the survey. Other research activities have taken place,” the company pointed out.

Prospecting licences

The clause within the PGGS that paves the way for the granting of, at least, 18 prospecting licences is the main bone of contention, since the Natural Resources Ministry had indicated that no mining activity was being done in the New River Triangle.

“These kinds of exploration activities cost millions of U.S. dollars, which can only be sourced as exploration investments from outside of Guyana. No such investments would be available if the investor is given no assurance that he will be granted prospecting licences. The investor takes a risk. If he or she is not assured of a potential return, investment capital will dry up and so will Guyana’s mining industry,” Muri Brasil Ventures Inc explained.

According to the company, constant exploration activities are essential to accelerate the mining industry.

However, before a prospecting licence is issued, a work programme and financial and technical capabilities of a company must be supplied.

“A prospecting licence does not necessarily lead to a mining licence, because minerals in commercial quantities may not be available.”

“It has been asserted that there is an impropriety inherent in the fact that the PGGS is issued for seven different minerals, rather than a single one. The Mining Act permits the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission to issue permits or licences over the same area to different

persons for different minerals,” the company declared as it addressed another sticking point.

Unfounded

A PGGS is qualitatively different from a mining permit, Muri Brasil Ventures Inc stressed, as it alluded to the Mining Act, saying the attack on the Natural Resources Ministry is unfounded.

“The first was the accusation that he lied. This did

not stick, so he was then accused of withholding the facts. That also proved to be unfounded so that the Stabroek News’s editorial of December 16 accuses him of secrecy, a crime which he allegedly shares with the government. These accusations are unfair and do not stand up to scrutiny. We hope that this controversy is not allowed to adversely affect the PGGS granted to the company. Overseas investment funds in Guyana’s mining

industry and in exploration will dry up. Imagine what investors will think when they read about this controversy.”

South-east Berbice has long been an area of interest to miners. In the 1970s, the late Chris Barron of the UK did enormous work in mapping the terrain of that area, some of the toughest in the country, including the Muri Mountain area. In 1976, he led a United Nations’ supported survey team to the area which identified phos-

phate and rare-earth bearing carbonatite. Sylvine and other minerals were also identified. “These and other minerals exist for the benefit of Guyana and the Guyanese people. Their exploitation under environmentally sound practices, if found in commercial quantities, which will not happen for at least 10 years after exploration and perhaps much longer, will bring unimaginable benefits to the Guyanese people.”

wednesday, december 18, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com

Caribbean Adventure Series used for CXC primary exam

The Caribbean Adventure Series by Carol Mitchell is among the list of new books that the Education Ministry in Montserrat will be using to prepare students for the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA).

2014 will be the first year that Montserrat will be replacing its local standardised test with the CPEA, which is administered by the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC). The CPEA is a method of assessing students’ readiness to enter

Man remanded for auto sales robbery

Less than a month after three men were remanded to prison in connection with a robbery at an auto sales dealership on the East Coast of Demerara, a 32-year-old man was Tuesday brought before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where he was slapped with a larceny charge.

Devon Seers of Benn Street, Worthmanville, Georgetown was not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that on November 15 at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, while in the company of others, he stole two motor cars valued $6.3 million from Sanjay Baboolall, property of Robina Khan. According to the facts, on the day of the incident, the two men robbed Baboolall of the two cars at Celina’s Auto Sales and sometime during the commissioning of the offence, they made use of personal violence. The Toyota Allion was retrieved on the Lusignan Railway

Embankment. Acting on information received, the suspect was identified to police officers during an identification parade and admitted under caution that he took the car from Hadfield Street to a mechanic.

Seers was represented by Attorney Latchmi Rahamat who told the court that her client has one sexual offence matter pending but has never been convicted. She further stated that her client was forced to sign a document after he was taken to CID headquarters and was shown to the defendant. The attorney alleged that on the day in question, her client was working a minibus and has a witness to testify. In her application for bail, she said that Seers is willing to lodge his passport and report to the police station.

Prosecutor Bharat Mangru objected to bail citing the seriousness and prevalence of the offence. Bail was refused and the defendant was remanded to prison. The matter was transferred to the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court to December 20.

high school in the areas of civic, mathematical, science and language literacies.

As a part of this process, the ministry selected books by Caribbean authors including the adventure series written by Mitchell. There are four books in the series to date, each based in a different island; St Kitts, Jamaica, Trinidad and Montserrat. The books are designed to draw young readers in with secret tunnels, pirate ships, kidnappers, and erupting volcanoes galore, but they also touch on serious topics such as conservation and the impact of natural disasters.

“The students preparing for CPEA are expected to do book reports. Since this is the first time Montserrat is participating, the number of books teachers would have to read in order to effectively guide students was limited and since the libraries

do not have 10 copies of any one book, the ministry had to assist here,” explained

were happy to see the size and content of the books with the added bonus that they are about children in the Caribbean.”

The author expressed pride in the fact that the books would become a part of classroom work. “My intent has always been to provide books that portray the social and cultural practices with which Caribbean children are familiar. I am excited to have the children discuss the books and analyse the actions of Mark, Kyle, Ingrid and their friends as a part of their studies. I really hope that the Caribbean Adventure Series will make the assessment process both fruitful and enjoyable for the children.”

More information about the Caribbean Adventure Series can be found at www. CaribbeanReads.com. (novelspaces.blogspot.com)

wednesday, december 18, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com

Toddler dead, several other persons injured in Linden accident

Atwo-month-old baby is now dead, while several others are injured following a motor vehicular accident at Adventure, along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, which occurred about 10:30h on Tuesday.

Ryan Anthony Fresco of Madhia was pronounced dead on arrival at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC), while his mother, Yhonessa Munroe, 22, is seriously injured and is a patient at the medical institution.

According to reports, the minibus in which the two

were traveling at the time suffered a blow out, causing it to topple several times before coming to a halt.

Munroe, along with several other passengers, were rushed to the LHC. Among the injured were Jermaine Jones, three, of 528 Kiskadee Drive, West Ruimveldt, who was travelling with his parents Jermaine George and Faye Jones of the same address; the driver of the bus, Oliver Collins, 58, of Friendship, East Bank Demerara; Roger Smith, 46; Shonney James, 17; Delon Jones, 19,

of 85 Nismes, West Bank Demerara and Jonathan David of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara.

Collins reportedly suffered multiple injuries while James suffered broken arms.

David said the driver tried his best to control the vehicle after the blowout but failed.

James related that she did not know what transpired as she was asleep at the time. Most of the passengers were reportedly en route to Mahdia at the time of the accident.

CGX investing $10M in social responsibility programme in 2014

CGX Energy Inc will be investing $10 million in its social responsibility programme, with focus on education next year.

The company in a release said in this regard, it is pleased to be partnering with a number of schools on various projects. The schools that will be receiving grants are Queen’s College, ISA Islamic School, Saraswati Vidya Niketan, and Providence Primary School. The donations will be made on Wednesday at the Cara Lodge Hotel, Quamina Street, Georgetown.

The CGX said the Student Programme for Innovation in Science and Engineering will receive $1.2 million that will make it possible for a Guyanese student to attend their summer programme and a young cricketer from the Covent Garden Secondary School will receive $100,000 to assist in purchasing cricketing gear.

CGX Energy Inc is a Canadian-based oil and gas exploration company focussed solely on the Guyana-Suriname basin. The company is significant-

ly vested in the social fabric of Guyana, with a Guyanese co-founder, two board directors who are Guyanese, a Guyanese co-chairman and Guyanese country manager.

The company has a long history of engaging in the development of Guyana through its social responsibility expenditures, which it regards as investments in the social fabric and competitiveness of Guyana. In 2013, the company invested $5 million in its social responsibility programme.

Truck driver in Airy Hall accident granted bail

handra Shekar

CSeecharran, a truck driver from Reliance on the Essequibo Coast was granted bail on Monday after he appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Charity Magistrate’s Court. He was charged for causing death by dangerous driving. Seecharran was represented by Attorney Hemraj Rajkumar, who asked the magistrate for his client to be granted bail.

There were no objection to bail by Prosecutor Krishnadat Ramana, and as such, Seecharran was granted bail in the sum of $300,000.

According to the report, on December 12, Seecharran

drove his truck in a dangerous manner to the public, hitting Narine (only name given) also known as “Kumar”, of Airy Hall, on the Airy Hall Public Road, causing him to die.

Seecharran was report-

edly proceeding south when he was overtaking a car and ended up hitting the pedestrian, who was on the western side of the road.

The driver will return to court on January 30, 2014, where the preliminary inquiry will be conducted into the matter.

Ramotar attending Petrocaribe summit

President Donald Ramotar

Heads of state of the countries that are members of the mechanisms of ALBA (the Bolivarian Alliance of the Peoples of our America) and Petrocaribe are meeting in Caracas for a second combined Summit of ALBAPetrocaribe.

The summit is being chaired by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros, the Foreign Ministry said in a release.

“The aim of the summit is to strengthen the institutional mechanisms govern-

ing the integration process of Latin America and the Caribbean. In this regard, the heads will deliberate on the proposal for the establishment of a complementary economic zone among the countries of ALBA, Petrocaribe, Caricom and MERCOSUR,” the release said.

President Donald Ramotar is attending the summit accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett and Venezuelan Ambassador Geoffrey DaSilva.

SUDOKU

Put in the extra time at work to make financial gains. Discuss your career plans with your partner or co-workers so that everyone knows what’s going on.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Expressing your thoughts and ideas will impress your friends. Be sure to eliminate any bad habits that have managed to creep into your life. Avoid getting involved in hurtful gossip.

Be cautious while travelling. Stay in control of your emotions and don’t allow them to interfere with your work. Take time to relax and enjoy yourself.

Your generosity will result in financial loss or family difficulties. Someone near to your heart may try to control you. It’s time to weigh the pros and cons of this connection.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

Take care of any nagging health concerns in order to avoid being inconveniently out of commission in the future. Pay close attention to family matters and avoid falling behind with correspondence.

(March 21-April 19)

A good friendship could develop into a serious romantic partnership. Although this is a time to welcome change, stability is a possibility if you are careful about making plans.

(April 20-May 20)

Focus on making money as well as taking care of your responsibilities at home. Make an added effort to give your partner some extra TLC.

(May 21June 20)

Personal changes will have a favourable effect on your appearance. Now is the time to entertain as well as to be entertained. This is the start of something good.

The opportunity is likely for romance through a work associate. Be sure to evaluate the situation carefully before you proceed. A poor decision may impact your reputation adversely.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Overindulgence will result in frustrating issues with your weight. Make plans that involve physical activity. Someone you love will feel neglected if you’ve been preoccupied or inattentive lately.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Focus on peripheral tasks. This is not the time for you to take center stage. This is a good date to change your living arrangements or to investigate some real estate deals.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Expand your horizons and mingle with people who can provide you with new information and general mental stimulation. It’s time for you to shake things up and to challenge your own status quo.

YELLOW PAGES

wednesday, december 18, 2013

dentistry

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

flowers

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

ALBERTOWN, 3 LOTS WITH BUSINESS, (NUT CENTRE) best offer. TEL 621-4000, 2273939

Lot 48 Light Street, Alberttown. Contact Ram on 619-4483, 6017883 or 227-1454, 226-6325.

Dutch healing and upliftment, for clearing of land, dredging and ground work (strictly interior operation). Phone: 662-1247. R.Sookraj & Gift Shop for

Chicken Hatchery (Robbins), 28,000 eggs capacity fully ready, $ 5.5 million or CREDIT available TEL: 2273939 621-4000

Diesel Generator, 3 cylinder Lister pitter (England) key start, 15,000 watts $595,000 cash Tel: 227-3939, 621-4000

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Man on bail for forging $5000 notes

Aman was on Tuesday placed on bail after he appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry to answer to the charge of forgery.

It was alleged that on December 16 at Georgetown, Guy Matheson was in possession of four $5000 Guyana currency notes without any lawful reason or cause, knowing the same to be forged. Matheson pleaded guilty with explanation to the charge as it was read to him.

An unrepresented Matheson told the court that he was walking along the road when he found an envelope containing

the notes along with $200 and had spent the smaller amount but went to enquire from a shop owner about the $5000 notes stating that he had never seen them before.

He went on to say that when the police came to arrest him for another matter, this one was brought to their attention, but he has not yet been charged for the previous matter. He added that he did not know he was supposed to take the notes to the police station until he was told about it.

Based on his explanation, Chief Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry entered a not guilty plea.

Prosecutor Bharat Mangru objected to bail, citing the seriousness

and prevalence of the offence along with the fact that more charges are likely to be laid against the defendant.

Bail was granted in the sum of $75,000 and the matter stands adjourned to February 7, 2014.

After hearing that his bail was in a substantial amount, the defendant seized the opportunity to escape since the officers were distracted by another prisoner who was behaving disorderly. He walked briskly out of the courthouse and was heading in the direction of Carmichael Street when Constable 21528 Yarris noticed the defendant missing and subsequently arrested him.

Pacers head to Miami after 101-96 loss to Pistons

NDIANAPOLIS – Detroit

Ithrew a surprise road block in Indiana’s path to the Eastern Conference’s top seed.

Now the Pacers face another daunting task – winning at Miami to avoid their first losing streak of the season.

Josh Smith scored 30 points, Brandon Jennings added 18 and Greg Monroe finished with 13 points and 12 rebounds to help the Pistons stun Indiana 101-96 Monday night and hand the Pacers their first home defeat this season.

‘’We’re going to have a target on our back all year,’’ Pacers guard George Hill said. ‘’We’ve had some success so far, so we’re taking everyone’s best shot and today we didn’t come to play.’’

It was evident right from the start that this was not the same Indiana team that set a franchise record by starting 9-0 overall and another by opening the season 11-0 at home.

Some wondered before the game whether the Pacers (20-4) might get caught looking past the Pistons (12-14), who have won two of their last six, and ahead to to-

night’s marquee rematch with Miami. Indiana defeated the two-time defending champs 99-94 in Indy last week and heads to South Beach for the first time since losing Game 7 of the conference finals in June.

Coach Frank Vogel downplayed the notion Indiana was distracted, saying before and after the game that his team was not ‘’looking ahead at all.’’

On the court, though, the Pacers did not play their game.

The Pistons were tougher inside, tougher on defense and tougher at fending off challenges. And the Eastern Conference’s top team looked like anything but as Detroit played almost flawlessly and beat Indiana at its own game by dominating the middle.

‘’It’s impressive the way we came in and competed with the way the Pacers have been playing,’’ Pistons coach Maurice Cheeks said. ‘’We have a good basketball team.’’

The Pistons held a 5540 rebounding advantage and a lopsided 20-9 edge on offensive rebounds, something Paul George contended threw the Pacers off. (AP)

Australia beat England to regain urn in Perth

Australia have regained the Ashes after sealing a deserved 150-run win over England in Perth to take an impregnable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

Despite a redoubtable maiden Test century from Ben Stokes in only his second match, Michael Clarke’s men took the final five wickets they needed by early afternoon on the final day to end England’s 1,577day ascendancy in cricket’s oldest rivalry.

The celebrations began at 13:44 Perth time (05:44 GMT) when Mitchell Johnson - the outstanding player of the series - had James Anderson caught at short leg, and they are likely to be long and raucous after a sustained and painful drought for Australian cricket.

While this scoreline at this stage was predicted by few, Australia’s first Ashes series triumph since 200607 has been entirely merited after they have dominated all but one day of the series.

Their margins of victory - 381 runs in Brisbane, 218 in Adelaide and now this thumping at the Waca - are a fair reflection of the performances of the two sides, and England will go to Melbourne and Sydney for

the remaining Tests in real danger of a 5-0 whitewash.

Stokes was the sole silver lining to emerge from the English gloom of this third Test as he hit a technically excellent and impressively gutsy 120 in a total of 353.

While he and Matt Prior were together in a partnership of 76 on Tuesday morning, there was the briefest period of cruel hope

for the English supporters who were in the majority in a sparse crowd.

But when Prior wafted outside off stump to be caught behind off Johnson for 26, that illogical illusion was quashed, and when Stokes followed after lunch, caught behind off a ball from Nathan Lyon that stayed low, the inevitable soon followed. Tim Bresnan was

brilliantly caught by Chris Rogers for 12 from Johnson’s slower ball, and Graeme Swann popped a bat-pad catch off Lyon to Steve Smith at short leg for four.

Anderson’s demise sealed a seventh consecutive win for Australia over England at this ground, and while the continuation of the Waca hoodoo came as little surprise, the turn -

around in the balance between these two teams is truly remarkable.

It is less than four months since England won the corresponding Ashes series at home by a 3-0 margin, while Australia came into this series on a run of seven defeats and not a single victory in their last nine Tests.

Great credit must go to Australia coach Darren Lehmann, who took over a team in disarray last summer and has forged a side that is both settled and successful.

For England it is a dismal and chastening end to an era which has seen them win three consecutive Ashes series and go to number one in the International Cricket Council’s Test rankings.

With several pivotal players in that team horribly out of form, there are likely to be several changes to the side before the fourth Test begins at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Boxing Day.

Serious questions will also be asked of how a side with so many experienced players and such an impressive track record could fold so completely so quickly.

But for now it is Australia’s time to enjoy the return of the urn and

all the praise it will bring them in this country.

At the head of the charge has been left-arm paceman Johnson, whose 4-78 in England’s second innings mean he now has 23 wickets at an average of 15.

Yet Australia have been demonstrably superior in all departments, with the best five batsman by average, the top four bowlers, the better wicketkeeper and better fielding, and they revelled in Anderson and England’s demise with fitting fervour.

Sunburst Under-17 basketball

tourney enters semi-finals today

The semi-final round of the Sunburst Under-17 basketball tournament is set for today at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court.

Mackenzie High School is the number ranked school in the tournament, winning all five of their games in the preliminary round that concluded on Saturday.

Linden Foundation Secondary has qualified as the second seed while Christianburg Wismar qualified as the third best team. The fourth ranked team is New Silvercity Secondary; action is set to start from 14:00h.

Mackenzie High will face off against the fourth seeded New Silvercity and they will look to Daniel Anthony and Allister Lewis

for their offense throughout the game while Silvercity will be banking on the likes of Wayne Wilson and Darrel Fleming for their offensive output.

Meanwhile, the second seed Linden Foundation will go up against the third ranked school in Christianburg Wismar in the other semi-final encounter as a battle in the post is expected between the two teams.

Christianburg had earlier in the year won the Under-19 version of the tournament and will hope this time around Daniel Lee and Dillon Patterson get hot early to carry the offensive load while Linden Foundation will look to Isaiah Semple and Isaiah Haynes to fetch the offensive burden in the game.

20th century legend honoured in London

London, England – Late West Indies icon and race relations champion Sir Learie Constantine has been honoured with an English Heritage blue plaque at his old home in west London.

The cricketer and statesman, who lived between 1901 and 1971, had his life and legacy commemorated with the famous blue sign outside his former residence at 101 Lexham Gardens in Earls Court, which he called home for five years from 1949.

The Windies titan, who hailed from Trinidad and Tobago and authored the book Colour Bar, left sport for the world of politics and made history when he became the first person of African descent to sit in the House of Lords.

Blue Plaques historian Howard Spencer said: “As a cricketer Constantine was celebrated for his adventurous approach to the game which he played, according to Michael Parkinson, ‘like a man walking a tightrope without a safety net’.

As a politician, Constantine is remembered in Trinidad and Tobago for his significant role in securing its independence, and in Britain as a leading advocate for the interests of all black people; he was always ready to take a stand when it mattered.”

The historian added: “The first person of African descent to sit in the House of Lords, Constantine died a respected and well-loved figure in both Great Britain and the West Indies; in the words of a

eulogy, he had ‘walked with kings without ever losing the common touch.’

Constantine became a professional cricketer when offered a contract in 1929 by Nelson in the Lancashire League, and his ability to bowl fast and hit big soon propelled him to international acclaim. He played for Nelson for 10 seasons and his service to the club led him to being given the freedom of the town in 1963 after he and his family settled there for 20 years.

While playing for Nelson, the great captained West Indies to its first Test series win against England in 1934.

Constantine retired from cricket in 1939, finishing his career with Rochdale.

Developing a profession in sports broadcasting and writing, the former Windies man eschewed penning a conventional sporting autobiography and in 1947 instead wrote Cricket in the Sun, a memoir illuminating the problems of racism in the game. (First published on the Voice Online)

Buddy’s Pool Hall celebrates 14 years

Buddy’s Pool Hall will be celebrating its 14th anniversary today and its management has asked that patrons come out and share in the occasion at the Sheriff Street establishment.

Celebrations start from 15:00h and patrons will be able to win lots of prizes throughout the event. Patrons can enjoy free games and cutters all night plus complimentary cocktails from 17:00h-23:00h.

Let’s win for Shane and fans – Richie Richardson

HAMILTON, New Zealand –West Indies manager Richie Richardson said he wants his side to win the third Test against New Zealand for Shane Shillingford and the millions of supporters around the world.

The Test starts on Thursday at Seddon Park, but Shillingford has been ruled out.

The International Cricket Council, the sport’s World governing body, announced on Monday that Shillingford had been suspended from bowling in international matches, after an inde-

pendent biomechanical analysis conducted in Australia found his bowling action illegal.

“It has been a disappointment for us, but we realise it’s very important for us to focus on the Test match starting in a couple of days time,” said the Windies batting legend on Tuesday following a training session at the match venue.

“We need to win this Test match. We may have not Shane available to us, but we need to win it for him. Also we have millions of supporters who continue to stand up for us – some of

them over here in New Zealand and we want to bring them some good cheer.

“What’s happened, it’s sad, but you are playing the game at the highest level and the players cannot afford to head into the Test with too many things in the back of their minds. They have to focus on what is ahead of them – which is to win this Test.”

Shillingford has been West Indies’ most successful bowler this year with 36 wickets at 24.72 runs apiece, currently placing him in the top-10 bowlers for the year in Tests. (WICB)

Soepe wins Mr Suriname title…again

The name Koese Soepe may be difficult for many Guyanese to pronounce, but few who watched his performance at the 2012 Flex Night International cannot forget the manner in which he won the hearts of the Guyanese audience at the National Cultural Centre, and conquered the field of bodybuilders who possessed physiques much larger than his own.

Last Saturday in Paramaribo, Soepe put on an encore performance when he won the Mr. Suriname title for the second successive year, defeating the likes of Melvyn Setropawiro and eight other contenders.

Soepe’s victory in Paramaribo (as well as his success at the 2012 Flex Night International) has

been likened to the “little axe that cuts down the big tree.” Soepe is very short by bodybuilding standards, measuring just under five feet in height.

He has, however, been able to pack an enormous amount of muscles on his diminutive frame, presenting an extremely balanced and symmetrical body that clearly stands out on stage regardless of who has the misfortune of standing next to him.

The good (or bad) news for Guyanese bodybuilders is that Soepe has his eyes set on retaking the title of Mr Flex Night International which he won in 2012. Can this Suriname legend be stopped?

That question will be answered in the new year.