Guyana Times Daily

1818 kilos of ganja intercepted on way to Guyana

The Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Monday confirmed that a Jamaican registered fishing vessel with some 1818 kilos (4000 pounds) of marijuana was intercepted a few miles off the Venezuelan coast on Thursday on its way to Guyana.

The vessel, Miss Tiffany, was busted after it was spotted by United States and British Navy patrols. The fishing vessel was initially spotted by one of Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) ship Wave Knight’s boats resulting in a probe being launched. Information reaching this publication revealed that soon after the boat approached the vessel, crew members were seen jettisoning a number of packages overboard.

After the law enforcement officers recognised what was happening, a second boat from Wave Knight was launched to help recover the weighted bales before they sank. A total of 55 bales were eventually recovered from the sea.

Joint probe

Although the crew of Wave Knight was unable to recover all the jettisoned bales before they sank, the number that was recovered contained marijuana with an estimated street value of more than US$15 million. The crew members of Miss Tiffany were arrested and handed over to Jamaican authorities.

A CANU official said the unit

is working with its Jamaican counterparts to gather information about the bust. While this has not been confirmed, he believes that two Guyanese were also arrested.

The official stated that Miss Tiffany, was under surveillance by local law enforcement officers after suspicions were roused.

The vessel started to operate the Guyana-Jamaica run last year. This publication understands that CANU was aware when the vessel had departed Guyana and was awaiting its return. It is a norm for some vessels to arrive in Guyana during the night which would give their crews ample time to offload any illegal goods that may be onboard.

This is the second large marijuana bust linked to Guyana. On July 5, the Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) within the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) unearthed 640.642kg of compressed marijuana in an in-transit container at the John Fernandes Wharf, Water Street, Georgetown.

The marijuana, which was packed in several bags, is suspected to have come from Jamaica and was found in a container containing three motorcars and a Canter.

The container was shipped to Jamaica from Japan and later to Guyana. As the container was opened, a few bags fell out, resulting in a search being conducted which uncovered the substance. CANU was called in to assist in the investigations.

GuySuCo worker killed in hit-and-run accident at Cornelia Ida

AGuyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) employee attached to the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate was in the wee hours of Sunday killed in a hit-and-run accident on the Cornelia Ida Public Road, West Coast Demerara.

Totaram Rameshwar, 59, of Lot 915 Cornelia Ida, reportedly suffered head and other injuries, including a broken leg. He was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Guyana Times was told that about 04:50h on Sunday, Rameshwar was reportedly standing on his parapet waiting on a friend, to head to work together at the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate. It was customary for Rameshwar to wait on his friend each morning.

A Toyota Allion motorcar bearing registration number PNN 3547 was travelling at a fast pace and reportedly got too close the parapet, hitting Totaram in the process.

After the accident, the driver sped away, leaving one of his rearview mirrors behind. Guyana Times understands that the driver, who hails from Industry, East Coast Demerara, subsequently turned himself in at the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Station later that day.

At the Ezekiel Funeral Home, the now dead man’s youngest son, Devindra, told this publication that he was awakened by neighbours who informed him about the accident. He said he rushed out of the house and

saw his father lying in the corner. His father’s foot was broken and his head was swollen, the man explained. The younger Rameshwar said he hurriedly put his father into his vehicle and quickly drove to the West Demerara Regional Hospital.

The distraught son disclosed that after searching the area when it got brighter, he found one of the mirrors of the car with the registration number engraved on it and handed it over to the police to assist in their probe. He said on Sunday afternoon, he received a telephone call from one of the investigators who informed him that the driver had surrendered himself. He is hoping that the driver faces the full brunt of the law.

Rameshwar had been working with GuySuCo for the past 20 years and was due to retire next year. He is survived by his wife and seven children.

WEATHER TODAY

Govt commits to facilitating efficient trade

International trade is an imperative for economic development, especially in a small, developing country like Guyana, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh told the opening of a five-day workshop on trade facilitation at Cara Lodge, Quamina Street, Georgetown on Monday.

The forum, which is being facilitated by the World Trade Organisation (WTO), was organised by the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The aim of the workshop is to determine Guyana’s needs and priorities in the WTO’s trade facilitation negotiations, as well as the country’s progress on implementation of best practice measures at the level of the customs and trade administration.

Recognising the importance of international trade, Minister Singh said there is need for a trading system that is as efficient as possible from the domestic standpoint. Over the years, there have been several initiatives implemented aimed at ensuring a more efficient institutional architecture. These include the establishment of the GRA, which is an integrated tax authority; the computer-

isation of its operations; and other interventions aimed at processing import and export transactions more efficiently.

Greatest efficiency

“I have no doubt that work remains to be done for us to achieve a trade facilitation mechanism that lends itself to the greatest possible efficiency… the task of achieving more efficient trade facilitation does not rest only with government,” the finance minister reminded.

He explained that while the processing of trade transactions lies typically with the public sector (especially the GRA), a significant part of this involves responsibilities to be discharged and tasks to be performed by players in the private sector, who have an obligation to comply with the laws of the jurisdiction, and in whose interest it is to ensure that such compliance is achieved.

Minister Singh said every trade transaction that violates the law has two parties to it: a customs officer that facilitates an unlawful transaction and a private sector individual who induces the non-compliance. He also spoke of an obligation by the private sector to embrace technological changes (elec-

tronic, online filing, etc).

“The achievement of efficient trade facilitation must not only be because the WTO requires it, it must be because it is in our national interest to do… we need an efficient trade facilitation system, it is in the interest of the consumers of Guyana and the economic health of our country,” Minister Singh maintained.

Revenue collection

Private Sector Commission Trade Investment Sub Committee

Chairman Ramesh Dookhoo, in his remarks, said that the facilitation of trade must be done without compromising revenue collection and called for the GRA to be respected by all players in this sector.

He urged the GRA to be diligent in ensuring that stern legal action is taken against those found flout-

ing the laws in terms of government revenues. He noted that inefficient trade facilitation costs the private sector a lot of money. “We need to arrive at a strong country conclusion and a will to take action where we are noncompliant… let us resolve, at the end of our discussions, to make Guyana the easiest trade facilitation destination without compromising our revenues,” Dookhoo said.

Public/Private Trade Dialogue Chairman Chris Fernandes explained that Guyana is unique in that its trade is serviced by five independently owned and operated terminals in Port Georgetown. This, he said, makes the task of the customs department far more cumbersome. This led to the establishment of the public/private dialogue body by then President Bharrat Jagdeo to handle trade facilitation. This body comprises the private sector, the GRA, Customs House Association, and the Shipping Association of Guyana.

Fernandes stated that at the level of this body, it was recognised that most of the issues concerning trade are hinged on the GRA, noting that this needs assessment is timely.

The workshop will conclude on September 20 at which time the participants, largely officers of GRA’s Customs and Trade Administration, will be presented with certificates.

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

China loans

China has recently been playing a much larger role in providing financing to the Caribbean and this has caused some spirited debate because its method of financing is significantly different from the International Financial Institutions (IFIs), primarily the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), that the region had become used to.

In Jamaica, Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller had reason to caution critics that their carping might drive away the Chinese. In Guyana, Chinese loans to build the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project (AFHEP) and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion have attracted hysterical criticism from opposition quarters – purportedly for the alleged high interest rate which somehow became equivalent to “corruption”.

Much of the criticism betrays a lack of appreciation of the different criteria that Chinese banks utilise in making their loans – all of which are a consequence of the overall policies of the Chinese government. It also betrays a dearth of knowledge about loans made by the Chinese in the Latin AmericanCaribbean (LAC) region in general.

The first thing we note is that the scale of the Chinese loans is massive: starting almost from zero, since 2005 Chinese have made loan commitments totalling US$87 billion. The second is that two Chinese banks dominate the lending: China Development Bank (CDB) with 82 per cent and China Ex-Im Bank (CEIB) with 12 per cent.

By 2010, China had already exceeded the World Bank, IDB and U.S. Ex-Im Bank combined lending. Thirdly, unlike what most assume, CDB’s loans are not cheap. Despite CDB’s “development bank” label, the Chinese bank generally charges borrowers the full cost of finance.

When we compare development banks, CDB offers mostly commercial interest rates that exceed the World Bank rates. In 2010, CDB offered Argentina a $10 billion loan at 600 basis points above London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR). The same year, the World Bank granted Argentina a $30 million loan with a spread of 85 basis points.

Fourthly, Chinese banks provided financing to a significantly different set of countries than the IFIs and Western banks. Chinese banks dedicated 61 per cent of lending to Venezuela and Ecuador which were taken off the IDB’s and World Bank’s radar. The large influx of Chinese lending has served as a key source of foreign finance for infrastructural projects, as in Guyana, Chinese lending to Venezuela and Ecuador is filling in for the sovereign debt markets.

As energy economist Roger Tissot argues, “Chinese financing is often the ‘lender of last resort’. It is not a cheap one, but due to the concern the international financial community has over Venezuela and Ecuador, and the large risk premiums they would charge, Chinese lending is an attractive option.”

Argentina and Ecuador alienated themselves from the traditional sources after defaulting on their sovereign debt in 2001 and 2008-2009, as Guyana did in 1989. In the case of Venezuela, foreign investors were scared off by its domestic political turmoil as in Guyana since 1998.

As a result, the sovereign debt markets charged Argentina, Ecuador, and Venezuela spreads of 838,935, and 1220 basis points, respectively. These are four to six times higher than interest rate spreads for South American countries with similar size economies. Guyana has not even regained a sovereign rating.

Chinese bank loans to these high-risk countries compensated for the lack of sovereign debt lending, but charged interest rates proportionate to the perceived risks. We can now appreciate the rate at which CDB was lending Guyana for AFHEP.

However, China’s filling in the gap for sovereign lending has helped Ecuador rebuild after its default and the same rehabilitation could have been achieved for Guyana if AFHEP went though. Only two years after the default, Ecuador has largely regained investor confidence. Government bonds are performing better than many others in Latin America and government investment is driving record economic growth. China has given Ecuador a second chance to rebuild investor confidence.

The Guyanese opposition should take note.

Boys will be boys

New era for Amerindians

Dear Editor,

The joy of owning personal homes was evident as some families from Manawarin, Region One received keys to their new homes as part of the Housing Ministry’s Hinterland Housing Pilot project.

So now some of these individuals and their families are free to move from very

poor dwelling conditions into well constructed threebedroom houses, while the others who were living in very remote areas can now move closer to access basic services such as education and health.

Home ownership comes with responsibilities as such they (the owners) will have to ensure that the buildings

Police need better driving skills

Dear Editor, I think that many police officers desperately need better driving skills. So far, many of them have been getting by based on being accommodated by civilian drivers.

Years ago, police driving skills began to get some serious attention. It all began in the UK, where, forced by the high number of officers killed while on the road, authorities introduced the British Police driving schools. In about 20 years, they managed to bring down the number of casualties by about one sixth.

A report from the U.S. shows that more than nine road crashes per day are caused by police driving with basic errors. Police-related car accidents have also claimed more than 150 lives

since 2004, including 79 during chases. A few years back, a traffic policeman killed a schoolgirl after reaching speeds of 94mph in a 30mph zone. He was jailed for three years. Guyana must act now in this regard. Currently, about three bad driving police cases are in court, two of them involving actual drinking and driving. No matter what, there is no place for reckless driving. I cannot be excused for killing, even if I were taking a heart-attack victim to the hospital. Likewise, police cannot be allowed any leverage for making accidents, while intercepting a criminal activity.

Regards, Yolanda

Thompson

are properly maintained so that they can remain livable for years to come. I think Amerindians know this –left on their own for centuries, they preserved their environment. They are the epitome of sustainability. When industrialisation struck, it was not their fault that many forested regions went awash. We have now

come to really realise how valuable these people are. Now they can sing and read. They have lights and computers. Now with their own homes, I am sure that their contribution will be quite impactful on the national scale.

Yours faithfully, Desmond Walker

Poultry prices and govt intervention

Dear Editor,

Local chicken dealers have jacked up the prices because of an apparent shortage. Some dealers expect consumers to move from $360 to even $500. As soon as there is an opportunity to squeeze people, some businesses simply get brutal. All the time these chicken dealers were doing well. A little shortfall and they go berserk on making the extra dollar.

There should be a pricecontrol system in any democracy. We are seeing the same kind of behaviour in the minibus sector. A little shortage of gasoline and the fares go up. Mind you, with the chicken situation, feed did not go up.

Fortunately, the acting tourism and commerce minister intervened in a timely manner in the local chicken situation. Just as the

government would subsidise when there is a hike on fuel internationally, it has made a similar kind of move with chicken.

A few selected importers will take up the slack. They have been granted concessions and they will allow for local users of chicken to buy at a very comfortable price. This will serve to keep local dealers in check.

The importation window goes all the way to the new year, since there is a need for more chicken, during the festive holiday season. Since chicken is so well used by Guyanese, businesses now need to think bigger. If there is going to be a shortfall every now and again, it clearly shows that we have an opening. They should seize the opportunity and expand.

Sincerely,

Doodnauth Ramsukh

Enough is enough –reintroduce the death penalty (Part One)

Dear Editor,

When will the opposition parliamentarians take responsibility for the reckless, irresponsible and vindictive decisions they have been making as lawmakers? And when will the police stop hiding behind Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee and take full responsibility for not doing enough to curb the spate of violent murders and other violent crimes taking place throughout Guyana?

On March 14, government’s chief whip, Gail Teixeira said the joint parliamentary opposition were behaving like “little boys playing with big issues in a playground and they are missing the mark all the time”. This warning came soon after both the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) voted to kill the Firearms (Amendment) Bill 2012 –the bill that sought to fill a loophole within the system that allowed trafficking of firearms.

In defending the action of his party, Opposition Leader David Granger said “the greater danger must be recognised”, referring to the home affairs minister, who piloted the bill. He then stated emphatically that APNU will not support any bill brought to the National Assembly by Rohee, regardless of its merit.

When a Kaieteur News reporter asked Granger if the opposition is ready to take responsibility in any case where lack of such provisions in the law results in greater violence, he responded, “We have taken a position that he (Rohee) is not

competent to remain as minister of home affairs and we take responsibility for that position. Him remaining in that position is the greatest danger to public security.”

It is highly unlikely that the relatives of those recently murdered would agree that the home affairs minister is a “greater danger” than the heartless killers who gunned down their loved ones. I challenge the APNU leader to explain this insane logic to children who must now grow up without a father, and a wife who must now feel the burden of raising a family without a husband. APNU’s obsession with Minister Rohee is putting the security of all Guyanese at risk.

As anticipated, the opposition is once again using these acts of violence to renew the call for Rohee’s removal as home affairs minister. Former Police Commissioner and APNU parliamentarian Winston Felix is delusional if he thinks the Guyanese people have forgotten the reign of terror by murderous criminals who slaughtered many innocent men, women, and children under his watch.

Even now, the suggestions he is giving are measures already in place by law enforcement. This dinosaur has nothing new to offer, and he would be best advised to heed the words of the 16th American President Abraham Lincoln who once said, “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to speak out and remove all doubt.”

With all the embarrassing leaks of corruption within the AFC, I’m sure Cathy

Hughes would have preferred someone else within her party to renew demands for Rohee’s removal. Nevertheless, it is obvious that this call was politically motivated. Hughes is a security expert in her own mind.

Instead, these parliamentarians should be demanding an explanation and course of action from the police. They are the ones responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Guyana Police Force, not the minister.

The police need to do more to convince Guyanese that they have the situation under control. There are just too many similar trends from the past not to invoke painful memories.

The police really have no excuse. There has never been another period in our history when the Guyana Police Force has been more equipped, trained, and prepared. I recalled the days when a police officer would have to “bum a ride” in a taxi to get to the scene of a crime or accident because the police had no vehicles.

Today, this institution is much more modern and well-equipped, thanks to a hardworking minister and a generous government. Police now have many new vehicles and mobile units, a state-of-the art forensic laboratory that will be operational by the end of October, the use of surveillance cameras, wire-tapping devices and authority, superior training, and the manpower to get the job done properly.

Regards, Harry Gill

Take care of Guyana’s bridges

Dear Editor,

Cabinet just gave its no objection to several contracts in the public works sector, which would result in the strengthening of the Demerara Harbour Bridge. We must at all costs keep this bridge in functioning order. It is very vital and with proper maintenance, it can live on for a very long time. Government must take care of this bridge. I remember when it was closed for emergency maintenance not too long ago, its value really came to the fore. We wit-

nessed for that short period, a surfeit of exploitative bus and boat operators. On this note of keeping the bridge in top shape, I call on government to keep monitoring this bridge and the one at Berbice as well. Most times, when a bridge goes bad, it is because of neglect or gross abuse.

In the very recent past, Guyana had a few stupid mishaps with a few collapsed bridges: the Garden of Eden Bridge – under the weight of a truck, the main access bridge in the

Resolving minor offences should involve more community work

Dear Editor,

I applaud this move of Cops and Faith Community Network (CFCN) that is now being engaged in by the Home Affairs Ministry. It is a good strategy and I am hoping that it will bring peace within our communities. I have seen this and even if great dividends are not immediate, it allows for more awareness of one another within the community. I also believe it is best to prevent a crime, rather than having to solve it or mete out justice after it was committed.

Such a move is quite normal too. In January of this year a U.S. city had to employ it. The news back then reported how Denver's south-western police district commander was hoping to enlist pastors and church members to help stop violence in the neighbourhood. The plan was to hold several meetings among clergy members, city officials, public schools employees, probation and parole officers and residents in a district, where 30 per cent of the city's 2012 homicides occurred.

Since then, the city has been having many talks

about ways to keep the building safe and secure, women's self-defence, gang reduction and available police resources.

Here, the Home Affairs Ministry is seeking to engage the entire community to help eliminate offences, such as cruelty to animals, domestic violence, threatening behaviour and threatening language of persons, and damage to property.

I did notice that a few people had their houses invaded when they were out. So this corporate attitude will really come in good. I am very sure that if we watch out for one another, criminal elements will be very edgy.

I think that we have to admit that some places are more prone to actual crimes or for having suitability to hide criminals. Also some areas are very strategic in helping good causes. This has nothing to do with discrimination.

In Jamaica, many areas are notorious for crime or for harbouring criminal elements. As a matter of fact, this is so throughout the world. Many places in the

U.S. are shunned up to this day.

Now the idea is to give the programme a run for six months, with monitoring and evaluation, following which it will be decided whether or not it can be replicated in other areas. Now, we have to be careful that we do a good trial run. Sometimes people make the mistake of quitting a plan, when in the first place it was not properly executed. We have to guard against this. The other factor that I really like is that of the role and participation of our men from the Guyana Defence Force (GPF). The acting Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell pointed out that the GPF will give its best on this project. People look up to the army and since we are not fighting a war, I think that it is a good way of really getting members active. It will give value to their lives too. I just repeat – we must put our best in this venture; only this will allow us to know how effective it can be.

Yours, Xavier Cummings

Rupununi community – fell because of a heavy duty vehicle. It was the same for the one at Moco Moco.

I believe all of this could have been avoided. We must practise maintenance engineering and stick with restrictions where types and weights of vehicles are concerned. Guyana is a big country and all of our bridges are important. We must preserve them.

Sincerely,

Mohan Persaud

Page Foundation

Stress management for parents

Parenting can be very stressful. Whether you are a stay-athome parent or a working parent, a single parent or a married parent, mother or father, parent of one child or several children; remaining cool, calm and full of energy can help get you through the day. Below are some simple stress management tips and relaxation exercises that have proven useful to adults whether or not they are a parent. By taking a moment to consider which stress management tools will work for you and then putting them into practice immediately will help to provide the stress management approach you are looking for and the stress relief you deserve.

Take time to learn to relax

How do we get so tense

When we are worried, anxious, hurried or harried our body begins to feel tense. Actually, this is a natural reaction. Our body is preparing us for flight or fight. Our body has been given the signal to prepare to respond to a threat. If a real physical danger were present, we would be able to protect ourselves by attack or retreat. When the emergency was over, an “all clear signal” would be given and our body

would relax and return to its normal state.

In our modern existence, our mind is often bothered by many things. We call this stress. Constant mental stress keeps our body in constant tension which itself becomes a form of stress. We can handle stress by learn ing to cope with thoughts and events so they no longer are stressful. We can also learn to relax. When we practice relaxation, we are giving the “all clear signal.” As we be come better at giving the signal we are able to trigger the relaxation response so our body will return to its normal state.

Chronic tension af fects each of us differently. Depending on the person it can cause sleep disturbance, increased or decreased ap petite, headaches, stomach aches, poor concentration or irritability. Some dis eases may be caused by or made worse by chronic tension. Also, our immune system can be weakened. thus, making us more susceptible to colds and other infections.

images can be useful. Many parents have benefited from listening to a relaxation CD or MP3.

Progressive relaxation

We will start with your feet and lower legs. Tighten those muscles just as hard

Then gradually let them relax. With each muscle group, the relaxation feels good. As you relax one group at a time your whole being will begin to feel relaxed, calm and peaceful. Repeat the tension and then gradual relaxation with your

gressively relaxed most of your major muscle groups, you may feel a tingly sensation. You will find that your breathing has become slower and deeper. You are now relaxed.

There are three proven ways to relax. They are:

Progressive relaxation

• Deep breathing • Pleasant images Use of positive mental

er leg muscles relax just a little bit at a time. Repeat this with your upper leg and hip muscles. Again, experience first the tension and then the gradual relaxation as you slowly release all the tension.

Next, tense the muscles in your hands and lower arms. Make a fist. Tighten them as tight as you can.

Next, tighten your stomach muscles. Hold the tension and then gradually release. Then, move to your chest muscles. Take a deep breath. Hold it while tensing your chest muscles. Gradually let out your breath while gradually letting go of the tension in your chest muscles.

As you have now pro-

Try to practice on a daily basis. When you have followed the above for about 10 to 15 sessions, try it without tensing the muscles. See if you can just relax one muscle group at a time while breathing slowly and deep-

Deep relaxation is a CD/MP3 audio programme that is great for general relaxation training.

Deep breathing

When we are tense, our breathing is often shallow and rapid. In fact, most of us do not breathe properly, tense or not. Improper breathing robs us of oxygen which purifies our body as well as helps our body produce energy. Fortunately, learning to breathe properly is not difficult. Find a comfortable place to lie down. Place your hands on your abdomen just below your ribs. Begin breathing slowly and deeply. If you are breathing properly, you will feel the expansion in the abdominal area before your rib cage ex-

pands. Spend five to 10 minutes several times a day practising your deep breathing. You will notice that as you become more proficient, your breathing will improve during your normal activities.

Pleasant images How to take a mental vacation

When we think about things that are upsetting, our body tenses up. This is because the lower centres of our brain, which regulate body functions, does not distinguish between real images and those which are imagined. If you think about being in an uncomfortable situation, your body will begin to respond as if you were in that situation. Since you have probably had lots of experience thinking about things that cause tension, you actually have all the skills necessary to do just the opposite. Imagine something that makes you feel good.

To prepare for your mental vacation, relax your muscles and take a few deep breaths. Then close your eyes and imagine you are someplace you enjoy. It could be the beach or the mountains or enjoying a favourite activity. Try to fully experience this imagined event. See the sights. Hear the sounds. Feel the air. Smell the smells. Tune in to the sense of well-being. At first, you should allow 10 to 15 minutes for this exercise. As you become more adept you will find that you can feel like you have been on a long vacation or just come back from a good time in just a few moments.

Some other ways to feel relaxed

Listening to music is very relaxing. Reading can be rewarding for many. Enjoying a hobby can make life more fun. Research has shown that exercising several times a week (even just a walk) can reduce stress and tension. Research has also found that regular church attendance and daily prayer result in lower blood pressure and better coping. Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol. Both of these are thought to be relaxing but they can actually make things worse. Avoid watching the news before going to bed. Try to take one day at a time.

Look for the good things that happen each day and be thankful. Reach out and touch someone. Giving is better than receiving. Be forgiving. Don’t hold grudges. No one is perfect. We all make mistakes. As you learn to forgive others, use a little on yourself. Tomorrow is another day. (Childdevelopmentinfo.com)

PPP/C condemns “attacks” on Isaacs

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has condemned what it called the continued harassment of the Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs by Opposition Leader, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Chairman David Granger and other elements of the opposition.

The PPP/C said the latest attack on the clerk is yet another manifestation of “their dictatorial tendency”. “It is clear by now that they will use all means possible to forge ahead with their agenda of illegalities.”

Strange

The party said it also found it strange that the Alliance For Change (AFC) through its leader, Khemraj Ramjattan, would accuse the government of not assisting the clerk and in the same vein, acknowledge the fact that the chief parliamentary counsel at the Attorney General’s Chambers has been assisting the clerk.

“The People’s Progressive Party/Civic has noted the concerns expressed by the clerk himself, Mr Sherlock Isaacs, who has served in the

Clerk of the National Assembly,

Sherlock Isaacs

position since 2002, describing this current Parliament as ‘the worst’ during his tenure; following several allegations levelled against him publicly by the opposition leader. This revelation by the clerk is a clear indication that the people’s interest are not being served by the actions of the AFC/APNU alliance in the National Assembly,” the PPP/C said in a statement read at its news conference on Monday. The party encouraged the clerk to remain strong and continue persevering against the onslaught against his office by the opposition and to continue dis-

charging his mandate in a professional and responsible manner.

Last week, APNU called on Isaacs to fulfil the obligations of his office by sending the four bills to the president for his approval. The clerk had said he had sent the bills to the Attorney General’s Chambers for scrutiny as the Parliament office does not have its own draftsman. The bills are the Local Government Commission Bill, the Local Government (Amendment) Bill, the Municipal and District Councils (Amendment) Bill, and the Fiscal Transfers Bill.

Man gets 12-month sentence for robbery under arms

Aman was on Monday sentenced to 12 months imprisonment by Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown’s Magistrates’ Courts after he was found guilty of robbery under arms.

Osman Brummell of 63 Cross Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown made his first court appearance on April 4, to answer to the charge which read that on April 2, being in the company of Dino Giddings, robbed Roy Simons. He initially pleaded not guilty and maintained his innocence for the duration of the trail. Brummell was granted bail in the sum of $150,000.

According to the facts,

on April 2, Simons, who was wearing his gold jewellery in the company of a male cousin came to Georgetown from Mahaica on the East Coast of Demerara and went to Club Monaco on Sheriff Street, Georgetown. Around 01:30h, Simons and his cousin left the club and went to Breda Street, Georgetown. By this time, they noticed two identifiable males of African descent following them.

Simons took off his jewellery and placed it in his pocket, by which time the two men had approached the virtual complainant (VC) and his cousin. Giddings grabbed Simons’ cousin by his shirt while Brummell pulled out

an ice pick and dealt Simons four stabs to his abdomen. Simons’ cousin managed to free himself and ran away while Brummell relieved the complainant of his gold jewellery, his BlackBerry cellphone and $10,000 cash; a total value of $179,000. The men made their escape and based on investigations, the two were subsequently arrested and charged.

Brummell and his companion Dino Giddings were both brought before the court to answer to the charges; however the case against Giddings was dismissed on September 13 due to the fact that the court was unclear about his identity.

Two held for cocaine in Nabaclis house

Aman and a woman have been arrested after police found cocaine in their Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara home on Monday. In a release, police said about 15:00h, ranks conducted a search on the house at Nabaclis, during which 11

grams of cocaine were found. The man and the woman who were arrested are in police custody assisting with the investigations.

These bills, APNU said, were passed by the National Assembly and were due to be presented to the president in accordance with the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Standing Orders of the National Assembly. APNU made reference to Article 170 (2) of the Constitution which provides that “when a bill is presented to the president for assent, he shall signify that he assents or that he withholds assent”.

APNU also referred to Article 170(3) which provides: “Where the president withholds his assent to a

bill, he shall return it to the Speaker within 21 days of the date when it was presented to him for assent with a message stating the reasons why he has withheld his assent.”

The majority opposition party said it recognised that these articles do not state who has the responsibility for presenting the said bills to the president and that until the president is presented with the bills, the prescribed time cannot be said to have elapsed. “Standing Order 67 of the Standing Orders of the National Assembly, nevertheless, clearly reposes responsibility for the presentation of the said bills to the president, in the clerk of the National Assembly.”

Standing Order APNU argued that Standing Order 67 prescribes: “Every bill passed by the National Assembly shall remain in the custody of the clerk who shall, subject to Article 164 of the Constitution, at the earliest opportunity, submit the bill to the president for his or her assent”, and the words “shall remain in the custody of the

clerk” are mandatory. It noted that despite the clerk being required to submit the bills for assent “at the earliest opportunity”, that is to say without unnecessary delay, the four bills which were passed on August 7, have not been presented to the president.

Swift response

But, in a swift response, Isaacs said the four bills were submitted to the chief parliamentary counsel to ensure that all of the amendments made by the relevant parliamentary select committee and the National Assembly were inserted. Isaacs explained that several queries were made, and to date, the chief parliamentary counsel has not returned the bills to him. “I checked with the Attorney General’s Chambers on several occasions, and was told that the bills were/are still receiving the attention of the legal draftsmen.”

He reminded that the Parliament office does not have a legal draftsman to ensure that the amendments are properly inserted after bills are passed.

tuesday, september 17, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com

First shipment of fertiliser from Venezuela expected by month-end

Agriculture Minister

Dr Leslie Ramsammy during a recent visit to Venezuela succeeded in getting manufacturers to agree to supply Guyana with 5000 tonnes of fertiliser.

During the recent visit of President Nicolas Maduro to Guyana, a decision was made to extend that previous agreement to two shipments. As per the new arrangement, the first shipment will see the supply of 5000 tonnes, and another shipment in March next year. Minister Ramsammy said the government has been negotiating with ship owners since the plant itself has an established shipping time.

“Whatever ship you make arrangement with, must fit into that time, so it’s

not like they have the fertiliser whenever your ship arrives; your ship has to arrive whenever they are ready,” the minister explained during a recent interview.

The next shipping day is September 23-24 and the ministry was able to put in place a tentative agreement with a shipping company to have a boat at the facility on those days. As a result of the fertiliser deal, farmers will be able to get the fertiliser they need at a cost that is significantly below what they are paying now.

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

urea. Minister Ramsammy posited that, “we are making arrangements for the farmers to get a bag of fertiliser at a cost that is maximum $5000 so that they will save.”

At the moment, the country’s rice farmers require about 20,000 tonnes of fertiliser, which means that this first shipment will make available 25 per cent of their needs. This, the minister said, will ensure that the needs of small farmers are met, while at the same time meeting a portion of the needs of the larger farmers, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

Two in custody for Berbice businessman’s murder

As police continue their investigations into the murder of 79-year-old Abdul Majid of Lot 12, Number 70 Village, Corentyne, who was killed by four men on Sunday; two persons are in police custody assisting with investigations.

According to information received, one person was taken into custody on Sunday evening and the other was arrested on Monday after he was spotted in Skeldon. The two men are being interrogated by investigators with the intention of getting addition information.

Investigations conducted by police thus far revealed that on Sunday, four men armed with knives invaded Majid’s home and carted off a quantity of gold jewellery valued $700,000, one gold band

wristwatch valued $80,000, G$32,000 and US$2000.

Kanrun Majid, the wife of the dead man reportedly told investigators that about 10:30h on Sunday, she was in the kitchen washing dishes, while her husband was in the house when they heard someone knocking on the

door, prompting her husband to enquire.

Shortly after, she felt a hand choked her from behind, and as she looked around, she noticed it was a dark skinned man who was wearing a hat. There were two other men.

The woman went on to say that the bandits took her to the upper-flat of the house and demanded that she hand over the money and the jewellery, which she did reluctantly.

On receiving the money, they robbers tied her hands and mouth before making good their escape in a nearby silver grey car. The woman managed to free herself and made her way to the bond calling out for her husband, but received no answer.

She noticed the pad-

lock on the door of the bond was unlocked, and when she pushed the door, she discovered her husband lying motionless with a black electrical cord tied around his feet.

The elderly woman called out to a neighbour who was picking coconuts in her back yard, and the neighbour assisted her in untying her husband. Majid was taken to the Skeldon Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His body is at the Skeldon Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination on Wednesday.

The dead man’s Winchester single barrel shotgun with 69 12-gauge cartridges and a .32 browning semi-automatic pistol, along with 73 live .32 rounds were handed over to the police.

Banks DIH employee lands in court

Aman appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday after he was charged with two counts of common assault and one count of abusive language.

It was alleged that on September 8 at Demico House, Georgetown, Ian

Deabas unlawfully assaulted Areaba Charles and Peace Officer Darwin Eastman. It was also alleged that on the same day, he made use of abusive language to Charles. He pleaded not guilty to all three charges as they were read to him.

An unrepresented Deabas told the court that he resides at 77 Roxanne

Burnham Gardens and is employed at Banks DIH as a sales manager.

According to the facts, on the day in question, Deabas was at Demico House drinking when he was told by Charles that he could not leave the premises with the bottle. He became annoyed and shoved her while being verbally abusive to her. Peace

Officer Darwin Eastman was acting in his duties when the defendant pulled his shirt causing a button to burst.

There were no objections to bail put forward by the prosecution and the chief magistrate placed him on his own recognisance. The matter is set to return to court on September 23.

Eyew tness

Looking a gift horse...

...in the a55

If you look into the mouth of the “gift horse” at least you could say you’re checking its health. Diseased gums and all that. Even though the horse was free you don’t want to be saddled with the burden of caring for a sick animal. But what the Trinis are doing with our offer of land to help with their food import bill – is peering into the other end of the animal. Meaning that they intend to find what you usually find there – and then declare the offer is full of shi*.

And that’s worse than stacking the deck, isn’t it? But it’s to be expected. Right after then President Bharrat Jagdeo offered land to the wider Caribbean Community (Caricom) for agriculture, then Prime Minister Patrick Manning rushed to create some 18 “mega farms” in his twin island.

Pumping hundreds of millions of dollars into them, they prophesied the end of their US$3 billion food bill. (Those Trinis do love a food – especially from those fast food fried joints being closed down in the U.S. They’re among the top five in the “overweight” category worldwide.)

But within five years, all the farms have gone belly up. The fellas that were given the dough simply plunked them into bank accounts rather than into the soil. Then again, no Trinidadian now wants to get his hands dirty. When you can just sit at home, twiddling your thumbs and collect the equivalent of GY$100,000 monthly, why have mud screeching between your toes? The only people they can get to work in the fields are Guyanese – generally the illegal ones.

But with the authorities conducting regular “sweeps” of the island to round up those illegals and ship them back to Guyana, that’s a fleeting occupation. When the Trinidad “farmers” say they have 14,000 acres of land given by their government to small farmers when their sugar industry was closed down – we have to ask: “What have they been doing with all that land?” Drive around Trinidad and you’ll see most of them with 10-year old cane ratoons waving in the wind.

And their protestations about still “importing food from Guyana,” is beyond disingenuous. The foodstuffs might show up on Guyana’s gross national product (GNP) as “exports” but it’s the Trinidad investors who’ll repatriate their profits back to Trinidad where it’ll show up on their GNP. It’s all shuffling of numbers. All Guyana gets is the development of our infrastructure – which we better not compromise on.

...from the other side

In every jurisdiction we know, lawyers gravitate into politics. It’s gotten so that children growing up thinking you have to go to law school to get into politics. It might have to do with thinking on their feet to get out of trouble when, as politicians, they put their feet into their mouths. We know its sounds convoluted, but then so is politics.

But in every one of those jurisdictions, aspiring lawyerpoliticians get into the prosecutors’ office to earn a reputation for “putting the bad guys into jail”. Since crime is such a great concern to the average citizen, the lawyers earn some brownie points they can cash-in at the ballot box.

But in Guyana, we have one politician – the chairman of one political party at that! – who cultivates the reputation of “getting the bad guys – off the hook”! Nigel Hughes is who we’re talking about. And he was just mouthing off about citizens “hitting the panic button” with the latest crime upsurge.

The folks at Lusignan and further afield already hit that button when the fellas charged for the massacre, were freed – with Hughes as their lawyer.

...literary prize

Well, what do you know? The ageing infant terrible of Guyanese literature, Ruel Johnson, won the Guyana prize for fiction. Since he said the prize was “fixed”, will he return the US$5000? We bet you, it’s “no!”

Region 10 Land Selection Committee to meet Wednesday

– wants help in drafting ToR

Region 10 Chairman

Sharma Solomon is now calling for the full cooperation of the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission to assist with the final draft of the terms of reference of the region’s Land Selection Committee.

In June, representatives of the two sides were expected to meet to prepare and discuss the final draft on functions of the committee which is expected to oversee land distribution in Region 10; however, the meeting has been pushed forward to Wednesday. Solomon stressed the importance of the meeting and of the working relationship between the two sides, underscoring that when the draft is completed, the committee will be in a better position to oversee the management and distribution of lands.

He indicated that it was stated in a recent letter to him from head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon that the state of the committee

is going to be further advanced at the meeting.

The regional chairman had earlier indicated that two senior representatives from the Lands and Survey Commission were to be sent to the region to assist with preparation of the draft document, but noted that so far little progress has been made in that regard. “Two persons were identified for the Technical Committee and they are now being narrowed down based on our engagements with both sides. Both sides are engaging each other’s candidates, that is to be discussed at the meeting and we hope that we can have a final position to settle on the chairman of that Technical Committee,” he said.

Cooperation He added, “the Economic Committee, that is being constituted in terms of we have all the people on both sides and a chairperson... also with the land selection,

we are not getting the cooperation from the Lands and Survey Commission in terms of having their representatives available to work with the committee to further advance the terms of reference, and that issue is going to be brought up at the meeting on Wednesday,” Solomon noted.

The regional chairman added that since its establishment, the Region 10 Land Selection Committee has been working fever -

ishly in order to serve the people, including local farmers. He said residents should be aware that it has been working in their interest, more specifically in terms of housing and farming. He noted too that the committee has started identifying new lands for housing, which will in turn reduce the effects of issues such as squatting within the region.

Huge task

He also stressed that there is a lot of work to be done in terms of land selection.

“The committee is working. There is a lot of work to be done with lands (inside Region 10). This is a very resourceful, rich region and whether it is for agriculture, housing, industrial, mining purposes; lands in Region 10 will always be in high value and high demand and I think because of that, the Land Selection Committee would have started looking at other areas, instead of waiting until it comes and constitute it; in terms of mapping, we would have started to look at maps to decide areas to decide areas where farming and housing, new areas for housing development and some other areas like who owns lands within the region, to what extent and things like that,” he said.

Seein is believin, but blind does lead de blind

Old people does seh seein is believin and that whah ever yuh can’t see, yuh must have to feel before yuh believe. Some people does see wid dem mind only. But that is not seein, that is called dreamin. And some people does only see wid other people eye. But that is also not seein either, that is called believin whah another man seh he see and tekkin it fuh gospel truth, or as old people again seh – de blind leadin de blind.

Lallbachan Suspenders Ram is one a dem who does dream and seh he see. He does dream all kinda tings when he rammin wid he pardna in slime – de other old ram whah name Ram Bow -- and then talk bout dem next day. But he don’t tell people bout de feelin part. That is top secret fuh de two old rams, because when dem fellas start feelin, dem does see heaven same time.

Rum Jhaat on de other hand is one a dem who don’t see too good. That is why he always blinkin like when de place too bright fuh he. But is really because he like darkness so much, and he does deh in darkness so much, that he not accustom to bein in de light.

De fact that Rum Jhaat not too bright either is another story. Imagine that is a lawyer and a politician and a parliamentarian who never know that certain reports does have to go to Parliament. Is no wonder he get kick out. He gotta be a real Jhaat fuh depend pun Lallbachan fuh tell he certain tings.

So Rum Jhaat does only see wid other people eye. Whah ever Lallbachan Ram seh he see, Rum Jhaat does see. Like he does only see whah all dem Rams and Rums see – perfect example of de blind leadin de blind.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! De only Ram that Rum Jhaat friken is de prezzi. That is because de prezzi does see thru all dem Rams and Rums like a book. That is called seein is believin!

BA Wesleyan Church awards outstanding students

The Bachelor’s Adventure Bethel Wesleyan Church on East Coast Demerara has awarded former Golden Grove Primary School Six Grader Shanice Welcome with a five-year scholarship to the Tutorial High School.

This is according to the chairman of the church’s Scholarship Committee Corwin Grandison during a recent interview with Guyana Times. The church has recently held its 15th annual awards and prize giving ceremony, which seeks to recognise students who have been successful at their various levels of studies. The ceremony, held under the theme “Challenge yourself academically”, honoured outstanding students at the Grade Six to the university level.

“Since the time we have started awarding students, we encouraged others to work just as hard and to

challenge themselves academically,” said Grandison. Noting that the scholarship award is to purchase books and school uniforms, he said, “as long as you are qualified, we award the child with the scholarships, we believe in education and will contribute to youth developments… we have a scholarship board through the church which have been continuously propelling education”.

This year, the ceremony saw awards being given to Jerren Shepard, who received 507 marks at the National Grade Six Assessment; Malcom Willis, who obtained 13 subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC); and Tanisha Jerrick, who successfully read for a degree in biology.

The charge was given to the awardees by Wesleyan Bible College President Dr Marlon Hestick, who noted the importance for youths

to set personal goals and be ambitious.

According to Grandison, the academic landscape needs to be shaped through local churches with cooperation from families and other members of the community. Meanwhile, Hestick further noted that students who did not have the best of circumstances were able to challenge themselves academically to become doctors, lawyers and business executives.

He stated that everyone can follow the examples of others and become successful while underscoring the need for the church to be a driving force in supporting and promoting education.

Guyana Times understands that the award exercise began in 1998 and seeks to change the shape of the academic landscape of the community through collaboration with community members.

New army chief sworn in

Brigadier Mark Phillips has been officially sworn in as the chiefof-staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). He was sworn into office at the Office of the President on Monday by President and Commanderin-Chief of the armed forces Donald Ramotar.

In extending congratulations, President Ramotar said the GDF has evolved tremendously over the years through strengthened corporation, both locally and on the international arena. As a result, he called on the newly-installed chief-ofstaff to continue this trend of success. “So we look forward to a GDF growing from strength to strength under your leadership to build on the foundation that already has been laid over the years.” President Ramotar also lauded the outgoing Chief-ofStaff, Rear Admiral Gary Best for the sterling contribution made to the development of the defence force.

Meanwhile, the newly-installed chief-of-staff said he

will maintain a high level of professionalism in the army. “The Guyana Defence Force will remain in good hands, we will continue to be the stable band of our Guyanese society,” Brigadier Phillips told media operatives. He used the opportunity to advocate for young men and women of society to join the defence force. Phillips, who has served in

the military for more than 30 years, will assume the office of chairman of the Joint Services Coordination Council on the retirement of Rear Admiral Best on September 20. Currently, he is being briefed on the recent agreement between the GDF and the Surinamese National Army, which will see joints patrols on the Corentyne River to clamp down on piracy and traf-

ficking in narcotics, guns and ammunition. “We will operationalise his strategic vision for the benefit and for the betterment for the wider Guyanese and Suriname.”

The GDF and the

Surinamese National Army renewed their commitment to combat trans-border crimes when Best met with his counterparts in Suriname earlier in the month. Though the modalities of the joint venture is

yet to be finalised; it is anticipated that that the militaries through the GDF Coast Guard and the Surinamese Navy, will begin operations in the Corentyne River in the next six months.

Bird flu viruses could re-emerge in upcoming flu season

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has issued a new warning to the international community that the H7N9 and H5N1 avian influenza viruses continue to pose serious threats to human and animal health, especially in view of the upcoming flu season.

“The world is more prepared than ever before to respond to bird flu viruses in light of a decade of work on H5N1 and the recent response to H7N9,” said FAO Chief Veterinary Officer Juan Lubroth at a joint meeting with United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

Efforts must continue and be strengthened, not only in affected countries, but also in neighbouring states and areas with strong trade linkages. This is especially true for H7N9 since it causes no clinical signs in birds and is therefore very difficult to detect in poultry.”

forts and reducing spread.”

USAID’s Emerging Threats Programme Director Dennis Carroll, added, “The early detection and excellent characterisation of the H7N9 virus by Chinese experts has created an unprecedented opportunity to mount a coordinated effort to stop the further spread of the virus – and thwart a possible global event.

Significant progress

Heads of FAO reference centres, in Australia, the People’s Republic of China, Italy and the U.S. were also in attendance, along with representatives from the centres for disease control and prevention and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“However, constant vigilance is required,” Lubroth said. “Bird flu viruses continue to circulate in poultry.

Along these lines, the FAO has committed US$2 million of emergency funding supplemented by over US$5 million from USAID to kick-start H7N9 response efforts. USAID support has enabled the FAO to help countries at risk dramatically improve surveillance capacities. “Several at-risk countries previously unable to pick up the virus can now accurately detect H7N9,” explained Lubroth. “Identifying the virus with consistency is critical to targeting control ef-

Significant progress over the past decade in forging national and international partnerships and validating interventions for control of avian influenza can be immediately adapted to addressing the threat posed by the H7N9 virus.”

The FAO and USAID stress that more work is required. In the short term, this includes continued, targeted

surveillance and trace back throughout the production and marketing system, contingency planning and compensation scheme development. “The emergence of the H7N9 virus serves as yet another reminder that new disease threats are not the exception, but a predictable consequence of events occurring at the human-animal interface,” said Carroll.

“It is important we continue to monitor future threats while at the same time improving the practices and behaviours associated with livestock production and marketing that can make it easier for diseases to emerge and affect animals and people,” he said.

“Surveillance is key and with support from key partners like USAID, we’re making progress,” said Lubroth.

“In addition to helping countries detect the virus, we need to make sure authorities can trace back the virus to its points of origin and better understand how the virus is circulating so as to design effective control actions.

Where appropriate, we need to help governments put together contingency plans for the possible detection of the virus and compensation schemes for assisting those affected by control efforts.”

In the longer-term fight against H7N9 and other viruses, the FAO and USAID are urging countries to invest in improving the way they market and sell poultry.

“We need keep our eyes on the bigger picture of promoting healthy food systems, especially when it comes to animal production and marketing,” said Lubroth.

tuesday, september 17, 2013 | guyanatimesgy.com

Delegates at reparations confab get down to serious business

Caribbean delegates on Monday be-

gan the first full day of deliberations as the first Regional Reparations Conference opened in St Vincent and the Grenadines on Sunday with speeches about the slave trade and a sterling performance from Jamaican reggae legend, Bunny Wailer.

Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders at their meeting in Trinidad in July agreed to the formation of a regionwide Reparations Commission to seek compensation from Europe for natives genocide and enslavement of Africans during colonisation.

St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves told the start of the three-day conference that there was need to build solidarity ties with like-minded persons and groups overseas, including in Europe. He said Caricom must strive to build support across national and ethnic lines. “We have to build consensus. We don’t have to fight with one another. We may have different perspectives but this is a huge movement, historic in this 21st century.

Proceed in unity

“We must be up to the task and leave the trivia out and when any of us does wrong in this movement, we must say, ‘Brother, sister, comrade, that is not the way to proceed’. Let us proceed in unity and let us build alliances with our European friends, because we require our European friends, people from all across the world, the brothers in Africa, in Latin America, in Asia, we need the support everywhere.” Gonsalves described the reparation issue as a “global project of immense significance”.

“I say that as a consequence, we must act accordingly. For starters,

next week, at the General Assembly of the United Nations… for each head of state, each head of government, each foreign minister, to insert in their statement to the world at the General Assembly a strong and positive message on reparations. You can rely on the prime minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines to have such a statement in his presentation to the United Nations,” Gonsalves said.

Delivering the feature address, Professor Verene Shepard of the University of the West Indies (UWI), said that the reparations movement would take its place alongside the defining moment of the post-colonial Caribbean.

“For here we are, gathered in ‘Freedom Park’ (Victoria Park) in this year to honour those who have gone before, so that other can follow and to chart a way forward to seek redress for those who suffered brutality at the hands of Europeans during the period of conquest, during the reign of terror on indigenous people, during colonisation, the transatlantic trade in

captured Africans, African enslavement and post-slavery indentureship and other regimes which were used to recreate the slave relations of production,” she said. Chair of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Reparations Committee, Jomo Thomas, said “on this day in this place, in this country, the movement for reparations for genocide against the indigenous peoples of our region and for the fight to seek reparations for the enslavement of our people really took off”.

Praise

But, Thomas, an attorney, who praised the regional leaders for their support, and has worked in reparations in the United States, told the launch that the struggle for reparations would not be easy. He said that the strategy going forward would be to seek reparations from the English the Dutch and the French. “As the movement gains momentum, there will be a larger fight to include all of the colonial powers,” he said. Barbados’ Culture, Sports and Youth Minister Stephen Lashley, speaking

on behalf of Prime Minister Freundel Stuart, the head of the Caricom Reparations Commission, commended Vincentian Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves for mobilising the conference in such a short period of time.

“As you contemplate the composition of your respective committees, I commend to you the part which we have followed in Barbados by insisting on balanced representation from government, civil society, faith groups, ethnic groups, academics, activist and gender.

“This avoids the pitfalls of an unbalanced, top-down, government approach even while further consensus is sought through community dialogue.

“This issue of reparations, complex and volatile as it is, has certainly raised grave misgivings within certain sectors of the Caribbean society, forcing its relegation over the years from mainstream policy consideration. I’m pleased to know that recent national and recent governmental, regional initiatives have signalled that this is about to change,” Lashley said. (CMC)

Caricom Competition Commission’s investigation process under CCJ scrutiny

By ElizaBEth M MitchEll-Daxon, EDlS BahaMaS

Today we begin a series titled CCJ Corner. This column is intended to assist the public in learning more about the work of the CCJ. It is not a formal document of the court. The judgment of the court is the only authoritative document and may be found at www. caribbeancourtofjustice.org

Caricom has established a Competition Commission that investigates and polices anti-competitive business behaviour throughout the Caricom region. In the CCJ case of Trinidad Cement Limited v The Competition Commission Trinidad Cement Limited (TCL) brought an action against the commission claiming that the commission failed to consult with and notify it of the commission’s decisions to investigate alleged anti-competitive business behaviour by TCL.

The key question in the case was whether the commission had a duty to notify TCL before the investigation was launched. This depended on whether TCL was an “interested party” within the meaning of Article 175 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.

In deciding the case, as a preliminary matter, the CCJ held that the commission was a proper party to the proceedings given its extensive powers under the treaty and its ability to initiate legal proceedings before the CCJ in its own name. The court further held that it had jurisdiction to hear TCL’s complaint as “no conduct or exercise of power by a treaty created institution… should escape the judicial scrutiny of the court”.

On the critical issue of whether TCL was “an interested party” at the investigation stage, the court stated that this did not hinge on the fact that the company was targeted by the commission. The treaty did not grant a targeted business any role in consultations at the investigations stage. TCL had no legitimate interest which could be affected at that preliminary stage where the commission was simply deciding whether it could and should carry out an investigation. The court therefore dismissed the case.

Although it dismissed TCL’s application, the court encouraged the commission to review its rules to ensure that they are in concert with the treaty and reflect appropriate standards of fairness.

Case dismissed against man accused of arson

On Monday, the case against Phillip Saul Dupaul of 55 Sandy Babb Street, Kitty was dismissed after Magistrate Fabayo Azore ruled that identification of the defendant was poor and crucial.

Dupaul, 36, made his first appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on May 2 where he pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that on April 28, he set fire to the dwelling house of Godfrey Stewart of Lot A 72 East La Penitence Squatting Area. He was initially placed on $250,000 bail but could not afford it. It was later reduced to $100,000, but again he could not post it and remained in custody for the duration of the trial.

According to the facts, the complainant, Stewart, and the accused were neighbours with ongo -

ing problems. On April 27, about 16:00h, Stewart secured his house by all means leaving everything intact and went to work. Around 00:45h, Seata O’Donoghue, Stewart’s sister who was living a short distance away from her brother’s home, saw Dupaul setting the wooden house on fire. She raised an alarm and summoned the fire service along with the police. By the time the fire service arrived on the scene, the house was burnt to the ground. Dupaul maintained his innocence for the entire trail.

After several witnesses testified and the evidence was gathered, Magistrate Azore ruled that the identification of Dupaul was poor and crucial since there was a seven foot high fence blocking the view of the complainant’s sister.

APA wants more done for Amerindians

BY SAMUEL SUKHNANDAN

Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) Programme Assistant

Laura George said while there is evidence of development, more needs to be done to improve the lives of Guyana’s first people.

George told Guyana Times on Monday that the APA is pleased with the development taking place in a few villages, especially in the area of infrastructure. The APA official said there has been some level of development in other areas too, but to a lesser extent, and these she said must be looked at seriously.

According to her, the developments taking place in these communities, however, are not on par with those on the coastland.

Right direction

George told this newspaper that there are more schools and health centres than before. This, she said is a step in the right direction as it aids in the development of the lives of many Amerindians.

However, the APA official noted that Amerindians are lagging behind when it comes to social development.

She said there is indeed a gap that exists between citizens on the coast and those in interior locations, particularly Amerindians.

George opined that the opportunities made available through government are working, but higher levels of success need to be achieved.

“There is a lot more that still needs to be done in terms of educational opportunities for our children,” she stated.

In addition, George said while there are many health centres today than before, adequate medical supplies remains a challenge.

She admitted that there has been progress with regard to the number of medical personnel being trained

and sent to the hinterland, but not that the service is limited. The APA believes if this area is strengthened, then it would assist in a huge way, to reduce the money being spent annually to evacuate persons from the hinterland to Georgetown.

Amerindian culture

The APA said the promotion and protection of Amerindian culture is important. George said the association recognises the work government has been doing in this area and fully supports these initiatives.

A native Akawaio, George said promoting and preserving Amerindian culture and language should start at the family level. She advises that parents should pass on their native culture to their children so that it can be preserved.

The APA official said this is particularly important, since it will ensure that the culture does not become extinct. “We are happy to hear that the government has such a programme to promote, pre-

serve and to revive the languages… but our culture is not only limited to language, but dances and so many others,” she stated. In observance of Amerindian Heritage Month, government announced plans to strengthen and preserve the spoken languages of the country’s nine Amerindian tribes.

These include are Wai Wais, Macushis, Potomonas, Arawaks, Caribs, Wapishanas, the Arecunas, Akawaios, and Warraus. Plans are being made to compile dictionaries of the nine indigenous languages. Seven such dictionaries have thus far been completed.

The Amerindian rights activist said the APA remains open to more dialogue with government, particularly the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, to address their challenges. The APA represents the rights of Amerindians across the country and has been lobbying for government to secure these rights. (samuelsukhnandan@guyanatimesgy.com)

Youth council steering committee urged to

be more proactive

Former vice president of the St Lucia National Youth Council Andrew Alexander has called on the Guyana National Youth Council Steering Committee to be more proactive.

Alexander, who is currently on an official visit to Guyana, applauded the team of young professionals for formalising the Guyana National Youth Council Steering Committee, but said the committee has to initiate another step as it awaits the approval for the National Youth Council.

“I know that they are working very hard in terms of finalising documents... but even as they do so, there is also a need for them to be proactive.” He opined that with the commencement of the new academic year 2013/2014, the steering committee should have made its education message known. He added that meetings should have been scheduled for secondary schools and tertiary institutions across the country, with the aim of taking stock of the issues affecting youths and simultaneously offering advice on matters of mutual interest.

“They must be that voice for young people, so school has started, put a positive message encouraging and reinsuring the goals, emphasise the importance of education, stay in school, be focused and stay away from drugs and alcohol.”

Soliciting ideas

In defence, the seven member steering committee said several meetings have been conducted with the first consultation on July 17, with the primary objective of soliciting input, ideas, consensus and recommendations on the way forward. According to the committee, the consultation ended on a successful note with members being tasked with drafting a Model National Youth Council and a strategic plan.

Additionally, the steering

the passion for seeing this dream come to pass,” the steering committee stated.

Following its last consultation at the Umana Yana, Trinidad Youth Council Member Ravi Lutchman said the steering committee may likely face eight categories of challenges. These are operational, systemic, geographical, political, structural, participatory, representational and logistical challenges.

Challenge

committee said it had played a vital role on International Youth Day on August 12, using every media to discuss the concerns of youths across the country.

“Presently, we are preparing for the second consultation, scheduled for early October, which will see the formation of several task forces and more young people taking up leadership roles. Further, an online needs assessment of young Guyanese is being conducted via surveymonkey to garner more opinions and compile those statistics to further the cause of establishing a council.”

Advocacy

Finally, in its line of defence, the group said its primary objective is to create an avenue for the establishment of a national youth council in Guyana, noting that it is the work of the council to advocate.

“We are building the house, and the elected youth council are the members that will actually reside in it. We are not the executive, nor are we an interim youth council, so we are very careful to not overstep those boundaries –the members of the council will be elected by the young persons of Guyana. This is a big task and a journey for all young Guyanese. We are doing all of this voluntarily, and only because we have

According to the report, any lack of support from the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry will pose a major challenge to the establishment of the council. “Despite the governmental partner agency, the NYC should always remain non-partisan and un-involved in the national politicking, as it is expected that the NYC will never be a vehicle through which the national political agenda is advanced.”

Acquiring financial support, credibility and political independence were among other challenges identified in addition to garnering the support of young people across the country. In addition to combating the foreseen challenges, 12 key recommendations were placed on the table. According to reports, these recommendations are being analysed by the steering committee.

National youth councils (NYCs) have been established across the Caribbean and the world as machines with requisite skills, knowledge and resources to advance the progress and collective interests of young people.

Mobilising and organising young people, facilitating genuine participation of young people in governance and decision-making and promoting and enhancing the accessibility of young people to progressive development are some of the key roles of NYCs.

TT PM gets thumbs up on local govt elections – NACTA

The findings of an opinion survey being conducted by the North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA) earlier in the month found overwhelming approval for Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s decision to hold local government elections within the constitutionally mandated time. There is also overwhelming support for local government reform to empower the bodies to control their own affairs, rather than be subjected to the dictates of the central government.

However, only a simple majority endorses electoral reform, by way of the introduction of Proportional Representation (PP) (sim-

ilar to Guyana’s election of members of Parliament and councillors) to allocate and choose aldermen. The poll finds Roodal Moonilall (housing), Vasanth Bharath (trade), Fazal Karim (tertiary education), Glenn Ramadharsingh (social welfare), Rudy Indarsingh (labour) and Tim Gopeesingh (education), among the top rated ministers.

The findings of the poll were obtained from interviews with 425 respondents (45 per cent Indian, 37 per cent African, 17 per cent mixed, and one per cent other) reflecting the demographics of the population. The poll has a four per cent margin of error.

Asked if they approve of the prime minister’s deci-

sion to hold local elections when it is constitutionally due, a whopping 90 per cent

said yes, saluting PersadBissessar for holding true to her word of respecting elec-

toral democracy and “calling elections when they are due”. Kamla was advised to delay the elections but she was adamant that election will be held on time. October 21 is polling day.

Asked if they support the prime minister’s decision to introduce the PR system in the allotment of aldermen to political parties, 54 per cent said yes, with 26 per cent saying not sure, and 20 per cent, no. Many people are of the view that PR system needs more detailed explanation and many felt the system be used in other (parliamentary) elections as well.

Asked if they are in favour of more local government reforms, rather than electoral reform alone, 92 per cent answered affirma-

tively, saying powers should be decentralised to the local entities, giving them autonomy especially over control of funding. Voters complain they hardly see their councillors after an election and almost everyone feels a recall system is needed to hold them accountable and to obtain better service.

Asked who they rate as best performing minister, Dr Roodal Moonilall leads with 19 per cent, followed by Vasanth Bharath 17 per cent, Dr Glenn Ramadharsingh 16 per cent, Fazal Karim 10 per cent and Rudy Indarsingh seven per cent. Dr Fuad Khan, Dr Tim Gopeesingh, Suruj Rambachan and Devant Maharaj also made the rating.

Barbados to expand trade relations with Brazil

Barbados is looking to expand its trade relations with Brazil, and to this end, the government is spearheading a political/commercial mission to that country – the largest in South America.

The one-week mission began on Saturday and Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Maxine McClean is leading the delegation.

McClean pointed out that one of the major aims of the mission was to identify opportunities to utilise excess production capacities which exist in a number of sectors across Barbados.

capacity of local businesses; provide local manufacturers with the opportunity to establish business relations; identify possible sources of raw materials for local producers; promote this country as a tourist and business investment destination; facilitate increased market penetration through direct export, joint venture and or franchising; and further strengthen the bilateral relationship with Brazil.

Mexico battered by two deadly storms

At least 23 people have been killed in Mexico, which is being battered by two powerful storms simultaneously, one on its east and another on its west coast.

Hurricane Ingrid sent thousands to shelters on Mexico’s Gulf Coast before it was downgraded to a tropical storm just before it made landfall.

Ingrid is dumping torrential rains as it moves westward through Tamaulipas at a speed of 17km/h (11mph).

On the Pacific coast, Tropical Storm Manuel also caused widespread damage.

“It also seeks to reaffirm Barbados’ commitment to maintaining excellent relations with Brazil on a political and diplomatic level, to facilitate the making of relevant contacts, and engagement in discussions on any areas of concern or interest in the course of relations between the two countries,” she explained.

According to her, the objectives are to showcase Barbados’ product and services offerings; enhance the foreign exchange earning

Some of the main commodities Barbados exported to Brazil during 2008 to 2012 were rum and its by-products, personal effects, and vaccines for human medicine; while the main imports were plywood sheets, canned corned beef, paper/paperboard, glazed ceramic flags and medication for therapeutic use.

(Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Ingrid made landfall near the town of La Pesca in north-eastern Tamaulipas state on Monday.

With maximum sustained winds of 100km/h (65mph) it was expected to die down as it moved southwest on a path forecast to hit the city of San Luis Potosi.

Even though it has weak-

Fidel Castro recalls "unforgettable memories" of Vietnam

“Unforgettable Memories” is the title of an article by former Cuban President Fidel Castro, recalling his visit to Vietnam 40 years ago.

The article was published on Saturday by Granma newspaper.

Castro said that he did not have the privilege of meeting Ho Chi Minh, the North Vietnamese leader.

He noted that thousands of Vietnamese youths studied Spanish and English in Cuba for years, while a large number of Cubans learned Vietnamese in the Asian country.

Haiphong harbour, bombed by U.S. planes, welcomed Cuban boats loaded with sugar, while hundreds of technicians worked during the Vietnam War in the construction field.

At present, bilateral economic collaboration and political relations between the two Communist Parties are excellent and even keep growing, Fidel noted.

In his article, Castro also referred to the U.S. threats on Syria and that the risk of such conflict has diminished thanks to the Russian initiative. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Six killed in Colombian bar stampede

Six people were killed and five injured in a stampede triggered when police raided a crowded bar in the Colombian capital Bogota, officials say.

Officers were called to the venue after reports of a brawl.

Chaos broke out after some form of gas was released and patrons tried to leave the premises, authorities say.

Witnesses accused police of causing the deaths by throwing tear gas and using excessive force. A federal probe has been launched into the incident.

More than 180 peo-

ple were crammed into the small bar, according to local media reports.

Officials confirmed five men and one woman were

killed during the stampede.

“There must be an investigation as to how this gas came to be inside this place and that’s why the attorney

general’s office is involved,” Bogota Police Chief Luis Eduardo Martinez said.

Two officers have reportedly been suspended as part of the case.

Mayor Gustavo Petro has strongly criticised the police team’s tactics.

“It cannot be that a police intervention kills more people than if they had not intervened,” he wrote in a post on Twitter.

“The problem lies in the methods of intervention.”

The incident took place around 4:00h local time (9:00h GMT) on Sunday in the southern neighbourhood of Restrepo. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Regional aviation sectors may improve as Caribbean Airlines subsidy ends

The recent announcement that, from October, Caribbean Airlines (CAL) will no longer receive a Trinidad and Tobago government fuel subsidy – if it is indeed true and not a hoax as some observers have suggested – may benefit the Guyana and Suriname aviation sectors in particular.

CAL’s monopoly over Guyana’s skies has allegedly

kept other airlines from entering the Guyana market and state-owned Surinam Airways (SLM) has often complained about CAL’s fuel subsidy as unfair competition.

In what may or may not be a related coincidence, just after the announcement of the removal of CAL’s fuel subsidy, SLM and the government of Suriname are now

discussing a US$200 million modernisation and expansion plan for the state-owned airline.

The government is fast forwarding the transportation sector and that is good news for SLM. The government of Suriname envisions a new-look Surinam Airways transporting tourists and business people, in addition to the ethnic market, as the

local tourism sector takes off and the economy continues to grow.

SLM’s plans to fly to JFK New York, via Georgetown, Guyana, are also progressing and it is expected that that could happen by year end, according to SLM officials. In addition, SLM will soon increase its Georgetown/Miami route from two to three weekly flights. (Caribbean News Now)

ened since hitting land, forecasters at the Miami-based National Hurricane Centre (NHC) warned Irene could still cause deadly flash floods and mudslides.

They said the storm could dump as much as 38cm (15 inches) of rain over parts of eastern Mexico.

Six thousand people were evacuated as

the category one hurricane approached the coast. Celebrations marking Mexico’s Independence Day were cancelled in many coastal towns.

State oil company Pemex said it had evacuated three platforms off the coast of Tamaulipas and closed two dozen wells in the area. (Excerpt from BBC News)

U.S. extends trade sanctions on Cuba

U.S. President Barack Obama has extended for another year the commercial sanctions imposed by Washington on Cuba.

In a memorandum addressed to the U.S. secretaries of state and the Treasury, published by the White House, Obama ordered the continuation of the economic, commercial and financial embargo on the Caribbean nation, Granma newspaper

reported. According to U.S. law, the U.S. president decided to uphold sanctions on Cuba under the Trade with the Enemy Act, claiming that it is in tune with U.S. national interests.

Washington has maintained its embargo on Cuba since 1961, which was stiffened in 1992 and 1996 following the adoption of the Torricelli and Helms-Burton laws. (Caribbean News Now)

LIAT CEO resigns

St Vincent and the Grenadians Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said the resignation of Ian Brunton, the chief executive of the regional airline, LIAT, has come at a most crucial time, but “nobody is indispensible”.

Dr Gonsalves, who is chair of the shareholder governments of the airline, said the matter would be discussed by the board of directors.

“He has tendered his resignation. Under his contract, I have been advised, that he has to give three months’ notice. Naturally, the board of directors will respond to say whether they are accepting it. But that is the factual situation,” Dr Gonsalves told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).

Dr Gonsalves said he had not spoken to Brunton since the announcement and is not in a position to comment on the reasons behind the decision of the Trinidadian top quit.

“I haven’t spoke to him.

I have spoken to my director, that is, St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Director, Mr Isaac Solomon, who is a very distinguished former public servant and now banker. He has given me his own opinion but it would not be proper for me to share it.” Brunton’s resignation comes as poor implementation of LIAT’s re-fleeting exercise over the past few weeks erased any profits that the airline hoped to make over the summer period – one of its busiest. (Caribbean360)

UN backs Syria chemical arms claims

The UN has confirmed “unequivocally and objectively” that chemical weapons have been used in Syria.

A UN report says sarin was used in a rocket attack in the Syrian capital, Damascus, last month, although it has not attributed blame.

“This is a war crime,” Secretary General Ban Kimoon said.

U.S. allegations that the government was responsible led to threats of military action and then a U.S.-Russia deal for Syria to make safe its chemical arms.

World powers will now try to hammer out a UN

The UN based its report on samples collected after the attack

Security Council resolution.

Earlier, UN investigators said they were probing 14 alleged chemical attacks in Syria since September

Costa Concordia in Italy freed from rocks

Engineering officials in Italy say they have succeeded in lifting the cruise ship Costa Concordia free of rocks, 20 months after it ran aground.

Efforts to right the ship, one of the largest and most daunting salvage operations ever undertaken, are expected to last into Tuesday.

The ship has been detached from rocks and moved on to a platform constructed on the sea bed, offi-

cials said.

Thirty-two people died when the ship ran aground off the Tuscan coast.

The bodies of two of those killed in the January 2012 disaster, by the island of Giglio, have never been found.

There are hopes that they may be located during the operation, although officials said on Monday there was no sign of them so far.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

2011. Meanwhile, Turkey said it had shot down a Syrian helicopter close to its border. Deputy Prime Minister

Bulent Arinc said the aircraft was engaged by fighter jets after violating Turkish air space. It came down in Syria and the fate of the crew is unknown.

Ban briefed the Security Council on the report, and then addressed the media.

He said he was submitting the UN mission’s report “with a heavy heart”.

“The mission has concluded that chemical weapons were used on a relatively large scale in the Ghouta area of Damascus [on August 21]... The attack resulted in numerous casualties, particularly among civilians.”

Senior Afghan policewoman dies following attack

The top female police officer in Afghanistan’s restive south died on Monday, officials said, a day after she was shot by gunmen in an attack that followed the recent killing of her predecessor. Both women were gunned down on the streets of Lashkar Gah, the capital of Helmand province, by unknown assassins in murders that highlighted the grave threat to women who take on public roles in Afghanistan.

“I can confirm that Nigar died in the emergency unit of the hospital this morning,” provincial government spokesman Omar Zawak

told AFP. “She died from a bad injury to her neck.” Nigar, who like many Afghans used only one name, was earlier expected to survive after she was shot on Sunday morning by gunmen who escaped by motorbike. She was walking near the police headquarters in Lashkar Gah when her killers struck.

Nigar, 38, had worked for seven years in the police crime branch in Helmand, a hotbed of the Islamist insurgency that erupted against the U.S.-backed Kabul government after the fall of the Taliban in 2001. (Excerpt from France24)

Egypt forces raid Islamist-held town

Egyptian security forces have stormed a town held by supporters of ousted President Mohamed Morsi and arrested 56 residents as part of a crackdown on his Muslim Brotherhood, officials said.

The forces entered the town of Dalga, in Minya province about 300km south of Cairo, early on Monday, clearing barricades that had been erected by the Morsi loyalists.

Gunshots were exchanged but there were no official reports of injuries.

Witnesses told Al Jazeera that police and army units entered the town using tear gas to dis -

12 dead in mass shooting at Washington Navy Yard

Twelve people were killed Monday after at least one shooter opened fire in a rampage at a Navy yard in the nation’s capital, putting government buildings on lockdown and sending police SWAT teams rushing to the scene.

One suspect is dead, but two other gunmen may be on the loose, Washington Police Chief Cathy Lanier said.

“Right now we have multiple pieces of information to suggest that we had at least two other people seen with firearms. These are people that we believe are involved in some way,” Lanier said. She declined to provide specifics about why authorities believe they were involved.

A police officer and police canine inspect vehicles in a parking lot outside the Washington Navy Yard on Monday, September 16, after a shooting at the complex

Authorities are looking for a white man and a black man in military-style clothing who could be connected

to the shooting. A dozen people are confirmed dead after the shooting at the Washington Navy

Yard, Lanier said, and others are injured.

Who opened fire at the headquarters for Naval Sea Systems Command – and why – remains unclear.

“We still don’t know all the facts. But we do know that several people have been shot and some have been killed,” President Barack Obama said earlier Monday afternoon. “So we are confronting yet another mass shooting. And today it happened on a military installation in our nation’s capital.”

Obama called the shooting a “cowardly act” that targeted military and civilians serving their country. (Excerpt from CNN)

Thousands evacuated after volcano eruption in Indonesia

Aulation of roughly 120,000, has been under the control of Morsi supporters for more than a month.

Protests against the coup that ousted Morsi on July 3 have been taking place in the town almost on a daily basis.

Monday’s raid was launched to wrest back control of the area and arrest people accused by the military-backed government of inciting violence. Officials accused the Morsi supporters of torching about 20 churches and homes in Dalga in August and spray-painting X marks on shops owned by Christians. (Excerpts from Al Jazeera)

Muslim woman must remove veil to give trial evidence

The defendant, who cannot be identified, was present for the hearing

AMuslim woman can stand trial wearing a full-face veil but must remove it to give evidence, a judge has ruled.

Judge Peter Murphy made the ruling at Blackfriars Crown Court in London where the woman is due to stand trial accused of intimidating a witness.

comply during her trial she could be jailed for contempt of court.

The only part of a niqabwearer’s face that is visible is a narrow section across the eyes.

volcano in Indonesia prompted the evacuation of more than 6000 people this weekend, blanketing buildings and cars in ashes, emergency officials said Monday. Mount Sinabung erupted early Sunday. It is the highest mountain in North Sumatra with an altitude of about 2600 metres (8530 feet). North Sumatra is a province on the Indonesian island of Sumatra.

Sumatran city of Kabanjahe, said Jhonson Tarigan, a spokesman of the Sinabung Disaster Control Agency.

Five people suffered breathing difficulties after inhaling volcanic ashes, and they were transported to a hospital in the North

More than 6200 evacuees sought shelter in eight locations, said Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a spokesman for Indonesia’s national disaster management agency.

Officials distributed rice to the displaced people, local media reported. Nugroho said some of the evacuees returned to their homes during the day to tend to their farms and livestock and then returned to evacuation centres.

There were a couple of eruptions in 2010. (CNN)

The 22-year-old woman, from Hackney, has refused to remove her niqab and reveal her face in front of any man.

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded not guilty at an earlier hearing.

The judge’s ruling means that if the woman, who started wearing a veil in May 2012, refuses to

The judge said he would offer the woman a screen to shield her from public view while giving evidence but that she had to be seen by him, the jury and lawyers. At other times during the trial the woman will be allowed to keep her face covered while sitting in the dock.

In the ruling Judge Murphy said: “The ability of the jury to see the defendant for the purposes of evaluating her evidence is crucial.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

Jamaica Money Market Brokers (JMMB) has been approved by the Trinidadian central bank to fully acquire Intercommercial Bank Ltd and Intercommercial Trust & Merchant Bank in the twin island republic. The development brings the Kingston, Jamaica-based firm closer to becoming a fully integrated regional financial services company, Keith Duncan, JMMB Group CEO, said in a press release on Friday.

“As an indigenous

North America

Caribbean financial services company, we are excited about this opportunity to further build out banking services in the TT market,” Duncan said. “JMMB and IBL share a commitment to genuine client care, flexibility and responsiveness, and together we will build on that, to the benefit of our clients. The strength and commitment of the IBL team, coupled with JMMB Group’s regional reach, expertise and focus on valuing each client, make a formidable partner-

ship,” he added. In 2005, JMMB acquired a 50 per cent shareholding in the IBL Group as a means of broadening business line diversification in the region. The firm earlier this year stated its intent to the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (CBTT) to increase its share ownership of the TT banks to 100 per cent, and the approval to proceed with the transaction was granted by the regulators last week Tuesday, the company said. (Jamaica Observer)

U.S. stocks rallied on Monday, with the S&P 500 at a six-week high, after former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers withdrew as a candidate for Federal Reserve chairman, removing market uncertainty about a long confirmation process that already had plenty of opposition.

The move means a path for the next Fed chief is likely to be easier, and it also has add-

Europe

Barclays revealed on Monday that it is contesting a £50 million fine by the City regulator, which claims the bank behaved “recklessly” in the controversial 2008 fundraisings that allowed it to avoid a taxpayer bailout.

As Barclays formally launched a £6 billion cash call and admitted its investment banking earnings were “significantly” lower than a year ago, the bank provided more

ed to expectations that the Fed will continue its current accommodative path. Summers was seen as more prone to wind down stimulus than the new front-runner, Fed Vice Chairwoman Janet Yellen. Summers’ surprise decision on Sunday came just days before the U.S. central bank will meet to decide when, and by how much, to scale back its bond purchases, or quantitative easing. Investors flocked

to housing-related stocks on bets of downward pressure on mortgage rates. The PHLX housing index jumped two per cent. Among individual stocks, D Horton jumped five per cent to US$20.09.

Summers “was increasingly bringing uncertainty to a very important post for markets,” said Doug Cote, chief market strategist at ING U.S. Investment Management in New York. (Reuters)

Liberia: Decent work bill finally passed

– minimum wage set at US$6.00 per day

The plenary of the Liberian Senate overwhelmingly endorsed the joint Conference Committee report of both Houses to pass into law the controversial Decent Work Bill of 2010.

Plenary is the highest decision making body of the Liberian Senate. The senators took the decision during the 59th day sitting of the second session. Among other things, the Decent Work Bill sets US$0.75 cent per hour and US$6 per day for unskilled la-

bourers.

It can be recalled that the Senate sometimes ago, passed the Decent Work Bill, and set a minimum wage of US$6 per day, but was rejected by the House of Representatives.

The House had previously passed the Bill without setting a minimum wage for unskilled labourers. The rejection by the lower House led to the formation of the Joint Conference Committee comprising of members from both Houses of the Liberian Legislature relevant commit-

tees including Labour and Judiciary.

Introduced in the 52nd Legislature by former Senators Nathaniel Innis, and Roland Kaine, of Grand Bassa and Margibi Counties in 2010, the Decent Work Bill had suffered a series of setbacks including disagreements and arguments over a minimum wage legislation. The Senators’ decision to pass the bill stemmed from a report submitted from the Conference Committee to Plenary. (allAfrica)

China’s state TV says Danone bribed hospitals to push baby milk

Chinese state TV said on Monday that Danone had bribed hospital staff to give its milk powder to new-born babies, allegations that the French food group said it was shocked by and would investigate immediately.

China Central Television (CCTV) cited an unidentified former Dumex sales manager as saying the company had paid medical staff at a city hospital in Tianjin to promote its products.

Middle East

Milk powder is a highly sensitive topic in China after a scandal in 2008 when melamine added to baby milk killed at least six children and left thousands ill. This damaged the reputation of local firms and boosted international brands’ market share.

Chinese authorities have been cracking down in recent months on graft in various industries, with foreign companies such as British drugmak -

er GlaxoSmithKline and Germany’s Bayer in regulators’ sights. Autos, telecommunications and banks may come next, regulators have suggested. Local and foreign-owned milk powder firms, including Danone, were fined a record amount in August for price fixing. The former Dumex sales manager, cited by CCTV, said that that company gave several hundred thousand yuan in “gifts” to the hospital every year. (Reuters)

details about the investigation by the Financial Conduct Authority and Serious Fraud Office into the way it disclosed details of fees to the Middle Eastern investors who backed its two fundraisings at the height of the financial crisis five years ago.

There was no statement from the FCA on Monday, but Barclays said the regulator intended to levy one of its largest ever fines of £50 million, only a year after Barclays in-

curred what was then a record fine of £59.5 million for rigging Libor. That fine has since been surpassed by Royal Bank of Scotland and UBS, also for manipulating the key interest rate.

According to the new information provided by Barclays, the FCA has concluded that the bank should have disclosed more details about the fees due to Qatar Holdings, which amounted to £322 million over five years. (The Guardian)

Carved out of a 500kg solid block of gold, the latest lavish creation from Italian luxury sports car maker Lamborghini has gone on sale for US$7.3 million.

The gold Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 was built in Germany by Robert Wilhelm Gulpen, who has been creating luxury car models from precious metals

and stones for the past 12 years at his company RGE Robert Gulpen Engineering. This is the first time that the opulent model has been on display outside of Europe. Currently showcased at the Dubai showroom, it will head to Abu Dhabi by the end of September and finally to the Dubai International Motor Show in November, before embarking on a world tour.

The most precious and most expensive car in the world is set to be auctioned to the public. However, if a buyer wishes to make a bid upfront, Gulpen is willing to accept US$7.3 million. Otherwise, it will be sold for a minimum of US$7.5 million at a well-known auction house.

Of that sum, US$650,000 will go to charity. (Arabianbusiness)

Why is corporate governance important?

Corporate governance is the way a corporation polices itself. In short, it is a method of governing the company like a sovereign state, instating its own customs, policies and laws to its employees from the highest to the lowest levels. Corporate governance is intended to increase the accountability of your company and to avoid massive disasters before they occur. Failed energy giant Enron, and its bankrupt employees and shareholders, is a prime argument for the importance of solid corporate governance. Well-executed corporate governance should

be similar to a police department’s internal affairs unit, weeding out and eliminating problems with extreme prejudice. A company can also hold meetings with internal members, such as shareholders and debt holders – as well as suppliers, customers and community leaders, to address the request and needs of the affected parties.

Principles of corporate governance

* Shareholder recognition is key to maintaining a company’s stock price. More often than not, however, small

* Capable of changing or being changed; in a state of flux, not static.

shareholders with little impact on the stock price are brushed aside to make way for the interests of majority shareholders and the executive board. Good corporate governance seeks to make sure that all shareholders get a voice at general meetings and are allowed to participate.

* Stakeholder interests should also be recognised by corporate governance. In particular, taking the time to address non-shareholder stakeholders can help your company establish a positive relationship with the community and the press. (Business Dictionary)

* Characterised or distinguished by continuous change or vigorous activity, high effectiveness, energy, or force.

* Causative or motivating agent or force, underlying an event or phenomenon.

Suspected bandit killed in shootout with police

– two others arrested, another on the run

By Bhisham mohamed

Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara was the scene of rapid gunfire Monday morning when police and suspected bandits exchanged shots, leaving one of the criminals dead.

Two others have been arrested, while a fourth is on the run.

The dead man has been identified as Kirk Bacchus, 28, of Paradise Village, East Coast Demerara.

According to police, they were informed that an armed robbery had been planned, so they decided to stake out the intended target at Kastev Housing Scheme.

Hand guns

About 09:15h, two motor vehicles, bearing registration numbers HB 7644 and PPP 9366, drove up at a house that is under construction and four men exited the vehicles.

Two of the men were reportedly armed with handguns and posed as Guyana Power and Light (GPL) workers.

After the men recognised the police, they discharged several rounds in their direction, leaving the police no alternative but to return fire. The bandits then fled and police gave chase, intercepting them at Tarla Dam where Bacchus was shot and killed.

He was the second brother of five siblings.

A .9mm pistol with two live rounds was recovered and the motor vehicles were impounded at the Leonora Police Station.

pronounced dead on arrival.

His body was then transported to the Ezekiel Funeral Home to await a post-mortem. A number of schools and businesses closed their doors after the gunshots were heard.

Lie low Guyana Times understands that as the bandits fled the house, one of then ran in the direction of the Meten-Meer-Zorg Primary School.

Gunshots were heard and the teachers instructed the 334 children who were present at the educational institution to lie on the floor.

One teacher disclosed that as parents heard of the shooting, they came for their children. As per protocol, the most senior teacher at the time telephoned the education department at Vreeden-Hoop and reported the incident.

As a result, they were given the green light to send the children home but the staff memers were instructed to remain in school. She

that it was more serious and she saw two men running through the streets.

She explained that they could not have differentiated which of the men were bandits and who were police since they all had guns.

The woman added that one of the men hid behind a post at the back of the school, but not before discharging at least two rounds in the air.

Apprehended

The police managed to apprehend him, and another bandit ran in the direction of the cemetery. Another female resident said she was standing on the street when she saw two men running towards the backdam.

They were pursued by other men on foot and some who looked like police officers who were in a black taxi HC 1607.

PPP/C pins blame for rising gun crimes on opposition

– cites voting down of firearms bill, stance against Rohee

The ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic rejected recent statements from the opposition complaining about the upsurge in gun crimes, saying it was the combined opposition who not so long ago voted down a bill to curb illegal firearms smuggling. The administration also pointed out that the opposition has been taking a non-cooperative stance against the national security minister, Clement Rohee.

At its weekly news conference, the PPP/C said what is even more astonishing is that both the AFC and APNU have recognised the devastating impact the use of illegal firearms by criminals has had on Guyanese society and the fact that more needs to be done to provide the Guyana Police Service with additional support to go after gun smugglers.

“Having recognised this reality, the People’s Progressive Party call on

them to explain to the Guyanese people, particularly the victims of these gun crimes, why they teamed up against the People’s Progressive Party/Civic in the National Assembly and used their combined one seat majority – to vote down the Firearms Amendment bill on March 13 of this year. They sacrificed the safety and security of all Guyanese in their pursuit of petty and vindictive politics,” the PPP said.

Emboldened criminals

According to the PPP/C, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee and the PPP/C were fighting to have this amendment passed to close a loophole in the law, to make it easier to prosecute gun smugglers, thereby making it more difficult for criminals to access firearms and consequently armed crimes in particular. “The APNU/AFC have emboldened criminals by

their non-support of this initiative and the national security plan by extension. Hence, the recent statement by APNU that it refuses to take any blame for the crime situation is a clear indication of guilt on their part,” the PPP/C said. The party said despite continued attempts to undermine anti-crime efforts, “we remain steadfast in our support to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Guyana Police Service. We are encouraged by the recent arrests in several highprofile crimes and we wish to encourage the GPS to go after these criminals in a relentless manner and place them before our courts, so that justice can be served.”

The party also noted the quick response by police ranks on Monday resulting in the interception of a gang of bandits in the MetenMeer-Zorg area as they were in the process of committing a robbery.

CIOG deeply concerned over crime spree

The Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) is deeply concerned at the recent spate of violent deaths perpetrated on Guyanese.

In a release, the CIOG said most alarming is the inability of the authorities vested with the power to apprehend and curtail those responsible for these atrocities.

the citizens of Guyana and the diaspora,” the religious organisation stressed.

dent, focusing on the cause and remedy and moreover apprehending those responsible will have positive results in bringing a cessation to these gruesome acts. ”

At Tarla Dam, MetenMeer-Zorg, residents and curious onlookers flocked the area to get a glimpse of the dead man as he was placed into the back of a police vehicle and taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he was

recounted that the children panicked and started to scream.

A vendor said she heard the commotion and thought that children were playing with squibs.

She said after it went on for a while, she realised

The police managed to intercept the men who fired repeatedly on the taxi. Guyana Times understands that the taxi was commandeered by police ranks to pursue the suspected bandits.

Less than a week ago, 27-year-old Zulfikar Namdar also called “Vicky” was shot and killed in Meten-Meer-Zorg during a raid at his family's business place. (bhisham@guyanatimesgy.com)

“There is no doubt that those responsible for these heinous crimes, are consumed by greed, and other forces unknown, and shows scant regard for human life. Their actions are now causing citizens to believe that a new wave of anarchy and lawlessness is in the making. This in no small way is driving fear and frustration among

The CIOG said it has lost two valued members to these senseless acts of violence and destruction, one at Meten-Meer-Zorg, and another at Number 70 Village, Berbice. It added that its concern is not directed solely at Muslims, but for all lawabiding citizens, irrespective of religious, ethnic or political background.

“While we have every confidence in our police and other law enforcement agencies, we are taken aback by some statements that are made, comprising hearsay, innuendoes and assertions that cast doubts on the true cause of the offence, but instead victimise the victims. We are confi -

The CIOG called on all law-abiding citizens, in and out of Guyana, to take a positive stance in demanding immediate action to remedy the situation that has now become a scourge on the nation. It urged all religious leaders, the police and government to convene forthwith a panel to review current procedures, implementing new ideas and identifying causes and solutions that can be effective in bringing an end to these dastardly acts committed on our people.

Customer service training organisation launched

Ever been the victim of a long line only to be greeted at the end by a surly customer service representative? Well, thanks to a new organisation, JTW Management Institute, focused on providing customer service and English language training, that may be an experience fewer and fewer of us suffer through.

On September 11, the institute situated on Waterloo Street, launched its operations here with the graduation of 11 students with the City and Guilds Award in Customer Service Improvement. The inspiring ceremony was held in

the conference room of the National Library.

Cultural icon Negla Brandis was there and presented the City and Guilds Certificates to the graduates. In her charge, after presenting the certificates, Brandis urged the graduates to use the 10 commandments of human relations –speak to people, smile at people, call people by name, be friendly and helpful, be cordial, be interested in people, be generous in praise, be considerate, be thoughtful, and be alert to give service.

The 11 graduates from private sector companies in Georgetown and

Linden are: Tameka Hiles, Dunisa Bascom, Shavone Ross, Janella Stewart, Chelan Yhap, Vondette De Florimonte, Patricia Gouveia, Janet Lakeram, Ronique Welch, Bibi Ally Hussain, and Sumintra Sampat. Persons interested in improving their interpersonal and language skills can start their journey at the institute, as registration for the six-week customer service and English courses is ongoing. Anyone who is 16 years old and over can register; no previous qualification is required. Contact number: 223-5148.

SUDOKU

Don’t give up when things start to get difficult. Perseverance will set you apart from the competition. Be open to unusual ideas, and you will find a way to improve your future.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Take a cautious financial attitude today. Stick to a budget and refuse to believe someone offering the impossible. Protect your assets and your reputation.

An unusual subject, philosophy or form of entertainment will capture your attention. Prepare to debate as well as begin interesting friendships. Love and romance will enhance your day.

Distance yourself from a personal situation and focus on the positive changes that can be made on your own with little fuss. Do what’s best for you.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

Speak up and demonstrate what you can do. Your clever plans and talents will interest someone looking to get involved in a new project. Lady luck will smile upon you if you can stay flexible.

(March 21-April 19)

Don’t be afraid to take charge of a situation that has left others stymied. If you follow through on your commitments, you can right the ship. Don’t overreact or overindulge. Stick to the truth.

(April 20-May 20)

Shifting conditions will worry others, but you will keep an open mind. Not everyone will be happy with your perspective, but your judgment will be sound.

(May 21June 20)

Don’t turn down an opportunity to attend a social function that could lead to networking. Your ideas to improve efficiency at work will lead to an enhanced reputation if you implement them.

You can talk your way into a deal that will help you prosper. Show how dedicated you are and what you are willing to do, and an unusual opportunity will develop.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Move forward with caution. Whether you are dealing with a friend, lover or colleague, you have to listen carefully and make offers that you know you’ll be able fulfil.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Enjoy whatever comes your way today. Look for groups or interests that can offer you something emotionally, domestically or educationally. Opportunity will knock, and good connections can be made.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

An idea you have or a service you can offer will lead to a potentially valuable contact. Be prepared for unexpected yet valuable surprises.

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Teachers urged to make learning fun

Local educators were encouraged to step out of their comfort zones to make children interested in school, by embracing their profession and seeking innovative ways to make learning fun and interesting, by award-winning American teacher Ron Clark.

Addressing teachers, administrators and students at the National Cultural Centre on Monday, Clark, who is also a motivational speaker, shared his experiences and techniques that can encourage a more conducive learning environment for students.

The high school teacher was invited by the Education Ministry as part of activities for Education Month 2013, to deliver the feature address to teachers at the transforming minds workshop.

Clark stated that persons employed as teachers who see the profession as just a job should not be educators.

“You’ve got to push them, because, if you don’t, it’s the future of your country that will suffer… the future of your country depends upon you pushing the brain thrust in this country,” said Clark,

ed and ready to learn.

Clark, who teaches mathematics and history to fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth grade students, said he was successful in getting children to learn by changing the lyrics of popular songs into that of math problems and history lessons.

Clark transformed a 100-year-old abandoned factory into a school dubbed ‘The Ron Clark Academy”, which is located in Atlanta, Georgia. It

as he made reference to China and other countries that are working to push their gifted students by investing in them.

He continued, “You got to have each other’s back, you got to defend each other, you got to be strong, because, if we are all strong, it’s going to flow down to all the kids.”

He highlighted the various innovative measures he has used to get his students excit-

caters for fifth through eighth grade students.

According to him, teachers from other schools are allowed to witness how lessons are taught innovatively at his school, so that they are challenged to go back to their respective schools to implement similar innovations and cause a revolution of fun teaching.

He has won the Disney Teacher of the Year award in

2001, appeared on TV shows in America, including the Oprah Winfrey Show, and is the author of a book called ‘The Ron Story”.

Backbone of the education system In her remarks at the forum, Education Minister Priya Manickchand stressed that teachers are the backbone of the education system.

“If you didn’t do what you’re trained to do, if you didn’t do what you promised to do when you became a teacher, then it would all be for naught and so it’s extremely important that you be the best that you could be, and that’s why we understand fully that you have, in addition, to having issues with how to teach and be a good teacher, you also have your lives to live and we get that,” she said.

As such, she reiterated her call for teachers to work diligently with the country’s future generation.

She noted that the motivational workshop is the ministry’s way of giving back to teachers during Education Month, noting that they “cannot observe education month without celebrating teachers”.

“We are deeply grateful for all your efforts and we wanted to do something special for you,” she added.

She assured that government will continue to work towards providing teachers with the best working conditions.

OAS official calls on members to invest more in children

Organisation of American States (OAS) Assistant Secretary General Ambassador Albert Ramdin has called on governments, international organisations, the private sector, and non-governmental organisations to “recognise the value of investing more in the children of the hemisphere”.

Ramdin made the call as he opened the 88th Regular Session of the Directing Council of the Inter-American Children’s Institute, in Medellin, Colombia, on Monday. The Inter-American Children’s Institute is a specialised organ of the OAS, which seeks to assist governments in their efforts to design national protection systems for the promotion of the rights of children.

According to the highranking OAS official, while progress has been made in the reduction of mortality, mal-

nutrition, and poverty rates in this hemisphere, an estimated 81 million children still live and are raised in poverty, with 32 million listed as living in extreme poverty. “The issues facing our children remain and, in some cases, have become more complex. From poverty to challenges in nutrition and health, child trafficking, protection and defence, we must work harder. Our efforts must not wane, especially in a region where, in many countries, over half the total population is under the age of 18,” said Assistant Secretary General Ramdin.

The OAS assistant secretary general also called for stronger public policies to create and provide opportunities for children. “Working together, parents, teachers, and mentors can encourage the creative potential of this generation and provide an environment where our children

can thrive and learn the skills needed to become responsible citizens.”

The 88th Regular Session of the Inter-American Children’s Institute was hosted by the Instituto de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF) of the Colombian government and inaugurated by the president of the Directing Council, Gloria Lozano Diaz, who applauded the commitment of the OAS and the presence of the assistant secretary general. This year, delegates are focusing their deliberations on three areas: natural disasters and the impact on children; alternative penal responsibilities; and early childhood education. The outcome of this meeting will factor into the preparations for 21st Pan American Children’s Congress, scheduled to take place in Brazil.

Watson century seals series win for Aussies

Shane Watson hit a brutal century as Australia beat England by 49 runs in the final one-day international to win the series 2-1 on Monday.

His 107-ball 143, allied to Michael Clarke’s 75, propelled Australia to 298 all out on a true Southampton surface.

Ben Stokes took 5-61 and debutant Chris Jordan 3-51 for England.

But the hosts managed only 249, with Ravi Bopara’s 62 the highest score as Mitchell Johnson claimed 2-21 from 10 overs and James Faulkner 3-38.

While victory ensured Australia ended an otherwise miserable tour on a high note, England will point to the fact they won the Ashes, the main event of the summer.

“I’m extremely happy to win the series,” Australia captain Clarke told BBC Test Match Special. “To a lot of people this ODI series does not mean much, but to the Australia players it means a lot.

“I don’t know whether it will have much impact on the Ashes back home, but we get the flight back home tomorrow (Tuesday) a lot happier as a one-day side.”

They never threatened to complete the highest successful run-chase on

this ground, and the sight of spectators huddled under blankets as the stadium emptied long before the finish reflected the subdued atmosphere in a game that had a distinct end-of-term feel.

Watson’s muscular innings, which featured 12 fours and six sixes, was the exception, with Joe Root plundered for 28 in one particularly riotous over - the most expensive in history by an England bowler.

Clarke was typically fluent, while rejuvenated leftarm pace bowler Johnson issued England - and the Australia selectors - with a timely reminder of his form ahead of the return Ashes series down under starting in November.

England’s pursuit of an imposing target was undermined by two run-outs as they slipped to 68-4, Kevin Pietersen the casualty after another mix-up with Michael Carberry, and Luke Wright beaten by George Bailey’s brilliant direct hit.

Eoin Morgan was stumped for 30 as he gave Adam Voges the charge, and Bopara’s 92-run sixthwicket alliance with alliance with Jos Buttler failed to stem the escalating required run-rate.

When they perished in successive overs, Buttler bowled for 42 aiming a

wild heave at Faulkner and Bopara driving Johnson straight to extra cover, the game was over as a contest.

“We’ve learnt a lot about guys coming through, espe-

Beaton reminds Yuvraj of Curtly Ambrose

BANgALORE, India

- Yuvraj Singh, who smashed a blistering century against West Indies A, said his knock was very satisfying on Sunday as it came against a high quality West Indies attack.

Yuvraj spoke highly of paceman Ronsford Beaton and likened him to great Caribbean bowler Curtly Ambrose.

“I think it was a complete international attack. (Andre) Russell has played for his national side and Beaton is the future fast bowler for the West Indies. He reminds me of Curtly. Obviously Curtly was great, but I think he has lot of potential and I think it was a very good attack,” he said at the post-match press conference.

Yuvraj said hitting a hundred in the first game of the season was special.

“I think I have worked hard in my off-season on my batting and other skills in last couple of weeks,” he said.

“Robin (Uthappa) and Mandy gave us a good start which allowed me and Yusuf (Pathan) to catch up at the end.”

Yuvraj showered praise on his private French trainer Tim Exeter for making him and Zaheer Khan, who is also on a comeback trail,

match fit.

“It was organised by National Cricket Academy physio Ashish Kaushik. NCA has always supported me and the people who believed in me. I thank them all,” he said.

Yuvraj said he has shed a few kilos and feeling stronger and moving quickly on the ground. “I was always quick on the field and I just worked on those aspects and I am feeling better,” he added.

Asked to comment on not being picked for four-day matches, Yuvraj said he was least bothered of the kind of matches as long as he was

scoring runs.

“Boss, I have got an opportunity to play. I don’t know whether it is four-day match and Test cricket I am just happy I am playing and scoring runs. I don’t know what is going to happen in the future,” he said.

Admitting the pressure a player faces while making a comeback, Yuvraj said he accepts such challenges which bring best out of him and exuded confidence he would get national selectors’ nod.

He also welcomed facing challenge from performing youngsters, saying it was good for the future of Indian cricket.

be disappointed with their total after threatening to waste the good work of Watson and Clarke.

They added a thrilling 163 for the fourth wicket in 22 overs, a partnership all the more impressive given that it began with Stokes on a hat-trick after removing Aaron Finch and Matthew Wade.

The Durham all-rounder was among those who came in for savage treatment from Watson, with Clarke forced to play second fiddle despite scoring at almost a run a ball.

Australia innings P Hughes c Carberry b Jordan 2

A Finch c Morgan b Stokes 26

S Watson c †Buttler b Stokes 143

M Wade† c †Buttler b Stokes 0

M Clarke* c Pietersen b Jordan 75

G Bailey st †Buttler b Root 4

A Voges c †Buttler b Stokes 8 J Faulkner c †Buttler b Jordan 10

M Johnson c &

cially Stokes, Jordan and [Boyd] Rankin,” said skipper Morgan. “They showed a lot of promise; we’ve learnt they can step up to the mark.” Australia had reason to

From 211-3 in the 32nd over, Australia’s momentum was checked when Clarke failed to clear mid-off during the batting powerplay.

Bailey, dragging his back foot out as he tried to sweep Root, was stumped by Buttler, who also took four catches.

The persevering Stokes located Voges’ edge before removing Watson and Johnson to initiate a collapse that saw the last four wickets fall for 16 runs.

England’s woes with the bat ensured it was irrelevant. (BBC Sport)

Total: (all out, 49.1 overs) 298 Fall of wickets: 1-13, 2-48, 3-48, 4-211, 5-221, 6-244, 7-282, 8-284, 9-294, 10-298 Bowling: W Rankin 9.1-126-1, C Jordan 10-0-51-3, B Stokes 10-0-61-5, R Bopara 10-0-54-0, J Tredwell 4-038-0, J Root 6-0-58-1 England innings M Carberry lbw b Faulkner 30 K Pietersen run out (Fawad Ahmed/Hughes) 0 J Root b Johnson 21 E Morgan* st †Wade b Voges 30 L Wright run out (Bailey) 0 R Bopara c Voges b Johnson 62 J Buttler† b Faulkner 42 B Stokes c Clarke b Faulkner 27 C Jordan c Bailey b Watson 14 J Tredwell not out

BBCI presents trophy, hampers to Blairmont Centre Cricket Club

The Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) recently donated a trophy and two hampers to the Blairmont Centre Cricket Club for its second annual awards ceremony, which also included acknowledging senior citizens in the community. The items were handed

over on September 12 to the members of the club.

The BBCI, in a statement, said it was privileged to have the opportunity to make a donation towards the club. The statement added that the company decided to come on board mainly due to the fact that main objective of the event is to honour

junior and senior cricketers and senior citizens.

The BBCI has in the past made donations to charitable and non-charitable organizations in Region Five and Six, and had also sponsored events in Demerara and Essequibo, including as far as the hinterland. (See story on page 23)

Shelvey stars as Swansea hold Liverpool

Swansea midfielder Jonjo Shelvey had a hand in all four goals as his old club Liverpool moved back to the top of the Premier League with an exciting draw on Monday.

The hosts led after 87 seconds when Shelvey curled into the bottom corner.

But his slack backpass allowed in-form Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge to fire in less than two minutes later.

Reds debutant Victor Moses steered in after another mistake from Shelvey, who then headed the ball on for Michu to equalise and end the Reds’ 100% start.

The Spaniard’s first Premier League goal of the new season provided the final twist in an entertaining game at the Liberty Stadium. Liverpool might have dropped

their first points this season, but the draw still allowed them to leapfrog Arsenal and Tottenham to the top of the Premier League.

Swansea are 13th after taking four points from their opening four matches.

It was certainly an evening to remember for England Under-21 international Shelvey, who left Anfield for the south Wales club in the summer.

The £5m signing put the Swans ahead when he left new Reds defender Mamadou Sakho flat-footed to calmly stroke a left-foot effort past goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.

Liverpool had not previously conceded in the Premier League and they were gifted a way back into the game little over 100 seconds later by Shelvey.

His careless pass back towards

goalkeeper Michel Vorm was seized upon by Sturridge, who netted his fourth top-flight goal of the season with a clinical finish.

The Reds dominated the opening half hour as the vibrant trio of Moses, Philippe Coutinho and Sturridge pulled apart the Swansea defence with pace and precision. And they should have doubled their advantage when Moses and Sturridge combined.

On-loan Chelsea winger Moses surged past two defenders near the left corner flag and dinked in a perfectly weighted cross towards an unmarked Sturridge.

The England striker seemed certain to score but his header was directed too close to Vorm, who made a magnificent save.

Shortly before half-time, they did take a deserved lead. Shelvey sloppily handed possession to Moses, who drove at the backpedalling Swansea defence before accurately shooting into the bottom corner from the edge of the penalty area.

Victory would have given Liverpool their best start to a season since 1990-91, when they went on to become the English champions for the 18th time - the last time they won the title.

And for the opening hour they seemed firmly on course to achieve that. But Coutinho’s departure early in the second half with a shoulder injury following a robust challenge from Swans skipper Ashley Williams disrupted their fluency. (BBC Sport)

GBA president Ramdhani elected CAREBACO general secretary at AGM,

The Caribbean Regional Badminton (CAREBACO) Annual General Meeting was held on Saturday in Puerto Rico at the Sheraton Hotel during the Caribbean International Championships. Guyana Badminton Association President Gokarn Ramdhani was

Windies A look to draw level

BAnGALORE, India - Their confidence on high after the comprehensive win in the opener, India A would look to seal the three-match unofficial ODI series against West Indies A in the second 50-over game between the two sides at the Chinnaswamy Stadium today.

Skipper Yuvraj Singh stole the limelight with a breathtaking century to guide India A to a thumping 77-run win over the visitors in the opening match of the series on Sunday, and come today the hosts would be looking for an encore. All eyes were trained on on Yuvraj yesterday after he was handed a lifeline to return to the ODI team by being named captain of the India A team.

And the dashing left-hander grabbed the opportunity with both hands and staked his claim for a national berth by scoring a brutal 89-ball 123 against the hapless Caribbeans in the opening match.

Yuvraj produced a sensational exhibition of strokeplay by hitting eight fours and seven sixes in his scintillating innings to help India raise 312 for four after being put to bat in the match which was reduced to 42-over-a-side affair due to two-hour delayed start on account of wet outfield.

India ‘A’ then bowled out the visitors for 235 in 39.1 overs, giving the home side a 1-0 lead in the series. Come tomorrow, India A, a team on a roll after the cleansweep against new Zealand A, would be hoping to carry on the winning momentum in their future matches. During his dazzling knock yesterday, Yuvraj shared two hundred-run partnerships with Mandeep Singh (67) and Yusuf Pathan (70 not out), who played perfect second fiddle to the left-hander.

Comeback

Just like Yuvraj, Yusuf — who is also looking for a comeback to the ODI team — displayed his attacking skills and tore apart the West Indies bowling attack to score his runs off just 32 balls with the help of four boundaries and six hits over the fence.

But openers Robin Uthappa and Unmukt Chand, both of whom excelled against new Zealand A, failed to replicate their form in the opening match against the Caribbeans. And the duo would be hoping to return among runs which will ensure a rollicking start for the hosts. Uthappa, who is in ODI exile, in particular would be hoping an improved showing with the bat to catch the eyes of national selectors ahead of the limited overs series against West Indies and South Africa.

Indies A, on the other hand, who performed well during their home series against Sri Lanka-A in June, will look for improvement. The Caribbean side would be hoping for a better show from their top-order batsmen, especially Kirk Edward, who became the 14th West Indian batsman to score a century on debut and third West Indian to score a debut hundred against India.

Better showing

The West Indies A top order — nkruma Bonner (16), captain Kieran Powell (17) and Edwards (19) would be hoping to utilise their starts in the remainder of the series. narsingh Deonaraine (57) and Ashley nurse (57) were the only two batsmen who showed intent with fighting half centuries while chasing India’s mammoth total yesterday. The visitors would also be hoping for fireworks from all-rounder Andre Russel, who has a reputation of winning matches on his own.

The West Indies A bowling attack cut a sorry figure against the ruthless Indian batting line-up yesterday. All the West Indian bowlers, including pace duo of Miguel Cummins and Ronsford Beaton bled runs in the first match. The series is an opportunity for a number of young West Indian players to show their skills, especially with the senior team set to tour India next month.

And the likes of skipper Powell, vice-captain Veerasammy Permaul, Russell, Andre Fletcher, Devon Thomas, Edwards, nikita Miller and Deonarine, all of whom have featured in the senior team, would be hoping to impress upon the selectors. (First published on First Post)

Squads

India A: Yuvraj Singh (captain), Unmukt Chand, Robin Uthappa, Baba Aparajith, Kedar Jadhav, naman Ojha (wk), Yusuf Pathan, R Vinay Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Siddharth Kaul, Sumit narwal, Shahbaz nadeem, Mandeep Singh, Rahul Sharma.

elected Secretary General of the regional body. Audley Astwood of Jamaica was elected president of CAREBACO. The following were elected to serve on the Executive Committee from 2013-2015: President - Audley Astwood (Jamaica), Vice PresidentGeneroso Castillo (Dominican Republic), Secretary - Gokarn Ramdhani - (Guyana), Treasurer - Dionne Haynes (Barbados), Committee Members - Zeudi Mack (Trinidad), Raydon Coulor (Suriname) and Gloria Chung (Barbados).

In experienced Irfan Pathan and Praveen Kumar’s absence, the Indian bowling attack led by R Vinay Kumar lived up to expectations in yesterday’s match. With a cushion of 312 runs to defend, the pressure-less Indian bowlers stuck to a disciplined line and length against Caribbean batsmen yesterday. The quartet of Vinay Kumar, Sumit narwal, Rahul Sharma and Yusuf Pathan scalped two wickets apiece to bowl out West Indies A for 235 runs.

CAREBACO is expected to be held in Jamaica next year.

And Yuvraj would be expecting similar performances from his bowlers tomorrow. The West

West Indies A: Kieran Powell (capt.), Veerasammy Permaul, Ronsford Beaton, nkrumah Bonner, Jonathan Carter, Sheldon Cottrell, Miguel Cummins, narsingh Deonarine, Kirk Edwards, Andre Fletcher, Leon Johnson, nikita Miller, Ashley nurse, Andre Russell, and Devon Thomas.

Winners and losers of IGG trials

By Treiston Joseph

The 2013 edition of the Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) trials was held on Saturday at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary and while there were some good performances, it was a another reminder of the dire straits sport finds itself in Guyana.

Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG)/IGG trials

Already having a tough year, the AAG only added wood to the fire.

With just the 100m having its usual markings, athletes running the 200 and 400m had to run scratch start, hence slower times were run. Preparing for the IGG, or any other meet for that matter, this can only be considered a failure of epic proportions.

Carifta bronze medalist Jason Yaw was boxed in his 400m; youth athlete Natricia Hooper was tripped during her 400m and never recovered. Had the track been prepared for trials of such a magnitude there might have been better performances.

Apparently, Guyana doesn’t see the IGG championships as important but rest assured the other countries do.

Further, the races were sent off with a whistle. In this day and age, this is beyond crass. With Guyana already having issues with their timing system, using a whistle would only complicate matters since the time keepers are placed at the finish line, coupled with the screaming fans in the background.

The disorganisation continued by having only one official time keeper, which brings into question whether the AAG even thought of the meet as being important.

Simply put, this year is lost for the AAG and its new executive body, although the administration has only been installed earlier this year. The body seems to be operating like chickens running around with their heads cut off and will have to do better in 2014.

Alita Moore

After ousting Alisha Fortune from her proverbial throne at the Boyce and Jefford Track and Field Classic, Moore continued to display her sprinting prowess by going under the 12s mark for the second consecutive week.

With quick turnovers and the best looking drive phase besides Fortune, Moore’s potential at the age of 18 seems limitless.

While the athlete still has areas she has to improve on, one only hopes she is given the right opportunities to further her promising career

as a sprinter for Guyana.

Tirana Mitchell

Although placing second to Moore in the 100m and 200m at the IGG trials, the talented sprinter lacked strength and speed endurance. While natural ability and her training might have sufficed earlier this year, running alongside a hard worker in Moore seems to be bringing all of Mitchell’s weaknesses to the fore.

It was only earlier in the year that the Carifta 200m bronze medalist had Moore dipping to win a 100m. It is now time for her coach Christopher Gaskin to try something new, perhaps a little weight training.

Mitchell is only 16 and has a lot of time to become better but with her heading off to the first South American Youth Championships in Peru in a matter of days she will have to bring her A game.

Jevina Sampson

It was only in 2011 that Sampson turned on the gas in the final metres to blow

Tucville/Guyhoc clamp down on East/West Ruimveldt

…junior females top seniors

By Treiston Joseph

Tucville/Guyhoc

clamped down on East/West Ruimveldt to take a 68-57 win in the Trinity Grid Holding (TGH) Pacesetters Inter-Ward basketball championships on Sunday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH).

East/West Ruimveldt came out attacking the paint, torching the defence of Tucville/Guyhoc who struggled to stop the Ruimvelt squad from scoring in the low post in the 2517 first quarter lead.

Tucville/Guyhoc, who were playing a high 2-3 zone defence outside of the three point arc, started playing their zone defence inside the arc making the post more crowded. This forced turnovers that led to some easy fast break points for the team clad in green and white to claw their way back to within a point, ending the first half 34-33.

In the third quarter, Tucville/Guyhoc protected the paint more viciously, outscoring East/West 18-10 with some accurate mid-range shooting and inside game to go into the final period ahead 52-43.

The final quarter was turnover-riddled for the Ruimveldt side as they gave up the rock on a number of occasions through unforced errors and erratic play.

Tucville/Guyhoc continued to play suffocating defence that allowed them to covert easy opportunities on the offensive end.

Jason Squires missed a double-double by one steal when he scored 10 points and collected nine steals while Ryan Cummings scored a team-high 12 points.

Duan Walto scored a game-high 27 points and

collected eight rebounds for the losing side; Lloyd Bart dropped 10 points. Meanwhile, the female junior squad schooled their senior counterparts 41-38, securing their first victory of the tournament. The junior team played aggressively on the defensive end and ran the fast-breaks well to stay ahead of their senior counterparts.

Laquantalisa Gibson had a game-high 18 points to lead the junior team while Tamara Hunter and Ginelle Ifill had 11 and 10 points respectively.

Williamson denies Guyanese Stoby first win in CERES 10K

– Crumpler first in for ladies in hilly Carrot Bay race course

Caway the field to win her first IGG gold in Suriname but since that time the petite sprinter has been riddled with injuries and some bad performances.

However, the talented athlete had one of her best races in recent memory, showcasing her power strength and speed that she is known for.

Sampson tactically ran her 400m before utilising her strength and finishing speed to move away from the pack, reminding everyone that she is around.

Whether that was one of those turn-back-the-clock performances, it was good to see the 16-year-old back in the thick of things.

Concluding, any aficionado of athletics in Guyana would have found the 2013 edition of the IGG trials distasteful; the organisation was poor. The bleachers were not filled as they used to be only a few years ago. Further, the meet seemed like a fun day rather than a track meet, which makes it a sad day for athletics in Guyana indeed.

ARROT BAY, Tortola - New comer Reuben Stoby chasing his first win in the CERES 10K Series was denied the top spot by a ‘newer’ newcomer in Guy Williamson who edged out Stoby by two seconds in a sprint finish in the third race of the CERES JUICES 10k race series held in Carrot Bay on Saturday morning.

There was no surprise with Katrina Crumpler crossing the finish line first for the ladies in the hilly Carrot Bay leg of the race series.

Williamson, Stoby, Ravindra Sukhu and James Carr broke away early from the pack and held together until the return from Smugglers Cove when Stoby made his move that saw Sukhu and Carr falling off the pace.

Never troubled, however, was Williamson who refused to be detached and himself and Stoby ran together until some 300m to the finish line when Williamson burst into a sprint with Stoby in pursuit and together they stepped on the gas to the end with Williamson crossing the finish line first in 45 minutes, 22 seconds and Stoby in 45:24.

James Carr was third in 46:57 and Sukhu, who won the first two races in the se-

ries, fourth in 47:04. Adam DeMonte was 5th in 48:29. Crumpler ran unchallenged in the ladies division to finish in 49:04 while Juliana Potgeiter followed in 53:46 and NiMade Oniasih third in 55:03. Fourth and Fifth respectively were Clare-Louise Whiley (55:36) and Kimberley Tait Lowe (56:52).

Gerald Rose won the race walk for men in 1:27:40 while Sophie Bennet

achieved victory on the distaff side in 1:38:22. Representative from Proudly African- the official distributor of Ceres Juices in the Virgin Islands, Shaliva Adams, was on hand to present the prizes to the respective winners and top finishers. Runners and walkers started in front of Carrot Bay Festival Ground and headed to Smugglers Cove to return to Carrot Bay for the finish. (Virgin

BCCC awards ceremony

Prashad cops Cricketer-of-the-Year award

All-rounder

Deveshwari Prashad was voted Blairmont Centre Cricket Club (BCCC) Cricketer-of-the-Year when the West Bank Berbice entity held its second annual awards ceremony last Thursday evening.

At the event, the executive of the club honoured outstanding players and some cricket enthusiasts for their contributions to the game.

However, the lion’s share of Thursday night’s awards went to 18-year-old Kevon Jawahir, who copped the bowler -of-the-year, allrounder, junior cricketer-ofthe-year and emerging player-of-the-year prizes.

The packed auditorium, inclusive of Region Five Chairman, Bindrabhan Bisnauth, officials of the Berbice Cricket Board, club members, sponsors and other cricket officials, club president, Shabeer Baksh, was told that the period January 2012 to July 2013 was a successful one, despite numer-

ous challenges faced by the organisation.

“The club is definitely on the upward side since its resuscitation in 2010. This club has risen to ratings of being unmatched by any other club in the West Berbice area and has been amongst some of the better clubs in Berbice. The period 2012/2013 has been a successful year, both on and off field,” Baksh said. He said he was pleased to see the young budding cricketers of the club and urged those who were not honoured this year to strive to be there next year.

Guest speaker Bindrabhan Bisnauth, praised the BCCC on its remarkable achievements since the club was resuscitated, calling it a model organization, which every other club and national sport organisation should emulate.

The Regional Chairman advised the younger members of the club that discipline is the foundation of

success and that no sports person has ever been successful without discipline.

He emphasised that heeding positive advice is important while developing a culture of respect for others.

Bisnauth indicated that the regional administration will continue to work with the club to ensure the youths have a better environment.

He also commended the

ECB names squad for Pepsi Inter-County tournament

The Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) has named a strong 14man squad to represent the Cinderella county in this year’s Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Pepsi Senior InterCounty 50 overs tournament.

Former national Under-19 players Royan Fredericks and Anthony Adams were appointed captain and vice-captain respectively.

The squad also includes national T20 selectee

Dillon Heyliger and former Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) fast bowler Gilford Moore. The tournament, which gets underway on September 21, forms part of the preparation for the upcoming regional 50-over competition. It is also being used as a benchmark to select the local squad to participate in the regional competition, scheduled for January next year.

The three preliminary rounds will be played at the famous Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) while the final is scheduled for the Albion Community Centre, ground. Round one of the tournament will see Essequibo and Demerara clashing. Round two is scheduled for September 24 between Demerara and Berbice. The final preliminary round is fixed for September 26 with Berbice facing Essequibo.

The two top teams will clash in the final on September 29. Squad: Royan Fredericks (captain), Anthony Adams (Vice-captain), Ricardo Adams, Ricardo Peters, Jason Heyliger, Sheldon Alexander, Dillon Heyliger, Mark Tyrell, Vishwanauth Lall, Kevon Boodie, Vijay Surujpaul, Herry Greene, Kemo Paul and Gilford Moore. The coach is Vibert Johnson while the team manager is Otto Christiani.

club’s executive for the work they have been doing for sports and community development.

Meanwhile, Jawahir, speaking on behalf of the awardees, said that being a member of the BCCC was a special privilege. He outlined that the club not only develops cricketers, but well-rounded individuals with special emphasis on discipline and personal development.

He expressed gratitude to the management of the club for its recognition of his and his peers’ contribution, pledging that they will strive for better.

The club also presented four retired teachers and cricketers for their outstanding contribution to the club. Those awardees were teachers, Bibi Ishak, Koearlall Rambarran, Rudolph Muckunlall and Thofa Alexander; the former cricketers were Hazrat Saqid, Zalim Khan, Moses Shamlall and Adrian Amsterdam.

Other awardees include: under-15 Batsmanof-the-Year Zameer Inshan, All-rounder and Cricketer-of-the-Year Rameshwar Somwaru; under-17 Batsman-of-theYear Mohan Deodat, Bowler and Cricketer-of-the-Year Permanand Ramdhan; under-19, Batsman/wicket keeper-of-the-Year Nick Ramsaroop, All-rounderof- the- Year Derick Narine and Batsman-of-the-Year Aviskar Sewkarran; under-21, Bowler-of-theYear, Waqar Hassan, Batsman-of- the-Year, Deveshwari Prashad, Second Division Player-ofthe-Year, Omesh Mangal, First Division Bowler-ofthe-Yearm, Waqar Hassan and Batsman-of-the-Year, Deveshwari Prashad; General, Most Promising Player, Seon Glascow, Sachin Veersammy and Saheed Khan, Most Discipline Players, Derick Narine and Most Improved Players Aviskar Sewkarran and Mohan Deodat.

Berbice Basketball Association installs IMC

In an effort to resuscitate the Berbice Basketball Association (BBA), an Interim Management Committee (IMC) has been put in place to oversee the drafting of a constitution and the holding of elections.

The IMC is also tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the new body is affiliated to the local governing body, Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF).

The BBA has been dormant for more than a decade and had not reached any of its legal obligations to the governing body. In an effort to ensure that players in Berbice are still involved with the sport, Kirk Fraser headed, what some described as a one man show.

The IMC will be headed by Keith Myers, with for-

mer Chief Labour Officer

Norman Semple, also a former three-time president of the Berbice Chamber and Development Association, as the vice president. The secretary is former national netball player Petra Ford and accountant Clement DeNoberga, the treasurer. The assistant secretary/ treasurer is John Smith and Eli Hazel is the IMC’s Public Relation Officer.

Five committee members have also been included to temporarily manage the affairs the body: Joshua Torrezao, Ryan Alexander, Charles Bristol, Amstel Curt and Lloyd Liefve.

The IMC is expected to meet shortly to draft a new constitution to govern the Berbice Basketball Association. (Andrew Carmichael)