Guyana Times Daily

Charged army lance corporal was not issued with firearm

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has refuted a statement attributed to Attorney Patrice Henry and published in various sections of the local media in their coverage of the court case of a soldier charged with unlawful possession of one of the army’s weapons.

Henry’s assertion in defence of his client Lance Corporal Devon Harris that it was the culture of the arms store to allow him to carry guns is entirely without merit, the military said. According to the GDF, its security standing orders, set out very clearly the procedures to be followed by its arms store personnel with regard to the issuance of the force’s weapons.

These orders expressly permit GDF officers and ranks to be in possession of their weapons only in the execution of their military duty. As an arms store personnel, Lance Corporal Devon Harris could not have issued to himself any weapon from the force’s arms store, since this would be in direct contravention of the security standing orders; nor was he permitted to have a weapon in his pos-

session when not on military duty. It is instructive to note that an authority had to issue a document that has to be signed by the commanding officer, for a weapon to be issued to any rank.

Illegal act

“The force categorically states that there has never been nor currently is a “culture” within its administration and operations that facilitates, encourages, or allows for, any of its members to be in unlawful possession of the force’s weapons or ammunition.

Lance Corporal Harris, 34, pleaded not guilty to the charges of larceny by public officer and possession of firearm which were read to him by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. The

prosecution’s case is that between December 27, 2013 and January 4, 2014 at Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri, while being employed with the force, he stole one National Pistol #75C61408 which costs $35,000. The prosecution alleged too that during the same period of time, at Friendship, East Bank Demerara, the rank had in his possession the said gun while he was not the owner of a firearm licence.

Harris’s attorney had told the court that his client has served in the GDF for more than 12 years. Henry further argued that from the time his client has been working in the arms store, he had the firearm in his possession. Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru told the court that on the day in question, a physical check was carried out on the lance corporal and the missing firearm was discovered. Mangru said Harris was not authorised to have any firearm in his possession while off duty.

Harris was remanded and the matter was transferred to the Providence Magistrate’s Court for January 13.

154 murders recorded last year – police

Atotal of 154 persons were murdered last year, 24 of whom were killed during domestic disputes and 61 in stupor, police said in its periodic crime statistics report.

The statistics covers the period January 1 to December 31, 2013. According to the police, there was an overall increase of seven per cent in serious crimes at the end of December 2013 in comparison to the same period in 2012.

This is in comparison to 139 murders for 2012, an 11 per cent increase. Of the 154 murders in 2013, 61 were of the disorderly type, 24 were committed during armed robberies, four were execution type, and 24 were domestic related, while the other 41 are so far undetermined.

The total number of reports of serious crimes made between January 1 and December 31, 2013 was 4007, compared to 3760 for 2012. Some of the offences monitored were: murder, robbery under arms, robbery with violence, larceny from the person, break and enter and larceny, burglary, rape and kidnapping.

At the end of December 2013, robbery under arms overall had increased by seven per cent with 1132 reports compared to 1058 for

the same period in 2012.

The statistics indicate an increase of 14 per cent in the number of armed robberies involving the use of firearms; and a four per cent decrease in armed robberies where instruments other than firearms were used by the perpetrators.

In relation to traffic, there were two more road fatalities for 2013 in comparison to 2012, with 112 fatalities from 103 accidents in 2013 versus 110 fatalities from 102 accidents during 2012. The period January 1 to December 31, 2013 saw a reduction in relation to the damage accidents and a six per cent and five per cent increase, respectively, in serious and minor accidents.

Pedestrians were the main road users affected, with 39 losing their lives in

2013. In addition, 18 motorcyclists, 13 pedal cyclists, 17 drivers of other motor vehicles, three pillion riders and 22 passengers of motor vehicles also lost their lives. Speeding continues to be a major contributing factor to fatal accidents and was the cause of 72 of the 103 fatal accidents recorded at the end of the year. Twentyone motorists involved in fatal accidents were found to have been under the influence of alcohol at the time. Traffic enforcement by the police during 2013 resulted in a total of 84,470 cases being made against errant motorists; of this total, 22,389 cases were for speeding. So far, two persons have lost their lives on the roads in 2014, compared to one for the same period last year.

WEATHER TODAY

GRA flays banks for holding up mortgage relief programme

– says more than 207 applications lack bank info

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Thursday flayed local commercial banks, saying it was dissatisfied with the level of cooperation shown by them as it relates to processing information necessary for facilitating the Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR) scheme.

This scheme, which was provided for in the 2013 national budget, is geared at providing a 30 per cent waiver on the gross interest paid on first-time mortgages amounting to $30 million or less and requires the assistance of the various lending institutions.

In a statement, the GRA said in October 2013 it held workshops with representatives from the various lending institutions and began its public education campaign, which has been very aggressive in providing the information necessary for mortgagers to qualify for this relief.

Biggest hurdle

“To date, however, the biggest hurdle has been the receipt of applications without the accompanying bank information. This has forced the revenue authority to accept applications which cannot be processed since the relevant Letter by Lender Form (Form 2) and schedule of interest per year are missing. Without this key piece of information, applications will not be finalised for approval,” GRA said.

Of the applications received thus far, 470 were submitted by Republic Bank customers, with 687 from the New Building Society, 96 from the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, 87 from the Bank of Nova Scotia, six from Demerara Bank, four from Hand-in-Hand Trust, 50 from Citizens Bank and two from Bank of Guyana. More than 207 of these applications were received with bank in-

formation missing.

Additionally, the GRA said to date it has received 1487 applications of which 1437 were received in 2013 and the additional 50 were submitted in the first two weeks of 2014.

“This statistic is quite troubling and the GRA will be having talks with the relevant stakeholders in an effort to fully understand the reason for the lack of information being provided to those mortgagers who have expressed their desire to benefit from this relief,” the statement said.

Special unit

According to the revenue authority, in an effort to facilitate the processing of the MIR, the agency has established a unit catering specifically for this scheme.

The unit is fully staffed and equipped to address the needs of persons accessing this service and will continue to process applications as submitted.

Persons desirous of receiving additional information and those seeking clarification or requesting assistance in relation to the MIR, can contact the unit on telephone 227-6060 or 227-8222 ext 1040 or the Tax Advisory Services Section on extensions 1200-1204.

Back in October, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh signed and sent for publication in the Official Gazette, the Income Tax (MIR) Regulations 2013, thereby establishing the regulatory foundation for MIR.

Under the programme, the minister stated that “firsttime homeowners who are holders of mortgage loans of up to $30 million granted to them by commercial banks or the building society will be permitted to deduct the interest they pay on such mortgag-

es from their taxable income for the purposes of personal income tax.

In other words, that portion of taxable income used by a first-time homeowner to pay interest on a housing loan of up to $30 million from a commercial bank or building society will be exempt from personal income tax.”

In announcing the introduction of MIR during the 2013 budget presentation, Minister Singh placed the new measure within the context of the outstanding success of the government’s housing programme.

He stated then that the programme has resulted in tens of thousands of

Guyanese individuals and families graduating from being tenants of rented property to being homeowners in their own right.

“Armed with real property as an asset which can in turn be collateralised, the positive consequences for owner participation in the formal financial system, and capacity to borrow to finance asset acquisition or even small business establishment and expansion, have been immeasurable,” he said.

The introduction of MIR is expected to cost government approximately $580 million annually.

Regulations

After signing the necessary regulations, Minister Singh had called on the GRA and the banks to implement the regulations as soon as possible to ensure that the intended relief is delivered to the beneficiary population.

The minister stated that this relief is expected to make homeownership even more affordable and attractive, will increase disposable incomes in thousands of households, and will constitute a significant injection of cash into the economy for both saving and consumption, thereby generating and multiplying further business activity.

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

The malaria fight

According to the latest World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates, released in December 2013, there were about 207 million cases of malaria in 2012, and an estimated 627,000 deaths. Notwithstanding that, malaria mortality rates have fallen by 45 per cent globally since 2000, and by 49 per cent in the WHO African region.

This shows that there is significant progress being made in spite of severe challenges. However, countries cannot afford to become complacent as there is the risk of those gains being reversed.

Malaria, which is considered one of the world’s leading infectious killers, impacts many countries in the world, including Guyana. It is a disease associated with lack of socio-economic development, poverty, marginalisation, and exploitation. It is also widely considered an obstacle to economic development.

To combat the disease, malaria-endemic countries and their development partners agreed to the 2008 Global Malaria Action Plan (GMAP), which aims at reducing malaria deaths to near zero, at reducing cases by 75 per cent, and at eliminating the disease in 10 new countries by 2015.

While some countries are on their way to meeting these targets, others are lagging way behind. Fifty countries around the world are on track to reduce their malaria case incidence rates by 75 per cent by 2015 – in line with World Health Assembly and Roll Back Malaria targets. These 50 countries only represent three per cent, or seven million, of the malaria cases that were estimated to have occurred in 2000, the benchmark against which progress is measured.

Dr Robert Newman, director of the WHO Global Malaria Programme in Geneva, had said that global targets for reducing the malaria burden will not be reached unless progress is accelerated in the highest burden countries. He had pointed to the fact that these countries are in a precarious situation and most of them need urgent financial assistance to procure and distribute lifesaving commodities.

In Guyana, while there is still a far way to go in bringing the disease to near zero, this country has made significant progress in the malaria fight. This improvement can be attributed to successes in prevention efforts, as well as in the detection and treatment of contracted cases. The priorities include improving compliance with treatment, and overcoming the logistical difficulties associated with detection, treatment and monitoring of interventions.

For example, the multi-therapy drug, Coartem – which is recognised as the most effective malaria treatment – has been introduced to treat malaria-infected persons, special treated bed nets have been distributed, and medical outreaches have been held to obtain malaria smears from persons countrywide.

However, there are some areas where there is need for improvement, not only in Guyana, but other countries as well where malaria is prevalent. For example, tracking progress still continues to pose a major challenge in malaria control and prevention. Malaria surveillance systems detect only around 14 per cent of the estimated global number of cases.

In as many as 41 countries around the world, it is not possible to make a reliable assessment of malaria trends due to incompleteness or inconsistency of reporting over time. Hence, stronger malaria surveillance systems are urgently needed to enable a timely and effective malaria response to prevent outbreaks and resurgences and to ensure that interventions are delivered to areas where they are most needed.

Stakeholders have lamented the fact, time and again, that international funding for malaria appears to have reached a plateau well below the level required to reach the health-related Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and other internationallyagreed global malaria targets.

The World Malaria Report 2012 estimates that US$5.1 billion is needed every year between 2011 and 2020 to achieve universal access to malaria interventions in the 99 countries with on-going malaria transmission. While many countries have increased domestic financing for malaria control, the total available global funding remained at US$2.3 billion in 2011 – less than half of what is needed.

Consistency in providing the necessary funding is very important if the malaria targets are to be met; and we urge all those involved, especially governments and international development partners, to match their talk with money in ensuring that the fight against malaria can be won.

A peaceful struggle (Part two)

Dear Editor, Argentine members of parliament also carried out many activities to defend our national position:

In the field of parliamentary diplomacy, declarations in favour of the resumption of negotiations with the United Kingdom were obtained from the Latin American section of the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly (EUROLAT) and the Assembly of the Latin American Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

Furthermore, awareness-raising actions were carried out on the occasion of the meetings of the 129th IPU Assembly, the 10th Parlamericas Assembly, Parlatino and the Andean parliament.

Finally, the chairs of the committees on foreign affairs of the House of Representatives and of the Senate of Argentina made a fruitful visit to the Irish parliament and held meetings there to discuss the question of the Malvinas Islands specifically. In addition, contacts were established with legislators from other countries and organizations such as the U.S., Panama, the EU and Vietnam to address the Malvinas question.

From February 4-6, 2013, a meeting was held in London with the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Argentina United Kingdom, and the national willingness to resume sovereignty negotiations with the United Kingdom was conveyed to its members.

The Parliamentary Friendship Groups of both countries also held a meeting and touched upon the question of the Malvinas Islands.

In November, the Foreign Ministry received

a delegation of British parliamentarians. On that occasion, the question of the Malvinas Islands was dealt with and information material was handed over to the delegation.

The year 2013 will be remembered as one of great progress in the defence of the hydrocarbons of the Argentine continental shelf. Implementation of the Argentine government’s Plan of Action against the unlawful hydrocarbonrelated activities on the Argentine continental shelf continued. The following steps were taken in this regard: Argentina had a meeting with the SecretaryGeneral of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Koji Sekimizu, to whom it expressed concern about the increasing militarisation of the South Atlantic by the United Kingdom and about the danger posed to the marine environment by British unilateral hydrocarbon exploration activities. At the meeting, it was reiterated that the attempt by the United Kingdom to promote and authorise the exploration and exploitation of renewable and non-renewable natural resources in the area under the sovereignty dispute is contrary to United Nations General Assembly resolution 31/49, which calls upon both parties to the dispute to refrain from introducing unilateral modifications in the situation while the decolonisation process recommended by the General Assembly is pending.

Pursuant to Law number 26,659, the Argentine Energy Secretariat passed resolutions imposing a ban for a term of 15 to 20 years on the six British companies involved in illegitimate hydro-

carbon exploration activities on the Argentine continental shelf. These disqualifications were notified to the six companies active in the illegally occupied area.

MERCOSUR issued a joint communiqué recognising Argentina's right to take legal actions under its legislation against unauthorised hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation activities in the Malvinas area.

A number of demarches were carried out in the framework of the Latin American Energy Organisation (OLADE), the 43rd Ministerial Meeting of which expressed its support for the adoption of measures related to hydrocarbons.

At the request of the Foreign Ministry, the Justice and Human Rights Ministry in collaboration with the Energy Secretariat drafted a bill to amend Law number 26,659 (Conditions for exploration and exploitation of hydrocarbons on the Argentine Continental Shelf), with a view to incorporating into this legal instrument a new offence imposing criminal liability on any individuals or corporations that, without the authorisation of the competent authority, carry out hydrocarbon exploration or exploitation activities in the bed or subsoil of the Argentine territorial sea or on the Argentine continental shelf, in addition to other pre-existing criminal liability. The law enacted by the Argentine Congress and promulgated by President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner under number 26,915 will enable the Argentine Judiciary to request international legal cooperation for the arrest and prosecution of those involved in the illegal exploration and exploitation of our hydrocarbons.

All of these steps are being taken with the determination to defend, by peaceful means, the legitimate rights of the Argentine people to exercise sovereignty over its entire territory and to prevent foreign powers from continuing to plunder the resources in the land and maritime areas illegally occupied for over 180 years now. This law is also consistent with the provisions of the United Nations which, as already stated, in the face of British announcements on hydrocarbon exploration, urged the parties to refrain from adopting decisions involving the introduction of unilateral modifications into the current situation of the disputed area.

Towards the end of the year, President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner made a historic decision to create a secretariat to deal exclusively with the question of the Malvinas Islands in order to coordinate Argentina's efforts towards the peaceful recovery of the islands and the surrounding maritime areas in accordance with our Constitution: through dialogue and bilateral negotiations between Argentina and the United Kingdom.

At the threats of the colonial power, both verbal and military, our country will continue to demand respect for international law and UN resolutions thus showing that the United Kingdom's refusal to sit down at the negotiating table is compelling evidence that, in the question of the Malvinas Islands, the lion roars but does not frighten any more.

Sincerely, Hector Timerman, Argentine Minister of Foreign Affairs

send your

The U.S. did not consult government

Dear Editor, I sympathise with Sara Bharrat with the dilemma she describes. “Who to believe” I am perplexed by her choice, as she did not disclose valid reasons for rejecting my explanations. I will stand anywhere and at anytime to insist that the United States did not consult the government on this project.

My assertion is supported by the documentation and disclosures that are in the public domain. Since she feels strongly otherwise, I would appreciate being shown what is inaccurate

and false with my presentation that led her to believe otherwise.

I would dearly love to be so informed and her evidence provided. The details I provided publicly clearly established that the United States designed, funded the project and contracted a firm to implement the project before bringing it to the attention of the government of Guyana.

What I found most distressing is her failure to accord any suitable attention to the decision of the United States officials to disregard/

ignore a decision of the government of Guyana.

Where in the world of international law and relationships would a foreign government openly behave so outrageously? Can she imagine the United States response to a foreign government doing the same in America?

She is entitled to your opinion, but I urge her not to confuse opinions with facts.

Dr Roger F Luncheon Head, Presidential Secretariat Office of the President

Colin Talbot Contracting Service has

been most dependable, reliable

Dear Editor,

It is quite unfortunate that an overzealous individual without proper authority approached the media in an unsavoury way to try and tarnish the reputation of a contracting company.

The Kaieteur News article titled, “East Coast Demerara four-lane expansion…contractor executing poor works, awarded another contract”, on January 8 gave readers the impression that during a 28-day period, the concrete used by Colin Talbot Contracting Service

was below standard.

However, only five per cent of the concrete strength was slightly below the ministry’s criteria for a short section of the drainage works that were carried out by the contracting company. In fact, out of the 439 metres concrete tested, only 25 metres failed the assessment.

It is apt to note that with any laboratory testing – whether concrete or soil –conducted by the ministry’s laboratory, it allows for the contractor to correct any defect noted by the ministry.

The company has been one of the most dependable and reliable contractors the ministry has worked with and it is unfortunate that the preliminary findings have been made public before quality control or corrections can be done.

As such, the ministry cannot ascribe any veracity to the information provided by the “reliable source” of the said article.

Works Services Group Sea and River Defences Department Public Works Ministry

GWI's services in Wakenaam

Dear Editor, I read in a local newspaper on January 4 that thousands benefited from quality service by the Guyana Water Inc (GWI).

I must say that it is good

to know that thousands have benefited and my question is when will the rest of Guyana benefit?

When will Wakenaam, the most populated island in Guyana, benefit?

When will there be better water services in Wakenaam island?

A concerned islander Name withheld by request

GWI plans to provide treated water countrywide

Dear Editor, Thank you for your letter concerning water services in Wakenaam. We thank the writer for highlighting the issues affecting our customers in Wakenaam.

The Guyana Water Inc (GWI) wishes to advise that while the company continues to provide potable water to the Essequibo Islands, unfortunately, the aquifer (underground source of water) from which GWI extracts and distributes water to Wakenaam customers contains very high iron content.

According to GWI’s Scientific Services Manager Donna Canterbury, samples of water extracted and tested from the area have consistently revealed that the water is naturally high in iron. She further explained that historically Guyana’s soil content contains high levels of iron, hence when water is ex-

tracted from the aquifer, it contains significant amounts of the element.

Canterbury emphasised that GWI’s operations are guided by World Health Organisation (WHO) standards, which indicate that iron is not hazardous to health. To remove iron from the water provided to customers, iron-removal/water treatment facilities are required.

As illustrated in the January 5 edition of the Guyana Times, the government of Guyana continues to expand access to treated water countrywide. In fact, three state-of-the-art water treatment facilities are planned for 2014.

However, while the government of Guyana plans to expand treated water to 100 per cent of the country, including Wakenaam, the significant financial investment required can only be garnered over the longterm.

GWI wishes to advise customers that over time further investment by government will be extended to communities affected by high iron content in water such as Wakenaam. However, the utility will continue to execute small measures to reduce iron content in water, such as the flushing of water mains.

GWI thanks your publication for highlighting the issues which affect our customers and wishes to advise that all queries regarding water quality can be reported to GWI’s Customer Services Call Centre, 2278701/03/04; email pro@gwi. gy; BlackBerry messenger 29618F9; or social media at www.facebook.com/everydropcountsgy.

Best regards, Timothy Austin Public

Relations Officer GWI

Page Foundation

First aid for common childhood injuries

much more.

Most moms and dads would do anything to keep their little ones safe from harm. After all, few things are more heart wrenching than seeing your little one get hurt, especially if a kiss and a cuddle from you won’t stop the tears. Unfortunately, accidental childhood injuries – from big boo-boos to small scratches – are all too common. In fact, every day in the U.S., an estimated 39,000 children get an injury serious enough to warrant medical attention (that’s a total of 14 million children –or one out of every four children – per year). And that’s not counting the everyday bumps and bruises that little children are prone to getting. So which children are most at risk for common childhood injuries? Tots ages four and younger. That’s because little children – in an effort to learn about their world – do their darnedest to get their hands (and their mouths!) on everything they can without realising where dangers lurk. That, plus their lack of motor skills, amounts to a dangerous combination – and can ultimately lead to any number of injuries resulting from poisoning, choking, falls, burns, and

What this all means is that it’s up to you and your partner to do your best to keep your child safe from childhood injuries. That means baby proofing your house (and maybe even part of Grandma’s house too), supervising your tot (whether you’re at home, the playground, a friend’s house, or a restaurant), and being alert to potential hazards (at home and when you’re out and about). Yes, it’s a tall order, but the good news is that the majority of accidental childhood injuries can be prevented if you learn a handful of simple safety strategies and stay on the lookout for dangerous situations. That said, no parent can be on high alert at all times, no matter what your know-it-all neighbour or pushy motherin-law tells you. You’ve got to answer the phone sometimes, empty the dishwasher when it’s clean, and use the bath-

room occasionally (prime opportunities for your little one to get into mischief)! You’re only human, and you’re not a bad parent if your baby acci-

capture them on the camcord er (“Look! Little Ethan can roll now!”), it’s hard to keep on top of what skills your growing tyke has mastered (“Oh

dentally rolls off the bed and hits his head or your toddler collides with your hot coffee and burns himself (it’s happened to the best of us). And when your child is reaching milestones faster than you can

my gosh, Sophie has learned how to unbuckle her stroller strap!”).

The trick is to learn how to react (and fast!) when your child does get injured. That may entail knowing when to

help, learning how to handle a choking incident (the Heimlich manoeuvre) and taking a CPR course, or simply having sterile bandages on hand. With some quick thinking and a little knowhow, you can learn how to give the best care after your tot takes a tumble…or swallows something dangerous, touches a hot bowl of soup, or harms himself in any number of ways. So as hard as it is to see your child suffer, you can come to his rescue – or, even better, learn how to prevent those common childhood injuries.

First aid for a choking child

The best way to help a choking child is to be prepared – and that means enrolling in a CPR class (or a refresher course) so you’ll know what to do in case of an accident. But there are other steps you can learn so that you know what to do – and how to act immediately if you see your child choking.

How choking happens: It goes without saying that it’s a scary thing to see a choking child. Usually, it happens when a baby or young child tries to swallow a piece of food or small object (like a coin or a

little toy) and instead of going smoothly down the oesophagus, the object gets lodged in the windpipe and blocks air from flowing in and out of the lungs. Children younger than four are particularly at risk for these types of injuries. That’s because they explore by putting practically everything (even objects that are offlimits) in their mouths; they aren’t adept at chewing (after all, it can be tough without a full set of teeth); and their airways are still quite small (which means that some foods that adults and older children can safely swallow pose a risk to little children).

Signs of a child choking include:

* Gasping, wheezing, or inability to breathe

* Inability to talk, cry, or make noise

* Bluish colour to the skin

* Panicked look

* Grabbing at the throat (in toddlers)

What to do when your child is choking

If you see your child choking, but he can still cough or cry, that means his trachea is probably only partially blocked. In that case, it’s best that you wait to see if your child can cough the object out on his own. Interfering could make matters worse, and most likely, your little one will be able to get the object out after a brief coughing spell. If you see your child choking and he’s unable to cough or breathe, and you don’t know how to do the Heimlich manoeuvre on a baby under one or on a child or have forgotten how to do it, call 911 immediately. Don’t reach into your child’s mouth to search for the object since this can lodge the object more deeply and cause more damage.

If you do know how to do the Heimlich manoeuvre, start doing it immediately and get someone to call 911. If your little one loses consciousness, carefully look in his mouth to check for the object. If you see the object and can safely take it out with a sweep of your finger, do so and start infant CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) or CPR for children over one. Then wait for medical help to arrive. If you don’t see the object, start CPR, and wait for help. When to call the doctor: Call 911 whenever you suspect a child is choking or having trouble breathing. Even after you’ve resolved a choking episode – your child has coughed up the object on his own or you’ve done Heimlich or CPR – call your doctor to help to make sure your child is really okay. (What To Expect)

US$2.6M wastewater treatment plant coming

The Housing and Water Ministry and a major manufacturing company in Guyana will sign a US$2.6M agreement for the construction of a wastewater treatment plant under the US$3 million Guyana Wastewater Revolving Fund, close to two years after the fund was launched in Guyana.

The Wastewater Revolving Fund Pilot Coordinator Marlon Daniels made this disclosure during an exclusive interview with Guyana Times. He said the agreement will most likely be signed before the end of January.

The pilot project, which is funded by the Global Environment Facility, is being implemented with financial support from the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Private company

As a result, the private company will be loaned US$2.6 million of the US$3 million when the agreement is signed. Since the launch of the project in June 2012, in Guyana, approximately eight companies have expressed interest in accessing loans from the revolving fund; however, only two other companies will be able to access loans from the remaining US$400,000. Notably, monies would only be made available to Guyana when agreements have been reached.

“This company is a huge

expressed optimism that more companies will buy into the initiative as the project approaches its June 2015 deadline.

“The ministry is confident that we will get to the place where our private operators will come to appreciate the importance of this issue of wastewater management to their operations, to their market position. Many of our companies operate overseas, international standards are getting to a place where people are concerned about not just what you are producing but how you are producing it and how it is impacting the environment,” Mc Garrell explained.

company and the size of the plant is huge also, so we can comfortably fund about two other projects with the remaining resources and after that I have no doubt that more resources will be made available to continue the project,” Daniels explained. He made it clear, however, that as companies begin to repay their loans, then more funds will be available for the establishment of wastewater treatment plants.

The wastewater project was established in 2011 under the Caribbean Regional Fund for Wastewater Management (CreW), and officially launched in Guyana in June 2012 to provide sustainable financing for the wastewater sector by encouraging policy and legislative reforms.

Housing and Water Ministry Permanent Secretary Emile Mc Garrell

Market creation

He said since the launch in Guyana, the Water Ministry has been courting private operators to capitalise on the resources that have been made available under the CreW pilot project. It was pointed out that the interest rate is low when compared to rates at commercial banks. “If these had to be done using market rates or resources from the banking sector it would have been quite challenging investments for a lot of the operators, so government is intended to use the resources to encourage the creation of that market.”

While the first component of the project focuses on the construction of wastewater treatment plants through loan agreements, the second component deals with the policy and legislative re-

forms. In keeping with the third aspect of the project, an awareness programme will be launched by the end of the month to spark interest in the area of wastewater management and treatment. In addition to the revolving fund, the Guyana government was allocated US$500,000 for the facilitation of the entire project in Guyana. To date, 20 per cent of that allocation has been spent.

Guyana is a signatory to the Cartagena Convention which calls for the protection and development of the marine environment within the wider Caribbean region. Under the supplementary protocol governing pollution from land-based sources, the effluence discharged into the Atlantic Ocean through the internal drainage canals is required to meet certain minimum, environmental standards.

Partnership

Mc Garrell said there was great room for improvement in the area of wastewater management and treatment, positing that the CreW pilot project is just a starting point.

He added that while the government in partnership with regional and international bodies is playing a significant role in this regard, private companies should step up their game.

Belize, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago are also part of the pilot CReW programme.

friday, January 10, 2014 | guyanatimesgy.com

No security crisis in Guyana – Rohee

Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee said there was no security crisis here, dismissing recently claims by the main opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) that “the security crisis in the country has disproportionately hurt the poor”.

In a statement on Thursday evening, Rohee said, in the first place, he rejects the assertion that there is a “security crisis” in Guyana, noting that good examples where real security crises currently exist are: Turkey, Iraq; South Sudan, and Syria.

“Guyana’s crime and security situation is a far cry from the conditions obtaining in those countries. If there is a “security crisis” in Guyana, it exists only in the heads of APNU leaders and is nothing but a figment of their imagination. Indeed, it appears to be a mere ploy for propaganda purposes to make the government look bad.”

No evidence

Further, the minister has rejected the characterisation of the internal security situation as false on the grounds that current data does not support the claims. “The evidence shows that rather than poor families in homes, the

primary victims of robberies committed in 2013 were young individuals, primarily males, walking in the streets, especially late in the nights and during the early hours of the mornings. For example, of the 122 occurrences of “street crimes” (robberies and larcenies from the person} committed in A Division for November 2013, 81 of the 140 victims were young people (ages 18 to 35); 94 are males. Of the 122 “street crimes”, 56 occurred during the period 21:15h to 06:00h.

Moreover, the primary valuables of which persons were robbed on the street were smartphones (for example, BlackBerry and Samsung Galaxy models), cash and jewellery. For instance, of the 122 occurrences of “street crimes”, for the entire year mentioned above, smartphones were associated with 38.

Noteworthy, individuals were robbed of at least one of the forgoing valuables. It is strongly suggestive, therefore, that such persons’ incomes must have been of such sum so as to at least render them capable of affording the purchase and upkeep of a smartphone that range from $35,000 to $90,000 (BlackBerry) and $90,000 to $135,000 (Samsung Galaxy).

friday, January 10, 2014| guyanatimesgy.com

Sisters granted bail for assaulting police officer

Two women appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan to answer a string of charges, which included resisting arrest and assault on a police officer.

The two women were charged along with another woman who was not present in court. The first defendant Adina Marks, a 32-year-old house wife of Caneville, East Bank Demerara, was slapped with five charges which alleged that on the December 25, 2013 she resisted arrest by a police officer, be-

haved in a disorderly manner, used abusive language against a police officer, (Constable Hector) and unlawful and malicious damage.

The unlawful assault of a police officer was also instituted against the other two defendants; Barbara Chance, 18, who also resides in Caneville, East Bank Demerara, and Michelle Chance.

Police Prosecutor

Deniro Jones told the court that about 03:00h on the day in question, Marks was seen urinating under the Stabroek Police Outpost.

Constable Hector saw her and told her to stop. She refused and started acting disorderly. At one point, she told the constable that she could urinate wherever she pleased. He then attempted to make an arrest and was assaulted in the process by all three of the defendants. Other officers intervened and the defendants were arrested and taken to the Brickdam Police Station.

Marks told the court that she was told by another police officer to go behind the outpost to urinate. She said in the pro-

21-year-old charged for stealing from grandmother

Twenty-one-year-old

Jason Prince was on Thursday granted bail in the amount of $40,000 after he appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Ann McLennan charged with larceny.

Prince who resides at 70 Bent Street, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to the charge

which alleged that on the January 6, he stole from his grandmother $20,000 and two cellular phones valued $6000 each. The latter of the two items were reportedly returned after the virtual complainant (VC) found them in her bedroom.

Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones told the court that several incidents of a similar nature have been

reported against the defendant by his grandmother and the defendant has been warned. He also opposed bail for the defendant citing the fact that the defendant and the virtual complainant reside in the same home and it is likely that Prince will tamper with the witness.

Prince is to return to court on January 17 in Court 10.

cess of doing this, she was approached by Hector who grabbed onto her arm. She resisted saying “that isn’t the way to hold onto a young lady”. She further told the court that Hector tore her clothes and threw her on the ground and then proceeded to arrest her.

Marks was fined $5000 for resisting arrest and bail was granted in the amount of $10,000 for the other charges, while both Chance sisters were placed on $5000 bail each for the assault charge.

They are to reappear in court on January 20.

Man issues threats after being remanded

Glenroy Brown on Thursday pleaded not guilty to a charge which alleged that he stole a chainsaw, a cellphone and torchlight after he appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan.

The charged alleged that between January 3-4, Brown stole the items from John Marshall.

Brown stood anxiously while complaining of pains to his kidney as he was told he is remanded to prison and is to return to court on January 20. This seemed to have further provoked the man who then issued several threats to Marshall, telling him he’s going to suffer and die and that he is a “wicked big man”. The defendant could be heard in the corridor after being escorted from the courtroom issuing several other threats to Marshall.

Old wine...

...same bottle

There’s been some buzz about the opposition –more specifically, David Granger of APNU – calling for a “social contract”. The contract would include the government, political opposition, trade unions, private sector and civil society, and they’d be hashing out “a broad national programme to accelerate growth of the country over a two-year period”.

What this proposal clearly shows is that the opposition’s totally and absolutely bankrupt politically. For over 400 years it’s been accepted by political theorists that the modern nation-state is premised on a “social contract” between all the people on one hand...and those who control the state, on the other hand.

In democracies, political parties would seek a mandate from the selfsame people under rules encapsulated in a constitution, to control the state. These were the rules of the political game. Sounds good up to now? Well, not according to Granger and the opposition. (And he speaks for the entire opposition, as the “Opposition Leader”, no?)

Even though Granger’s party participated in the last (2000) overhaul of the whole Constitution, they now want to throw out the political rules. And why? Well, duh!!! They haven’t delivered control of the state for the last 13 years, have they?!

If they’d captured the executive, you wouldn’t have heard a squeak from these wankers. Truth of the matter, the PNC – which Granger heads and to which the other opposition parties are mere appendages –has never won a democratic election under the agreedon rules of this or any other Constitution.

It lost two elections between 1957 and 1961 and snuck in 1964 after the U.S. and British “fiddled” with those rules. It then rigged four elections by 1992. At the very first free and fair elections – under the Constitution it had created – lost ignominiously! So what does it do? Well, change the rules again! So what if it took riots in the streets and burning down whole sections of Georgetown? Hence, the constitutional changes of 2000. But inevitably, the PNC lost again. And we’re back in the present. Seems it’s now conceded it can never win the executive and given up on politics. Rather than fixing its glaring faults which made the people reject it again and again, it wants to change the rules of politics to involve unions and civil society.....to control the state!

It’s pathetic really. The opposition’s craving for power is so palpable that it’s willing to destroy the political system that has proven itself against threats from all quarters. Maybe it should consider the “left front” proposed by the PPP/C. At least it leaves the politics in politics.

...old bottle

The government needs to get a grip on its policy on the New River Triangle (NRT). Either it’s part of Guyana or it’s not. And if it is, then it matters not a whit what Suriname thinks about our developing it for the betterment of our people and country. What’s this nonsense about “security”? Surely the threat isn’t from Brazil since we are doing our darndest to develop Lethem which is smack on the border with that country.

The threat’s from Suriname – the only other nation in the neighbourhood – which claims NRT. So what have the armchair generals crawling out of the woodwork done about it since we chased out the Surinamese interlopers in 1969? Will keeping the NRT as a pristine tropical jungle give us a tactical and strategic advantage over Surinamese forces?

And as for those yapping about “biodiversity”, did Suriname consult us when they plunged forward with their exploitation of their bauxite and gold reserves to zip past our per capita GNP?

Let’s check again as to which passports the development critics are holding?

...smaller bottle?

Our West Indian cricket team seems to be shrinking Down Under – and not only in the “win” column. But seems the coaching staff is sacrosanct. Especially Gibson. Why?

No new deadline for Hope canal completion

No new deadline has been set for the completion of the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) Northern Relief Channel at Hope/Dochfour, Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy stated. The Agriculture Ministry, the contractors, and the engineers are working to make the project operational as early as possible.

He made these remarks on Thursday during a visit to the project to get a firsthand look at progress made. He was accompanied by National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Chief Executive Officer Lionel Wordsworth. One of the four components of the project – the Hope bridge has been completed and Minister Ramsammy explained that it was considered essentially finished before the December 31 deadline, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

Many visits

“After so many visits, where we were looking at structures going up, we are now standing on a bridge with vehicles which we ourselves drove over this bridge… in terms of the contract that we have for the completion of this bridge, it is essentially completed. There are some landscaping work and so to be done for this bridge, but that is outside of the contract for this bridge,” he said.

The channel, which will be the last aspect to be completed, is 95 per cent done, and cannot be fully realised until the project becomes operational. Minister Ramsammy explained that they “cannot open this channel to the sea or to the conservancy. We have to await the readiness of the whole project before we can complete the channel”.

There is also the shaping of the dam to be completed, “but as I have said all of 2013, the dams will be shaped and reshaped over a period of time,

and it is possible that a year, two years from now, we will still be doing some reshaping of the dam, but that does not affect the function of the channel,” he said.

Another component, the head regulator is sufficiently completed in terms of the superstructure. Minister Ramsammy noted that outside of the superstructure, the elements of the project that need to be completed will be done over the next several weeks. The component of the project that posed the greatest challenge has been the sluice, but the ministry has worked with the contractor to move forward with this aspect.

“I believe that going back into November (of 2013), there was a sense of hopelessness among many people to the extent where some people seriously considered terminating that contract, but within the Ministry of Agriculture and particularly within the NDIA, the engineers and the consultants believed that the termination of that contract would, in fact, have prolonged the completion date and we needed to work with the contrac-

tor. I want to commend the contractors for the work they been doing with the ministry, and with the NDIA team, they have worked in accordance with a work plan,” Minister Ramsammy said.

Several phases

The ministry and the contractor have agreed to have the outstanding work divided into several phases, some of which are to be completed by February. The first few phases would realise the completion of the superstructure for the sluice, Dr Ramsammy said. Work is on pace right now to complete six phases by midFebruary and that would bring the sluice to a stage where the superstructure for the four components would be essentially completed, paving the way for the project’s operationalisation, he explained.

“I saw that we have a deadline of April, but that’s a deadline that Kaieteur News made up. I am saying the work we are doing is trying to get to a stage where this project is completed and we could begin the hard work of operationalisation,” he said.

Hinds

The minister pointed out that the deadline was December 31. “Now, we are beginning to do the kind of work that would mean that the work we did not complete by the December 31 deadline gets done as quickly as possible, and I would like to see the operationalisation of this by the end of April so that when we get to the May-June rainfall, this channel would be working the way we envision that it would impact rainy seasons in Guyana,” he said.

“Next week, we are going to get together again and we will begin planning. So far, all our plans have been on the construction of this channel and its related associated structures, now we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, and we are seriously now looking at the functioning, the operationalisation of the channel,” he said.

Within budget Minister Ramsammy was adamant the project will be completed within the budgetary allocations of just over $3 billion.

“This project, it was done by Guyanese contractors, Guyanese engineers and Guyanese workers, and for me, reaching this stage is more a sense of pride. I do understand that there will be concerns about the fact that we went beyond the construction deadline, and that is something we should always be concerned about, but we should also not forget that a project that many said was beyond the capacity of Guyanese contractors, workers, and engineers has been essentially completed and successfully so,” the minister said.

happy APNU’s concerned about e-governance

project

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds said he is more than happy that the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has concerns about the US$32 million egovernance project.

Alluding to the fact that the project has suffered from extensive delays and now requires modification, APNU executive Joseph Harmon has tabled two questions in Parliament surrounding the delays and the management of the project.

Harmon’s first question is based on the cost overruns related to the e-governance project.

Additionally, he is calling on the prime minister to provide the resume of Alexei Ramotar, the project coordinator, as it relates to his prior experience with fibre optic cable installation, designing and management.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds

The prime minister told Guyana Times that he was not yet in receipt of the formal notification. He said upon receipt he will submit his answers to the National Assembly within a three-week period.

While Ramotar said the concern raised by Harmon is no big deal, the APNU Member of Parliament said there is clearly an issue of competence, emphasising that the project is two years behind schedule.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon had disclosed that the multibillion-dollar project, which includes the laying of fibre-optic cable from Guyana to Brazil, will be completed this year.

The project was slated for completion since 2012 but had encountered a series of problems.

While detailing the work completed thus far, Dr Luncheon said installation of the LTE system from Moleson Creek, Corentyne to Charity is progressing faster than the cable being installed between Lethem and Georgetown.

Indian prime minister offers support to diaspora

At the 12th edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) – the annual get-together of Indians in the diaspora – held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi January 7-9, the Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh offered the government’s “continuous support to Indians in the diaspora”. The prime minister also assured the non-resident Indians (NRIs) of continuous support, and said the government will “assist in promoting their links with the mother country in every possible way”.

He said the construction of the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in Delhi will be completed this year, giving access to all people of Indian origin. “We also intend to start a scheme to assist state governments in establishing Pravasi Bharatiya Bhawans for their overseasbased population so they can come to their ancestral state for interaction.”

The theme of this year’s Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was “Engaging Diaspora: Connecting Across Generations”.

The first day of the event was devoted to Youth Pravasi. The second day

witnessed the feature addresses by the prime minister and minister of government from Malaysia. Indian President Pranab Mukherji closed the session with a valedictory address and the presentation of the Pravasi Samman Awards to select individuals who made outstanding contributions to the diaspora. Previous awardees include former President Bharrat Jagdeo, Rohan Kanhai, Yesu Persaud and Ashok Ramsaran. This writer attended several of the PBDS, including the inaugural one and the one where President Jagdeo was honoured.

The Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs, Vayalar Ravi, who visited Guyana several times and was interviewed by this writer last November in New York, explained that the purpose of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is to have meaningful interaction with overseas Indians that would address their issues and concerns. The convention provides a unique platform for overseas Indians to interact among themselves and with the governments of India and its states. He noted that the forum showcases investment opportunities in India and its potential in various sectors.

Common heritage

There was a session on “Sharing a Common Heritage: The Emotional Connect”, and one on “Young Achievers”. Other plenary sessions included “India’s Growth and Development Agenda”, “India’s Soft Power”, “PBD Oration”, “Investment Opportunities in State”, “Innovation and Technology”, “Healthcare Opportunity in India”, “Meeting of Diaspora Organisations”, “Making India the Hub of Media and Entertainment Industry”, and “Issues of NRIs in the Gulf”.

Some people own runnins got dem runnin

Guyana was always known as a country wid people who got plenty runnins. Nuff other countries got people like that too. But Guyana beat dem all. Guyana even got a man who got runnins to move out people from one country to another wid other people passport. And wid out immigration on both sides knowin. De same man got runnins in places wheh he move de people to. That is real runnins. That is what yuh call a man wid runnins. That man got people who into runnins too. De runnins whah dem people got does mek people wanna run away. Dem people mek Site Global run from de Amalia Falls site. Now dem mek Muri Ventures run from de New River venture.

Dem was tryin to mek Rohee run. But Rohee run dem back. Then dem try to mek Ashni run. But Ashni run dem back too…more fast than de speed whah dem run come wid. De other day dem was tryin to mek Robert run. But Robert invite dem in to run dem mouth. That was when every body mouth stop runnin.

De runnins man had runnins to de U.S. and in de U.S. till de U.S. run he out de country. That is when he start runnin to de U.S. embassy and run he mouth. A reporter who run from he and run back to he tell nuff people bout some of de runnins.

That reporter know he can’t run any ting in de mud paper bout dem kinda runnins. Otherwise he gon have to run again. Or de runnins man gon mek he can’t run again fuh de rest of he life…if he still got life.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! But de runnins man gon soon can’t run no more. De Eff-BEE-High gon run four walls around he in de same country wheh he got plenty runnins. Is leff to be seen if a story gon run bout that!

Electrocution of Sophia lad highlights dangers of power theft – GPL

The electrocution of eight-year-old Joshua Regis of Plum Park, Sophia, Georgetown, late last year was caused by illegal live electrical wires channelled through a waterway, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has said.

It said the tragic incident has once more highlighted the danger to life and limb that this practice poses. The power company, in extending its condolences to the family of the deceased, lamented the increasing incidence of electricity theft and urged members of the public to act responsibly in reporting any instance of this illegal activity.

Joshua Regis

ity theft can be made to HOTLINE 592-225-5251. For more details on how to easily access legal electricity, call 592-226-2606.

Moments after leaving his home to catch fish, Regis, an Enterprise Primary School student, was electrocuted after he came into contact with an illegal connection.

According to reports, the lad, who loved fishing, was warned not to leave the house, but he left without his mother’s knowledge, with a bucket and fishing hook in his hands.

Reformed prisoners should be given a chance – Reverend Clarke

By Vahnu Manikchand

“Many talk about reformation of prisoners who are released to change their lives for the better, but they make little or no efforts to help bring about these changes. This is something society has to change,” so said Director of Prison Fellowship Guyana, Reverend Fay Clarke.

In an interview with Guyana Times, Reverend Clarke pointed out that those persons are considered outcasts by society and are usually neglected; however, quite often, they end up being the ones to change and become productive citizens. She said that change has to come from within or else it is superficial and temporary.

is treated and the harsher the punishment is, the worst that person becomes.”

"We have seen those who were not married and have common-law relationships, they are getting married and take care of their children and they go back in (prison) if they get the opportunity, whether as teacher or as inspirational speakers, and tell those there. So we see a genuine connection between what is said, taking place, tying up with their actions,” Clarke said.

According to GPL, the prevalence of illegal connections, often done in collusion with persons purporting to be GPL staff, is the single biggest problem faced by the power company, both in terms of revenue lost, the overloading of the power lines and the possible loss of lives and damage to property.

Reports on electric-

He went to a nearby trench where he secured a hook, but slid in the mud during the process. In an attempt to stop his slide into the trench, he reportedly grabbed and held onto the live wire and was electrocuted.

Haslington boy charged with murder of toddler

The 15-year-old boy who was accused of molesting a two-year-old relative at his Haslington home last October, causing her death, was on Tuesday slapped with a murder charge upon the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Bibi Shalimar Ali-Hack.

The teenager made his first court appearance at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Zamina Ally where the charge was read to him. He was not required to plead to the indictment and was remanded to a juvenile facility until January 27.

The DPP on Wednesday gave the green light to charge the teen since there

was enough evidence for a conviction.

From the onset, the teenager has denied having any involvement in the toddler’s death. The autopsy performed by Dr Nehaul Singh on the child’s body gave the cause of death as haemorrhaging and shock due to multiple abdominal injuries.

It was reported that an hour before the child passed away, the suspect went to the shop to purchase a tablet with the intention of giving it to her. After a while, he then called out to a cousin to report that the child was not feeling well. She was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Medical practitioners

were of the view that the child was sexually molested and it was confirmed when the post-mortem was conducted. The child was left in the care of her grandmother who subsequently asked the young man to keep an eye on her, since she had to run an errand.

It was reported that the child was playing in the yard with her cousins when she defecated on herself and the other girls called the young man to clean her.

He told relatives that while bathing the child, she defecated again which prompted him to take her to the upper flat of the house and give her a cup of tea, but soon after she lost consciousness.

“From a Christian perspective, the Bible says ‘the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked’ and who can know this, we have to focus on the issue of forgiveness,” she explained.

The reverend noted that the world has been given an opportunity recently with the death of Nelson Mandela. She said with all the accolades given, the most preeminent one related to his exemplifying forgiveness and what it is like to live in a state of forgiveness.

Training programme

The Prison Fellowship director recounted a training programme she attended in Singapore where there was a session where they allowed judges to wash the feet of prisoners.

One prisoner in particular was very touched by this act, since the judge who washed his feet was the one who had sentenced him and whom he had threatened to kill when he was released.

“But this very act of humility, this power that Christ himself demonstrated in humbling himself to wash his disciples’ feet, that when the judge washed the prisoner’s feet, he wept and confessed,” she said.

Reverend Clarke stressed that man believes the harder you punish, the more successful rehabilitation results you will get. “The worst one

She disclosed that countries worldwide are now reviewing the mechanisms used in prison. “Prison Fellowship has advisory status on the UN Council and been very instrumental in cementing, in training, in giving guidance to come up with new initiatives to bring about the kind of changes in persons not only while they are in prison but in reintegration also,” she noted.

The reverend added that the outreaches include prisoners, families of prisoners, victims of crimes, and the justice system. “I am proud to say that we are also reconstituting our local board and focusing on expanding the membership as well, aiming to prepare ourselves for new initiatives that we expect to implement in 2014,” she said.

Reverend Clarke mentioned that the rehabilitation programme at the prison has been successful over the years and has contributed to the positive changes in the attitudes and behaviours of many prisoners.

She stated that when the fellowship first came to Guyana and these programmes were implemented, prisoners were reluctant to attend.

“We have seen more persons are interested in attending various classes, we have seen also they are coming out and being effective in their communities, their lifestyle change is evident.

Additionally, the reverend said the fellowship is helping those who have been released from prison but have no direction. The “Prisoners of Purpose” support programme assists these freed men with food or getting a job, etc. She pointed out that there are many talented people in the prisons, so when those outside get to see this they are surprised because they fail to realise that prisoners are people too.

Chance

“Not everybody is incorrigible; there are many persons who will change if they are given a chance and if they can read and write,” she said. The reverend stressed that a high level of illiteracy is known to be a major factor and trigger of crime worldwide, since illiterate people are more vulnerable to getting involved in illegal activities.

Reverend Clarke went on to say that more efforts should be made to sensitise people in the community that the solution to crime is not linked to one agency, it is dependent on different sectors within the community working together.

On this note, she explained that persons who interact with prisoners are more likely to be the ones who will give them a second chance because they get to see the remorse and the desire to change for the better.

“To have that support to say ‘listen you have done x and y, it’s in the past, we are counting on you, we are giving you a chance’ is immeasurable, but we have to remember there will be some who will make your hands fall sometimes, but that doesn’t mean you should turn your back on all of them,” she noted. (vahnum@guyanatimesgy.com)

friday, january 10, 2014

Tributes pour in after passing of Terry Holder

As tributes continue to pour in for veteran broadcaster Terry Holder who passed away on Wednesday after battling a chronic illness, the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU) says it joins thousands from across the region in mourning the death of its former president and secretary general.

“Although we were aware of his prolonged period of illness, news of his death has brought with it a heavy sense of loss and an immediate feeling of a vacuum in our broadcasting family.

“The board, secretariat and members of our union extend heartfelt sympathies to his immediate and extended family and give our assurance of support at this very difficult time,” said the CBU in a statement on Thursday.

The CBU said Holder’s contribution to the union was significant, noting that he was the only person to serve as both president and secretary general.

“While we will take more time to pay full tribute to Terry in coming days… this level of service, at all levels of the union, not only makes him unique, but specially thought of and honoured for the contribution he has given,” the union said.

Profound sadness

The Guyana Press Association (GPA), in expressing profound sadness on the passing of the broadcaster, said it was aware of his illness but the finality of his passing still leaves “us saddened”.

According to the GPA, as general manager and as programme manager of the Guyana Broadcasting Service (GBS), Holder was instrumental in the development of radio broadcasting in Guyana.

“He nurtured a cadre of commentators, announcers, producers and reporters to pay particular attention to getting the right story out. To many, Terry was a guide and a mentor and broadcasting in Guyana and the Caribbean is better because he played his part. However, he was a

stickler for standards and lamented to various members of the GPA his concern about falling standards in the media,” the association said.

The media body added that Holder believed that people needed to know what was occurring in their societies so that they could make informed choices and decisions.

“He believed that the reporters must “live the story to tell the story”. He insisted that broadcasters understood that they were speaking to that one person out there who needed to know. He encouraged broadcasters to get out in the field, wherever the story took them. He wanted announcers and producers to connect with their radio audiences all the time,” said the GPA.

Broadcasting vision

According to the GPA, his tenure as secretary general of the CBU resulted in a similar vision and management style.

“He took pride in the production of the Caribbean Song Festival, CaribVision and CaribScope. Terry had helped to establish the CBU and laboured indefatigably to make it work,” GPA said.

The body said although Holder had a larger broadcasting vision for the Caribbean, he never forgot his native land, Guyana. He returned to serve as deputy general manager of Guyana Telegraph and Telephone Company (GT&T), and continued to promote and push the media to higher stan-

dards.

He also immersed himself in sport, particularly cricket and table tennis, and was well respected for his loyalty, diligence and vigilance in those arenas.

“He was ever so polite, unflappable, suave and an inspiration to so many in the media and sporting fraternities. The GPA shall miss his counsel and Guyana has lost a good and gentle soul.”

The Alliance For Change (AFC) said like other Guyanese, it recognises Holder as a stalwart and a son of the soil who led an exemplary and remarkable life.

“His service, to broadcasting in Guyana and the Caribbean, media, sport and society and as general manager for public relations with the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T), has been outstanding in every regard,” said the AFC.

QC ‘old boy’

A Queen’s College (QC) ‘old boy’, he was the first programme director of the GBS and later went on to serve as general manager of the Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC). He was instrumental in the formation of the CBU, and served as its president, then went on to become the CBU secretary general from 1988 to 1992 before returning to Guyana.

Holder pioneered GBC’s “Action Line” and “Man in the Street” programmes, along with the CBU’s CaribScope and CaribVision programmes, AFC said, adding that he also led the negotiations which led to the first live television broadcast of international cricket in the Caribbean in 1990.

Shannon Stanton Crawford, on behalf of the Georgetown and Demerara Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association and the entire umpire fraternity in Guyana, said: “The umpire brotherhood has indeed lost an impeccable personality,” he said.

He said the media, cricket, and sport and, indeed, this nation has lost a giant of a man. “His warm and pleasant personality was a joy to behold and was always someone keen on progress and prosperity. It is with deep regret … that we pray that GOD will comfort his bereaved family,” said Crawford.

MAB to continue sensitising men on being role models

The Human Services and Social Security Ministry’s Men’s Affairs Bureau (MAB), in collaboration with the Education Ministry, will continue to help and encourage men and boys to realise their true potential as positive role models in communities across the country.

The bureau held sensitisation workshops in various communities and schools across the country in 2013, helping men and boys understand issues relating to their gender such as anger management, and understanding the need of spouses and women, and the issue of gender equality.

Human Services and Social Security Ministry Deputy Permanent Secretary and MAB coordinator, Reverend Patrick Findlay

These workshops targeted males who were involved in violence and other domestic is-

sues. According to Human Services and Social Security Minister Jenifer Webster, at a recent press conference, sensitisation sessions were also taken to the Lusignan, Timehri and Georgetown prisons. Eighty-five prisoners were sensitised at Lusignan, 450 at Georgetown, and 35 prison officers from the Timehri prison.

The MAB was launched on March 4, 2010 and is responsible for partnering, organising and coordinating the activities of men and men’s groups throughout the country, so as to address issues relating to, and associated with men and masculinity.

Bermudez announces winners of Christmas promotion

Bermudez, a division of Associated Industries Limited (AINLIM), has announced the winners of its Holiday Xmas promotion, which was held during December 2013 at supermarkets in Georgetown and on the East Bank of Demerara. The winners were Chandroutie Manaram of Clonbrook, East Coast Demerara (ECD); Deon Feassal of Enterprise, East Coast Demerara; Felix Lee Ting of Laluni Street, Queenstown; Kurlsen Roberts of Patentia Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara; Steve Hardeen of First Street, Alexander Village; Trevanne Telford of Charlotte Street, Bourda; Vishwanauth Singh of David Street, Campbellville, Georgetown; Viraj Jagdeo of Success, ECD; V Jadgernauth of Alliance Road, Timehri, East Coast Demerara; Nazalene Persaud of Princes Street, Wortmanville, Georgetown; and Genny Lowenfield whose

telephone number was listed.

The management of Bermudez was unable to contact Persaud and Lowenfield and the two winners are asked to contact Bermudez’s office located at AINLIM compound at Ruimveldt or call 2268491-5 ext 121. Bermudez coordinator Chandanee TahalRamsaran said the promotion was very successful and ex-

pressed gratitude to all the winners and participating supermarkets. Each winner was presented with a hamper of assorted Holiday snacks. The participating supermarkets were Bounty outlets at Water Street, Kitty and Grove (EBD), Survival outlets on Vlissengen Road and Sheriff Street, and Nigel’s on Robb Street.

Two charged for BV taxi driver murder

Two men, including a teenager, was on Thursday charged for the murder of Rafael Campbell of Lot 33 Simpson Street, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara, whose body was found at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown last Friday.

A 16-year-old of Charlestown, Georgetown and Michael Bishop, 21, of Albouystown, Georgetown were not required to plead to the indictable charge when it was read by Magistrate Alex Moore at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court. They were remanded to prison until February 14.

Earlier this week, Crime Chief Seelall Persaud said an application was made to the High Court for an extension which was granted. Based on reports, five young men reportedly boarded the man’s car two Thursdays ago on Camp Street and asked to be taken to Bel Air Gardens.

Upon arrival at their destination, the man told them the fare, but they disagreed with the figure. This spurred an argument which led to the fatal shooting. After the incident, the young men panicked

and reportedly drove the car to Liliendaal where they disposed of the man’s body. The suspects are holding out that another person who is still at large committed the act. They were intercepted on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway last Friday during a routine roadblock stop-and-search exercise. It was about 18:00h when the police ranks stopped and searched the black Toyota Premio with six youths inside.

During routine questioning, the driver, who was not a holder of a driver’s licence attempted to escape, but instead he crashed. He later made good his escape while the others were arrested.

Initially, Campbell who was unidentified at the time of his discovery was seen in a clump of bushes with a single gunshot wound to his face and other marks of violence about his body.

Two days after the man’s body was taken to the Lyken Funeral Home, he was identified as the 30-year-old taxi driver from Beterverwagting. A post-mortem examination performed on the body gave the cause of death as gunshot injuries to the head.

Dharmic Sabha charged to help unite Guyana

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s observance of its 40th anniversary was described by President Donald Ramotar as a time for reflection on the contribution made by its founder Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud. He called on the organisation’s executives to help build unity, not only among Hindus but all Guyanese.

In lauding the late pandit, the president told the gathering at the Shri Krishna Mandir in Campbellville on Wednesday evening, “In 1974, times were not easy, and if he was not who he was, it would have been difficult for this organisation to survive.”

Democracy

He recalled that it was the fight for democracy, as well as religious freedom, that drove the revered pandit, and that the period was tantamount to the beginning of a dictatorship which saw general elections, along with those of trade unions and even religious bodies, being rigged.

He also recalled the oratory skills of the late parliamentarian when debating matters of law or agriculture,

the Government Information Agency said in a release.

The president reminded guests to seek knowledge and not be swayed by reports by some sections of society who are practising similar tactics to those seen in the mid-1960s. “That is the only way we can have immunisation against other attacks that may come. We have to have freedom of diversity, and we have to be part and parcel of all the developments.”

These tactics led to life deteriorating for all, and resulted in Guyana moving from being the most developed country in the Caribbean to the poorest in 1992. This, he said, must never be allowed to occur again, as he warned against those who preached disunity.

Tribute

The head of state was accompanied by his son Alexei Ramotar, and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. The prime minister paid tribute to his late parliamentary colleague who always invited him to ceremonies held to observe festivals such as Diwali and Phagwah and made him feel welcome.

The prime minister re-

called Pandit Persaud telling him that “all of the religions are like streams flowing down to the same ocean, and we should all love and help each other”.

Dharmic Sabha President , Dr Vindhya Persaud, the daughter of the late pandit, said achieving 40 years for any organisation requires immense struggle, dedication and commitment and that was displayed by her

Indian prime minister...

State governments, corporations, financial institutions, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) participated in the event. Some 2200 delegates attended the conclave, including several from the Guyanese diaspora in New York, England and Canada. There was a large contingent from Guadeloupe where some 15 per cent of the 300,000 population are of Indian descent. This writer conducted ethno research on the Indians in Guadeloupe.

Indians, mostly Madrassis, were taken by the French government and traders over 150 years ago to replace the emancipated slaves on their plantations in French Guiana and Martinique, etc. Upon reaching Guadeloupe and other French colonies, “they discovered that not only their contractual terms were not honoured but even their most basic rights were violated by the French”.

Michel Narayaninssamy, a resident of the French

Caribbean island of Guadeloupe and the president of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Guadeloupe, told reporters that “When we compare our situation with those of our neighbours right next door in Trinidad and Tobago, we realise how difficult life must have been for our ancestors.

Indian traditions

The Trinidadians have more or less kept their Indian traditions alive and their biggest advantage was that they could keep their religion, their names, and their languages. So, even generations later, they found it rather easy to stay abreast with all that is happening in India.

“In contrast, we here in the Guadeloupe have lost touch with India completely and have begun rediscovering our Indian roots only about five years ago when we first visited India”. He explained that the Guadeloupian

Indians “were obliged to convert to Christianity and take Christian names, abandoning their Hindu culture and traditions as well as losing their language as their new masters forced them to learn French and to ‘unlearn’ their Indian languages”.

Minister Ravi paid tribute to the Guadeloupians.

“They are a very courageous people who have kept the Indian culture and Indianness alive in that remote part of the world even after over 150 years. I also know that despite the geographic and historic distances, there have been regular delegations to attend the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in India every January.”

The man vying to replace Manmohan Singh as PM, Shri Narendra Modi also praised the work of the diaspora.

He said “good days are coming for the diaspora”, in anticipation of his party forming the next government after the May elections.

father when he answered the call which led to the establishment of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

“ Today, we sit here as proud members of the Hindu Dharmic Sabha, proud because we pledged to continue the work of Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud who stood up in the wilderness as a voice of not only Hindus, but as a voice of the Guyanese people who needed his voice,

his actions and more importantly, his vision.”

She also thanked all of the organisations and persons who followed the vision put forward by her father, and their cohesiveness that enabled the organisation to achieve its milestone.

Dharmic Sabha Senior Vice President Parmanand Bhanu, in brief remarks, recalled the efforts made by the late pandit to establish

the Shri Krishna Mandir and the sacrifices throughout the years to build an awareness of Hinduism across Guyana. “I urge all devotees to remember the sacrifices made by Pandit and the lessons he taught us on how to be good Hindus and citizens”.

Congratulatory messages and tributes were also made by representatives of affiliated Hindu organisations and the Hare Krishna Movement from various communities across the country.

Rich culture

The Hindu Dharmic Sabha has been active in many communities, not only as it seeks to preserve Hindus’ rich culture, but also as advocates against alcohol abuse, domestic violence, suicide and HIV/ AIDS. Its members have also undertaken charity drives to assist the underprivileged and numerous literacy programmes.

The organisation will be hosting the Sonu Nigam troupe at the National Stadium on May 4, as part of its anniversary celebrations and to mark the 176th anniversary of East Indian arrival in Guyana.

More than 4400 stray animals removed from roads in 2013

The Home Affairs Ministry’s Stray Catching Unit has recorded satisfactory success in 2013 in keeping stray animals off the roadways, so much so that there were no reports of fatal accidents involving strays during the course of year.

For the period January 3 to December 31, 2013, the unit caught and impounded 4434 animals – three donkeys, 2089 cows, 1167 goats, 430 horses and 745 sheep.

Operations were conducted in Demerara and Berbice in accordance with the objective of the programme to enhance traffic safety on the roads by catching and impounding strays; thereby re-

ducing the risk of accidents.

The Georgetown unit accounted for the three donkeys, 660 cows, 673 goats, five horses, and 429 sheep and the Berbice unit, 425 horses, 1429 cows, 494 goats, and 316 sheep.

A total of 174 animals were impounded at pounds in A Division, 2664 in B Division, 769 in C Division, 758 in D Division and 69 in G Division.

Stray catchers benefited from weekly training sessions on: the Pounds Act, Chapter 71:04; the Cattle Stealing Prevention Act, Chapter 9:03; the Local Government Act, Chapter 28:02; and the Roads Act, Chapter 5:01.

They also received training on police and public relations; guidelines for catching stray animals and self-defence.

With regard to reported deaths of impounded animals and, in some instances, the escape of animals, the Home Affairs Ministry is calling on the police to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of animals that are taken to the pounds.

Moreover, the recommendations to have a pound erected at the East La Penitence Police Station compound, and to compartmentalise all police pounds to facilitate the accommodation of both small and large animals are being considered by the ministry.

Three arraigned for murder of Mahaicony cash crop farmer

Three men were on Thursday arraigned for the murder of Dearoop Siewchand, 72, of Lot 8 Zealand, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, who was killed during a robbery at his home on Sunday morning.

Premnauth Seepersaud, 37, of Planters Hall, Mahaicony; Karran Ramhit, 23, and Doodnauth Siewchand, 47, both of Zealand, were not required to plead to the charge which stated that on January 5, they murdered Siewchand. They were remanded to prison by presiding magistrate Sueanna Lovell at the Mahaica Magistrate’s Court. The defendants will make their second court ap-

pearance on February 5.

Siewchand was found in his house with at least 17 stab wounds about 06:45h

on Sunday. The man’s wife, Ambika, 70, was also assaulted during the robbery. She was taken to the Mahaicony Hospital, but was subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she was admitted.

The perpetrators reportedly used a ladder to gain entry into the home, in which the couple shared with their eight-year-old nephew, through a window on the upper flat of the house.

A post-mortem performed on the body of the farmer revealed his cause of death to be multiple incised wounds compounded by blunt force trauma to the head.

Arrest warrant issued

for

Canje murder suspect

The Guyana Police Force on Thursday issued an arrest warrant for Leon De Younge for questioning in relation to the shooting to death of Titus Sutton, called “Franky” or “Preso”, a 53-year-old remigrant farmer of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara.

Titus was shot dead on November 8 at Barakara, Canje Creek, Berbice during an argument at the suspect’s home. The incident also left the dead man’s friend, Sherwin Mc Almont, 34, nursing a gunshot injury to his leg. De Younge is of African descent and is of medium build.

It was reported that on the fateful day, a dispute broke out between the suspect and other farmers in the Ekura, Canje River.

The argument prolonged and the men went to the suspect’s home at Barakara where Sutton was shot to his face at close range with a shotgun. He reportedly fell onto the steps and died almost immediately. De Younge fled the scene and has not been seen since.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of De Younge is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 225-6411, 226-6978, 333-2151-2154, 333-2191, 911 or at the nearest police station.

One arrested, two escape after Enterprise robbery

One man has been taken in to police custody while two of his accomplices are on the run following a robbery at a rum shop at Enterprise, East Coast Demerara on Wednesday.

The robbery occurred around 20:40h on Wednesday police said in a release, adding that businessman Surrendram Dass was in his shop, along with three customers, when three men entered the premises.

Two of the men were

armed: one with a handgun and the other with a chopper, police said. The bandits held Dass and the three customers at gunpoint before taking an undisclosed sum of cash, cellphones and alcoholic beverages.

The perpetrators then made good their escape; however, later that night, police ranks set up a road block at Cove and John, ECD, and observed a motor car that was approaching suddenly turn back.

Suspicious of the occupants, ranks gave chase af-

ter the vehicle and caught up with it. Two of the occupants manage to escape, while one was apprehended and taken into custody.

Police recovered a cellphone, which was identified as one of the stolen phones, along with a quantity of alcohol. The suspect in custody was subsequently identified as one of the men who invaded the shop and robbed the four persons.

Police are currently looking for his two accomplices as the investigation continues.

Indian diplomat indicted, asked to leave U.S.

The Indian diplomat whose arrest and strip-searching in New York caused a major rift between India and the United States was indicted for visa fraud on Thursday, and the U.S. government immediately asked her to leave the country.

A U.S. government official said Washington accepted a request by India to accredit the diplomat, Devyani Khobragade, at the United Nations and then asked New Delhi to waive the diplomatic immunity that sta-

tus conferred. India denied the request, leading Washington to ask for her departure, the official said.

In a letter accompanying her indictment on Thursday, the prosecutor in the case, U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara in Manhattan, initially said Khobragade had left the country.

Shortly afterwards, a spokesman for Bharara said in a statement that she had not left. A lawyer for Khobragade confirmed this.

“Despite Preet Bharara’s reports to the contrary, Devyani Khobragade has not left the country,” Daniel Arshack, her lawyer, said in a statement. “She is at home with her children.”

There was no immediate comment from the Indian embassy in Washington or its mission to the United Nations. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Pakistani boy who died trying to stop suicide bomber hailed as a hero

A15-year-old who died while tried to defend his school in Pakistan’s troubled northwest from a suicide bomber has been hailed as a hero for saving the lives of many of his classmates.

Aitizaz Hasan tackled the bomber as he stood outside as a punishment for being late to school in Hangu, a town in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Monday.

His two companions fled the scene after spotting the bomb being carried by the man, who was trying to gain access to the school, but Aitizaz grabbed the bomber.

Unable to stop him from detonating his bomb, Aitizaz later died of his wounds in hospital.

Hangu has a large community of Shias, an Islamic sect which many militant groups regard as heretics who should convert to the

majority Sunni faith or be killed.

Aitizaz’s actions are thought to have saved the lives of many of the 2000 students who were believed to be in the building at the time.

“My son made his mother cry, but saved hundreds of mothers from crying for their children,” his father, Mujahid Ali, told the Express Tribune newspaper.

“There are a handful of people in the world who are martyrs; I am now one of those proud fathers whose son is among them.” Praise has poured in for Aitizaz’s efforts, with some calling for him to be posthumously honoured. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Around the world

Cuban ex-leader Fidel Castro in rare public appearance

Cuba’s former President Fidel Castro has appeared in public for the first time in nine months. Castro, 87, attended the opening of an art studio in the capital, Havana, on Wednesday night.

Pictures released on Thursday showed a frail-

looking Castro walking with a stick and looking at works of art. Fidel Castro led Cuba for nearly half a century before handing over power to his brother, Raul, in 2006 because of ill health.

Fidel has kept a low public profile, with sporadic appearances, ever since.

The last time he ap-

peared in public was on April 9 last year, when he attended the inauguration of a Havana school.

Pictures of the former Cuban leader were last seen in December, after his private meeting with the visiting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a key ally of Cuba. (BBC News)

Belize-based Canadian missionary hacked to death

The body of Canadian missionary Brian Townsend, who had spent nearly a decade working in the Valley of Peace in Belize, was recently discovered just over the border in Guatemala, reportedly covered with chop wounds from a machete.

The 64-year-old was first reported missing on Christmas Day by a chef he had hired to cook Christmas dinner.

On arrival at Townsend’s house, the chef found that his truck was missing and his home ransacked. When she discovered a trail of

blood outside the house, she alerted the authorities.

Meanwhile, back in Edmonton, Canada, worried family members created a Facebook page “Brian Townsend Missing Belize” and tried to raise money for the missionary’s son, Kory Townsend, to travel to Belize to search for his father.

Events took a turn for the worse on December 27 when police in neighbouring Guatemala found a badly decomposed body just across the border from Belize.

The Canadian Press reported that investigators

took photographs of the body before burying it in Saint Helena.

According to Dinsdale Thompson, superintendent of police in Benque Viejo, the body “was still in a recognisable state,” but covered with machete wounds.

Police now suspect that Townsend’s laptop, clothing and truck were stolen during a struggle at his home. They are working with authorities in Guatemala to track down two male suspects and have asked a Guatemalan judge for permission to exhume the Canadian’s remains. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

Caribbean

Barbados seeks support to revive economy

The Barbados government urged citizens to “band together” as it seeks to implement a raft of policies, including job cuts and a reduction in expenditure in a bid to reviving an ailing economy. Finance and Economic Affairs Minister Chris Sinckler told a news conference that the adjustment process was never ever going to be easy and the Freundel Stuart government does not pretend that it was going to be a “painless process”.

North America

But he promised Barbadians that “if we believe we can turn the situation around we will,” urging them to “work harder, smarter and together” in reviving the economy. “Your government is committed to succeeding and turning around this economy we will not be distracted. Let us band together as a strong and resilience people, working together to make our country better, taking the tough decisions that we have to but implementing the decisions that

we know will bring years of lasting growth and development”.

Late last month, Sinckler announced the plan by the Freundel Stuart government to cut public service jobs in a bid to save Bds$143 million. He said government would also institute a “strict programme of attrition” across the central public service, filling posts only where it is absolutely unavoidable, over the next five years, ending 20182019. (Trinidad Guardian)

Labour market data suggest u.S. economy strengthening

The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits last week fell and planned layoffs hit a 13-1/2 year low in December, adding to a range of data that have suggested the economy is gaining steam.

Initial claims for state unemployment benefits dropped 15,000 to a seasonally adjusted 330,000 in the week ended January 4, the Labour Department said on Thursday. Economists had expected them

Europe

to fall to just 335,000. Claims are typically volatile around this time of the year because of the weather and the difficulties adjusting the data for unusual and shifting layoff patterns around the holidays.

Still, they have been largely consistent with other labour market indicators that have painted an upbeat picture of the jobs market and the overall economy. “The labour market seems to have picked up some steam towards the end of

the year,” said Guy Berger, an economist at RBS in Stamford, Connecticut.

Separately, consulting firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas said planned layoffs at U.S. firms plunged by 32 per cent in December to the lowest level since June 2000.

The reports helped to lift U.S. stocks, although the dollar was little changed against a basket of currencies and prices for U.S. government bonds rose only slightly. (Reuters)

European Central Bank keeps rates at record 0.25 per cent low

The European Central Bank (ECB) has kept its benchmark interest rate at a record low of 0.25 per cent. ECB said president Mario Draghi said rates would “remain at present or lower levels for an extended period of time”.

There had been speculation that the bank might act to bolster fragile growth in the 18-nation euro bloc. With eurozone inflation falling below one per cent, there is also concern about

deflation as consumers delay purchases in the hope of prices falling further. The eurozone economy grew only 0.1 per cent in the third quarter, while inflation, at only 0.8 per cent, remains below the ECB’s goal of about two per cent.

Draghi told a news conference that the eurozone “may experience a prolonged period of low inflation, to be followed by a gradual upward movement towards inflation rates below

but close to two per cent later on”. He said the economic risks for the eurozone “remain on the downside” and that the ECB is ready to “take further decisive action” using “all available tools” to spur a weak recovery.

In November, the ECB cut the rate to 0.25 per cent, from 0.5 per cent, which Draghi said at the time was done because of continuing economic weakness among some eurozone members. (BBC News)

Africa

nigeria bank chief Sanusi told to resign by Goodluck jonathan

Nigeria’s president asked central bank chief Lamido Sanusi to resign over a leaked letter about missing oil funds, a source has confirmed to the BBC.

But Sanusi refused, telling Goodluck Jonathan that others could have leaked his memo about the state oil firm’s failure to account for US$50 billion (£30 billion). Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo referred to this in a letter criticising Jonathan’s leadership last month.

Asia

President Jonathan was angered by the criticism, denying government fraud. In a rebuttal letter before Christmas, the president said that Obasanjo, who is also a member of the governing People’s Democratic Party, was threatening “national security” by whipping up opposition to his administration. He dismissed allegations of “high corruption” in government and said that Sanusi’s allegations – made in a letter dated September 25, 2013 – were “spurious”.

A respected banker, Sanusi has spearheaded reforms in Nigeria’s troubled banking sector since his appointment in 2009. According to Nigeria’s This Day newspaper, President Jonathan demanded the bank chief’s resignation over the phone, asking him to leave by December 31, 2013. But in a heated exchange, Sanusi refused to leave his post before his term ends later this year, a source confirmed to the BBC. (BBC News)

alibaba bans Bitcoin amid China crackdown

China’s top Internet retailer has prohibited the use of Bitcoin on its shopping platforms amid a regulatory crackdown targeting the digital currency. The decision will make practical use of Bitcoin even more difficult in China, despite massive interest from investors in the alternative currency. Alibaba said in a post on its website that the regulation will take effect on January 19, and would extend to other digital currencies including Litecoins.

Middle East

John Spelich, a company spokesman, confirmed the policy in an email saying the ban was implemented “in the interest of consumer protection.”

Demand for Bitcoin has been particularly strong in China, where investors have eagerly embraced the currency and helped drive its price to dramatic highs above US$1000 in recent weeks. But regulators have taken a dim view of Bitcoin, and the central bank last month issued rules that pro-

hibit financial institutions from dealing in the digital currency. While the central bank did not outlaw or prohibit individuals from owning Bitcoin, the guidelines specify that it is not to be considered a currency. The new rules prohibit financial institutions in China from trading, underwriting or offering insurance in Bitcoin. Chinese regulators have also directed third-party payment services to stop working with Bitcoin exchanges. (CNN)

Bounced cheques should be decriminalised says former uaE bank boss

Issuing a bounced cheque should be decriminalised and banks should stop demanding security cheques for personal loans, the longest serving bank CEO in the UAE has told Arabian Business.

In an exclusive interview shortly after stepping down as boss of National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD), Michael Tomalin revealed his opinions on numerous banking issues in the UAE. He said

using cheques as a form of payment or security for a loan was archaic and he supported a long-running campaign to have bounced cheques decriminalised.

“Yes I do. The cheque has been used as a way to ensure payment and I think increasingly we need to move away from that and think of a better way of lending in the personal sector,” Tomalin, who served as CEO for 14 years and is now an executive

board member, says in an interview to be published in full in the Arabian Business magazine on Sunday. “It happens in other developed markets, [and] the UAE is becoming a developed market in terms of financial services – the banks are every bit as sophisticated as you’ll find in the West. “The only disadvantage I can see is that decriminalising bounced cheques could push up the price of credit.” (Arabianbusiness)

From a business writing perspective, precision vs accuracy are probably two of the most commonly misused terms out there. While they seem similar to most, their meaning is very different and using them incorrectly can result in significant communication errors.

Accuracy refers to how close the measured values are to the actual correct value. In a business context

having very accurate debt forecasts would mean that your forecasts are very close to the correct value. Precision refers to how close measured values are to each other. So a forecast model can be very precise in that it always forecasts the debt payments within a small range of values, but those values could be significantly different from the correct value.

Ideally when forecast-

ing, predicting, or projecting information you want to be able to provide results that are both accurate and precise. This would mean that you consistently get similar results that are all very close to the correct answer. This would give you confidence that the model is not only correct but is consistently correct, both of which are important from a business perspective. (Business Dictionary)

SUDOKU

Your strong opinions will place you in a position of leadership. Take what’s yours and don’t hesitate to be aggressive. Showing passion and a desire to get ahead will attract interest.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Question certain emotional issues before it is too late. You must stay on top of any situation that could alter your financial future. Problems with institutions or agencies can be expected.

A change will do you good. Visit a destination that offers something unique or could bring you in touch with someone unusual. Don’t instigate change, but welcome what does come your way.

Travel in search of new people, places and interests that will help you broaden your horizons. Don’t let an emotional issue get you down or stifle your fun.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

Do something nice for someone. Your generous deed will help your reputation. A life change will help you pursue more options. Favours will be granted and support will be offered.

(March 21-April 19)

Don’t worry about ticklish matters; take the initiative and do whatever has to be done to stake your claim. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

(April 20-May 20)

The more you discuss your plans, the closer you will be to achieving them. Setting your course of action is a good place to begin. Honesty will pay off.

(May 21June 20)

Secrets must be kept if you want to prosper. Money matters will develop, and the information you have will require discretion. Love is prominent, but don’t mix business with pleasure.

Rest, relaxation and a little pampering will be good for you. Include someone special in your leisure plans, and you will make an impression. Love is highlighted. Enjoy the moment.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

You’ll face opposition, and you should avoid situations that are demanding, overbearing, aggressive or excessive. Protect your home, your assets and your emotional, financial and physical wellbeing.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Speak up. Don’t let anyone push you around. Focus on your beliefs and concerns in order to open up a way to fix an intolerable situation.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Don’t gamble with money, love or your health. Protect what you have, making whatever changes are necessary to ensure your safety and happiness. Proceed with caution.

Entertainment

Who will we see in 2014??? Who will we see in 2014???

Hits and Jams Entertainment and McNeal’s Enterprise recently announced that the “Night of Love” concert which featured international R&B Singer, John Legend was a massive success, with more than 15,000 people in attendance.

achievement, the groups are bracing themselves for a fantastic year that will see at least another three mega concerts featuring international artistes.

With this thought, it is said that Guyana could possibly be the entertainment destination of the Caribbean. This, however, will not be possible without the vital support from various stakeholders including the government of Guyana; corporate Guyana and the general public.

This is the second time the two entertainment giants have teamed up, with the first being the R Kelly

It was, however, recognised that the entertainment industry has made significant strides with respect to the staging of major concerts headlined by international artistes such as the two most recent acts, John Legend

It was pointed out that the Night of Love concert, which was hosted on January 4, served as a major tourist

Deejays, officials of ANSA McAL and music critics are presently reviewing the entries submitted for this year’s Carib Soca Monarch that will see at least 12 person competing for $1.5 million if they make it to the finals.

Guyana Times understands that more than 30 entries have been accepted but the list of the semi-finalists will be announced on Monday at the ANSA McAL headquarters, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara.

Once these artistes are announced,

attraction with persons travelling from Trinidad and neighbouring Suriname and as far as Germany among other countries to attend the mega event.

Meanwhile, as we embark on another year, it is anticipated that 2014 will be the defining year for the entertainment industry, which will see some massive investments with excellent gains. This will happen once the promoters bring the right people to please the starving party population.

Guyana Times entertainment has been talking to its readers who have indicated their expectations for the new year. With some contacts and some strings pulled, Guyana can brace itself for a great year.

In 2013, Guyana saw some excellent performances from regional entertainers such as Ravi B and Karma Band, KI and JMC 3Veni Band, Shal Marshal, Machel Montano, Drupattie, De Hitman, Junior Gong Marley, and international artistes such as Kirk Brown, Sami Yusuf and Cece Winans to mention a few.

In 2014, Guyana will see more artistes both regionally and internationally. With Mashramani around the corner, Guyanese can

they will move full steam ahead for the semi-finals of the competition which will be held at the Albion Community Centre Ground on Saturday, February 8.

The finals are set for the National Park on February 15 and will see 12 finalists stepping up their games.

Last year, the quarter finals was held at the MacKenzie Community Centre Ground while the semi-finals which was washed out by rain was held at the Albion Community Centre Ground and the grand final was held at the National Park arena

expect the best in Soca and we might have a chance to see Bruno Mars if plans go as expected.

For Easter, there is talk about bringing Grammy Award winning R&B singing sensation, Usher along with Pit Bull and Priyanka Chopra and a few others. Sadly enough though this year, there will be no “Clash of the Titans” since it is rumoured that the promoter has ran bankrupt and cannot pay his debts to a number of people and advertising agencies.

Nevertheless, Pulse Entertainment has taken up the slack and as successful hosted, Cooler Fete and other concept parties that have grown over the years. The group had engaged the services of Kees and his Band and others who had definitely created the right atmosphere.

After Easter, all focus will be on Hits and Jams; Jamzone Summer Break which is seven days of excitement. Regional Night, International Night and the International Jamzone Pageant, among other exciting events are slated to hit Guyana by storm.

This year, the promoters are hoping to get R&B Queen, Rihanna… we just have to wait and see…by the way, there are also other groups such

before a massive crowd. There, Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo retained his title while Kwasi Ace Edmondson with his tune “Over and over” took second spot and Adrian Dutchin came in third with his high energy song, “Jook”.

This year will not disappoint, with exciting music, thrilling performances and an explosion of fabulous lyrics as every year, the contestants try to out-perform each other.

that have all contributed to a magnificent year of entertainment and, they will continue to do their part, come 2014.

So Guyanese, brace yourselves for a magical 2014 full of energy; charm and excitement.

It is all happening at the Monaco night club this Saturday night when the club will host “Free Pass”. Entertainment will be provided by Gully Ras of Fusion International; entertainer Ryon and Selector Carl and Diamond.

Come party in Guyana’s most sophisticated nightclub. The club boasts three bars, an elevated VIP area, secured parking lot, great service and the best prices on world class liquor. Everyone will be admitted free before midnight and entrance is $1000 after.

There will also be specials on bottle purchases. So come celebrate and enjoy great company as Club Monaco offers everyone a free pass this Saturday. All VIP cards are active for this event. Follow the light in the sky to Club Monaco.

Guyana is in for a special comedy treat when entertainer, Kirk "Chow Pow" Jardine celebrates his birthday on February 8 at the National Cultural Centre.

The treat will feature Jamaica’s world renowned, Owen “Blakka” Ellis and a variety of Guyanese comedians who will leave you panting for breath.

The Comedy Jam is slated for February 8 and 9, and will also comprise “Uncensored” queen Radika, Chris Gopaul, Henry Rodney, Dance Fanatics Theatre, The Reactorz and Basil Bradshaw.

Ellis has worked as an actor on two national pantomimes, numerous plays, the ABC television series ‘Going to Extremes”, the Warner Brothers feature film “Club Paradise”, the Jamaican blockbuster “Dancehall Queen” and various television and radio commercials.

He has performed at the world famous Apollo Theatre in New York, The Hackney Empire in London, and at major comedy festivals in Toronto.

The comedian has also performed in New York, Los Angeles, Florida, Washington, DC and all over the Caribbean, either as a solo act or as part of the popular “Bello and Blakka” duo.

A professional actor, writer and teacher, Blakka is widely regarded as one of the top comedic entertainers in the Caribbean.

Just go to YouTube, type in Owen “Blakka” Ellis and you will see the master at work. He will now be the headline act for “Chow Pow’s Comedy Jam, 48 N’ Straight”.

Blakka noted that his coming to Guyana is long overdue and promises to make Guyanese “laff til dem belly touch ground”.

It is expected to be a performance that patrons will never forget. “I also am very excited to perform alongside Mr Chow Pow whom I have heard so much about from my fellow Caribbean thespians. According to the information I got, Chow Pow could lay claim to be the new Habeeb Khan, but that I will have to see”, the comedian added.

Persons born under the Zodiac sign of Aquarius can win tickets simply by clicking the like button on the Yolo Entertainment and Advertising Page on Facebook and by sending their correct name, date of birth (DOB) and contact information.

A total of 26 tickets will be given away. Tickets will go on sale in the coming week at the usual ticketing outlets. Tickets cost $2000, $1500 and balcony $1000. Tickets go on sale on January 15.

Grammy Award Winning American Christian singer, songwriter, producer and worship leader mostly known for his cross-cultural style of Christian music, Israel Houghton is set to perform live in Guyana on February 1, at the Guyana National Stadium.

On January 26, 2013 world renowned gospel singer Cece Winans graced Guyana with her presence as she performed before a massive crowd at the National Stadium. She was brought to Guyana under the stewardship of Inspire Inc and this year will be no different as the entertainment group brings Houghton.

The renowned artiste will be accompanied by local Guyanese talents such as Junior Tucker, Hoszia Hinds and the 2nd Coming Band, among others. The four-hour concert will be one full of worship and praise.

The 15 member team is expected to arrive in Guyana on January 31 and is looking forward for a fantastic concert as they promote peace, love and unity.

The organisers of this event anticipate a monumental performance from a monumental singer, and accordingly expect a monumental turnout for this once in a lifetime event, confident that an event of this nature and magnitude would reach an indelible mark in the minds of those who attend.

Local promoter, Kester Dean is on a mission to erase all the negative influences in Guyana by hosting one of the most dynamic gospel concerts slated for late January and early February.

The concert – one with a difference –is called “Cut it Off” and with recording gospel artistes such as DJ Nicholas; Jason Mighty, Yankee B and Kevin Smith performing live.

These artistes will be accompanied by a live band and they have varying stories to share in music and actual motivational conversations to influence our youth for positive attitude changes and choices that is grounded in the gospel.

On January 31, Essequibians will have a feel of the mega concert at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground which will be followed by the February concert billed for the Georgetown Football Club ground and the final show will be held at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground on February 2.

The Jamaican artistes are expected to reach the youthful Guyanese population who are defying the odds to be positive role models in their homeland and abroad.

English, Samuel Midas and Kester Dean as well as the dominion dancers and Kingdom Vibration sounds.

The promoter, said that the “Cut it off” concept is not to belittle the young people but rather to use young people like themselves to show that while one might have made bad choices before it does not have to continue along the path to damnation.

are now reaching out to youth across the region and the world as examples of how God can change their choices while still being themselves.

Tickets cost $1000 for adults and children under 12 are free and can be uplifted at Kester D Music Centre, Giftland OfficeMax and Nigel’s Supermarket. In Essequibo: Hope for all Suddie office and on the West coast at all local churches.

Tickets for the concert will be released on January 15 and will be available at various churches across the country as well as Gizmos and Gadgets, Princess Hotel and other locations that will be announced at a later date.

Some of the sponsors on board are Fly Jamaica, Insite Magazine, 93.1 Real FM, Star Party Rentals, Princess Hotel, Gizmos and Gadgets and others.

About Israel Houghton

Houghton is usually credited as Israel and New Breed and is currently signed to Integrity Music and also a current worship leader at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood church in Houston, Texas. Houghton has earned: Two Gold selling albums, six Dove Awards, two Stellar Awards, a Soul Train Award, and five Grammy Awards.

In a dynamic world of praise and worship the music never stops as believers seek new songs to express their hearts to God. No one knows this better than gospel-praise powerhouse Israel and New Breed and its bandleader, Israel Houghton.

In an interview, Houghton said “I hope that people would hear the authenticity of the whole experience and know that whether they are believers or not, they can sense a conviction around what we do”.

Israel has wowed packed, sold out venues across the world, and has touched millions with his inspiring message and love for God.

Also sharing the same stage with the Jamaican are Guyanese gospel chutney sensation Anil Azeez, Brother Ravi, Pastor Quincy Costello, Princess Vanessa, Shawn

This concert is being staged in youth language, mode of dress and in youth style of music but the messages are life changing for the better as most of these artistes have had colourful pasts but have opted to change for the better and

The show starts at 18:00h on each night. The event is sponsored by ANSA McAL, Digicel and Sterling Products Limited. For more information, contact Kester Dean at 600-3991or 676-1063.

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Guyana’s WR Reaz will host the finals of the 19th International Chutney Soca Monarch which is billed for February 15, at Skinner Park, Arena San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago.

This announcement was made at a recent press conference hosted by producer of the event George Singh at the Pegasus Hotel.

Singh also disclosed that the Ishara Dancers headed by Shivanie Latchman will be performing on the night of the grand finale. Both WR Reaz and Shivanie Latchman have expressed their excitement to be a part of the event, promising not to disappoint.

In the past, television personalities, Joel Ganshaam and Dimple Mendonca have hosted the television aspect of the event. With a host such as WR Reaz, Trinidadians will be in for a treat. The event is scheduled to be streamed live on the Internet.

The competition is expected to jump start on February 1 with the semi-finals after which only 15 entries will be going forward to the finals.

However, a number of artistes have already entered the competition which will see the winner walking away with TT$2 million. Last year, the

winner of the Guyana leg of the competition, Roger Hinds participated but unfortunately, Guyana did not place in the international competition.

This year, there will be no exception – the winner of the Guyana Leg of the chutney competition will also be representing the country, but apart from that person, eight other Guyanese have entered.

These include Prince JP, Dolly Boy, Princess Annessa, Terry Gajraj, Dave Lall and Roger Hinds, among others. Guyana Times understands that the local leg of the competition is set for January 25 at the Bath Settlement ground, Berbice. The closing date for entries is today.

A number of local artistes have already submitted their entry forms and are excited

Xto perform on the night of the finale and they promise to set Berbice on fire.

Nevertheless, as previous years, the winner of the Guyana competition went straight into the finals but this time around, he or she will be joining the international competition from the semifinal stage.

Singh at the press conference stated that the competition is one of the biggest events in the history of the Caribbean and that it attracts thousands in attendance.

This event, he also noted, is very costly to execute and can run up to US$3 million. Singh added that this year, there are a number of soca artistes who have crossed over to the chutney arena, which is testimony that the competition is one of the most versatile.

The Chutney Soca Monarch is a stepping stone for all major chutney artistes who have emerged out of the twin island republic. Performers such as Rikki Jai, Ravi B, KI, Ramnarine and others have all won the competition and have since been representing the Caribbean worldwide.

The reigning International Chutney Soca Monarch, Raymond Ramnarine will defend his title on February 15.

CITE, one of the newest Mashramani bands in Guyana was officially launched in December with the objective of offering the ultimate mash experience to masqueraders. The name speaks for itself and will provide style, vibes and bacchanal.

Behind the backdrop of the meaning of the word Mashramani, the underlying idea of Mashramani was thought about as it provides a theme of peace, love and unity.

Designer Surida Nagreadi feels that Guyana, with its diverse richness in culture, has Mashramani as the prime and opportune time to create a costume to unite people thus displaying a blending of ideas, talents and culture.

The costumes will also showcase Guyana’s rich tourism destinations which play an integral part of our country’s development, thus displaying skills, talents, arts, drama and culture. These will be combined and provide a carnival like atmosphere.

Another aspect that the group looked at

was fashion and designing. With the band now launched, XCITE is hoping to draw at least 100 revellers to take to the streets on Mash Day. Those who wish to be a part of the event still have time to do so. The costumes are very affordable and were designed in such a way, so as to accommodate any budget.

To further encourage participation, the group is offering a 50 per cent down payment option where masqueraders have a certain time to clear all payments before the big day. Their displays are located at GT Courtyard on Robb Street, Georgetown.

Nagreadi said she has put together two beautiful pieces namely Serenity and Fusion. Serenity is the Front Line section which is the VIP package, while Fusion is the Back Line section. Both sections are inclusive of drinks, food and security. There are also optional costumes for those who do not wish to wear the main costumes. The theme for 2014 is "Love & Colour".

Pakistan v Sri Lanka, 2nd Test, Dubai, 2nd day…

Mahela hundred strengthens Sri Lanka

Mahela Jayawardene and Kaushal Silva did not put on a show – there weren’t many people at the stadium to entertain anyway – but their exercise in restraint, self-preservation and gradual accumulation was exactly what Sri Lanka needed to consolidate the advantage earned by their fast bowlers on the first day.

Silva fell five short of a maiden century and Jayawardene left his sublime shots on the shelf until the final session, when he was his usual hard-to-contain self and reached his first hundred in ten Tests to give Sri Lanka a strong chance of a series lead.

Pakistan’s fast bowlers did not err too much in their line and length, but the sizeable seam movement that had played a prominent role in undoing their batsmen was nowhere to be seen on the second day. Saeed Ajmal operated with parsimony, but Pakistan needed incisiveness to defend their total of 165, and his spell of 27-9-45-0 extended his wicket drought to 76 overs.

Injudicious shots

Sri Lanka had lost two batsmen to injudicious shots early in the first session to slip to 88-3, but Silva and Mahela applied themselves to produce a 139-run stand that spanned 51.2 overs and ended only after tea.

Mahela’s pace was Sri Lanka’s pace today. He scored 19 off 49 balls in the first session; Sri Lanka made 75. Between lunch and tea, Mahela added 31 off 85; Sri Lanka’s total grew by 83. And in the final session, against the second new ball, Mahela took 56 off 96 to help Sri Lanka score 103.

The split webbing he had suffered while fielding at slip did not seem to hinder him and Mahela got to his century late in the day by square cutting Bilawal Bhatti, the debutant who had dismissed him twice in the Abu Dhabi Test, to the boundary.

The gains Sri Lanka made after tea were a result wearing

SCOREBOARD

Pakistan 1st innings 165

Sri Lanka 1st innings

FDM Karunaratne lbw b Junaid Khan 32

JK Silva lbw b Mohammad Hafeez 95

KC Sangakkara lbw b Rahat Ali 26

LD Chandimal c Rahat Ali b Junaid Khan 12

DPMD Jayawardene not out 106

AD Mathews* not out 42

Extras (b 1, lb 2, w 1, nb 1) 5

Total (for 4 wickets; 106 overs) 318

Fall of wickets: 1-40 (Karunaratne, 10.6 ov), 2-75 (Sangakkara, 21.1 ov), 3-88 (Chandimal, 26.3 ov), 4-227 (Silva, 77.5 ov)

Bowling: Junaid Khan 265-75-2, Rahat Ali 26-5109-1, Saeed Ajmal 279-45-0, Bilawal Bhatti

21-3-75-0 (1-nb, 1-w), Mohammad Hafeez 6-1-11-1

Pakistan down over the first two sessions. The unbroken 91-run stand for the fifth wicket between Mahela and Angelo Mathews would not have happened had Sarfaraz Ahmed not dropped the Sri Lanka captain on 5, diving to his right with one hand when he could have got to the ball with both. Mathews scored briskly after that, finishing the day on 42 at a strike rate of 50.

Close of play

Their position at stumps –318-4 and ahead by 153 – was as good as Sri Lanka could have expected when they began the day on 57-1. But they so nearly tripped.

After three early boundaries, Kumar Sangakkara leaned across to flick a delivery that angled into him from Rahat Ali and fell over to be lbw. Dinesh Chandimal came in ahead of Mahela but did not bat with the composure that had helped Sri Lanka save the first Test.

Junaid Khan sent down a bouncer that was above eye level, Chandimal hooked instinctively and was caught by Rahat at long leg. He had been dismissed in exactly the same fashion in the second innings in Abu Dhabi.

Unlike Pakistan, however, Sri Lanka’s stumble ended there. Silva and Mahela defended competently and left well outside off, while also putting away loose balls. Mahela played the shot of the morning when he got down on one knee and slog-swept Ajmal to the midwicket boundary. Those were the only runs Ajmal conceded in his first five overs and his day got steadily worse. Early in the second session, Silva pulled Ajmal to the boundary to bring up his fifty off 133 balls. The afternoon, however, contained a few moments of uncertainty for Sri Lanka. An uppish flick from Silva fell just short of Khurram Manzoor at square leg, Mahela was beaten by the odd doosra from Ajmal and then successfully overturned an lbw decision against Rahat because the ball had pitched marginally outside leg stump. Those deliveries were memorable because there were

so few of them and soon Silva cut and drove Rahat for two boundaries in three deliveries to move into the 70s.

Shortly before the tea break though, Misbah-ul-Haq gave Mohammad Hafeez a bowl for the first time and Mahela took a risk. He charged and tried to loft down the ground and Pakistan watched as the mishit fell agonisingly out of reach of the fielder running back from long-on.

It was Hafeez who denied Silva his hundred soon after tea, when the opener swept and was hit on the pad and given lbw. He chose to review, perhaps because he was so close to a major landmark, but replays confirmed the umpire’s decision. Hafeez had struck in his fourth over, while Ajmal had been wicketless all day.

Sri Lanka’s lead was only 65 when Silva fell, and given the long tail, Pakistan had the chance to limit damage if they took a couple of quick wickets. Rahat drew the edge from Mathews, but Sarfaraz grassed the ball. There were no more opportunities for Misbah’s men. (Cricinfo)

RCB retain Kohli, Gayle and de Villiers

Royal

Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have retained Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers ahead of the 2014 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. The franchise has also announced the appointment of Daniel Vettori, who played for Royal Challengers in previous seasons, as head coach and Allan Donald as bowling coach.

Trent Woodhill, who is currently David Warner’s personal batting coach, was named the franchise’s batting and fielding coach for the season.

January 10 is the deadline for the IPL franchises to announce their list of retained players, ahead of the auction on February 12. Each franchise is allowed to retain up to five players and can buy back additional members of their squads at the auction via “right to match” cards. The number of right to match cards available to each franchise will depend on the number of players already retained. Since Royal Challengers retained three players, they will have one right to match card at the auction.

A fixed amount will be deducted from Royal

Challengers’ auction purse of Rs 600 million for each of three players retained: Rs 125 million for player one, Rs 95 million for player two and Rs 75 million for player three. That will leave the franchise with Rs 305 million to spend at the auction. This season, each squad must include no less than 16 and no more than 27 players, with a maximum of nine overseas players.

Auction purse

The amount deducted from the auction purse is not necessarily the IPL fee agreed to between the franchise and the retained player.

India’s Kohli, who captained Royal Challengers in 2013, is one of the leading limited-overs batsmen in world cricket at the moment, while West Indies’ Gayle is unarguably the most destructive Twenty20 batsman on his day.

Last season Gayle slammed a world-record 175 not out off 66 balls against Pune Warriors, on his way to an aggregate of 708 at 59.00 - he was No. 2 on the tournament’s run charts. Kohli slotted in at No. 3, with 634 runs at 45.28. South Africa’s

de Villiers, who bats lower down the order for Royal Challengers, scored 360 runs at 36.00. The trio forms an intimidating batting core for Royal Challengers.

Former New Zealand captain Vettori, who has been plagued by injury of late, had led the team before Kohli. He replaced Ray Jennings, who had coached Royal Challengers over several seasons. Vettori’s appointment is unique, given he is still an active player – he is currently playing for the Brisbane Heat Australia’s Big Bash League. Donald, who is South Africa’s bowling coach, had worked with the now-defunct Pune Warriors in IPL 2013.

Woodhill, an Australian, is a batting and fielding specialist, having worked with Pakistan and New Zealand and several domestic sides. He is credited with moulding Warner at New South Wales, and also coached the Melbourne Stars and Delhi Daredevils.

“I am happy to be retained by RCB and it’s great to be back in Bangalore,” Kohli said. “I look forward to working closely with Dan Vettori. Allan Donald’s experience will add a lot of value.” (Cricinfo)

Preparations going well, says Crandon

– second warm-up game set for today

By Avenash Ramzan

Head coach of the Guyana senior cricket team, Esaun Crandon, believes preparations ahead of participation in the West Indies Cricket Board’s NAGICO Super50 competition are progressing well, as the Guyanese gear up to hunt for a 10th regional 50over title.

Speaking to Guyana Times Sport in the midst of a mid-afternoon net session at the Everest Cricket Club ground, the former FirstClass fast bowler said he is satisfied with progress made so far, although he pointed out that much more needs to be done in the coming weeks to ensure the players reach peak condition.

This is the second phase of preparation, which started on January 3 and will last until January 25, and the Guyana Cricket Board has solicited the services of fitness trainers Patrick King and Carl Stephenson to work along with the players with the aim of upping their fitness level.

Crandon was quick to embrace the move by the board to have King and Stephenson part of the camp, while acknowledging that he has already seen signs of improve-

ment in the squad.

“Yes definitely things have been going well and I’m satisfied with the progress we have made so far in the camp,” Crandon said.

He added, “From the first day of the fitness sessions to now, there has been improvements and I think we can only get better as the tournament draws closer. We have a great bunch of guys at the moment and we’re doing all we can to ensure they get in top condition for the tournament.”

While fitness has been brought into sharp focus, Crandon is also keen on ensuring there is “camaraderie” among the players, and as such, will be using the next five warm-up games to get the players to understand their roles and functions.

The first practice game was held on Tuesday at the Everest Cricket Club ground, while the second match will be hosted today at the same venue.

“Once the 14 is selected we will be using the next set of warm-up games to get the players to understand their roles so that when we get there [the tournament] everybody is clear on their function in the team,” Crandon

explained.

The NAGICO Super50 competition will be held from January 30 to February 17 in Trinidad and Tobago, featuring Guyana, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, the Windward Islands, the Leeward Islands, the Combined Campuses and Colleges and ICC affiliate side Ireland.

Guyana last won the title in 2005 when a Sewnarine Chattergoon century spurred the hosts to victory over Barbados in near darkness in the KFC Cup final at the GCC ground, Bourda.

csK retain dhoni, raina, ashwin, jadeja,

CBayroc beach football facility set for opening Saturday

The Bayroc/Cool Runnings Beach football facility, which has been under construction since last October, is set for a grand opening on Saturday at the Bayroc Sand Reserve, Sports Club and Fitness Centre ground in Wismar, Linden.

The venture was made possible after the club was awarded a grant of $1 million last year through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s community grounds development programme.

The project saw the construction of a 50’ concrete

bleacher, a 30’ concrete wall for advertising and signage and the laying of the sand pitch. It has the capacity to accomodate at least 300 spectators.

Saturday’s opening event will be graced by the Minister of Culture Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony, Permanent Secretary of the ministry Alfred King, Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon and president of Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Christopher Matthias among other special invitees.

President of the club,

Rollin Tappin, who also worked along on the project, said the facility will certainly boost the growth and development of not only beach football, but also beach volleyball in the community.

He noted that while it has been a challenging couple of years for the sport in Guyana, he is optimistic about the future of the game and is confident that the country will make its mark in the discipline internationally. Currently, football and other clubs in Linden utilise the sand reserve for practice daily.

GPL makes monetary donation to GKC

Bravo

Super Kings have been the most successful of the IPL franchises, making the final five times out of six, and winning on two occasions – in 2010 and 2011. In 2010, they did the double of winning the IPL and the Champions League T20. They have also been one of the most settled franchises, with the core of the team remaining the same over the seasons. So it comes as no surprise that they have retained as many players as possible here.

Among the players staying with Super Kings, captain Dhoni, batsman Raina and off-spinner Ashwin have never played for another IPL franchise. Dhoni, India’s captain and arguably the best finisher in limited-overs cricket, was the most expensive buy of the inaugural IPL auction back in 2008. Raina, the tournament’s leading run-getter overall, is yet to miss a single match for Super Kings. Ashwin has been one of many players who adds local flavour to the team, and until the recently-concluded series against South Africa, was India’s first-choice spinner. (Cricinfo)

The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) as part of its commitment to assist with national development and contribute to the next generation donated $100,000 to the

on Wednesday. The presentation was made at GPL’s Executive Secretariat at 91 Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

A release from GPL stated, “The karate college provides administrative, educational, and technical expertise in traditional karate of the highest standards and GPL is pleased to thrust its support towards the institution for 2014.”

Johnson to rest, Bailey seeks his best

Mitchell Johnson will be the first of Australia’s Test players to be rested in the upcoming one-day series against England, but George Bailey will be one Ashes winner keen to take every opportunity to play. Bailey is the only member of Australia’s unchanged XI throughout the Ashes whose Test position could be considered in danger ahead of next month’s tour of South Africa, and there is no Sheffield Shield cricket for him to regain form be-

fore the trip. In the lead-up to the Ashes in Australia, the selectors made it clear that one-day form on October’s tour of India would be considered in picking the Test squad and Bailey’s remarkable ODI efforts in India earned him the No. 6 place for the Gabba Test. Bailey made batting contributions through the series, including 53 in Adelaide and 46 in Sydney, but his average of 26.14 reflected his status as the weakest link in the top seven.

Alex Doolan joined the Test squad in Sydney but was overlooked as the selectors opted for another unchanged side, but what they do with the No. 6 position in South Africa looms as the major selection decision. Bailey is Australia’s vice-captain for the five ODIs against England, which begin in Melbourne on Sunday, and the matches will provide him with one last opportunity to find some runs before the Test squad is named. (Cricinfo)

Hinds sets sight on GABF presidential post

With the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation’s (GABF) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and elections set for Saturday, former national basketball player Nigel Hinds has thrown his hat into the race.

He believes he can change the landscape of basketball once elected as president.

Hinds, familiar to the sport for three decades, is keen on changing the culture of the sport, taking the game to the next level.

“We have a situation where we need a change, the change is not so much in leadership but a change in the belief that we could bring basketball back to a level of success, create the interest and full places like the Sports Hall,” Hinds said.

He added, “Advance players careers and not just in basketball, but merge it with educational opportunities and I think we have a team that can make that change.”

Pointing out that the business community as well has lost interest in the sport, Hinds plans to be proactive with the renovation of the main courts around Guyana to get basketball going.

“Local businesses have lost hope in what has transpired with promoters in basketball because most of them [promoters] have been ‘fly by night’ just looking to milk the sport, but we plan

to change that.

“We have plans to improve the facilities in Guyana as a whole; of course the Sports Hall in the Mecca of basketball, but we have the Georgetown Burnham Court which I think needs proper washroom facilities and it needs to be resurfaced and roofed and I would extend the same approach to Linden who has good facilities but needs roofing and Berbice…that definitely needs a lot of work,” Hinds mentioned.

Ministry’s support

Further, Hinds, who noted that it is crucial for his administration once elected to involve the Ministry of Sport and the National Sports Commission in plans going forward to better the

sport, also pointed out the Youth Basketball Guyana organisation (YBG) is important as well.

“One of the priorities of my administration if I’m elected is to bring YBG into the fold of the federation while at the same time allowing them to do their excellent work within the schools because we had cases where national players playing at the Inter Guiana Games were unable to get transcripts for scholarships because it was not sanctioned by the federation so it is very important that a group such as the YBG be a part of the federation,” Hinds noted.

However, amidst all of the issues facing basketball in Guyana, Hinds noted one area that is key for change.

“The primary thing we can do other than adhere to our constitutional obligations is to manage the sub associations in a financially viable way and that’s the thrust of my candidacy,” Hinds pointed out.

Moreover, as the election approaches, Hinds is firm that his model forward will work to improve the state and condition that basketball finds itself in.

“With the slate we have, with the popularity of basketball, with the access to funding which I think we would be able to get both locally and internationally I think we can uplift the sport,” Hinds noted.

GCB salutes an icon, Terry Holder

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) on Thursday expressed its sympathies on the passing of its former Public Relations Officer, Terry Holder.

Holder passed away on Wednesday last after a brief period of illness. Below is the full text of the GCB’s message on the passing of Holder.

“The GCB mourns the loss of one of the greatest sons of our soil and who should be deemed a national hero for his priceless work in service to the public at large and several organisations throughout Guyana and the Caribbean region.

Guyana cricket fraternity hails this champion in his own right, Terry Holder, who silently left us all in bereavement at his sudden but somewhat expected departure. Terry was first and foremost a broadcaster having served at both the national and regional levels in this noble profession through which he had become a household name. Terry was also an active Rotarian.

Terry served the Guyana Cricket Board diligently for

almost three decades as its Public Relations Officer and will be remembered as having officiated at all of the previous awards ceremonies and numerous presentation ceremonies in the tireless execution of his duties. His voice still resonates in the Umana Yana where most of these ceremonies were held and will long be revered for the strength and lucidity of his vocals.

The GCB is extremely pleased that they were able

gcB to host wake for Holder

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) will be hosting a “Night of wake and remembrance” for its former executive, the late Terry Holder, on Sunday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) Members

Pavilion from 19:00 hours.

to bestow upon him a special award just last month at its 2013 annual awards ceremony held at the GCC Members Pavilion in recognition of his long, outstanding and dedicated service towards the development of cricket in Guyana.

We will forever miss his wise counsel and very sober judgments expunged during the many challenges experienced by the GCB over the past years as he had steadfastly remain committed to the development of cricket throughout his lengthy and valuable tenure with the GCB. Due to his prolonged illness, Terry decided not to seek re-election at our 2013 AGM, but still remained in contact with the administration since then continuing to offer his advices and counsel whenever called upon or not.

The GCB sincerely offers its condolences to all of his family, friends and relatives during this period of bereavement and trust that his strength of character and integrity will continue to live on and guide the principles and traits that we all continue to uphold.

According to the GCB, “This dynamic leader served the GCB diligently for over three decades as its Public Relation Officer (PRO) and also gave his service to the public at large and several organisations throughout Guyana and the Caribbean.”

The GCB is inviting the public “to join us as we remember and appreciate the invaluable work and achievements of this great son of Guyana.”

Barnwell to lead Guyana in NAGICO Super50

– Bacchus the lone newcomer

West Indies T20 allrounder Christopher Barnwell has been appointed skipper of the Guyana team for the West Indies Cricket Board’s NAGICO Super50 competition, starting month-end.

The 27-year-old Barnwell, who has appeared in 17 List A matches for Guyana, will lead the 14-man squad that includes West Indies batting trio Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who has been appointed vice-captain, Ramnaresh Sarwan and Narsingh Deonarine.

Former national Under-19 opener Robin Bacchus is the lone newcomer in the team, with fellow left-hander Trevon Griffith being the other opener in the squad.

Barnwell and Royston Crandon are the two primary all-rounders, while left-handers Leon Johnson and Assad Fudadin complete the batting

department.

The bowling hinges around leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo, left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul and fast bowlers

Ronsford Beaton and Paul Wintz, while Anthony Bramble is the wicketkeeper.

According to a release from the Guyana Cricket Board on Thursday afternoon, the entire training squad of 26, including fast bowler Andre Stoll and allrounder Jonathon Foo will remain encamped until January 25.

The NAGICO Super50 will run from January 30 to February 17, with all matches being hosted in Trinidad and Tobago.

The 14-man squad reads: Robin Bacchus, Trevon Griffith, Leon Johnson, Shivnarine Chanderpaul (vice-captain), Narsingh Deonarine, Christopher Barnwell (captain), Ramnaresh Sarwan, Royston Crandon, Assad Fudadin, Anthony Bramble (w/k), Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul, Ronsford Beaton and Paul Wintz.

RCB retain Kohli, Gayle and de Villiers