Guyana Times, October 19, 2014

Where's his money coming from

Winds: Easterly between 4.02 metres and 4.47 metres per

High Tide: 01:08h and 13:39h reaching maximum heights of 2.19 metres and 2.27 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 07:07h and 19:34h reaching minimum heights of 0.96 metre and 0.94 metre respectively.

Some 15,000 Guyanese unaware they have diabetes

– International Diabetes Federation

By Tajeram mohaBir

With more than 60,000 persons affected and over 1000 deaths per year, diabetes remains a major life claimer in Guyana.

In a country with an estimated population of 750,000, some 15,000 persons are believed to have the disease but they are unaware.

As of 2013, some 382 million people have diabetes worldwide, with Type 2 Diabetes making up about 90 per cent of the cases. This is equal to 8.3 per cent of the adult population, with equal rates in both women and men.

Worldwide in 2012 and 2013, diabetes resulted in 1.5 to 5.1 million deaths per year, making it the eighth leading cause of death.

Diabetes overall at least doubles the risk of death, Wikipedia pointed out.

In 2011, then Health Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy had said that based on a study, persons living with the illness have

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud

pancreas is no longer able to make insulin, or when the body cannot make good use of the insulin it produces.

Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas, that acts like a key to let glucose from the food eaten pass from the blood stream into the cells in the body to produce energy. All carbohydrate foods are broken down into glucose in the blood. Insulin helps glucose get into the cells.

Not being able to produce insulin or use it effectively leads to raised glucose levels in the blood (known as

an 80 per cent chance of dying prematurely.

This is so as diabetes contributes to hypertension, stroke, heart, eye, and kidney diseases, among others.

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the

hyperglycaemia). Over the long-term, high glucose levels are associated with damage to the body and failure of various organs and tissues, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) said

The illness is general-

ly classified as two types –Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 is usually caused by an autoimmune reaction where the body’s defence system attacks the cells that produce insulin. The reason this occurs is not fully understood.

People with Type 1 Diabetes produce very little or no insulin. The disease may affect people of any age, but usually develops in children or young adults.

Type 2 Diabetes accounts for at least 90 per cent of all cases of diabetes. It is char-

According to the IDF, Guyana’s best performing area is its health system, which provides a range of services, although cost is not fully covered.

“National plans are in place but remain to be fully implemented. Funding, preventive services and policies, and services for early diagnosis are areas for improvement if Guyana is to respond to the diabetes challenge,” the IDF said.

However, the international body noted that

Tips to control diabetes

• Keep your blood pressure at or below 129/79

• Do not smoke or drink heavily

• Learn ways to reduce or cope with daily stressors

• Exercise regularly, 30 minutes per day

• Consume foods that will support your health

• Check your blood sugar regularly, before and after meals

• Do frequent health checkups with your doctors

acterised by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency, either or both of which may be present at the time diabetes is diagnosed.

Unusually undetected

The diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes can occur at any age. Type 2 Diabetes may remain undetected for many years and the diagnosis is often made when a complication appears or a routine blood or urine glucose test is done. It is often, but not always, associated with being overweight or obesity, which itself can cause insulin resistance and lead to high blood glucose levels. This can be controlled through regular exercise and diet.

Giwan Harilall, 63, of Better Hope, East Coast Demerara said aside from staying away from foods and beverages with high sugar content, he has been exercising regularly as this keeps him well.

though the health system provides a range of services, early diagnosis is not universally provided.

“Self-management education is limited. Less than 50 per cent of the cost of services is covered and individuals who have the means use the private healthcare system.”

The IDF reported that there are some 60,150 diabetes cases in Guyana, with some 1098 deaths in 2013. It has also estimated that some 15,000 persons in Guyana are unaware they have the disease.

Sanjiv’s story

This was the case of a victim, who gave his name as Sanjiv Singh. The young man told Guyana Times that he learnt he had the noncommunicable disease after he suffered a serious attack a few weeks ago.

Editor: Tajeram Mohabir

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

Politics as guerrilla warfare

Most people would accept Lasswell’s definition of politics as “who gets what, when and how”. Ultimately, then, politics is supposed to authorise allocative decisions within a framework that is agreed on by the people of a country. Normally, that framework is described in the country’s Constitution – even if the latter is “unwritten”, as in the two lonely exceptions of Britain and Israel.

In democracies, of which Guyana is one, political parties are supposed to mobilise and aggregate votes at general elections so as to secure the authority to make those allocative decisions as the “Executive” or “government”. The premise, is that since the rules were agreed by all the players “in the game” they would accept the “voice of the people”.

In Guyana, the Constitutional rules determined – following general elections in 2011 – that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) would control the Government.

And this is where the rules of our local competitive politics have been traduced by the Opposition and reduced to guerrilla warfare against the legitimate government of the day. That Opposition – comprised of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) entered those elections as separate bodies fully cognisant that they could not coalesce afterwards in the event that they had a greater total number of seats than the PPP/C.

Yet, when the latter eventuality became reality, they immediately signalled their refusal to accept the political framework encompassed in the Constitution and dubbed the administration as a “Minority Government”. In the context of our history this was not an accidental nomenclatural choice.

Under the old Burnhamite Constitution, the word “minority” was used to describe the PPP/C, which had been rigged out of its majority, to emphasise the latter’s powerlessness. In our context, the phrase “Minority Government” is an oxymoron, since the Executive was separated from the Legislature in its powers by the Constitution.

And the Opposition then launched a vicious guerrilla campaign against it from both within their redoubt in the National Assembly and from without. After the pitched battles of Linden and Agricola, in which lives were lost, billions went up in smoke and thousands of ordinary citizens were traumatised, the Opposition fell back to the National Assembly, where they launched one attack to another – each designed to bring Guyana to its knees.

This “scorched earth” policy was callously intended to alienate the people from the Government by creating hardships through strangulation of the economy.

The terrain of the guerrilla warfare was established when the Opposition seized control of the all important Speaker and Deputy Speakerships as well as of all Parliamentary Committees. They went for the jugular in their first Parliamentary foray – the annual Budget Estimates of the Government. This is the feature within the political framework of democratic governance in which the essential question of politics, as adumbrated above – who gets what, where, and how – is answered.

They insisted on crudely chopping sections of the Budget, evidently just to prove the PPP/C was a “minority Government” and could not govern. The Government, however, sagely resorted to the procedure spelled out in the Constitution, and went to the arbiter of that document – the courts. That institution ruled that the Budget could only be denied in its entirety – in which case it acts as a “no confidence vote” and the government falls – or it cannot be cut at all.

But the Opposition did not confine its guerrilla war to the Budget, it also refused to pass critical legislation such as the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering of Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill which precipitated the blacklisting of our country with the global financial system. Right now the two parties are split on whether to censure the Finance Minister for performing his spending function, or moving a “no confidence” motion.

It would appear that this falling out might finally allow the Government to get on with the business of developing Guyana.

Invidious elements are leaking information from GRA

Dear Editor,

This is an open letter to the Commissioner-General. We write on behalf of all staff of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) who feel highly offended by the content of a letter that appeared in the letter column of the Kaieteur News of October 17.

The letter writers who purport to represent the views of some members of disgruntled staff are known to all employees since recently a few managers and other staff who were investigated for grave misconduct, including soliciting and demanding bribes.

These persons strangely were given a proverbial ‘slap on the wrist’ rather than being subject to more severe disciplinary action such as suspension and dismissal for such acts of grave misdemeanour and misconduct.

It should be noted that these individuals were recently transferred to lower risk areas in GRA negating their potential for corrupt activities as a consequence of the investigations conducted.

It appears that this is the driving force behind their letter and the source of their evident discontent.

Commissioner General, we are now confirmed in our belief that these are the same invidious elements that are leaking information to Glenn Lall on personal matters concerning your overseas travel plans and also on matters for which you are being accused of providing confidential information on the

tax affairs of other newspapers, which the owner of the newspaper maliciously inferred and engineered to make it appear to emanate from emails between yourself and prominent members of society.

Surprisingly, Commissioner General the information purporting to be from leaked emails never contained any information on the Kaieteur news business. Isn’t this fortuitous? The public should ask why was Kaieteur News excluded from this alleged disclosure.

We are pleading with you Commissioner General to take immediate and stern action to remove these individuals from the organisation since we are now very uncomfortable working in such an environment with such treacherous individuals in our midst as their presence is not conducive for professionalism and transparency which is the hallmark of the agency, but their very association with the owner of this newspaper an alleged murderer is making us very fearful of our lives.

It would seem from the rantings of these corrupt elements that only staff of a certain ethnic background and who are qualified are deserving of promotion and before others are considered they must first pass their test as to whether they are your relatives.

We can attest to the fact that the GRA is an equal opportunity employer and represents an example for all other organisations in Guyana to follow.

We who represent all ethnic groups of the country decry and denounce this dangerous development that has caused many good officers in recent times to leave.

Commissioner General we are aware who these individuals are and their recent revelation of their connection to the newspaper owner is clearly seen as an act of desperation on the part of Glenn Lall to utilize scare tactics since coming under the attention of the GRA, being investigated for conspicuous and blatant tax fraud.

We are convinced in our belief that this dishonuorable and reprehensible conduct is being resorted to by no doubt bribing disgruntled staff to peddle lies concerning the head of the GRA is nothing more than Lall running scared of having all his overseas properties and bank accounts that are generated through illegal means revealed in the impending investigation. All will be revealed in due time.

We are concerned Mr. Sattaur that the so called aggrieved staff members are leaking information on taxpayers affairs and are now allowing through letters published in the Kaieteur News to peddle false and inaccurate information concerning your personal matters as it is nothing more than mischievous and designed to disparage your character and that of your children who are true role models for all staff to follow.

It is mischievous, mali-

cious and libellous for such wicked lies to be published, as these staff cannot be excused for associating a name with being a relative of yours.

All are well aware that you have no niece working at the Parika Branch. It is also inexcusable for these disgruntled and disgraced staff to mislead the public that your sons drive luxury cars.

These are not US$90,000 Lexus, that were driven by alleged tax cheats bur rather vehicles that are probably over 10 years old and cost a mere fraction of what the tax evaders drive. Hundreds of Guyanese from all walks of life drive similar vehicles.

Mr Commissioner General, since it would appear to us that these bitter employees cannot depart from their old practice of being corrupt as they would appear to be well paid for leaking information to Glenn Lall.

We have serious intentions of exposing these persons to members of the Opposition, the foreign Embassies and the public as we feel that their continued presence will only serve to undermine revenue collection and staff morale.

As Commissioner General you duty bound to protect the agency against such unprofessional and unbecoming behaviour and we will continue to support you in discharging your duties.

Sincerely, Concerned Staff Members

Scientist encounters Goliath spider in Guyana’s rainforest

Piotr Naskrecki was taking a nighttime walk in a rainforest in Guyana, when he heard rustling as if something were creeping underfoot. When he turned on his flashlight, he expected to see a small mammal, such as a possum or a rat.

“When I turned on the light, I couldn’t quite understand what I was seeing,” said Naskrecki, an Entomologist and Photographer at Harvard University’s Museum of Comparative Zoology.

A moment later, he realised he was looking not at a brown, furry mammal, but an enormous, puppy-size spider.

Known as the South American Goliath birdeater (Theraphosa blondi), the colossal arachnid is the world’s largest spider, according to Guinness World Records. Its leg span can reach up to a foot (30 centimeters), or about the size of “a child’s forearm”, with a body the size of “a large fist”, Naskrecki told Live Science.

And the spider can weigh more than six oz (170 grams) — about as much as a young puppy, the scientist wrote on his blog.

Some sources say the giant huntsman spider, which has a larger leg span, is bigger than the birdeater. But the huntsman is much more delicate than the hefty birdeater — comparing the two would be “like comparing a giraffe to an elephant”, Naskrecki said.

The birdeater’s enormity is evident from the sounds it makes.

“Its feet have hardened tips and claws that produce a very distinct, clicking sound, not unlike that of a horse’s hooves hitting the ground,” he wrote, but “not as loud”.

Prickly hairs

When Naskrecki approached the imposing creature in the rainforest, it would rub its hind legs against its abdomen. At first, the scientist thought the behaviour

was “cute”, he said, but then he realised the spider was sending out a cloud of hairs with microscopic barbs on them. When these hairs get in the eyes or other mucous membranes, they are “extremely painful and itchy”, and can stay there for days, he said.

But its prickly hairs are not the birdeater’s only line of defense; it also sports a pair of two-inch-long (five centimeters) fangs. Although the spider’s

Some 15,000 Guyanese unaware...

from page 3

He related that about six days prior to being diagnosed, he was experiencing blurred vision, feeling weak in the arms and feet and foods were becoming tasteless.

According to him, an initial examination by doctors at a private hospital indicated that the situation was not serious as the symptoms point to a viral infection, likely the Chikungunya virus.

Sanjiv noted that he was given some medications and experienced some relief, but after two days, the weakness and blurred vision worsened to the point where it was becoming difficult to see, remember routine things and comprehend simple instructions.

It was at this point, the young man said he decided to visit a different hospital, which proved to be a wise decision as his blood sugar level was found topping 600. Doctors were able to arrest his condition, preventing him from going into a coma. Sanjiv has managed to pull through and is in fairly good heath now.

Prior to the attack, he related that he was a heavy consumer of high-sugar carbonated beverages, sugary foods, seldom ate on time and hardly ever exercised. He was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes is largely caused by a person’s lifestyle, and if not controlled, it

could also take a heavy toll on the feet.

In recognition of this problem, Government has set up foot care clinics at the Georgetown Public Hospital and centres in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six and 10. Generally, diabetes is treated at regional health centres countrywide.

Should not be taken lightly

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud speaking to Guyana Times said the disease should not be taken lightly, pointing out that Type 2 Diabetes accounts for 95 per cent of all cases in Guyana.

It is caused by high consumption of sugar, obesity, lack of exercise and poor diet.

“There might be some family dispositions but those are made worst when we practise those lifestyles. So currently we treat about 4600 people annually in all our various health centres, hospitals and we have added private sector figures to that as well.”

He said the problem can be addressed by educating persons, especially the youth about the dangers of the disease and how it can be prevented.

“We have to start inculcating good habits into them. Diet is definitely crucial, and you know the remarkable thing about it is that even from infancy, some of

these building blocks for diabetes are laid down, so if we start taking measures from birth, I think the strong recommendation now is that for the new born babies now should be exclusively breast fed from birth to six months. In that way the child would not get hooked on sugar. Even when one started to feed their children, if they don’t feed them foods with sugar, they would not develop that taste for sweet substances. So you can actually culture a new generation of persons who are not dependent on sugar or have a high craving for sugary foods.”

The Chief Medical Officer also warned against the heavy consumption of sugary carbonated beverages, especially by teenagers.

“Everything in the shops now is plastered with plastic bottles containing sugary substances. We have started to work with schools to provide students with healthy meals which include larger portions of fruits and vegetables and smaller portions of starch and sugary foods.

“Heart disease is our number one problem, but diabetes is coming in closely behind. While heart diseases are sudden and devastating, with heart attacks killing people quickly, diabetes attacks slowly, taking you limp by limp, organ by organ,” Dr Persaud said as he urged the populace to put their heath first.

bite is venomous, it is not deadly to humans. But it would still be extremely painful, “like driving a nail through your hand,” Naskrecki said.

And the eight-legged beast has a third defence mechanism up its hairy sleeve. The hairs on the front of the spider’s body have tiny hooks and barbs that make a hissing sound when they rub against each other, “sort of like pulling Velcro apart,” Naskrecki said.

Yet despite all that, the spider does not pose a threat to humans. Even if it bites you, “a chicken can probably do more damage”, Naskrecki said.

Bird eater or mostly harmless?

Despite its name, the birdeater does not usually eat birds, although it is certainly capable of killing small mammals. “They will essentially attack anything that they encounter,” Naskrecki said.

The spider hunts in leaf litter on the ground at night, so the chances of it encountering a bird are very small, he said. However, if it found a nest, it could easily kill the parents and the chicks, he said, adding that the spider species has also been known to puncture and drink bird eggs.

The spider will eat frogs and insects, but its main prey is actually earthworms, which come out at night when it is humid. “Earthworms are very nutritious,” Naskrecki said.

Birdeaters are not very common spiders. “I’ve been working in the tropics in South America for many, many years, and in the last 10 to 15 years, I only ran across the spider three times,” Naskrecki.

After catching the specimen he found in Guyana, which was female, Naskrecki took her back to his lab to study. She is now deposited in a museum. (livescience)

Page Foundation

BAnu Dev

ack in primary school, along with “as white as snow”, we crammed the simile, “as changeable as the weather”. My voracious reading also made the ubiquitous greetings, “nice weather” and “good morning” untethered from their moorings as commentaries on the PHYSICAL environment. Our good old Guyanese “rainy season” and “dry season” were predictable enough, to not need comments.

And so it was, I never quite appreciated just how fickle the weather could be until I came to Trinidad. In the morning, if I peer out through my windows I could see that it’s pretty much bright and sunny –a picture perfect “Caribbean day”.

So could you blame me for donning a light dress and casual shoes? But then two hours later, stepping out of class, I’d wish I’d brought a raincoat, boots and umbrella so I could get home without coming down with pneumonia. Not “good morning”. I finally understood why the English al-

The changeability of weather

“Do not be angry with the rain; it simply does not know how to fall upwards.” – Vladimir Nabokov

ways walked with umbrellas. Yet I must confess that I love the rain. Not “walking in the rain” or, God forbid, “singing in the rain” for me, however. Yes, yes, I know libraries are filled with poetry about that experience. Call me humdrum.

Pneumonia, hypothermia, and such things don’t really excite me, thank you! I just love the rain when I’m in bed. Really! I’ve heard of the joys of the “patter of little feet” –but that’s a while away. In the meantime the patter of raindrops on my roof and window panes, do wonders for me!

Some of the most pleasurable moments of my life have been waking up when the rain’s just started to fall and then burrowing down into the sheets for a little more of that sweet slumber.

But there’s a downside – when you have to get out of bed to get ready for class. That’s when I start making bargains with myself, “I could sleep in for 10 more minutes and I’d still be able to make it to class in time if I take that shortcut to class. But that route gets a bit muddy in the rain. No! It doesn’t matter; sleep is more important (read, “luxurious!”) I’ll deal with the mud when I get there.”

It’s cruel and inhuman punishment, I think, having to leave one’s warm, comfy

bed to deal with raging winds and torrential downpours. I mean, lying in bed, sometimes in that in-between reality connecting the dream world and this harsh one here: isn’t this when you have your most creative ideas?

The only problem is we don’t generally remember any of it when we’re awake. But we do retain that feeling of thinking “deep thoughts”.

I was very pleased to read later (in a Chemistry text, of all places!) that one of the greatest of discoveries in organic chemistry occurred to the scientist Kekule while he was dozing. I won’t bore you with the details (I bore that ordeal for you!) save that it had to do with a snake seizing its own tail. I frequently tell myself that I’m channelling Kekule when I’m trying to snag that extra 15 minutes of sleep.

At this rate, I may be well on my way to making some breakthrough discovery during one of my frequent naps. Nobel Prize, here I come!

But even with all of my kvetching about the weather, I have to admit that there’s something nice about sprinting home in the pouring rain, changing into dry clothes, putting on a cup of coffee, snuggling up under a blanket, and just listening to the rain pitter-patter across the roof.

Is it safe to travel during an outbreak? What is WHO’s travel advice?

During an outbreak, WHO reviews the public

Ebola?

As with any illness or disease, it is always possible that a person who has been exposed to Ebola virus may choose to travel. If the individual has not developed

necessary, and may inform national authorities to implement it. WHO is currently reviewing its recommendations for travel and expects to issue advice in the coming days.

While travellers should always be vigilant with regard to their health and those around them, the risk of infection for travellers is very low since person-toperson transmission results from direct contact with the body fluids or secretions of an infected patient.

Is it safe to travel with persons who have

toms, they cannot transmit EVD to those around them. If the individual does have symptoms, they should seek immediate medical attention at the first sign they are feeling unwell. This may require either notifying the flight crew or ship crew or, upon arrival at a destination, seeking immediate medical attention. Travellers who show initial symptoms of EVD should be isolated to prevent further transmission. Although the risk to fellow travellers in such a situation is very low, contact tracing is rec-

is extremely low, even if the visit included travel to the local areas from which primary cases have been reported. Transmission requires direct contact with blood, secretions, organs or other body fluids of infected living or dead persons or animal, all of which are unlikely exposures for the average traveller. In any event, tourists are advised to avoid all such contacts. If you are visiting family or friends in the affected areas, the risk is similarly low, unless you have direct physical contact with a person who is ill or who has died. If this is the case, it is important to notify public health authorities and engage in contact tracing. Contact tracing is used to confirm you have not been exposed to EVD and to prevent further spread of the disease through monitoring.

WHO’s general travel advice

• Travellers should avoid all contact with infected patients.

Health workers travelling to affected areas should strictly follow WHOrecommended infection control guidance.

Anyone who has stayed in areas where cas-

ommended under these circumstances.

Is it safe to travel to West Africa on business or to visit family and friends?

The risk of a tourist or businessman/woman becoming infected with Ebola virus during a visit to the affected areas and developing disease after returning

es were recently reported should be aware of the symptoms of infection and seek medical attention at the first sign of illness.

• Clinicians caring for travellers returning from affected areas with compatible symptoms are advised to consider the possibility of Ebola virus disease. (who.int)

No meeting with rowdy Lindeners – Granger declares

People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Leader David Granger has described the recent incident where he was chased out of Linden as unfortunate, saying that he is very much concerned about the party’s unity in the region.

But said he will not tolerate persons shouting at him with placard when they come to meet him. The incident at Linden was a case where the PNCR Leader went to meet the people but some were locked out of the meeting, sparking an angry protest.

Members of the Linden arm of the PNCR two Fridays ago staged a protest outside the main building of the Mackenzie High School.

Granger had visited the region to meet with some PNCR members to discuss some pressing issues in-

cluding the No-Confidence Motion and Local Government Elections.

But party members there, who said they had been boycotted and disrespected by their leader, held placards in angry objection.

At his Hadfield Street Office on Friday, Granger said he is concerned about the party’s unity in the region and believes that there are persons who are bent on creating mischief.

“I believe there are a few persons who are capable of articulating their grievances in a noisy way and attract media coverage… to the extent that those grievances are articulated; we are making efforts internally to meet with persons affected and we will resolve those differences in accordance with the party’s Constitution,” Granger said.

The PNCR Leader said the weakness of the party in Linden may be the contributing factor to the continuous rancour carried of some members there.

Apparent weakness

“I’m aware that maybe a weakness in the party’s structure in Region 10 may have contributed to the feelings that there is no regional administration in the party system.”

There are reports that the situation in Linden has built up to the extent that whenever the party leader holds a meeting there, the Regional Chairman,

Member of Parliament and some Councillors are often times absent.

Asked about how he intends to fix the situation and the party’s plans to reach out to the broader Linden community, Granger said “we have a Constitution; we have a Congress, a General Council, an Executive Committee and the party’s Regional Congress”. He said the party has institutions and planned programmes, and the recent meeting held in the region was one of such programmes.

protest, and break up meetings, it will be difficult for other persons to hear what’s going on. People want to know about Local Government Election and the No-Confidence Motion, but it is difficult to hear when you are shouting,” Granger said.

Locked out

Reports state that over 50 members of the Linden arm of the party became agitated after arriving at the McKenzie High School, only

they said sent the signal that they were uninvited.

This caused party members to become disgruntled as they stood outside the gates with placards, hurling remarks at Granger and Party Coordinator Sandra Adams, who were said to be conducting a private meeting inside.

Angry PNCR party member Maurice Butters, who was inside the compound, related that after being let out, he had been locked inside the compound, since

“If people want to shout,

to discover that the gates to the venue were locked, which

he had arrived early at the venue for the consultation,

which was expected to commence at 18:00h.

He explained that he went to meet with Granger; however, he was made to understand that he could not do so.

Butters also noted that the unresolved issue involving disciplinary action against party member Vanessa Kissoon was also up for discussion by the PNCR Linden arm.

He explained too that party activities had not been recognised and accepted by Councillors since the rift in the party began. He said the leadership has not embraced the PNCR Councillors who are willing to work for the betterment of the party.

The August 18, 2012, an agreement signed by the Government and the Region 10 Democratic Council, Butters noted, was also an issue, as well as the issue of Local Government Elections. He explained that the party leadership appears unwilling to consult on party campaign activities.

Party member Leslie Gonsalves, who was also present at the protest, said the Linden party arm was dissatisfied with some of the actions of the PNCR Leader. He also noted that members of the Linden arm of the party were uninvited to the consultation and were turned back at the gate.

Gonsalves said the protesters were not present to cause ruckus, but simply to make their voices heard.

Rockstone Fish Festival, South Rupununi Safari launched

By Svetlana MarShall

The Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry on Friday launched the 9th Rockstone Fish Festival and the South Rupununi Safari, promising that both events will be adventures to remember.

Ahead of their starting points, the events are creating momentum with tourists from across the Caribbean and the North American continent registering their participation.

Rockstone Tourism Association President Lynette Benn said prepara-

tions for the much anticipated event are moving apace; pointing out that some 2000 participants are expecting

during the two days of fun and adventure.

The Rockstone Fish Festival will commence on

October 25 before culminating on October 26 with a wide range of competitions.

Where ignorance is bliss...

...you’ll find Lalloo Ram

This Lalloo Ram fella just doesn’t know when to quit. It’s clear he has what Freud described as “masochistic tendencies” which in its extreme form can become a “death wish”. The wanker just opens himself to ridicule so often there can’t be any other explanation. He’s so desperate for some asswhipping, it doesn’t matter that he’s seen as an “ass”. Like everyone in the S&M trade, it’s a compulsion.

So after being bitch-slapped for his accounting and legal pretensions, he presents himself for some more blows in the area of Parliamentary Procedures. It could be he’s become bassidy after all the pummelling. We know the brains of boxers literally spin around as they’re hit on one side of the face to the other. But we guess in the world of the masochist in pursuit of gaining some recognition, “no pain....no gain”!

Lalloo Ram dares to ask why the Clerk of the National Assembly doesn’t have the Speaker reconvene Parliament to allow his friends in the AFC to move their “no-confidence” motion. Ram, as the neophyte dabbler in Parliamentary Affairs he is (as in law) quotes (as if he’s a legal Columbus discovering Parliamentary Rules of Order) the very same order (82) that the Clerk had cited for his decision.

It’s obvious one of them’s wrong – and as the Clerk explained, it sure ain’t him. But what else is new? The masochist just wants to be bitch-slapped.

The quoted Rule states: “If, during an adjournment of the Assembly, it is represented to the Speaker by the Government, or the Speaker is of the opinion, that the public interest requires that the Assembly should meet on a day earlier than that to which it stands adjourned, the Speaker may give notice accordingly and the Assembly shall meet at the time stated in such notice.”

Like the neophyte he is (so eager he is to show off his “learning”) Lalloo misses the import of the caveat that the Speaker’s “discretion” in reconvening Parliament is contingent on the date to which “it stands adjourned”!!! And it’s the prerogative of the Government in power to set that date!!

Old parties like the PNC with institutional memories, know this and that’s why Granger had to concede the point. Even Ramjattan followed suit when he noted that Parliament is “reconvened by the Prime Minister”. And that why’s he begged Granger to “lobby” for him.

Poor masochistic Lalloo...Maybe he can now solicit some more bitch-slapping by defending Mook Lall for tax-cheating. Did you notice he wasn’t at court with the Mook’s riff-raff?

...don’t tell the PNC different

Minette Bacchus keeps pleading with Granger to change his tune with the PNC’s Linden supporters. Concerned PNCite Bacchus is deathly afraid if snap elections follow the no-confidence vote (whenever!!) the PNC could lose at least two seats in their “traditional” stronghold.

After all, they only snagged those folks from the AFC after the very persons Granger locked out of his meeting worked their butts off in 2011. But Minette forgets that Granger’s only following in the footsteps of his mentor – the founder leader Burnham. Not so incidentally, the same Burnham Minette defends so tenaciously.

When it came to Lindeners, Burnham believed in “tough love”. The same year, that the folks in the mining community named their town after him, Burnham nationalised the bauxite industry – including the workers’ pension! The newly named Lindeners went on strike. Burnham had the Police unleash dogs and water hoses on them and threw them in jail. See Kwayana’s “The Bauxite Strike and the Old Politics”.

To Granger, just locking the gate on the Lindeners is being “kind”!!

...make wild allegations

Kwayana complains the PPP/C’s “exploiting” the Rodney CoI’s revelations. He claims no one did the same for Robert Gates’s testimony against the PPP/C? Did he fall asleep during Basil Williams’ histrionics??

CDEMA issues warning on Ebola virus

In light of the growing Ebola fears, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) has called on participating states to give serious consideration to the utilisation of their National Influenza Pandemic Plans to prepare for the virus.

The CDEMA participating states are Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands and the Virgin Islands.

The CDEMA said countries should review and strengthen plans, incorporating best practices and international standards for preparedness and mitigation where appropriate.

Participating states should also develop the necessary protocols and guidelines, grounded in international best practices, to protect all ports of entry from potential threat of infection.

According to the International Health Regulations (2005), countries are advised to develop protocols which strengthen public health capacities at all designated ports of entry (airports, sea ports and ground crossings) when responding to events that constitute a public health emergency or international concern.

“Protocols and guidelines should be subject to rigorous and frequent testing to ensure that the states are empowered and prepared to respond in the event of threats of the virus to their ports of entry,” the CDEMA said.

National Disaster Offices

countries should review and strengthen influenza plans, incorporating best practices and international standards for preparedness

are encouraged to continue to support the health sector and other stakeholders with regard to the testing of these mechanisms for adequacy and effectiveness.

“Participating states are also encouraged to develop robust public awareness and communications campaigns which provide accurate, timely and relevant information on the Ebola virus outbreak, symptoms and precautionary measures to reduce risk of exposure. Messages and distribution channels should be appropriate for each target group, with special consideration given to high risk groups such as healthcare providers and vulnerable groups such as the disabled and the elderly.”

CDEMA noted that special emphasis should also be placed on operational communication among stakeholders. Effective coordination of operational communication will ensure that decision-makers within participating states are aware of new developments,

enabling them to make informed decisions with regard to policy and critical actions to be undertaken to preserve, promote and protect the health of locals and visitors.

Given the potential of the virus to affect cross-border areas; operational communication should take into consideration inter-country communications.

The CDEMA will continue to monitor the regional situation and provide updates as appropriate. The agency stands ready to provide assistance to its participating states where necessary.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the outbreak of the Ebola virus as ongoing in Western Africa; with Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea being the most seriously affected.

To date, there have been over 8000 cases reported with over 4000 deaths. Recent cases of the virus being contracted in Spain and the United States of America have also been reported.

Pre-Diwali celebrations today at Monument Gardens

In an efforts to revive traditional Indian culture in

the Interstate

a pre-Diwali celebration at the Indian Monument Gardens,Camp and Church Streets, Georgetown today. The show will begin at 16:00h. The festive event will feature prominent artistes from the

Rockstone Fish Festival...

from page 8

As customary, Benn said there will be the Fish Cooking Competition, the Fish De-boning Competition and the Smoke Fish Competition, in addition to the Largest Catch Competition. According to her, competitors would not only walk away with trophies, but fantastic prizes.

In addition to the competitions, the festival will feature an Amerindian Village. Member of the Association Jennifer Compion explained that there will be Amerindian cuisines on sale, ranging from pepper pot to tuma pot to piwari. “When you come to the festival, make sure you bring your bottles to buy the fresh cassava water to make you nice pepper pot,” Compion urged.

To facilitate the growing numbers of visitors, the Rockstone Tourism Association has extended the camping grounds and parking areas. Additionally, the road from Linden to Rockstone has been rehabilitated to facilitate safe travel. Admission for this year’s event remains at $500 for adults and $200 for children.

Guyana Tourism Association (GTA) Director Indranauth Haralsingh said the Tourism Ministry is pleased to be associated with the Rockstone Fish Festival. According to Haralsingh, the Fish Festival has grown tremendously over the years, much to the satisfaction of its supporters.

“It is a communitybased event, so let us support this festival. Sometimes because these communities are remote, we tend to forget them, but this is an opportunity to get out of the city environment and explore a new community,” he posited.

Rockstone, located in Region 10, some two hours from the capital city, is a perfect getaway paradise, Haralsingh emphasised.

Gaining momentum

Meanwhile, one year after being launched in Guyana, the South Rupununi Safari is gaining momentum with 10 Trinidadians, seven Jamaicans, one Canadian and a large delegation from Suriname set to arrive in Guyana next month for the second edition. Guyanese are also registering for this breath-taking exercise. It is estimated that the safari will have a total of 20 vehicles, inclusive of a truck.

The much anticipated expedition is set to kick off on November 25 before culminating on November 30 at Lethem. According to Rainforest Tours Marketing Director Frank Singh, the adventure will be an event to remember.

“It is totally different going to the South versus the North because the land is flat, there is more savannah land but you will get an opportunity to experience the different Amerindian cultures,” he explained.

In the South Rupununi,

there are 14 villages in which members of the safari will get an opportunity to explore, including Ashalton and Shea.

A visit to the Dadanawa Ranch, Bottle Mountain, Kanuku Mountain, Shea Village and the Shea Rock are among some of the highlights.

Dadanawa, with its long and rich history, held the claim of being the world’s largest cattle ranch. It was used as a home base for the filming of several episodes of “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom”, one of the television’s first wildlife shows. Dadanawa itself is known for over 400 bird species including Jabiru Storks, Guiana Cock-of-the-Rock and the rare Red Siskin.

The cost to participate in this year’s South Rupununi Safari is just $100,000, which includes food and accommodation. The expedition forms part of a range of events being executed by the recently established Pakaraima Mountain Safari Club. According to the Secretary of the Safari Club Yonette Sahibdeen, the hosting of safaris is just one way of boosting domestic tourism. It was disclosed that the club, in addition to its local member, has a large international presence with members from Suriname, Brazil, Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago and Canada. Guyanese are encouraged to join the club. (svetlanam@guyanatimesgy.com)

Centre, including Sookrani Budhoo, Bhagwan Shukla, Mohan Nando and Ceila Samaroo, among others.

Canadian-based musician Bakshara Sharma will also be performing, along with the Roshani Dancing Group.

ISHO Guyana Chapter and United Federation for Art and Culture President Vishnu Bandhu said the programme was designed to re-establish the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s “real” Indian cultural activities.

“We are trying to bring back Indian culture… not mixing with English or Chutney, we want to go back to the old days, because our culture is drifting apart and we need to bring it back.”

Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be on sale. Entrance fee is $500 for adults and $300 for children.

In light of Ebola fear… Texila University freezes admission of West African students

The Texila American University (TAU) said it does not have any student from Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone and has also stopped accepting new applications from Nigeria and Senegal.

The university made the announcement in a statement on Saturday in light of growing fears that the virus which has already spread to Europe and the US, could reach these shores with persons from West Africa coming here.

The TAU said among its students, the ones who come from the African continent are primarily from those countries in North, South and East Africa and Nigeria.

While the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also said Nigeria and Senegal have reported fewer cases of infection, they are considered to have contained the disease.

On August 14, the WHO had mentioned that “if the active surveillance for new cases that is currently in place continues, and no new cases are detected, WHO will declare the end of the outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Senegal on Friday, 17 October. Likewise, Nigeria is expected to have passed through the requisite

42 days, with active surveillance for new cases in place and none detected, on Monday 20, October.”

TAU said it has also been proactive to mitigate the threat since the outbreak of Ebola, and the few students who were admitted previously and travelled recently from Nigeria have undergone medical checks and provided their medical certificates as not having symptoms of Ebola at their ports of exit and at other check points en route to Guyana.

Robust action

Right from the period in which the outbreak had affected the West African countries, TAU became cognisant of the scope of the Ebola outbreak and steps were immediately taken to implement standard operating procedures for dealing with students arriving from abroad.

“Drawing on the recommendations from CDC and WHO, students were assessed for a period of 21 days during which time they were required to be away from the campus and to be monitored regularly. Additionally, all the international students also had to undergo medical exams before and after arrival to ensure that the students are not having any symptoms of Ebola, irrespective of which foreign country they come from.

“All of these steps were taken because TAU perceived it had a greater social responsibility to safeguard all students, staff of the institution and the people in Guyana at large, all the more being a medical institution itself, which various physicians from different countries teaching on campus at Texila American University.”

The TAU is an international university providing quality education in health sciences to students around the world.

TAU offers degree programmes in Medicine, Nursing

and Dentistry. The university has been operating in Guyana since 2010 and attracts a diverse and wide cross-section of students including from India, Africa, the US, the UK, the United Arab Emirates and Europe.

“TAU applauds proactive measures taken by the Government of Guyana to mitigate the threat of Ebola virus disease to Guyana. When it comes to the international recruitments from African continent, TAU is closely following the statistics from the WHO and CDC, who have declared Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone as hot spots for the outbreak of Ebola virus disease.”

Acquiring modern equipment

Meanwhile, amid increasing threat of the Ebola virus, President Donald Ramotar on Friday said that Government has been acquiring modern equipment and additional medical supplies, including more protective gear in order to be prepared to tackle the disease.

But he called on citizens to do all in their power to help

the past week there have been moves to train staff, set up isolation centres at ports of entry and also beef up surveillance activities at airports.

In a National Address, President Ramotar said the deadly disease has been having a devastating impact on countries of West Africa.

“I wish on behalf of the Government and all Guyanese to extend our profound concern and solidarity with the Governments and people of Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone, in particular, in West Africa, who are battling this deadly disease. The international community is only now in the process of providing assistance to combat this disease and to stop its spread.”

He said Guyana, in its own small way, has joined those efforts to muster resources to assist these countries in halting its spread.

“However, despite this we have seen it crossing continents into Europe and the United States of America. In the world that we live in today in which globalisation has spawned the

keep the disease that has already killed close to 5000 people out of this country.

The Health Ministry has been criticised for its slow reaction in getting in place the necessary programmes and measures to prevent the disease from coming here. However, for

most massive movement of people in history, no country is guaranteed that it would not be affected,” Ramotar said.

He told the nation Guyana also has to take preventative and curative measures to protect its citizenry.

“If, per chance, this disease reaches our shores we must be prepared to limit its effect to contain and bring it under control as fast as possible. We have already taken steps in that direction.”

Rent-acrowd

Satiricus was a patriot. He was proud of his country. Sure things used to be bad. But that was long ago. There used to be shortages. But no more. Now, once you had the money, there was nothing you couldn’t buy. He sighed deeply in satisfaction as he gazed at the scruffy lot of louts surrounding the owner of the Muckraker – Mook Lall.

The Mook had rented them from “Rent-a-Crowd” over in Albouystown. From the bad old days of BurntHam when you couldn’t even rent a tuxedo, today you could not only rent cars and tents (with chairs), you could rent a crowd!!

Back in the day, these crowds would crawl out from the slums because the Pee-an-See would summon them to teach the PPCEE a lesson (or two or three). Buildings would be burnt, PPCEE supporters would be mugged, beaten and robbed, even a few rapes might be committed by some high spirited youth-men, and all that.

Ahh...those were the days, thought Satiricus. As the big time poet had written, that was how boys in the City became men! But then came the IMF with their “privatisation”, “free enterprise” and such talk. At first you had to buy the hooligans lunch –Chinese fried rice was the thing. But pretty soon you had to RENT the riff raff if you wanted then out in the streets. And this is what the Mook, had to do – even though he was the biggest supporter of the Opposition.

The Mook had been dragged to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for “tax fraud”. Seems the folks at the Tax Office didn’t believe two old people would spend $40 million on two luxury vehicles and just give it to the Mook.

Well, if the truth be told, not a whole lot of people believed the Mook, thought Satiricus. Most Guyanese knew about the duty-free hustle, so they knew the Mook was just “trying a ting”!

Part of his “ting” was to tell people that it wasn’t his hustle that had gotten him in trouble – but because he was the “defender of democracy” in Guyana! That got a chuckle from his friends in the Opposition –none of whom came out to support him. Rum Jhaat and Lalloo Ram had to be paid big time to show up as the Mook’s lawyers.

And so it was that “Rent a Crowd” saved the day for the Mook. Satiricus’ heart swelled with pride at the progress of free enterprise in Guyana – as the Mook marched off South with his motley crew in search of their Chinese fried rice.

Glenn Lall will have to answer...

Where's his money coming from

... if audit is done

Owner and Publisher of the Kaieteur News

Glenn Lall will have to answer where all his money is coming from when the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) conducts an imminent audit of his newspaper operations, which are based at 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown.

A Guyana Times investigation has unearthed numerous questionable business deals by Lall and his wife Bhena Lall, which appear to exist only as a front to shield his shady money, as well as ownership of several properties in Guyana and the United States. This information was provided by close associates of Glenn Lall.

This newspaper’s investigation found that Lall or his wife, or both in some cases, re-

he runs a business operation which is not making a profit currently.

Three other businesses are believed to exist under the names Bhena and Glenn Investments, Bhena Lall Inc and Bhena’s Footwear Inc in the United States and each of them seems not to be generating a profit.

Lall also paid US$1 million in cash for a property on Regent Street, Georgetown, making it a pattern of paying for property he owns in cash US dollars, said one Guyana Times source. Over the years, Lall has also acquired a number of properties in Guyana, totalling in value of over G$2 billion.

He also recently opened a confectionary factory in the name of his daughter, saying the investment was worth

portedly own, or used to own, four properties in Liberty Avenue, Lefferts Boulevard, Hollis and Sutter Avenue in New York. Guyana Times is in possession of the physical addresses.

According to information received, Lall recently sold the property on Lefferts Boulevard for close to US$500,000 in August in what appears to be an effort to get rid of some of the ‘assets’ in his or his wife’s name before any audit is done.

According to information received, Lall is also desperately trying to sell the one on Sutter Avenue. Guyana Times has a picture of the property with the ‘for sale’ sign bearing his wife’s name.

Lall also reportedly owns a commercial building in Coral Gables, Florida, where

US$2 million.

Questions have therefore surfaced as to whether the primary income from his newspaper operations and Bhena’s Footwear could legitimately generate all that money to fund all the schemes with which he is allegedly involved.

Reported fuel smuggling

One Guyana Times contact said the source of funding is reportedly from fuel smuggling from Trinidad and Tobago and from Venezuela. The fuel smuggling operations are based in the Essequibo River.

Another informant said another source could be a gold smuggling ring which exports gold from these shores to the tune of millions of US dollars. It is therefore no wonder

that Lall has been strenuously trying to avoid his recent spate of illegal criminal activities reaching the court, or in fact any form of investigation.

These investigations and now court action were initiated by Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Khurshid Sattaur, who launched a probe into alleged tax fraud involving the importation of two vehicles by a remigrant couple who are now reportedly overseas.

Lall’s resort to blackmail by hacking emails and printing them in his newspaper; emails purporting to be from the GRA Head, is but only one indication that the newspaper owner does not want to be investigated or prosecuted in a court of law.

These investigations have

now extended to include materials imported for his newspaper production, apart from the major imminent audit of his newspaper’s business operations in Charlestown, Georgetown, which he acquired about 20 years ago by bullying the previous owner,

who immediately migrated to Canada.

Incidentally, this is a property for which Lall is also before the courts for allegedly failing to pay up his property taxes. But the question as to why Lall fears an audit or an investigation still boggles the mind. What is he afraid of and are there things that Lall cannot or would not disclose?

There are among the questions being asked by persons Guyana Times spoke with.

Thus far, Lall has never publicly denied the many allegations levelled against him, but has instead sought to deflect from the core of these allegations by claiming that efforts are in place to effectively shutdown his newspaper.

He has resorted by saying that Government is seeking to muzzle the free press in Guyana. Lall must therefore be worried that an audit of his operations will leave more questions than answers about the sources of his revenue generation.

At the moment, the Guyana Times investigation is at the preliminary stage.

Trotman’s paedophile allegations…

Welshman’s father reportedly in Guyana, search begins

As the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continue its investigation into allegations of sexual assault and child molestation levelled against the Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman, Johnny Welshman senior is being sought in connection with sexual molestation of his son. This is according to Welshman junior, who in a recent interview with Guyana Times revealed that after a visit to Crime Chief Leslie James; he was made to understand that

his father was the last part of the investigation and has thus far proven to be elusive. The 22-year-old young man explained to Guyana

Times that he believes that his father is staying at Lot 12 Subryanville, Georgetown. He said that himself along with officers from the GPF went to the property on Friday, but failed to locate his father.

He opined that the investigations are being stalled by someone, noting that his father was allegedly sighted several time in the company of Trotman over the last month.

Welshman said he is appealing to the public or anyone that can lead him to his father, to do so, so that the investigation can be concluded and justice be served.

The gag order filed by Trotman, who allegedly sodomised Welshman, was called up again last Wednesday at the High Court.

During the hearing, Trotman’s Attorney Nigel Hughes was granted time to file a response to the defendant’s affidavit in answer.

On September 21, Trotman had secured an injunction restraining Welshman junior, – who has alleged that Trotman raped him when he was just 12, – from making any statements or publishing any materials about the issue.

During the last court hearing, Welshman jun-

ior was given 10 days to respond in an affidavit to claims that he made libellous statements against Trotman. This was done recently by his Attorney Peter Hugh.

However, when the matter was called up in chambers on Wednesday before acting Chief Justice Ian

that a lot of tactics are deliberately being undertaken to stall the process of him getting justice.

He told this newspaper that all his social networks were hacked.

“A lot of things are done deliberately but I will not give up, I will fight this to the end until I get justice,”

Chang, Attorney Hughes requested and was given time to respond to the documents filed by the defendant.

The matter has been scheduled to be called up again on November 4, when arguments are expected to commence.

In the meanwhile, Welshman junior has disclosed that he is seeking international assistance to get justice.

The young man believes

he reaffirmed.

The young man has declared that he was prepared to take the matter further if it fell through in Guyana.

The 22-year-old had said he is confident that the law will rule in his favour given the overwhelming evidence he has. He noted too that he was prepared to take his case to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) if Trotman is not held responsible for his alleged action.

Govt moving towards universal ICT education – Dr Singh

ASimply the Truth

Oh Guyana!

n ancient Greek philosopher said something like this: “Until our philosophers become politicians or our politicians become philosophers, our cities will never flourish.”

By “philosophers” we do not mean some drip who has done a university course in philosophy! Any fool can do some university course in philosophy and then dribble some names. The philosopher is contemplative, considerate in profound ways, and lives by a system of belief. There is no screech as baboons screech.

Heed these words then, for I write this while living the words I write. And I say to my fellow Guyanese thus:

When human beings reduce themselves to ingestion, digestion, urination, defecation and fornication, the angels in Heaven despair. When we reduce ourselves to these base things, God weeps. To reduce ourselves and others in this fashion is unforgiveable. And no number of times we go to our churches and temples and mosques would bring forgiveness. For we have condemned ourselves to being vulgar and base. But then, to forgive is a divine quality. But to forget is to encourage.

The Georgetown leg of Government’s

“Because We Care” $10,000 Cash Grant initiative commenced on Saturday with Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh underscoring the importance of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in raising the standard of education delivery.

Hundreds of parents from Stella Marris, Starters and Precious Jewels Nursery Schools flocked the auditorium of Queen’s College as they eagerly awaited the receipt of their cash grants from the Government.

Finance Minister, Dr Singh, who delivered the keynote address before the commencement of the process, highlighted that education is a top priority of the Government, and the cash grant was another measure to support learning in the school system.

He said too that strong focus is also being placed on ICT.

“Every child coming out of the public school system will be computer literate,” he said, hinting that the subject would be made mandatory.

“We don’t want children to leave the school system without the basic skills they are required (to have) in the world,” said Minister Singh.

He also said in all of this, parents have a key role to play in ensuring that their children receive a sound education.

The Minister said no party should say “the Government is not doing enough or the teacher not doing enough”, contending that education of the nation’s children requires the maximum effort of all stakeholders.

“No matter what investments are made by Government. Don’t matter how much schools we

build and how much teachers we recruit. Don’t matter how much we equip the IT (Information Technology) labs… the truth of the matter is that our children will not be as well-educated as they should be if there isn’t parental commitment or parental involvement,” Dr Singh said.

The Minister said some 15 per cent of this year’s National Budget was allocated to the Education Sector, pointing out that “no other single sector has been allocated as much as the education sector”.

“The allocation goes to building more schools. To expand and modernise and rehabilitate existing schools, to meet operating costs of schools including payment of teachers –thousands of teachers,” Dr Singh told the gathering.

Several parents who spoke to Guyana Times expressed satisfaction of the move by Government to introduce the cash grant initiative.

One woman said the grant was timely and will be of great help to her; another mother with four children expressed similar sentiments.

Over the next few weeks, parents of students in all Government schools across Guyana will benefit from the cash grant of $10,000 per student.

The Government on Thursday disbursed some $12 million worth in the $10,000 “Because We Care” grant to parents of students in the public school system in Mabaruma, Region One.

The initiative was officially launched on October 11, at the Bartica Community Centre, Region Seven. The cash grant initiative was announced by Dr Singh during the presentation of Budget 2014.

To reduce ourselves to this baseness is an act of desperate selfbetrayal. Our worship becomes a mockery of all things good and decent and heavenly. As a nation,

we cannot survive by mocking the Creator! Fire and flood shall visit us. So it is written. And so it is Truth.

It is written that when God created man in His own image and breathed life (animus) into him, God gathered all angels and said unto them: “Behold! This is My Creation! Man! Kneel down before him!”

It is written that the Angels knelt. But there were those who rebelled and would not heed! They were lead by Lucifer, Satan. And those that followed Satan were Beelzebub, Belial, and Moloch. Thus, there was a war in Heaven. But with one thought, those who would not heed would have been vanquished.

So, in His infinite wisdom and sense of justice, the Creator allowed

a battle. The forces of good were led by the Archangel Michael. Lucifer lead the forces of willful rebellion and foolish pride. Lucifer was vanquished and banished to the depths of Hell.

The story did not end, for in Hell, Satan and his cohorts devised ways to wreak havoc upon humankind. They were cunning in their ambush to reduce humankind to ingestion, digestion, urination, defecation and fornication. The “meeting” was called Pandemonium. Satan and his demons devised the fall of Man and Woman. And woe be unto us all.

The story never ends, for with each lowering of ourselves we do betray ourselves and the generations after us. With each act of self-betrayal and cruelty, we make evil stronger. With each act of hypocrisy or violence or theft or rape or murder, we play a part in making the hordes of evil stronger.

When we reduce ourselves to ingestion, digestion, urination, defecation and fornication, we align ourselves with evil, for it is then that we betray our own nobility, our own divine nature. We can only win the battle against evil by confronting evil, not from hiding from it and not by ignoring it. We need to find the courage to fight, to speak out!

Evil has one purpose: and that purpose is to defile the pure and the good. Each lie told strengthens evil. And evil is cunning in devising ways to ambush us and in finding ways to

make us kneel in cowardice.

Evil finds ways to make us think that evil is good and that good is evil. It makes us think that Satan is God. It makes us speak in the tongue of the devil and to defile the name of the Creator. But evil fears the truth at all times.

We can release ourselves from bondage by keeping with the Truth, no matter how difficult this may be. It is easier to go on the side of evil than it is to stand in the ranks of the truly righteous!

Evil makes it easy; it bribes, makes us comfortable with our low animal functions, then ambushes and ravishes our bodies, minds, hearts and souls. Then such is the cunning, evil will seem to apologise and beg us to stay with them. It is vile and vulgar enough to use our children against us. It frightens us into dumb silence. And in the end, not only are we condemned but with our weakness, we condemn our children as well.

We can also release ourselves from bondage by cherishing true love, by being thankful for it and by accepting it with grace. Truth, love, grace, and thought are things that weaken evil. Lies, dumb silence, hypocrisy, and vulgar disregard for knowledge and wisdom are the weapons of evil. And so we are reduced to the behaviour of beasts: to ingestion, digestion, urination, defecation and fornication.

Essequibo businesses urged to scale-up production

– as 15th Essequibo Nite opens with grand fanfare

By IndrawattIe natram

The 15th annual Essequibo Nite opened on Friday with grand fanfare and a renewed call for producers and farmers in Region Two to do more to take advantage of all the opportunities available to market their produce within the region and the wider world.

The event was executed under the theme “Fostering agricultural and manufacturing development, promoting our trade potentials” and was

attended by thousands of Guyanese who had the op -

portunity to see various exhibits of what the region has to offer in agriculture,

tourism and business.

Delivering the feature remarks during a well-planned opening ceremony, Minister within the Agriculture Ministry and former Region Two Chairman Ally Baksh underscored the importance of the event, especially as the country continues a spate of activities to mark Agriculture Month 2014. Minister Baksh called on farmers and residents in the Essequibo County to ensure that they continue to take the lead on using the various forms of technology and scientific methodologies to improve their competitiveness in the agriculture sector.

He spoke about the

progress made so far while urging farmers to also be cognisant of the need to work with the relevant authorities to secure extra-regional markets as the demand for food and other agriculture produce not only in Guyana, but also across the world is increasing.

“Agriculture is much easier today with science and technology, new things are being invented and scientists are finding new and easier ways of doing things as opposed to previous times.”

He also advised the organisers to see the occasion as an avenue or vehicle that can be used to market the region and its business sector.

In the same vein, Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud said the event is a collaborative effort between the region and the Essequibo Nite Committee and focuses specifically on fostering agricultural and manufacturing development in Region Two.

He urged persons to make the most out of the opportunities and to partake in what Essequibo Nite has to offer. He noted that Region Two is producing lots of products and listed the “virgin” coconut oil is one.

He called on persons to stop importing foods and produce their own, and for a more organised private sector in the region.

Shortly after the ceremony, Minister Baksh, along with Persaud, Regional Vice Chairman Vishnu Samaroo and Regional Executive Officer Sunil Singh inspected the various booths and interacted with the audience.

On display were several booths which focused on promoting sustainable agriculture, tourism development and the culture of Essequibo.

A large contingent of businesses also participated in the exposition, including Comfort Sleep, the Big Bird International Fish Complex, Edward Beharry and Company, Pomeroon Women Agro Processing, ANSA McAL and Imam Bacchus and Sons.

Miss World Guyana Rafieya Hussain was also present at the event, interacting with the audience.

Fifteen years ago, Essequibo Night was birthed in the region by late Agriculture Minister Satyadeow Sawh. The late Minister started the activity under the theme “Made in Guyana, grown in Guyana”.

Younge’s Take Parliamentary ‘Caesars’

Guyana’s 10th Parliament continues to be marred by gridlock, grandstanding and political wars that have the potential of slowing the country’s overall socioeconomic and political development.

At the center of the ‘tit for tat’ is a new breed of Opposition politicians who refuse to compromise and will go all out to satisfy their personal egos, as well as ambitions.

The concepts of nationalism, patriotism, putting Guyana first, fuelling and aiding national development and the practice of non-partisan politics mean absolutely nothing to this new ‘strain’ of parliamentarians.

As a matter of fact, the Alliance For Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), by the misuse and abuse of their collective one-seat majority, have created new parliamentary ‘Caesars’.

These ‘Caesars’ are wreaking havoc in Parliament by tabling a series of controversial motions and bills while seeking to control the machinery of the National Assembly. These motions and bills are the core of all of the problems that have taken place in the National Assembly as the Government continues to reject them because of their illintent and the political rancor associated with their purpose.

The new ‘Caesars’ are so power drunk that they are also in the habit of railroading the Standing Orders of the Parliament as well as its norms, patents and customs to satisfy their bidding.

Instead of working with the ruling Administration to find solutions to the greater problems that are retarding the development of the country and its people, these ‘Caesars’ are bent on utilising the National Assembly to settle their scores with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) as a party, at expense of Guyana’s future.

That aside, these parliamentary ‘Caesars’ have done little that they could say have benefited the Guyanese public as a whole.

They continue to hide the real motives of their spiteful motions behind the notions of transparency, accountability, and good governance.

Yet it is clear at each parliamentary sitting that the ‘Caesars’ who define the Opposition’s agenda and posture on several issues of national importance, could care less about any of those notions.

In fact, the Government understands this and has wisely administered its Executive power to suppress those motions and bills that have been approved by the new ‘Caesars’ of our time. The Executive has been very successful in this respect.

But the new ‘Caesars’, recognising that their thirst for parliamentary power is being curtailed, have decided to move a no-confidence motion.

By moving such a motion they are demonstrating that they are willing to head back to the polls in search of more power to dominate and seek revenge against the PPP/C.

As a result, the Telecommunications Bill, the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Amendment Bill and several other urgent pieces of legislation are now in limbo.

In the meantime, the Opposition parties are failing to meet consensus as to how to whip the PPP/C with their oneseat majority when Parliament reconvenes.

This has led to much infighting amongst the ‘Caesars’. While the three ‘Caesars’ in APNU’s camp are pushing for local Government Elections, the other two in AFC’s camp are pushing the envelope for snap elections via a no-confidence motion.

Another ‘Caesar’ from APNU is concerned about ensuring that Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh is interrogated by the Privileges Committee of Parliament. Another AFC ‘Caesar’ is embroiled in a scandal involving the alleged sodomy of a young man when he was a boy.

It appears therefore that there is confusion among the parliamentary ‘Caesars’.

Maybe, Carl Greenidge, Basil Williams, Joseph Harmon, David Granger, Moses Nagamootoo, Raphael Trotman, and Khemraj Ramjattan could meet and discuss a way forward for the Opposition parties, given the high stakes.

Tuschen man robbed, stabbed to death

The Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a taxi driver who was found dead with several stab wounds to the neck at Sherriff Street, Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo.

The dead man has been identified as Abdool Hassim, 48, a father of eight of 2509 Tuschen New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo.

He was reportedly found several yards away from his car. According to information received, Hassim also called “Fighter” left home about 18:00h for work. He normally operates his car as a taxi at the Tuschen Market Square.

On the night, he reportedly collected two passengers who claimed that they wanted to be taken into the scheme; that was the last time he was seen alive.

The perpetrators also took away his money and mobile phone. The Police have since launched a probe into the incident.

When Guyana Times visited the man’s house on Saturday morning, a relative Ingrid Mohabir explained that she was at home when she received a telephone call

about 03:00h from her sister who related the horrific news.

The woman stated that based on information she gathered, her brother-in-law who was a peaceful man was stabbed at least seven times to the neck and was also dealt a blow to the head.

After he was stabbed in the dark area, she said he ran and screamed for help, but the people in the neighbourhood refused to render assistance.

She said he subsequently collapsed and it was then residents contacted the Police who arrived sometime later with the man’s relatives. Hassim was picked up and taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Hardworking man

The woman explained that the man’s death came as a shock to them, claiming that he was a very hardworking individual who was struggling to make ends meet. She could not understand the rationally for the killing of a poor man who has a family to maintain.

During a telephone interview with the man’s widow, Mala Mohabir, she told

Guyana Times that she received a telephone call from her husband’s eldest daughter from a previous relationship that her dad is dead.

She recalled within a few minutes after the call, the young woman collected her with a car and they went to the scene.

They saw his car on the street and his body was nearby.

Hassim was covered in blood from the stab wounds inflicted on him.

When Guyana Times visited the area in which the man was killed, residents

claimed that they do not know much about the murder while admitting that they would have seen the man’s car in the area.

One resident said he did not see any unusual movements since vehicles traverse the area on a regular basis.

He nevertheless expressed sadness after he became aware of what took place. Another woman claimed that it was late in the night and persons would have already retired to bed.

It was after they heard the screams, they looked out only to see the man lying on the roadway and they immediately alerted the Police. The Police, she added responded quickly, but the man was already dead.

Malisa, a daughter of the now dead man was devastated at the news of her father’s death, noting that he loved his family dearly.

The young woman said she will always remember her father for his kindness and good qualities.

Hassim leaves to mourn his wife, eight children and several grand children. His body is at the Ezekiel Funeral Home and is awaiting a post -mortem examination.

Bartica expo returns after a decade

It has been over a decade since the last Bartica Expo was held, and as such, AJ’s Promotions in collaboration with the Bartica Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has announced the re-launching of the exhibition and trade show, from which the business sector is expected to yield much benefits.

AJ’s Promotions

Chairman Budhesh Chatterpaul said the idea behind this expo is to promote the BCCI while at the same time attract membership.

According to Chatterpaul, while most companies are yet to confirm their participation, the business sector in Bartica, as well as beyond, have expressed an interests in the event as it is a good opportunity to promote and develop the mining community.

In addition, Chatterpaul explained that businesses in Bartica are eager to use the exhibition to showcase their products and services.

He said they believe this will provide a forum to develop the community as well as attract tourist.

“Businesses are now trying to move away from the mining sector and gear towards the tourism sector and through the Bartica Expo, they will be exposed to this,” the businessman said.

The event which will be held under the theme “Promoting and Transforming Bartica” is a reflection of the business sector recognising the importance of developing the community by paving the way for business opportunities.

This, he said, is the driv-

ing force behind the event while adding it “sits at the core of a developmental strategy for Bartica and the belief that our community can turn a new page and start a new developmental process that can only be maintained through a collective effort and a common vision”.

Chatterpaul went onto say that it was for this reason that he thought of re-launching the Bartica Expo and extended the invitation to the Chamber, since it provides an opportunity for the BCCI to gain much publicity and widen its memberships.

On the other hand, Vice Chairman of BCCI Anthony Murray pointed out that given the fact that the exhibition has been inactive for more than a decade, when he got the call from Chatterpaul to collaborate, he was more than eager to accept the invitation.

According to Chatterpaul, while they have accommodations for approximately 100 exhibitors, just about 15 have been confirmed.

Various businesses from the mining community are expected to be participating along with the big names in the country’s business sector.

Thus far, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), Scotia Bank, Beharry Group of Companies and Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) are some of the big players that have already confirmed their participation.

The exhibition will be held on November 7 and 8 at the Bartica Community Centre ground and will commence at 18:00h ending at midnight each day.

It will get started with a programme which will include cultural performances. Acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Irfaan Ali is expected to open the expo.

Additionally, on the final day, there will be a stage show featuring prominent local artistes. There will also be side attractions for children.

Tickets for the event cost

$500 for adults and $300 for children on the first day while adults will have to pay $1000 and children $300 on the last day of the exposition.

The tickets for adults will allow them entry into the stage show.

Sponsors of Bartica Expo 2014 include Thrill, Moneygram and the Government of Guyana, among many others.

Barama worker fished out of Essequibo River

Aworker attached to the Barama Company Limited at Buck Hall, Region Two was on Saturday morning fished out of the Essequibo River about 06:30h. The teen is suspected to have drowned. He was washed up between Troolie Island and Buck Hall.

Travis La Cruz, 17, of Moruca, North West District has been employed with the company since October 10 in the sawmill section.

According to information received, the teenager left the compound several hours after work and went to the village where he was seen partying with some colleagues. He was last seen about 01:40h on Saturday morning.

The young man’s body was spotted by the security guard on duty at Buck Hall and an alarm was raised. With the assistance of members of the public and workers at the lumber company, they managed to bring him ashore.

It is believed that the teenager might have been drunk and went to the landing to wash his face, but instead, fell overboard. He might have also hit his head in the process since blood was seen oozing from a wound on the face and nostrils.

The Police were summoned and statements were taken from several persons in the area, including the man with whom he partied with on Friday evening.

An official from Barama Company Limited told

Guyana Times during a telephone interview that they have made contact with the man’s next of kin and they are assisting the Police with the investigations. As of now, he noted that the Police are treating the incident as drowning, but have not fully ruled out foul play.

The official added that the teen’s body was taken to the Suddie Hospital Mortuary where a post-mortem is expected to be performed as soon as possible to determine the cause of death. Once this is done, only then, the Police will know how to lead their investigations.

In August, 18-year-old Shawn “Denzil” Atkinson of Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EDB) who went missing after plunging into a canal at Land of Canaan, EBD was fished out after a long search.

After hours under the black water, the young man who has been employed with the Barama Company Limited for the past two years as a sawmill labourer was recovered by relatives and colleagues.

According to information received, the young man and his colleagues left the worksite and went to the ball field to get some practice since they were scheduled to play a cricket match.

After practicing, the group of young men went to the nearby canal to “clean up” in preparation for the fun day. Hopkinson’s colleagues were already in the canal when he decided to jump.

Opposition has agreed reportedly to postpone LGE

The move by coalition, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) to distance itself from the “historical evolution” surrounding the highly debated Local Government Election (LGE) issue is ‘simply wrong’. This is the contention of Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall.

In an interview with the Government Information Agency, Minister Nandlall said since the last LGE which was held in 1994, the main Opposition party has been actively involved in legally postponing the holding the election.

“The only year that the PNC (APNU) stood by itself and demanded LGE was 2014, and in so doing they are attempting to distance themselves from the historical evolution of this matter and the Opposition is still contributing to the non-holding of Local Government Elections.”

LGE is due under the law and the current Government has stated and reiterated its commitment to holding it as early as is reasonably possible.

However, according to Minister Nandlall, the difficulty with which the Government is currently confronted is the fact that there is pending in the National Assembly, a no-confidence motion for debate.

That no-confidence motion if it is taken to its logical conclusion will mean that by virtue of the Constitution, Parliament will be dissolved, forcing the President and the Cabinet to resign, and elections to be held within three months after the dissolution of Parliament.

With this constitutional formulation, the holding of LGE will be highly improbable, according to the Attorney General.

“These elections, as well as national elections are to be administered by the same agency, that is

the Guyana Elections Commission, and you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to know that the Guyana Election Commission is simply incapable of administering these two elections either contemporaneously, simultaneously or within short periods of each other.”

Hence, he pointed out that the Government therefore has to be sure which one of the elections is likely to take place and then prepare for that one, simply because Guyana does not have the capabilities to facilitate both elections at the same time.

Why no LGE

Speaking to the issue as to why LGE has not been held since 1994, the Attorney General chronicled a series of events, all of which the main Opposition has actively participated in to postpone the holding of the election.

“Under the law, Local Government Elections are required to be held once every three years, so 1994 the last one was held, and the next one was supposed to have been held in 1997, now let us go back to 1997 and ex-

amine the situation there.”

The Attorney General recalled that in 1997, the then Government of the day went to General Elections and for the same reason, Local Government and General Elections could not have been facilitated in the same year, the decision was made to hold General Elections with the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Presidential Candidate being the late Janet Jagan.

That election was followed by massive social unrest, riots, violence, street protest, and arson, which resulted in a team from Caricom making interventions.

The team sat with the then People Nations Congress (PNC), which was led by Desmond Hoyte, and the Government where they brokered an arrangement that is now popularly referred to as the Herdmanston Accord.

Important decisions

Two important decisions were made in that accord, the first being that the Government would go back to General Elections within three years, thereby giving up two years of Government, and the second one being those elections would be held under a reformed constitution.

“Those are the two important decisions coming out of that accord, Local Government Elections, obviously was not a factor in the equation and both the PNC and the Government recognised that and it was decided by the two parties that we will have Local Government Elections after the constitutional reform.”

This was done, since the constitutional reform process would have reformed the local government structure, as well and new elections were going to be held under that reformed structure.

Further, for every year for that period, there was amend-

ment to the law postponing LGE, an amendment that was consensual in the Parliament, Minister Nandlall pointed out.

“…the Constitutional Reform Commission assembled and it began its work; that Commission recommended several changes to the Constitution that affected governmental structure generally, but more significantly that affected lo-

cal government at the time.”

That Commission provided for the establishment of a Local Government Commission and that the Commission will have certain constitutional powers in relation to the manner and the way in which local government organs function, the way in which they operate, and the manner in which they are staffed.

However, when that process was completed, another General Election was held in 2001 and again during that period LGE was being postponed consensually by all the political parties in the Parliament.

“When we came out of 2001

election, again there was violence, unrest, burning in the streets, nevertheless a task force was assembled by the PNC and PPP comprising senior functionaries of both political parties, and they began to work out a modality of how the local government structure would be done legally.”

While the Constitution provided for the establishment of a Local Government Commission, it did not provide for the way that the Commission will function, the powers that the Commission will have, the way the Commission will staff itself, all of which were supposed to be the subject of ordinary legislation.

“So while the Constitution laid the foundation, ordinary law would have outlined the way the constitutionally enshrined Commissioner was to function.”

Hence, the task force which was assembled was intended to work out these modalities and to come up with draft legislation.

Again, as this process was being carried out, an amendment was moved in the National Assembly repeatedly and on an annual basis to postpone LGE.

This process continued until that task force completed its job which was sometime between 2009/2010.

According to the Attorney General, LGE could have been held, but again a decision had to be made between that or General Elections.

“There is on record, a letter written by the then Leader of the Opposition, Robert Corbin asking for the country to go to National Elections instead of Local Government Elections, that letter was sent by Mr Corbin to President (Bharrat) Jagdeo. That letter is on file so there again you had another postponement at the request of the Opposition,” Nandlall said.

Republic Bank opens another branch in Berbice – President Ramotar praises confidence in the economy

Pas he addressed business persons and residents of Region Five at the commissioning of a new banking facility at D’Edward

Village, Region Six on Saturday.

His comments came

The $508 million facility symbolises the confidence being shown in the

local economy by investors, President Ramotar said.

He, however, noted that the confidence which many have shown in the local economy is being taken for granted.

Government, he said has had to work very hard to create an atmosphere when more investors are attracted to Guyana.

“We have created various models; right in this region the bridge across the Berbice River is a Private-Public Partnership.

I know about two decades ago we hardly attracted any kind of investment in our society and even our local entrepreneurs and business people were seeking opportunities abroad than investing in our own society.”

The President said the confidence in the local economy which business persons now show came about as a result of sound policies, good foresight

and good choices.

“And it is the same way that it can be lost if the right choices are not made,” he said.

The Head of State giving an example, referred to the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill which he said is ex -

tremely important and vital to Guyana’s financial sector.

As investors continue to show confidence and invest, the President said Guyana has come a far way from being a Heavily Indebted Poor Country as toady it is classified as a Lower Middle Income Developing Country.

“I have very strong confidence that in a very short space of time we can move to achieving a developing country status.”

He said his Government has been investing in the people and this remains its primary focus.

PPP/C has ensured freedom, democracy for all – Minister Edghill

Minister within the Finance Ministry, Juan Edghill joined residents of Cove and John and other East Coast Demerara communities at a “Night of Reflection” in observance on the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) 22 years in office.

The PPP/C scored a resounding victory at the October 5, 1992 polls, which marked the return of democracy in Guyana.

All included

“Even those who don’t support us are enjoying the benefits of democracy and prosperity in Guyana… even those who stand up to this Government, may I remind you that prior to 1992, freedom of the press and expression was not something that was readily available and more media houses were established… democracy brought Kaieteur News

Minister Edghill said that the younger generation might not appreciate the need for celebration of this significant milestone because they do not have a clear understanding of the despair and destruction that existed in the country in the 1970s and 80s.

He reminded the residents that the PPP/C Administration ensured freedom and democracy for all Guyanese.

Led by Dr Jagan, the new Government began by garnering support from international institutions to address the issue of foreign debt under which the country’s economy was buried. The party had the task of inspiring and encouraging citizens to work together to regroup and rebuild on almost every aspect of national life.

Minister Edghill said that what Dr Jagan and the PPP/C started in 1992 was a solid foundation that has allowed the country to turn around and experience eight consecutive years of growth despite many challenges including the economic, and fuel and food crises.

Homeownership is one of the biggest success stories, the Minister said, explaining that prior to 1992, ownership of property was a luxury enjoyed only by the elites. However, with the return of democracy came prosperity for the ordinary working class, so much so, that today every working young man or woman can aspire to own homes and vehicles.

He further noted that this democracy has also brought freedom of the press and freedom of speech.

into existence and today they are so free that they are even being sued for libel, they are so free to propagate their agenda with their misinformation peddling inaccuracies of this administration,” Minister Edghill emphasised.

Where there is no democracy and freedom, it is the poor that is trampled upon, he asserted, but when there is a society where the rich and powerful has to face the law just as the ordinary man, the society is free and equal.

He told the residents that as they celebrate, they must reflect on the achievements that were made over the past 22 years, and also remember the persons who would have fought and ensured that those achievements were made.

Minister Edghill reiterated that things in Guyana today are far better that what it used to be 22 years ago; there is a new era, a new climate, a new culture that has emerged in this beautiful land.

“As we reflect, we must remember… those that would have fought to ensure that Guyana reach thus far… stalwarts like Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds must be remembered for his role. We must celebrate the fact that there were people who were prepared to take risk and ventured out into the unknown hoping for the best, but prepared to suffer the consequences if things did not turn out the way they did… but ever since 1992, we have a new celebration,” Minister Edghill told the residents.

He also reflected on the role that Dr Jagan

played in ensuring the every Guyanese throughout the length and breadth of Guyana has access to critical services needed for their individual development.

In the midst of the world economic crises, Guyana would have recorded eight consecutive years of economic growth and Minister Edghill said this could have only been possible through the foundation and the principles that were articulated by the Government.

On the map

Today, not only has Guyana has been put on the map once again, but its citizens are known all over the world, serving in various intuitions as doctors, nurses, engineers and lawyers, and more importantly Guyana is leading in the climate change fight with its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

Minister Edghill also mentioned the road and bridges, health and education, sports and other social infrastructure that are now accessible to all Guyanese. More investors are also investing in the economy.

Over the past 22 years, over 1000 schools have been built and renovated; district hospitals and health centres were established across the country, modern highways, internal community roads, a national stadium, conference centre, a forensic laboratory, reference laboratory and a bridge across the Berbice River are only a few of the achievements that have brought tremendous benefits to citizens.

“We brought value to the people of Guyana; that is what democracy has done… we are not only doing better, but we have turned the corner,” Minister Edghill said.

Significant improvement of Le Repentir Cemetery

expected by next month-end

Local Government Ministry Permanent Secretary Collin Croal and the Ministry’s monitoring team earlier this week made a spot check at Le Repentir Cemetery where clean-up works are currently ongoing.

The Ministry’s delegation took time to assess the works being done at Block Seven by inmates of the Guyana Prison Service. These works are 90 per cent completed.

Additionally, they met with representatives from Caribbean Chemicals, which recommended the appropriate weed killers and pesticides to be used in the cleanup exercise. The chemical company had to also be consulted on the best way to treat large tree stumps to prevent them from regenerating.

Local Government Ministry Permanent Secretary Collin Croal

Croal explained that as the cemetery area becomes clearer, many people are now seeing the tombs of their relatives for the first time in years. Already a number of tombs that were hidden away

by overgrown vegetation are being repainted by relatives.

The Ministry will soon be signing contracts for the execution of works at Blocks Two and Six. The Permanent Secretary said that “by the end of November, you should be able to see from one end to the next of the entire cemetery”.

In August, works on Blocks One, Three, Four and Five of the cemetery commenced under the Government of Guyana’s $1 billion “Clean-Up My Country” Programme. This project will see the entire cemetery and its outskirts being enhanced.

The overall project entails desilting of canals and drains, rehabilitation of internal roads, and removal of overgrown vegetation.

Climate change fund necessary, says Barbados Minister

Climate change for Barbados and other small island developing states is not just a challenge; it is a fight for survival.

As he made this assertion, Environment Minister, Dr Denis Lowe, called on members of the board of the Green Climate Fund, presently in Barbados for their eighth meeting to discuss the fund and its disbursement, not to leave the island without finalising plans for dispersing the funds.

“Do not leave Barbados until you are able to send a strong message to donors and other partners in the world that we are open and ready for business, because we believe that this is the time for us to move forward on all of these elements,” he said.

He stated that small island developing states were relying on donor countries to make this reality come true, and stressed that persons donating to the important fund should be encouraged

to continue making their pledges.

However, he stressed, it was equally important that these pledges be mobilised into actual funding so that they could be accessed by islands like Barbados, others in the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, to meet the challenges faced.

These challenges include matters related to sea temperature rise, ocean acidification, the bleaching of corals, the death of several ecosystems and the degradation of the island’s biodiversity.

Lowe noted that the meeting was timely, as it was important to understand the implications of climate change for small island developing states, not just in terms of its impact on the environment, but also its impact on sustainable development.

“We do understand that climate change has devastating impacts on small islands, but it impacts not only the environment; it impacts the society, and it also impacts the economy,” the Minister stated. (Caribbean360)

Soldier drowns at training school

Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Private Darel Prince, a Corentyne resident, died by drowning at about 13:00h on Saturday at the Colonel Robert Mitchell Jungle and Amphibious Training School, Makouria Essequibo River.

Private Prince was a member of the Junior Leaders Course that had travelled to the school to undergo training there.

A Board of Inquiry was convened and the team is expected to travel to the location today.

According to a release, he was pronounced dead on arrival at the Bartica Hospital.

BCCI’s damages bill to West Indies may touch US$65M

The Board of Control for Cricket in India

(BCCI) is likely to claim damages of at least Rs 400 crore (US$65 million approximately) from the WICB for West Indies having pulled out of the tour to India. The BCCI’s working committee will decide whether to go ahead with the claim at a meeting on October 21 in Hyderabad.

West Indies had agreed to play five ODIs, a Twenty20 and three Tests in India, but pulled out after the fourth ODI, in Dharamsala, due to the players being displeased over a revision to their payment structure.

This meant that the

BCCI lost out on revenue for 17 match-days. Though Sri Lanka agreed to fill in for West Indies and play five ODIs in India in November, the BCCI will still lose income for 12 match-days for the 2014-15 season. The BCCI is likely to claim those damages from the WICB. “We have referred the matter to our legal cell and asked them to let us know by 21st about how we can pursue the issue legally,”

BCCI Secretary Sanjay Patel told ESPNcricinfo, declining to elaborate on the numbers since he said they were still being computed. “They [WICB] entered into a bilateral agreement with us, and they

abandoned the tour due to their internal issues, so we will have to seek compensation. But, depending on the legal advice, the working committee will decide the future course of action.”

For the 2013-14 season, revenue for each matchday of India’s home series against West Indies was believed to be approximately Rs 33 crore. BCCI insiders revealed that the 2014-15 season’s estimation was “around the same as last year”. This would mean that the West Indies’ pullout will result in BCCI losing at least Rs 396 crore.

According the agreements signed between Full Members for bilateral series, each board keeps the

revenue generated for their home series and incur logistics costs from the time the visiting team arrives in the country till they board a return flight.

The BCCI’s revenue is primarily generated through broadcast sponsorship, series-title sponsorship, team-title sponsorship, apparel sponsorship, minor share of advertising from host broadcaster, gate receipts and in-stadia advertising.

Since the broadcast and series-title sponsorships deals are on a per match basis, irrespective of whether it’s a T20, Test or ODI, that income is unlikely to be affected since the five cancelled matches against

West Indies (three Tests, an ODI and a Twenty20) will be replaced by five ODIs against Sri Lanka.

The apparel sponsorship deal is for a fixed amount, irrespective on the number of matches at home.

However, since the broadcaster’s revenue through advertising is going to be affected with the loss of 12 match-days, including a full Test series, that will have an impact on the BCCI’s coffers as the board gets a minor share of advertising revenue from the host broadcaster.

Also, it is likely that Star India, the host broadcaster, may ask for a reduction in broadcast fees which they have been pay-

ing to the board. At the moment, Star India pays the BCCI Rs 43.20 crore per match.

The decrease in broadcast revenues will also impact the state associations since the BCCI distributes 70 per cent of it equally amongst the 27 members who participate in the Ranji Trophy.

Besides, if any of the five state associations that were allotted one of the cancelled games against West Indies don’t get a game against Sri Lanka, they will also lose out on substantial income. The host associations get to keep income generated through ticket sales and in-stadia advertising. (Cricinfo)

GDF new champs with dominating performances

By TreisTon Joseph

Even before the final point standings were announced, it was a known fact that the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) was the clear winner of the 2014 Inter Services Annual Athletics Championships, which culminated on Friday at the GDF ground, Base Camp Ayanganna.

GDF dominated the final day of the championships and scored 630 points for the win, pulling away from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), who trailed by one point after day two on Wednesday.

GPF ended with 565 points, while the Guyana

Fire Service (GFS) was a distant third with 92 points.

City Constabulary was fourth with 76 points and the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) fifth with 63 points.

On the final day of action, GDF left nothing to chance, racking up win after win. The only standout performance of the day for the GPF was Olympian Winston George, who took a sprint double, easily capturing the Men’s 200 and 400 metres in times of 20.4s and 48.3s respectively.

However, in the Men’s 200 metres, GDF’s Davin Fraser, Patrick King and Akeem Stewart finished second, third and fourth to ac-

tually dominate that event in spite of George’s win.

GDF also swept the Men’s 100 metres with Fraser winning in 10.2s, while Stewart was second in 10.4s. Rupert Perry, who recently made a return to track and is the record holder – the ISAAC 100 and 200 metres records – finished third in 10.5s.

The Men’s 1500 metres was a sight to behold as it is not often that Cleveland Forde is beaten on home soil. However, his GDF teammate and up and coming talent, Ornesto Thomas, pulled off the upset by winning the event in 3:59.9s. Forde was second in 4:00.9s,

while top middle distance athlete, Kevin Bayley, was third in 4:02.2s.

GDF’s newest recruit, Neisa Allen, immediately made an impact by winning the Women’s 200 metres

in 24.2s. Tiffany Carto was second in 24.6s, while Onica Eastman was third in 24.9s.

The Women’s 100 metres was won by GPF’s Eastman, who clocked 12.0s, while GPF’s Jonella Jonas was top class, winning the Women’s 1500 metres in 4:55.3s for a distance triple.

National basketball player, Tyrone Hamid, known for his signature and flashy dunking, made the move to GDF, and in his first competition in the field event arena, took away the Men’s high jump with a leap of 1.76 metres. Leslain Baird was second with a jump of 1.74 metres, while Clarence Greene was third with a jump of 1.72 metres.

GDF also dominated relay action, winning the Male and Female 4x100 metres, as well as the Female 4x400 metres relay. GPF was only able to win the Male 4x400 metres relay event.

ICC rebuts UWA; backs new testing methods

In a response to concerns raised over its drive against chucking, the ICC has defended its processes of identifying and testing bowlers with suspect actions. In a statement issued on Saturday, the ICC sought to address doubts raised by the University of Western Australia (UWA) – formerly the sole biomechanical testing centre for bowling actions – over the reliability of the tests that have led to several players being banned from bowling in international cricket.

Following recommendations made by its Cricket Committee in June, the ICC encouraged umpires to report suspect actions with greater confidence.

Subsequently, five bowlers –Kane Williamson, Sachithra Senanayake, Saeed Ajmal, Prosper Utseya and Sohag Gazi – have been reported, tested, and banned from bowling in international cricket.

“Judging by the results of the testing, their [the Cricket Committee] concerns have been vindicated,” the ICC’s release said. Rejecting “any suggestion that bowlers are being targeted depending on which region they come from”, it stressed that the “concerns of umpires relate solely to the bowling action of the player”.

The ICC backed the accuracy and consistency of the procedures used during the testing of these bowlers, and said the ICC’s “lead hu-

man movement specialists” conducted the tests on every bowler reported since June. “The ICC is confident that the standardised protocol, quality control procedures and extensive training that has been undertaken with staff at the accredited facilities will allow this level of consistency to be maintained.”

One of the UWA’s concerns about the new testing protocol was the use of two-

“Ride for Life” 5-Stage…

dimensional match footage to determine whether bowlers are bowling with the same action while undergoing testing. The ICC made “no apology” for this approach.

“Prior to testing, the ICC reminds the bowlers that in order for the test to be valid they must replicate the action displayed in the match footage obtained from the spells cited by the umpires in their report.

During the tests, bowlers are provided with comparative high speed video feedback and if a bowler appears to be using a different action during the test, they are encouraged to replicate their match action. The ICC makes no apology for this.”

In March 2014, the UWA had withdrawn from its partnership with the ICC. Jacqueline Alderson, an Associate Professor in Biomechanics at UWA, had said this was because the UWA was “aggrieved by the ICC leveraging our research without our knowledge or permission.”

The ICC sought to refute this, and said its new testing protocol had taken in “published research in this area, the recommendations from the ICC’s expert panel that looked at the issue of testing protocols in 2010 (recommendations that were not implemented by the UWA), and particularly the expertise and research of the ICC’s lead biomechanist, Dr Andrea Cutti, much of which was completed before he started working for the ICC.”

Rebutting “any inference that it has copied the UWA’s methods, or misused the UWA’s intellectual property in developing its testing protocol,” the ICC said the “recent articles present no evidence to support this contention, and instead include a number of points that contradict this assertion.” (Cricinfo)

Persaud up and ready for November races

National motor racer Vicky Persaud is positive heading into the Caribbean MotorRacing Championships, scheduled for Guyana in November at the South Dakota Circuit.

The event, which is one of the most anticipated among the populace in Guyana, will see the Category One driver aiming to take all the races he can.

“We feel very good, the competition will be stiff, but I’m just going out there; drive, have fun and enjoy the races; but I think I stand a good chance of

winning in Category One and I’m hoping to carry away all the races,” Persaud stated.

Persaud highlighted the stage of preparation his Colcafe sponsored car is currently at. “Right now we are just doing some alignment, straight lining [and] getting it faster.”

The skilled driver is also hoping to head to the circuit to give his car some test runs in order to assess its readiness.

Further, Persaud only sees limited competition in his category and expects that to be a factor come race day.

Another win for “Fishy”; Greaves in pole

By IndrawattIe natram and avenash ramzan

Fresh off winning the third stage on Friday, Marlon “Fishy” Williams made it two in a row with success on the penultimate leg of the ‘Ride for Life’ Five-Stage in Essequibo on Saturday.

The rider, who is unattached, clocked two hours, 36 minutes, 53 seconds (02h: 36m: 53s) to win the race, which started at Supenaam, proceeded to Charity before returning to Suddie for the finish. He had also won Stage Three from Wales to Parika in a time of 59 minutes, 32 seconds (59m: 32s).

On the 62-mile fourth stage on Saturday, Roraima Bikers Club’s Alanzo Greaves rode in second, followed by Geron Williams of Continental Cycle Club, Robin Persaud of Carlton Wheelers, Michael Anthony (unattached) and Paul DeNobrega of Team Alanis in that order.

The final stage will be held today from Linden to Georgetown with Greaves in pole position with a time

of seven hours, 39 minutes, 02 seconds (07h: 39m: 02s), closely followed by Geron Williams on seven hour, 39 minutes, 10 seconds (07h: 39m: 10s).

The other riders in the top 10 are Robin Persaud (07h: 39m: 12s), Marlon Williams (07h: 39m: 28s), Paul DeNobrega (07h: 41m: 54s), Scott Savoury (07h: 42m: 25s), Michael Anthony (07h: 43m: 06s), Paul Choo Wee Nam (07h: 43m: 08s), Horace Burrowes (07h: 43m: 08s) and Shaquille Agard (07h: 49m: 08s).

Meanwhile, the top finishers of Saturday’s stage were presented with trophies, compliments of Universal Pharmacy. The trophies were handed over by Region Two Chairman, Parmanand Persaud.

At the start of the race at Supenaam, Persaud welcomed the cyclists to the region and congratulated those who won the previous legs. He also commended the Guyana Cycling Federation and the Health and Sport Ministries for taking on the initiative to host the race.

Health Ministry representative, Nizam Hussain, expressed gratitude to the Region Two administration for its support, while he lauded officers of the Guyana

Police Force for maintaining order on the roadways during the previous stages. Also present to witness the race were Minister within the Agriculture Ministry,

Ali Baksh, and Regional Vice Chairman, Vishnu Samaroo.

At the conclusion of the final stage today, a grand presentation ceremony will

be held at the National Cultural Centre where the top riders over the last four days will be recognised for their achievements.

Tiger Sports, Cotton Tree Die Hard square off today

The Sheik Mohamedled Tiger Sports unit will travel to the Ancient County of Berbice today to face hosts Cotton Tree Die Hard in a feature 40-over cricket match, starting at 11:00h.

Both teams have named strong line-ups and fans attending the match should be in for an exciting showdown, with some quality players set to take the field.

Mohamed said his boys are aiming for nothing less than a victory, although they would not be underestimating the Cotton Tree team.

Mohamed, the former national wicketkeeper/batsman, will lead Tiger Sports’ batting with the dashing opener Eon Abel, former national Under-15 opener Fawaz Mohamed and former national Under-19 allrounder Adrian Persaud forming the cream of the top order.

The bowling will hinge around leg-spinner Persaud, off-spinners Abel and Balram Bactowar, and seamers Ranjeet Heralall and Anil Persaud. Cotton Tree Die Hard will look to the likes of former Berbice Under-17 batsman Nick Ramsaroop,

Romesh Boodram, Abdool Subhan, Patel Jairam and Pooran Persaud to lead the victory charge.

Trophies for the game have been sponsored exclusively by Tiger Sports.

Tiger Sports squad reads: Sheik Mohamed (Captain), Fawaz Mohamed, Asif Khan, Avenash Ramzan, Adrian Persaud, Jacob Persaud, Anil Persaud, Eon Abel, Mohan Jailall, Balram Bactowar, Iqbal Dawud, Ranjeet Heralall and Shameer Baksh. Patrick Singh is the Manager.

Cotton Tree Die Hard squad reads: Roshan Gafoor (Captain), Nashad Gafoor, Pooran Persaud, Jadeo Persaud, Romesh Boodram, Abdool Subhan, Totaram Sooknanand, Afzal Haroon, Eshwar Singh, Nick Ramsaroop, Shoail Saffie, Permaul Singh and Patel Jairam.

Messi scores in Barca win to close in on record

Lionel Messi moved to within two goals of becoming the all-time La Liga record goalscorer after he netted in Barcelona’s victory over Eibar.

After a goalless first half, Messi’s through-ball found Xavi, who chipped keeper Xabi Iruretagoiena to put the league leaders ahead after an hour.

Brazil striker Neymar volleyed in Dani Alves’s chip to double their advantage.

Messi made it 3-0 in the 74th minute after racing through the Eibar defence for his 250th La Liga goal.

The 27-year-old is one

behind Telmo Zarra’s record for Athletic Bilbao in the 1940s and 1950s.

Messi will break the record if he scores two goals or more in next Saturday’s game against arch-rivals Real Madrid, the first El Clasico of the season.

That match is expected to mark Luis Suarez’s first competitive game in a Barcelona shirt after serving a ban for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini during Uruguay’s 2014 World Cup group match in Brazil in June.

Suarez will feature for a Barcelona side that has dropped just two points all

season and has yet to concede a goal in eight La Liga games at the start of the season, a league record.

Barca needed Xavi to come to the rescue on the hour to finally break the resistance of a resolute Eibar side who are enjoying their first season in the top flight. Neymar quickly added to the lead and then combined with Messi for the Argentine to notch his 250th league goal.

Barca are at home to Ajax in the Champions League on Tuesday before travelling to the Spanish capital to face Real Madrid.

Sanjay’s Jewellery golf tournament set for today

With just under two weeks before the Guyana Open golf championships, the local golfers will be looking to sharpen their game for the national two-day event in November when the Sanjay’s Jewellery golf tournament tees off at 09:30h today at the Lusignan Golf Course (LGC).

The 36-hole Guyana Open golf tournament is billed for November 1 and 2, and as usual will attract players from Canada, the USA, Europe, the Caribbean and South America. According to Club President, David Mohamad, the LGC ground is in great shape, and golfers will find the outfield well cut.

He said today’s tournament will definitely condition the minds and bodies of all the Guyana hopefuls, who are expected to participate in November.

Meanwhile, today’s classic Golf Tournament offers to some fascinating play as the prizes are enterprising with three souvenir gold Golf Clubs up for grabs.

Today’s tournament will be the second by the business entity for the year. The first tournament was held on March 22.

Played under a new format, the first tournament earlier this year attracted some 44 golfers with the Deos taking top honours.

The two-person partner tournament, which com-

bined scores using 3/4 of the handicap, saw a very competitive showing from all the pairs. Chatterpaul Deo and Joanne Deo (a fatherand-daughter team) won the closely fought tournament with a combined score of 144, followed by the pair of Haresh Tiwari and Ravi Persaud, who scored 145.

Third place went to the

Cummings brothers, Roy and Andre. Closest-to-thePin went to Alfred Mentore and Best Gross was taken by Mohanlall Dinanauth.

As usual, Sanjay’s Jewellery will have a full crew of staff and well wishers on hand for the aftertournament festivities and presentation.

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Survival Supermarket has been one of the initial sponsors of Guyana Softball Cup, and during the fourth edition of the country’s premier softball tournament, the company, through its Travel Agency, will afford two lucky spectators a trip to the beautiful island of Aruba.

At a simple ceremony at its Vlissengen Road branch on Saturday morning, the Assistant Manager of Survival Travel Agency, Mark DeFreitas, presented the two tickets to members of the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA), the organising body of the October 31 to November 2 competition.

DeFreitas said Survival is proud to once again be associated with the tournament, which has attracted teams from Guyana and North America competing in the Open and Masters categories.

Receiving on behalf of the GFSCA was Rohan Booj-Raj, who expressed gratitude to the entity for staying the course with the Guyana Softball Cup. BoojRaj said the investment by Survival is significant, noting that such strong support is vital to the success of the tournament.

To qualify for a chance to win the trip to Aruba, spectators need to retain their half tickets on the day of the finals and listen for their numbers to be called over the Public Address system.

Meanwhile, another member of the association, Dharam Persaud, said the organising team is on top of its work with less than two weeks to go before the official bowl-off. Persaud added that all the logistics have been finalised and it’s now just a matter of execution.

Success story

The Guyana Softball Cup commenced in 2011 and instantly became a hit with players and fans alike, attracting massive crowds and also putting some hard earned cash in the pockets of those who entertain with bat and ball on the field.

This year promises to be even better, as the GFSCA is aiming to surpass the achievements of the previous three years in terms of spectators’ involvement and the handsome rewards at stake for the players.

The champion team in the Men’s Open is guaranteed a whopping $800,000 first prize and a huge trophy, while the losing finalist will have to settle for $200,000 and a trophy. In the Masters’ division, the winning team will pocket $600,000 with the runnerup assured of $150,000. The Man-of-the-Match in both finals will receive a trophy.

As has been the case in the past, the Most Valuable Player of each category will become the proud owner of a softball bracelet, made of gold and diamond studs, compliments of Steve’s

Jewellery.

On the day of the final, apart from the trip to Aruba, there will be lots of hampers and giveaways for spectators.

Two dozen teams will compete in this year’s event, with 12 from Guyana, seven from New York, three from Florida and two from Canada. During the three-day championship, there will be a total of 36 preliminary games, followed by four semi-finals and two finals. In an effort to expand the reach of the competition and ensure maximum participation from spectators, the organisers have increased the number of venues this year. Grounds earmarked to host games are Police Sports Club, Everest Cricket Club, Georgetown Cricket Club, Demerara Cricket Club, Ghandi Youth Organisation, Muslim Youth Organisation, Enmore Community Centre and Enterprise Busta Sports Club.

Trophy Stall and New York Better are the defending champions of the Open and Masters categories respectively, while the previous champions were NYSCL New York (Open) and Savage Masters in 2012 and Cotton Field Wild Oats (Open) and Regal Seniors (Masters) in 2011.

According to information emanating from the GFSCA, this year’s tournament has an estimated budget of around $10 million.

Courts/Petra Organisation Pee Wee Football…

West Ruimveldt, Tucville, Stella Maris advance with unbeaten records

By AvenAsh RAmzAn

West Ruimveldt, Tucville and Stella Maris marched into the Round of 16 of the Courts/Petra Organisation

Pee Wee Under-11 football competition with unbeaten records, following victories at the end of the preliminary round on Saturday at the

Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park.

They were the only schools to win all three of their games during the first three weekends of action in the 24-team tournament for primary schools in Georgetown.

West Ruimveldt and Green Acres qualified from Group A, while Tucville and

St Stephen’s moved forward from Group B. Stella Maris had an unblemished record in Group F and was joined by 2012 champions Marian Academy in the Round of 16.

Such has been the competitiveness of the 2014 tournament that one group had to be decided by the pull of names from a cap, as two schools were locked at the

top. In Group C, both defending champion St Pius and St Angela’s ended on the same amount of wins and draws (one win and two draws), and their head-to-head clash did not help the situation as they played to a nil-all stalemate. As it turned out, St Angela’s tab was pulled; hence they topped the group with St Pius taking the runner-up spot.

East La Penitence and Enterprise were the schools to move forward from Group D, while those qualifying from Group E were Smith’s

Memorial and St Margaret’s. The four best third placed teams also advanced to Round of 16, and they were FE Pollard, Ketley, South Ruimveldt and North Georgetown.

Meanwhile, during Saturday’s games, there were several thrilling matchups that once again had supporters and teachers cheering their favourite teams on.

Marian Academy needled North Georgetown 1-0; Stella Maris gained a walkover from Winfer Gardens; St Pius edged FE Pollard 2-1; JE Burnham

and St Angela’s played to a 1-1 draw; St Ambrose and Smith’s Memorial had the same result; St Margaret’s and South Ruimveldt failed to score in their encounter; Tucville prevailed 1-0 over St Stephen’s; St Gabriel’s got the identical result against Thomas Moore; East La Penitence gained a walkover from Success; Ketley and Enterprise game ended nilall; West Ruimveldt gained a walkover from Comenius; and Green Acres also won without breaking a sweat as Redeemer failed to show.

Futsal competition billed for November in Linden

ANSA McAL Trading, through its Stag Beer brand, and Cell Smart, an authorised Digicel dealer, on Thursday teamed up with New Era Entertainment to launch yet another Futsal tournament that caters to teams only from the Mining Town of Linden.

The event, which runs from November 1-22 at the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Court, will see 12 teams battling for a first prize of $200,000 and the teams finishing second through fourth will pocket $100,000, $75,000 and $25,000 respectively.

“I know football is very big in Linden and it’s a sport that connects the community and Stag has always been there to connect communities in Guyana. We anticipate good support and we see

this as a great opportunity to give back to the community,” said John Maikoo, Stag Beer Brand Manager.

Addressing the room filled with football enthusiasts and representatives at the LEN Building in Linden, Maikoo further added that it’s the aim of his company to “see this tournament grow into something bigger” and further stated their commitment in ensuring that it remains high on the calendar of events football fans can look forward too.

Lenford Malcolm, Sales and Operations Manager at Cell Smart, shared the similar views as Maikoo and said that his company has long been partnering with New Era Entertainment to host several events in Linden, and as customary, they are excited about the Futsal

tournament, especially since Linden is known as a community to be passionate about football.

Malcolm also added that the community has supported Cell Smart in a very tangible way and Futsal tournament is seen as a means of giving back.

Kenrick Noel, who along with Aubrey and Shareef Major and Winston Fraser, is a Director of New Era Entertainment, spoke highly of their long standing alliance with both companies and made it clear that the tournament will have same glitz and glamour, just like all their other events.

A massive opening ceremony is planned for Saturday November 1 and matches are further set for November 2, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15 and the final on November 22.

GHRA doesn’t have authority to investigate allegation, says Oditt

By Rajiv Bisnauth

President of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA), Vic Oditt, said that while the GHRA does not support any illegality in horse racing, the authority does not have the jurisdiction to conduct an investigation into an alleged encroachment of the rules and animal cruelty that occurred during last Sunday’s People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) horse race meet

The GHRA head also indicated that, if proven, this is another backward step that will scare away sponsors.

However, given the GHRA’s inability, the organisers have formed a special investigative committee charged with a “comprehensive” enquiry into the allegation.

Chief Coordinator of the meet, Dennis DeRoop, told this publication on Saturday that the five-man committee headed by Ryan Crawford was formed on Friday. The other committee members are Francis Chichester, Quacy Henry, Patrick Davis and Zenzie Goring.

Following the investigation, an enquiry will be held on October 27 at the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club.

“Whatever the committee recommends, we the organisers will go with. We want a smooth investigation where the jockey, owner and trainer of Princess She’s Not will also be given a hearing,” DeRoop said.

A number of photographs have surfaced with Razack

at the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club.

Stable owners are calling on the executives of the GHRA to conduct an investigation into the allegation made against Trinidadian jockey Keran Razack, who allegedly used an electrical device to shock Princess She’s Not at different intervals during the feature A and Lower race.

To this end, Oditt indicated that the race meet was not sanctioned by the GHRA, and as such it doesn’t give the GHRA such authority to intervene.

“The issue, however, is that this meeting was not sanctioned by GHRA and as such the organisers, KMTC, and sponsors need to take action,” Oditt informed Guyana Times Sport via an email on Friday.

allegedly using the electric shock device. They were posted on the GHRA’s Facebook page on Tuesday, a day after owner of the Shariff Racing Stables, Mohammed Shariff, denied the allegations.

At least one of the photographs appears to indicate that Razack was removing the device from his left index finger just after the race.

The Shariff Racing Stables created a major upset when Razack piloted Princess She’s Not to victory ahead of Guyana’s only A Class animal, Score’s Even in the feature A and Lower event.

However, immediately after the race it was brought to the official judges’ attention that Razack was allegedly riding with the device, which he used to shock the horse at different intervals of the race.

Upon learning of the allegation, owner of Score’s Even, Dennis DeRoop, immediately lodge a complaint to the official judges’, requesting an investigation.

On Monday last, Shariff told Guyana Times Sport that the allegation is extremely embarrassing and humiliating.

“Anyone who knows me knows how passionate I am about the sport, and how much I love it. So to accuse my Stable like that is shameful,” Shariff disclosed.

Princess She’s Not won ahead of Score’s Even, Grande De Roja and California Strike.

Further, DeRoop is calling also for an investigation into the Two-year-old race for West Indies bred horses, the G3 and Lower and the D3 and Lower races.

The Shariff Racing Stables won the Two-yearold race for West Indies bred horses, and the G3 and Lower race, while placing third in the D3 and Lower event.

The electrical device is commonly known as a buzzer, a battery or a machine. It is a device the size of a lighter that conducts electrical current and shocks a race horse into running faster.

Caribs top UG to take 7's League title

By TreisTon Joseph

The Yamaha Caribs outplayed the University of Guyana (UG) Wolves to take the Golden Brook/Windjammer Sevens League final 19-14 on Saturday at the National Park Rugby field.

The Caribs were tremendous on the defensive side of the ball, not giving up on plays while tackling aggressively throughout the course of the game.

Carl Lewis was especially impressive, displaying great speed in tracking down offensive players who

had breakaways and shutting them down. His active hands also broke up a number of passes that might have helped UG to win the game.

Speaking of Lewis, the former national sprinter broke a tackle and scored the game’s first try, displaying his speed on offence, while Theodore Henry made the conversion.

Walter George and Akeem Fraser also scored tries for the Caribs, as Henry converted once more to ensure the Caribs unseat UG from their Sevens throne.

UG’s game was riddled with mistakes, especially with their passing and catching as they seemed to have a bit of butter fingers, dropping crucial passes, that could have won the game.

Godfrey Broomes was the top scorer for the Wolves, scoring a try and converting twice, while the team scored off a penalty to add to the score.

Lewis, who was named the Caribs MVP, was pleased with win. “I think we performed well; it was tough for us because the guys were not getting to

train often due to work especially me, but it’s great that we can come up and play the way we did and get the win.”

Meanwhile, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) fell to the Pepsi Hornets in the third place playoff 7-17.

Rickford Cummings, Leon Greaves and Jason DeFreitas scored tries, while Ryan Gonsalves converted once in the win for the Hornets.

The teams received their medals and trophies immediately after the conclusion of the final and were greeted by the sponsors of the tournament.