Guyana Times, October 1, 2014

Ebola case diagnosed outside of Africa

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OPENINGS

Audit Office completes two reports on remigrant scam

After months of investigations, the Office of the Auditor General has completed two reports on alleged scams in the Government-run Remigrant Scheme involving senior Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) officials and some remigrants.

WEATHER TODAY LOTTERY NUMBERS

Speaking with Guyana Times on Tuesday, Auditor General Deodat Sharma disclosed that the two reports have been submitted to the GRA Board. He noted one was completed about a month ago and the other was recently handed over to the Board. The Auditor General said that investigations are still ongoing in the issue. He opted not to reveal any findings of the probe until the Board completes its review. Sharma explained that his office is probing the scheme all the way back to its establishment in 2010 to find whether the applicants are complying with the stipulated three-year stay and other requirements outlined in the scheme.

When contacted, GRA Commissioner-General Khurshid Sattaur told this newspaper that the Board after receiving the reports

handed him copies for review before discussions commence. Sattaur said that his legal and investigative teams are looking at the contents of the report and examining the recommendations ahead of appearing before the Board to discuss the report. “We are examining the report in details, looking at the recommendations so that when we go before the Board, we will be able to advise them on which recommendations can be acted on and be implemented,” the GRA head stated. The GRA Board meets at least once every month and according

to Sattaur, if he completes his assessment by the time the next meeting is scheduled, then the report will be examined by the Board.

Expanded probe

In an exclusive interview with this newspaper, Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett had said that the Ministry had been forced to revoke the remigrant status of several persons under the programme, since it was discovered that they were using the scheme to bringing in all manner of luxury vehicles and other items under the scheme and not really resettle in the country. Initially, the Minister said that the probe was to focus on that aspect of the alleged fraud; however, it has expanded to include whether persons are actually living in Guyana after attaining remigrant status. The remigrant programme initiative seeks to create a framework for overseas-based Guyanese to come back and make meaningful contributions to their birthplace.

The remigrant scheme is administered by the Foreign Affairs Ministry in conjunc-

tion with the GRA. The Ministry is responsible for determining and granting remigration status to applicants, while the GRA administers the tax exemptions under the act. Under the remigrant scheme, a Guyanese who is 18 and older, who has been residing legally overseas for a minimum of five consecutive years and is now returning to Guyana, can benefit. Also, Guyanese students/graduates who have attended or are attending a training institution and residing overseas for a minimum of four years and are now returning to Guyana, can also benefit.

Big companies pump millions into GuyExpo

During a symbolic handing over ceremony at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, ANSA McAL Limited; Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T); E-Networks; Digicel Guyana; Corum Distribution; Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL); Shangri-La; and Global Technology pledged more than $15 million to the hosting of the Guyana Trade Fair and Exposition (GuyExpo).

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali applauded the longstanding supporters and even those such as Corum Distribution and ShangriLa that are contributing for the very first time. The funds will be used to ensure the successful hosting of GuyExpo 2014.

Though their contributions varied in amount, the contributors had one thing in common, they all praised GuyExpo, as one of the most successful trade fairs in the Caribbean. According to the corporate donors, the annual event creates the perfect opening for the business community to have firsthand interaction with the masses.

Editor: Nigel Williams

Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134

Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

The GuyExpo hub

Over the years, the Guyana Government has invested billions of dollars in the execution of successful GuyExpo shows with the aim of fuelling the growth of small and medium-scale businesses.

The Administration has undoubtedly used the GuyExpo 'hub' as a unique platform to build and engineer the concept of Private-Public Partnerships.

It has also demonstrated seriousness about ensuring local businesses, apart from exhibiting their products and services, have an opportunity to create linkages with other regional and international businesses during and after the staging of the mega event.

Additionally, successive PPP/C Administrations have paid rapt attention to using GuyExpo as the ideal hub to encourage businesses to become innovative, technologically advanced, and competitive.

As a result of these approaches, GuyExpo has had a positive and significant impact on the development of those small businesses that choose to invest and be part of the event. They have benefited, according to exit polls done over the past five years, from increased pre-and post GuyExpo profits and boosted public image/portfolio as a result of the work of the organising committee and their branding of the event.

Added to this, these small-scale businesses are able to market themselves through unique promotions and sales pitches made to the thousands that pass through the exhibition daily. In a nutshell, Government has consistently been providing the policies, atmosphere, and right developmental mix to ensure that GuyExpo thrives and grows young businesses with the hope that the Private Sector would demonstrate more seriousness and overall ownership of all aspects of the lucrative trade and exposition show some time in the future.

It is, however, most unfortunate that the Private Sector has not managed to match Government’s investment in the exposition over its existence. It is also worrying that the Private Sector has not seen the need to occasion a paradigm shift that demonstrates genuine understanding of the potential of the exposition and its link to the country’s macro-economic fundamentals.

While they are willing to exploit the benefits of the exposition year after year, they are not willing to invest in the construction of another site dedicated purely to the staging of expositions like GuyExpo. They also appear to be running away from the risk of using the exposition in a meaningful way to launch private large-scale developmental projects that could significantly impact the future of the manufacturing sector in Guyana.

It is clear that a certain section of the Private Sector is bent on criticising the presence of foreign delegations and businesses at the exposition.

Yet that section is unwilling to match the seriousness and dedication shown by those participants to do business, seek out new markets, and maximise all avenues to expand their various brands and products whether within their countries or further afield.

Guyanese must commend those businesses that have demonstrated confidence in the exposition and are working closely with the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry with the aim of constantly improving the exposition, while strengthening its ability to remain the hub for the promotion of manufacturing businesses in Guyana.

Those new and emerging partnerships, cottage industries and other forms of businesses that also display confidence in the exposition through their participation in GuyExpo over the years must also be commended.

In 2014, the exposition is at another crossroads which it will no doubt successively navigate, but if it is to be sustained over the coming years, the Private Sector must become more intricately involved.

They must demonstrate the willingness to respond in a more serious way to Government’s call to improve the fortunes of the economy through domestic, regional, and foreign direct investment.

Careful consideration must be placed also on taking the event to other jurisdictions in the world, such as North America, China, Latin America, Central America and South America with the aim of boosting the confidence of local businesses and their ability to compete on the international scene.

Indian PM enthrals Indo-Guyanese

New Yorkers

Dear Editor,

Dozens of Guyanese and many other Indo-Caribbeans were among the 20,000 (who came from as far away as Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, Florida, Texas, UK, etc) who were present at Madison Square Garden last Sunday to welcome India’s Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi who promised a resurgent India and governance that would make them proud.

The PM enthralled his listeners. He told them: “I will never do anything that will make you feel ashamed of me,” a pot shot at his predecessors who disgraced India. He urged the diaspora to join in nation-building to make India a developed nation and to provide every Indian with a home by 2022.

Madison Square Garden is the venue for sports players, American Presidents, rock stars and occasionally Bollywood singers. Modi was the first overseas politician to address a gather-

ing at the venue. In addition to the packed stands inside, thousands more waited outside the Garden and at Times Square some 10 blocks away to watch the PM’s speech on giant screens.

Hundreds of millions also watched around the world as the speech was carried live on TV and the Internet and also broadcast on radio for listeners. Traffic was closed off around the Garden with hundreds of Police providing security and facilitating the throngs of people.

And dozens of American Secret Service agents, aided by several Indian Secret Service officers, surrounded the PM as he made his entrance in to and exited the Garden.

Modi delivered an impressive speech laced with humour and offered several goodies for the Indian diaspora. At various times, the crowd interrupted his speech with chants of “Modi, Modi, Modi”. They chanted, clapped and cheered

throughout his more-thanone-hour-long speech.

He was attired in his trademark chic kurtha outfit – cream kurta pyjamas and a bright orange jacket. He offered a traditional humble Indian “Namaste” bowing to all as he entered the Garden and closed with the same as he exited the stage.

Prior to his speech, the PM met with a host of American national, state and local politicians who came from around the nation to welcome the PM. Dozens of Senators and Congressmen came on stage to welcome Modi just before the singing of the anthems of both countries.

Many enthusiastic groups occasionally broke into chants of “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai”. Ahead of the PM’s speech, there were performances by folk dancers representing the diversity of Indian culture. Individuals from various American ethnic groups were among the

performing artistes.

An Indian American rendered the US national anthem. Noted Bollywood classical singer Kavita Krishnamoorthy accompanied by world renowned musician Dr Subramaniam, rendered the Indian national anthem and sang several other songs.

Modi announced lifelong visas for Global Organisation of Persons of Indian Origin (GOPIO) cardholders that would include Indo-Guyanese and other Indians in the diaspora. He also promised to merge the GOPIO and Overseas Citizenship of India schemes with a new scheme to be announced soon. He also said very soon, American passport holders will be given visas on arrival in India.

Modi spoke in Hindi without notes, praising the diaspora for its contribution to IT. There were English subtitles on huge screens. The media had access to ear plugs with English translations.

Modi-ji noted that India was no longer considered a land of snake charmers but of software wizards who are valued for their skills around the globe. He said when he was in Japan recently, someone asked him whether Indians still charm people with snakes. Modi said he told the individual, “No, we have graduated from that. We charm people now with smaller things like the mouse.” The crowd erupted into loud laughter with a standing ovation and wild cheers.

Where is Glenn Lall’s accountability?

Dear Editor, I view with great consternation the current escapades that are taking place within the media between Publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr Glenn Lall and Head of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr Khursid Sattaur.

It would seem to me that Mr Lall who was caught with his pants down when the remigrant duty-free concession scam was exposed, now wants in an attempt to save face and throw a smokescreen around the culpability of the actions he committed – blame Mr Sattaur and make it look like he is on a “witchhunt” to take down Kaieteur News.

Mr Lall’s proof which

he claims, to show that the GRA Head is after him, is a purported email exchange which he apparently solicited and fabricated for publication in his paper between Mr Sattaur and the Former President Bharrat Jagdeo. It was also copied to the Attorney General Mr Anil Nandlall.

The email, I understand, makes no reference to Kaieteur News whatsoever, yet Mr Lall deduced that because it dealt with information of other media houses to which he is not affiliated, it was a direct indication and evidence that somehow Mr Sattaur was after him.

Lall then had the audaci-

ty to say that he will be sending the purported emails to the diplomatic community, such as the United States Embassy.

I recall that the Attorney General has since said in the media that he welcomes such a move, his justification for it was that the US would be the right persons, since they take matters of the invasion of privacy, fabrication and interference with emails very seriously. The AG then made reference to the WikiLeaks scandal and the seriousness which the United States placed on such matters which are illegal in their jurisdiction.

Mr Lall should know that

the actions that he committed with the email exchanges are a gross violation of one’s privacy. His actions are more disreputable because of the calibre of persons whose emails he purportedly intercepted and fabricated.

Just yesterday, Opposition Members of Parliament from both the Alliance For Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), along with the Private Sector, spoke out in the Chronicle News against this dastardly act committed by Kaieteur News, stating that the privacy of communication must be protected, while calling for the requisite legislation to be put in place so that those acts

become illegal as is the case in other countries.

The Kaieteur News Publisher is misusing the instrument of Freedom of Expression to try and extricate himself from the criminality for which he was exposed not once, not twice but three times on record.

He doesn’t want the readers out there to know that he is the total opposite of what he professes himself to be, the champion of accountability and corruption. I think Mr Sattaur should continue with his work unabated and not be deterred by the attempts of a publisher who is misusing the fourth estate to justify his illegal ac-

tions. I support the GRA in implementing a full audit of Kaieteur News.

The questions that readers out there should have in the back of their minds, is why is it the Kaieteur News Publisher who preaches every day about accountability and corruption is unwilling to facilitate such an investigation by the GRA? Why is he making all kinds of preemptive excuses to make sure it doesn’t happen?

How does the adage go again? “Do as I say and not as I do?” What are you trying to avoid, Mr Lall?

Yours truly, Balram Singh

Confidentiality of communication

Dear Editor,

GT&T wishes to take this opportunity to clear the air on any perception that this company may somehow be involved in the unlawful disclosure of the content of customers’ voice conversations, short messages (SMS) and/ or electronic mails to law enforcement authorities or other third parties.

We can say without fear of contradiction that any such perception would have no basis in fact. Our customers can rest assured that their personally identifiable information and the contents of their communications are treated as strictly confidential, as is required under sections 35 and 53 of the Telecommunications Act, the Interception of Communications Act of 2008, section 5.11 of the ATN/GOG Purchase Agreement and sec-

tions 40 and 41 of the GT&T Licence.

The public is also invited to read GT&T’s Privacy Statement which appears on our website.

Having said this, in the interest of full disclosure, it must also be said that while the law prohibits the interception of communications in the course of transmission and its disclosure, like any other public telecommunications provider, GT&T has an obligation to assist law enforcement.

However, the law provides adequate checks and balances to guard against abuse. Such lawful interception can only be authorised (under section 4 of the Interception of Communications Act) by a judge who is satisfied that such action is necessary in the interest of national security or for the prevention or detection

of certain categories of offences.

An interception warrant must, among other things, specify the persons whose communications is to be intercepted, the identity of the agency authorised to intercept the communications, the persons to whom the intercepted communications may be disclosed, and the arrangements to be made to ensure the confidentiality of the intercepted communications.

This is all public information and the public is encouraged to read the Interception of Communications Act of 2008. Although the Act was assented to, to date, GT&T has not been asked to acquire equipment which facilitates the interception of IP traffic, including electronic mail. For the avoidance of doubt, we say here for the record that GT&T

Indian PM enthrals...

Referring to the elections that swept him to power in May, Modi thanked the diaspora for their support leading to loud cheers. “For the first time, a party got a majority in 30 years thanks to your help,” he said.

But he said, “Winning elections is not for sitting on a seat, it is a responsibility. And I have not taken even a 15-minute vacation since becoming PM." The PM is known to sleep less than four hours a night and is up at 04:00h.

He told the crowd his Government would not leave any stone unturned to fulfil the expectations of people. He said, “India was at an opportune cusp of circumstances, blessed with a vibrant democracy, with 65 per cent of its people under the age of 35, and a market of 1.25 billion people. These three things are present in one country; this is not there anywhere else in the world. And on the basis of this India will cross new heights

– it is my belief."

He said on investing in India: he is removing red tape and rolling out the red carpet. He said there will be minimum Government and maximum governance. He made reference to e-governance – effective Government and processing documents through emails and the web to speed the process. He said he plans to remove obsolete laws that serve as an impediment to progress and development.

Modi also referred to the “Make in India” campaign, “Clean India” mission, and a campaign to clean the Ganges River. He made reference to India’s Mars mission that was successful at its first try unlike other countries, noting that it is cheaper per kilometre to travel to Mars (seven rupees) than within India (10 rupees). India’s Mars mission is about one 10th the cost of those of other countries.

The Indo-Caribbeans I

does not have the capability to intercept electronic mail.

GT&T takes very seriously its obligation to treat its customers’ personal identifiable information and the content of their communications as confidential. However, our customers too must share responsibility for the security of their information.

GT&T provides Internet access but individual network owners are responsible for

their own security.

Organisations such as Governmental agencies and private businesses especially need to recognise that most breaches in the security of their private networks originate from within, eg employee misuse of access privileges, and general lax IT security policies.

Readers with an interest in network security and those keen to understand how easy

it can be for their information to become accessible by unauthorised individuals may wish to follow the two links: www. kaseya.com/resources/whitepapers/the-top-seven-causesof-major-security-breaches; and www.net-security.org/article.php?id=959).

Allison

Parker, GT&T Public Relations Officer

from page 4

met said they were most impressed with his speech. They noted that the speech did not have a dull moment. They compared his oratorical and communication skills with those of the late Presidents Reagan and Kennedy.

The PM’s address to the diaspora came a day after he enthralled a 65,000-strong youthful crowd at Central Park, unveiling to them his vision of a clean India with toilets for all, and ending with the words, "May the force be with you", from the “Star Wars” movies.

Modi was hosted at a state banquet at the White House on Monday evening. He met President Barack Obama again on Tuesday after a breakfast meet with Vice President Joe Biden. He was scheduled to meet several Members of Congress as well.

Submitted by, Vishnu

Bisram

Page Foundation

Using Internet communication tools such as mobile phones, social networking, online gaming, chat rooms, email, and instant messaging can put children at potential risk of encountering online predators.

How do online predators work?

Online predators do the following:

* Find children through social networking, blogs, chat rooms, instant messaging, email, discussion

The anonymity of the involved in their children’ Internet activities.

through attention, affection, kindness, and even gifts.

* Know the latest music and hobbies likely to interest children.

* Listen to and sympathise with children’ problems.

* Try to ease young people’s inhibitions by gradually introducing sexual content into their conversations or by showing them sexually explicit material.

* Might also evaluate the children they meet online for future face-to-face

How can parents minimise the risk of a child becoming a victim?

* Talk to your children about sexual predators and potential online dangers.

* Use family safety settings that are built into Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista.

* Follow age limits on social networking websites. Most social networking sites require that users be age 13 and over. If your children are under the recommended age for these sites, do not let them use them.

* Young children should not use chat rooms – the dangers are too great. As children get older, direct them towards well-monitored children’ chat rooms. Encourage even your teens to use monitored chat rooms.

* If your children take part in chat rooms, make sure you know which ones

they visit and with whom they talk. Monitor the chat areas yourself to see what kind of conversations take place.

* Instruct your children to never leave the chat room’s public area. Many chat rooms offer private areas where users can have one-on-one chats with other users-chat monitors can’t read these conversations. These are often referred to as “whisper” areas.

* Keep the Internetconnected computer in a common area of the house, never in a child’s bedroom. It is much more difficult for a predator to establish a relationship with your child if the computer screen is easily visible. Even when the computer is in a public area of your home, sit with your child when they are online.

* When your children are

young, they should share the family email address rather than have their own email accounts. As they get older, you can ask your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to set up a separate email address, but your children’s mail can still reside in your account.

* Tell your children to never respond to instant messaging or emails from strangers. If your children use computers in places outside your supervision-public library, school, or friends’ homes-find out what computer safeguards are used.

* If all precautions fail and your children do meet an online predator, don’t blame them. The offender always bears full responsibility. Take decisive action to stop your child from any further contact with this person.

How can your children reduce the risk of being victimised? There are a number of precautions that children can take, including:

* Never downloading images from an unknown source – they could be sexually explicit.

* Using email filters.

* Telling an adult immediately if anything that happens online makes them feel uncomfortable or frightened.

* Choosing a genderneutral screen name that doesn’t contain sexually suggestive words or reveal personal information.

* Never revealing personal information about themselves (including age and gender) or information about their family to anyone online and not filling out online personal profiles. For more specific rules, see How to help your children use social websites more safely.

* Stopping any email communication, instant messaging conversations, or chats if anyone starts to ask questions that are too personal or sexually suggestive.

* Posting the family online agreement near the computer to remind them to protect their privacy on the Internet.

What can you do if your child is being targeted?

* If your child receives sexually explicit photos from an online correspondent, or if she or he is solicited sexually in email, instant messaging, or some other way online, contact your local Police. Save any documentation including email addresses, website addresses, and chat logs to share with the Police.

* Check your computer for pornographic files or any type of sexual communication – these are often warning signs.

* Monitor your child’s access to all live electronic communications, such as chat rooms, instant messaging, and email. (microsoft.com)

Over 5230 with Chikungunya in Guyana

By Jomo Paul

More than 5000 per-

sons have been reported to have contracted the Chikungunya virus, although only 105 cases have been confirmed, Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud told the Guyana Times on Tuesday.

He said there are 5230 suspected cases of the virus in the country. Persaud, who spoke to Guyana Times in an exclusive interview, explained that indeed there was a marked increase in cases, and it was time that the population began to take more proactive measures to protect themselves and others.

The Chief Medical Officer told Guyana Times however that from the 5230 suspected cases of Chikungunya, there were only 105 tested and confirmed. The 105 cases were confirmed from the 261 samples sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in Trinidad and Tobago for testing. This indicated that more than half of the samples sent to the agency returned with negative results. This begs the question of how many of the 5230 cases are in actuality positive Chikungunya cases. “Chikungunya is wellestablished now… we expected that it would be this widespread at this point in time…definitely with people’s movement,” remarked Dr Persaud during the interview with Guyana Times In a statement on Tuesday, the Caribbean

Community (Caricom) said it continues to be at the forefront of efforts to deal with the Chikungunya epidemic and the Ebola threat.

Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque held discussions on the weekend with representatives of the Governments of Brazil and Argentina on assistance for the Region, particularly in the fight against Chikungunya.

The discussions with Brazil’s Vice Minister for Health, Jarbas Barbosa have led to an invitation for a team from the Caricom Secretariat, CARPHA, and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) to visit Brazil to further discuss specific areas of support against Chikungunya in the first instance.

Argentina will visit the Region shortly as it builds on ongoing support for the health sector. The discussions with

Big companies...

ANSA McAL Public Relations Officer Darshanie Yusuf said the Trinidadian conglomerate is once again capitalising on a great opportunity to promote its wide collection of products to the Guyanese populace.

“We see GuyExpo as an excellent opportunity to meet old and new customers who are often times eager to learn about what we have to offer. It allows for that oneon-one interaction,” Yusuf told reporters minutes after handing over the symbolic cheque of $2.6 million to Minister Ali.

During the four-day exposition, which is set to commence on Thursday with a grand opening ceremony, ANSA McAL will have on show its “House” in which all of its products will be highlighted. Additionally, there will be an ANSA McAL Beverage sector. “We are also going to have a STAG Regional Night on Sunday where we’ll be bringing two artistes from Trinidad and Tobago to perform on stage,” the PRO added. In addition to the $2.6 million, given to the Ministry, ANSA McAL is utilising some $3 million to get ready for the grand

the Brazilians as well as with the Director of PAHO and the Deputy DirectorGeneral of the World Health Organisation (WHO) also centred on Caricom Member States complying with International Health Regulations, which help prepare countries for dealing with health crises such as the Ebola threat. It was agreed that capacity-building assistance was required across Member States. The engagements took place on the sidelines of meetings of Caricom Health Ministers and PAHO in Washington DC, September 28-29.

Testing

Meanwhile, Dr Persaud said that it was now a major challenge for the Government to facilitate the testing of samples taken from persons here, since the guidelines at CARPHA have since changed. He pointed out that the Trinidad and Tobago-based medical facility is no longer collecting all of the samples, since it is under extreme pressure given that none of the other countries in the Eastern Caribbean have the facilities required to conduct the testing.

When asked about the opening of a lab locally to conduct the testing, the Chief Medical Officer told the Guyana Times that it was “still on the cards”.

He noted that PAHO is still slated to aid in the operationalisation of the facility as promised.

Dr Persaud said that the Government was working

fair.

GT&T pledged $3 million to the exposition. The company, which was described by Minister Ali as one of the most dynamic sponsors, said it was present since the commencement of GuyExpo back in 1994 at the North Ruimveldt Multilateral School and will continue to offer its support.

During this year’s trade fair, GT&T will be promoting its DSL Services. At the GT&T Village, spectators would have access to free wifi, in addition to great opportunities that can see them walking away with fascinating prices.

Global Technology contributed $1 million.

According to the Chief Executive Officer George Melville, Global Technology would be participating in GuyExpo for the fifth time. “The response encourages us to come back every year,” Melville told reporters during a brief interview. He pointed out that during this year’s exposition, Global Technology would be promoting Satellite Technology while simultaneously promoting its goods and services. He said the company

towards opening the facility in a short while and will begin training staff for the facility as early as this month (October), noting that the requisite infrastructure is already in place.

“When we do the test to say that it’s positive, we want to make sure that it’s really positive,” the Chief Medical Officer said.

Recently, Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran had disclosed that Guyana will soon begin conducting its own tests for the Chikungunya virus since it has the laboratory (Public Health and Reference Laboratory), the necessary equipment, and testing kits, and is currently engaged in discussions to solicit the required training for the testing process.

“We can do the test right here in Guyana. We have the lab, we have the equipment, and the testing kits are in the country, so what we need now is the necessary training. We have approached the Pan American Health Organisation to see if they can facilitate the training for us and the head of that organisation here in Guyana is currently pushing for it. So we are hoping that this process can soon begin,” Dr Ramsaran said.

“This is because we didn’t wait until the disease came here. We began taking preventative methods like our fogging exercises since last year and that is why we have such a low number of cases while the other countries are reporting large numbers of cases.”

now reaches far-flung communities.

Banks DIH; Courts Guyana Inc; Continental Group of Companies; the National Communications

Network (NCN); Impressions and Party Rentals are among other sponsors of this year’s exposition.

MPs fearful of Ebola, refuse trip to Cameroon

Guyanese and other Caribbean Members of Parliament have refused to travel to the West African country of Cameroon for a conference owing to the growing threat of the Ebola Virus which has now entered the United States.

Speaker, Raphael Trotman told a news conference on Tuesday that a delegation from the Guyana Parliament was due to travel to the country. The delegation included: Transport Minister, Robeson Benn, Deputy Speaker, Basil Williams and Alliance For Change MP, Trevor Williams. The conference is being sponsored by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. “Because of obvious public health issues with Ebola, the decision was taken not to send that delegation and all members will remain in Guyana,” Trotman told reporters. According to him several other Caribbean countries that are part of the CPA have also opted to skip the conference. “Even though Cameroon is said not to be a part of Africa it is said to be close to Liberia and Sierra Leone to cause concerns. It was not considered to be in the best inter-

est to send a delegation to Cameroon.” Trotman said the concerns were not only with travelling to the region but the hassle anticipated when returning. “Coming back persons may be taken into room and examined and probably kept for a few days.”

Ebola virus disease is a serious infectious disease spread between humans from person to person. Infection is transmitted by direct or indirect contact with the blood, body fluids or secretions (stool, urine, saliva, semen) of infected people, but only when they show symptoms. Ebola cannot be transmitted by air. The disease usually has a high mortality rate but in the current Ebola outbreak the rate ranges between 55 per cent and 60 per cent. Ebola first appeared in 1976 in a village near the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of Congo (former Zaire). Since its detection, several Ebola outbreaks have occurred in different parts of Africa. In the Americas, the emergence of the Ebola virus has never been documented and there have not been any imported cases associated with the current outbreak to date.

It was Dianne Madray

In the Monday, September 29 edition of the Guyana Times, this publication erroneously carried a photo with the caption Sukree Boodram, Founder of CADVA when in

fact it was Dianne Madray, a CADVA Representative and social activist. We sincerely apologise for the misinformation and any embarrassment this might have caused both women

Labourer remanded on break and enter charge

Paul Richard, a labourer, was slapped with a break and enter charge when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday morning.

It was alleged that on September 27, at Georgetown, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Julia Maxford and stole the flowing items; one Blackberry cellphone valued $30,000, one Vaseline moisturising lotion valued $2000, a pair of computer speakers valued $5000 and a pair of slippers valued $2500 – a total value of $41,500.

The unrepresented defendant pleaded guilty to the charge, requesting from the court the

opportunity to explain himself. His request was granted by the Chief Magistrate. According to him, he went to take “a smoke” when a man started beating him. He claimed that he fainted as a result of the beating

and that when he woke up he noticed a plastic bag with the items.

Based on his explanation, the Chief Magistrate entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

However, the information that the Police Prosecutor presented to the court was completely different. On the day in question at around 14:00h, Maxford came home and discovered that her door was open. Upon entering, she saw

the defendant with the articles in a bag. The Police was summoned and the defendant was arrested and charged.

Police Prosecutor, Michael Grant objected to bail on the ground that the defendant has similar offences pending before the courts. After listening to the defence’s side and the prosecution’s side, Richard was remanded until October 8 when he will reappear before the Chief Magistrate.

Construction worker refused bail for attempted robbery, illegal firearm and ammo charges

Aconstruction worker was on Tuesday remanded after being charged with attempted robbery and illegal possession of firearm and ammunition.

Calvin Dover, 27, of Lot 14 Bent Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry where he denied the allegation. The case presented stated that on September 26 at Stabroek Market, he in the company of others attempted to commit a felony; that is to say robbery under arms. Being armed with a gun, he attempted to rob Dave Rodriquez. It was also alleged that he had in his possession 11 live rounds of ammunition and a pistol and he is not a licensed firearm holder. The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges laid against him.

According to the facts, on the day in question at about 19:00h, the Virtual Complainant (VC) Dave Rodriquez was sitting on the pavement at Demico House when the defendant went to him and placed the gun to his head attempting to rob him. A scuffle ensued between the VC and the defendant, at which time the defendant was relieved of the firearm he had in his possession. The Police was contacted and the defendant was arrested and charged.

Dover was represented by Attorney Adrian Thompson who told the court in his client’s defence that the facts of the case are not entirely true. Someone attempted to rob

and they hit him in the head at the Stabroek Market. The Police took him to the hospital on Saturday where he was given a medical. He then told the court that Dover has a pending unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition case before Magistrate Fabayo Azore.

Police Prosecutor, Inspector Michael Grant objected to bail on the grounds of the nature of the offence, as well as the gravity and prevalence of the offence. He also made mention of the use of a firearm in the committal of the crime. The Prosecutor also said no special reasons were given on the defendant’s behalf as to why bail should be granted.

The Chief Magistrate ruled in favour of the prosecution. Dover is said to return to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Dylon Bess on October 17 for statements.

Taxi driver accused of robbery under arms, remanded

Ataxi driver who goes by the name of Sundeata Barton was on Tuesday morning remanded after being charged for robbery under arms when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate, Priya SewnarineBeharry.

On September 27 at South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Barton being armed with a dangerous weapon; that is to say a knife, robbed the Virtual Complainant (VC) Lamar Ben of one gold chain valued $40,000 and one gold band valued $47,000, property of the VC. He denied the charge laid against him.

On the day in question at around 15:20h, Ben went to Aubrey Barker Road in search of someone. He came across

the defendant along with others and decided to enquire from them the person he came in search of. It was then the defendant placed the knife to his neck, demanded the said items before making good his escape. The Police were summoned and they nabbed the defendant. Pieces of the gold chain were found in the defendant’s pocket.

The Police Prosecutor, Inspector Michael Grant objected to bail on the grounds of the nature, gravity and prevalence of the offence and the weapon used. It was also heard that Barton was remanded for a narcotics charge in 2010.

Barton was remanded and is expected to return on to court on October 17 for statements.

Eyew tness

Can we talk...

...if the law’s an ass?

Now let’s see if we can pick sense from nonsense in this Remigrant Scam business involving the Muckraker’s Mohan (Glenn) Lall. The parents of one of his close personal friends (who also just happens to be a big one at the GRA) claimed they’re returning to live in Guyana from New York. The law says they’re allowed to bring back two cars that they own – duty-free.

Now these are two ordinary folks – doing quite ordinary jobs in New York according to their fellow villagers. But Lo and Behold (as they say in the Bible when a miracle or an astounding action’s about to take place), they declared to the GRA over here that they were bringing back two 2013 Lexus Suburban L570 vehicles.

Now these beauties (even used 2013 models) go for about US$70,000 a pop. (Just Google it) and the Guyanese duty on these 4500cc gas guzzlers would add another US$90,000 each. Total in Guyana Monopoly money?? $72,000,000 ...that is $72 MILLION!!!

But let’s not even worry about the fib the couple told to Customs officers over here to bring down their applicable duty. The question is, where the heck did the couple get the US$140,000 to pay for the cars in New York?? It’s not just enquiring minds in Guyana that might want to know. We know that someone’s ears in the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the US must be burning! Those fellas don’t take too kindly to folks not reporting their earnings.

But the local lawyer for Mohan Lall was quoted as saying, “The law is not concerned about who gave it up to you or whom you give it to or lend it to”. Maybe not the law in Guyana (even though we doubt that), but if Lall’s now saying he gave the cars to the couple, then the taxmen over in the US would be also interested in how that transaction was consummated.

The cars would still be a “gift” to the couple – which has to be reported and the generous giver, Lall – who we know from the publicity is a green card holder – would also have to fill out some important tax forms.

Unlike what the local lawyer would have it, the law’s not an ass. The US has been spending oodles of time and money to have its Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) enforced. This catches funds its residents secrete abroad. Image what’ll happen when this kind of jiggery-pokery is done on US soil!

Orange jumpsuits for Lall?

...about Vagina Monologues?

Well, well, well. Little Guyana’s hosting the worldfamous Eve Ensler who caught the world’s attention with her off-Broadway production, “The Vagina Monologues” almost 20 years ago. Isn’t it great that we can actually have the word spelt out in full in this, a family newspaper?? Anyhow, this Eyewitness would like to welcome the feminist activist to our country and hope she’s accorded our famous Guyanese hospitality. We don’t think we have to rehash the debate that took place in the wake of her play. (Can it really be a “good rape” if a 13-year-old girl is raped by a 24-year-old woman as the monologue “The Little Coochie Snorcher That Could” tells us? Raphael Trotman might want to know). But as we were informed, her play morphed from its seemingly misandrist beginnings into an international “movement” fighting violence against women.

This is an effort that all of us must support.

...about pelting sh*t??

While we thought we can talk about vaginas, we aren’t sure about “sh*t”. But the Muckraker described rather graphically how a prisoner in Lethem was forced to “pelt” his Police jailers with a “box of sh*t”. He was further charged for this act. The Police aren’t taking any sh*t.

Panel “iffy” about sitting during debate on No-Confidence Motion

By Alexis Rodney

Commissioners probing the circumstances surrounding the death of Dr Walter Rodney have registered some degree of concern regarding the effect the pending No-Confidence Motion will have on their investigation, which is expected to resume later this month.

Sources close to the Rodney CoI reveal that the debate set for the National Assembly this month may affect the work of the three Caribbean Commissioners probing the death of Dr Rodney. The three-member tribunal, which comprises its Chairman, Barbadian Queen’s Counsel Richard Cheltenham, Jamaican Queen’s Counsel Jacqueline Samuels-Brown and Trinidad-based Guyanese Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam are tasked with examining the facts and making a judgment on who might have been responsible for the explosion on June 13, 1980.

The Commission of Inquiry (CoI), sponsored by Head of State Donald Ramotar, sets out to bring an end to all speculation on who might have killed the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) leader as fingers have always been pointed in the direction of the People’s National Congress (PNC), which governed the country

Dr Walter Rodney

during that period.

Sources told Guyana Times that the Commissioners, while not making it public, are already asking questions about the No-Confidence Motion and the Commission of Inquiry. Guyana is expected to see a major shakeup, a first in the history of the republic, when, if the motion is passed, the ruling administration will have to leave office and make way for national elections in three months’ time.

Commissioners, tasked with probing the death of the historian and WPA co-founder, are somewhat concerned

about the repercussions the No-Confidence Motion will have on the investigation.

According to a source, the No-Confidence Motion will have its repercussions and Commissioners have indicated that they wish not to be tangled up in the political masquerade which will ensue as a result.

The No-Confidence Motion against the Donald Ramotar Administration was tabled by the Alliance For Change in early August. The major Opposition political party, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has also indicated its full support for the motion.

Meanwhile, an influx of overseas witnesses is geared to headline the sixth round of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry when it resumes. Among them will be Donald Rodney, the only witness to the June 13, 1980 bombing which claimed the life of his older brother. A few former members for the WPA will also appear. This is according to head of the Walter Rodney Secretariat Hugh Denbow, when he spoke to Guyana Times on Monday.

Donald Rodney was the driver of the car on June 13, 1980, when a bomb-rigged walkie-talkie, handed to his brother, exploded causing his death. Based on the events

communicated by Donald, a former army sergeant, Gregory Smith handed over the bomb.

According to Denbow, the lawyer representing the interest of Donald Rodney, Keith Scotland has indicated that his client will be made available for the upcoming session.

Denbow was, however, unable to say whether or not any further funding would be allocated to the Inquiry since its life came to an end Tuesday.

President Donald Ramotar had indicated that he will have to once again extend the life of the Commission.

And despite threats by APNU to withhold its support for additional funding to the Commission, the President said that should the need arise, his Administration will have to pump more money into the ongoing investigation.

Ramotar, speaking to Guyana Times recently said

the work of the Commission, which is aimed at determining the circumstances surrounding the death of Dr Rodney, must come to completion. APNU had early last month said that should Government approach the National Assembly for additional funding for the CoI, it would not lend its support, since, according to the lawyer representing the party at the hearing, Basil Williams, time and money are being wasted.

Quirks at drug bond slow delivery of HIV medication – CMO

By Jomo PAul

Quirks in the drugs distribution system have been affecting the timely delivery of anti-retroviral drugs to several communities, Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud has said. He, however, maintained that there is no shortage in the supply of the drugs that are used to treat persons infected with the HIV/AIDS virus.

The Guyana Times, through its 24-hour news hotline, received complaints over the last weeks that persons visiting the Georgetown

Govt dismisses claims of rice sector crisis

Amajor rice miller is contending that the rice industry is in crisis, but Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy said although there are problems in the sector, the industry has been breaking records over the years.

Former Chief Executive Officer of Alesie Rice Mill, Thurane Doerga, took his disagreement with the Ministry to the home of the Opposition on Tuesday where he held a news conference at the Leader of the Opposition’s Office. Doerga claims that countries like Panama and Venezuela are receiving rice for prices way below the set market price. He added that whenever private entities like his business ship rice to those countries, they are often greeted with the statement that the Government is selling them the same rice at a cheaper price.

He noted when such things happen, farmers and private entities suffer because they will be forced to produce twice the amount of rice in order to reach their allocated budget. Doerga also claimed that it was him who struck the deal with Venezuela and now he has little or no say over the deal, since the Government has now taken it over. He told the news conference that at a recent meeting with rice farmers, he was escorted out of the room due to his disagreement with decisions that were being made.

Disruption

However, in a statement, the Agriculture Ministry said that at no time was Doerga escorted by security out of a recent meeting, which saw farmers and millers having

consensus on the current rice crop and prices. According to the Ministry, during the meeting, Minister Ramsammy, in relation to complaints of low prices being paid to farmers for paddy by some millers, announced that based on the Rice Factories Act, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) will proceed to audit the books of rice millers. Such a move by the GRDB will bring closure to the perception that millers are not making huge profits. “This move didn’t go down well with some millers, including Doerga who interjected,” the Ministry said.

According to the Ministry, during the discussion, the allocation of quotas for the Venezuelan market was also addressed. It was pointed out that this quota allocation was discussed with the Millers Association on several occasions. “Mr Doerga then refuted that claim that a Millers Association exists even after several of his colleagues clarified that they are indeed part of the Association who meet

often.”

The Ministry’s statement noted that a comment was also made by an official of the GRDB, adding weight that the Association does exist. “Mr Doerga then accused the official of being in partnership with the Association and involved in biased distribution of quota with the Millers Association.”

It was at this stage, the Ministry said Doerga was asked to issue an apology for the misleading statement which he refused to do and continued to behave in a disorderly manner. “He was then asked to leave the meeting after he became very confrontational and threw papers (which are believed to be emails) in the face of the Minister.”

The Ministry said after repeated requests from several millers, including Nazeemul Hakh of Golden Fleece Rice Investment, Doerga left the meeting but not before threatening to go to the Opposition.

The Ministry said at Tuesday’s news conference held at the Office of the Opposition Leader, Doerga was quoted as saying that the rice industry is in dire need of help as it remains in a crisis.

“The Ministry of Agriculture would like to state that while there are challenges, works are moving apace to overcome them. However, while Doerga is of the view that the industry is in trouble, the Rice Sector for the first time in Guyana’s history recorded in excess of 500,000 tonnes of rice. This year, GRDB is moving to exceed this production target,” the Ministry’s statement added. “The Ministry of Agriculture strongly condemns the derog-

atory manner displayed by Mr Doerga and hopes such incident becomes an isolated one, as the Ministry continues to work with farmers and millers to ensure the success of the industry.”

Public Hospital were given minimal amounts of the antiretroviral drugs.

This led to the suspicion that there might be a shortage of the medication – affecting thousands of Guyanese living with the sexually transmitted infection. Sections of civil society have explained that if indeed there is a shortage, the Government should take steps to inform the populace and prepare them in the eventuality that it comes down to a situation of dire need.

Guyana Times understands that some persons might have also felt jaded given the stigma that is attached to having HIV/AIDS in Guyana. It was explained that it is increasingly stressful for persons to go to the clinic constantly, since they think they are the subject of stigma, which has not been completely erased in Guyana’s society.

But, Dr Persaud on Tuesday said that while, there may be some “admin-

istrative” hiccups in the delivery of the medication, this does not in any way constitute a shortage. “I wouldn’t say we have a shortage, but I think we are, at time to time, challenged by the unavailability, but it might be in the pipeline or being procured,” said the Chief Medical Officer during the exclusive interview with the Guyana Times He said the Ministry of Health has been taking steps to meet and overcome the associated challenges. He pointed out that systems such as a supplies management chain have been put in place to address the issue. He noted too that there are some quirks at the recently opened drug bond in Diamond, East Bank Demerara, but all of those are being worked out. “Every state-of-the-art facility needs manpower and enough skilled persons at the bond for the machine to work very well,” remarked Dr Persaud.

Turn To page 10

Paruima residents commended for maintaining language

“Language defines a people and when you lose it, you lose a very large part of your culture”. These were the words of Foreign Affairs Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett who on Tuesday joined with the Toshao and residents of Paruima Village, Region Seven in their Heritage celebrations, where all of the cultural items were done in their native language.

The Minister said that at a time when many Amerindian settlements have allowed the language to be lost, the people of Pariuma have not only preserved their language, but also use it on a daily basis. This, she said is most commendable.

Today, six Amerindian languages are alive in Guyana, while the Government is working to resuscitate the others through its Language Revival Project. Minister Rodrigues-Birkett spoke of the importance of education in driving development in hinterland communities and emphasised that obtaining a sound education does not in any way mean that indigenous peoples have to lose a part of their culture.

Recognising the importance of education, the Government of Guyana has been investing heavily on building schools and dormitory facilities throughout the hinterland. The Minister recalled that about 14 years ago, there was only one in-

digenous doctor in Guyana. Today, there are about 25, who were able to become professionals in the field of medicine through the Cuba Scholarship programme.

“Our job is to work to make sure that we give our young people these opportu-

nities so that they could be what they want to be. Many of these schools are doing well, but we still have more work to do,” she said.

At present, the Education Ministry is looking at establishing another secondary school in the Upper Mazaruni to deal with the issue of overcrowding at the Waramadong Secondary School. This, Minister Rodrigues-Birkett said, is a clear indication that more children are in school.

She said that while Heritage Month is a time for celebration, it should also be used as a time to reflect on the progress made individually, as a community and nationally as a people. One of the issues that she said must be addressed in hinterland communities is that of excessive alcohol use, particularly in the festive month.

The Minister recently visited an indigenous community in New Zealand, where tourism is playing a critical role in their development.

Recognising that Guyana’s hinterland has the same potential, the Minister is making arrangements for a group of Guyanese Amerindian leaders to visit New Zealand so that they can observe and replicate what is being done in that country.

Paruima Toshao, Damian Chambers said that Heritage celebrations in their village have become an annual event and their food and traditions are very unique to the Arecuna people. While there, the Minister also handed over a quantity of books to the head teacher of the Paruima Primary School and commissioned a sewing room that was built for the women’s group in that village. Heritage celebrations were observed under the theme, “Traditional Embodiment for Amerindian Development’. (GINA)

Defending the enemy

Satiricus was not surprised as to how far people would go to keep a good man down. He was talking about that saint of a man named Mook Lall, who owned the Muckraker. Ever since the fella came out of Hog Island in the Essequibo River, he’d been sacrificing himself just to help others. But nobody ever gave him any credit for his good deeds – much less praise him. The world was just so full of terrible people.

Look as to how the Mook (his friends called him Mookie, but Satiricus figured he didn’t know the sainted man well enough to call him that) has stepped in to help ordinary people when the US refused to give them visas. Those poor people only wanted to visit their relatives in New York. The heartless Americans didn’t understand what turmoil they were creating in these poor folks’ hearts.

Only the sainted Mook felt their pain. But he didn’t stop there. He travelled far and wide, met all kinds of people – at great danger to himself if the truth be told – and backtracked them into America. Homeland Security?? Ha!! That was child’s play to the Mook who was the best at “hide and seek” in Hog Island – where the bush-rum makers were ever hiding from the Police who were “seeking”.

People thought the Mook made a lot of money from the backtracking – at US$10,000 a head. But did they care how hard it was to collect on the money? It’s not easy to beat a man, his wife and his children every month for money. And after all the work the Mook did to get them to meet up with their relatives!! Ingrates!! The Mook’s hands became arthritic from inflicting beatings. But who cares??

But his latest act of looking out for others went beyond anything he’d ever done before. Tears ran down Satiricus’s cheeks as he thought of the selflessness of the Mook. Here it was that the Mook never insulted anyone in his paper. He was always saying such sweet things about others. He was a saint, no?? But other newspapers were jealous of him and would sometimes say mean things about him.

Especially that Tines paper that was close to the man who persecuted the Mook mightily – Jagdesh. And now here was the sainted Mook fighting tooth and nail against Big Brother who released the financial figures on Tines for the world to see!! Was nothing sacred??

And it was not as if the Mook’s Muckraker’s figures were released – just his competitors!! What a saint!! Always thinking of others. Satiricus’s shoulders shook as his body was wracked by tears.

Quirks at drugs...

In the same vein, the Chief Medical Officer related that Guyana has seen a marked decrease in the number of persons infected with the HIV/AIDS virus over the years. This, he said, came as a result of a “long and concerted fight not only from the partners… but from the Government itself.”

He noted that in 1998 two per cent of blood donors at the National Blood Transfusion Service tested positive for the virus, but most recent figures now put that amount at less than 0.5 per cent. He pointed out too that there was a decrease in the number of pregnant mothers testing positive for the HIV/AIDS virus, which he opined was a “good marker” to show in the infection rates in Guyana.

page 9

However, he contended that while the general population is making significant strides against the spread of the virus, it continues to be prevalent in the homosexual and commercial sex workers communities where persons are at a higher risk of infection. Dr Persaud said: “... I don’t want us to feel that the job is done; it is not done; it is far from over.”

Recent figures from UNAIDS show that of the year 2013, there were some 7700 persons living with HIV/AIDs in Guyana. It was also noted that there was a 1.4 per cent prevalence rate in adults aged 15 to 49 years old. Of the 7700 victims, 7500 of those were adults while some 4000 were women.

Auditor General presents 2013 report

Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman has floated the idea of the set-up of a Budget Control Office at Parliament to help parliamentarians better scrutinise the Auditor General Report and also ask sensible questions during its review.

Trotman made the comments on Tuesday when Auditor General Deodat Sharma handed over the 2013 Report on the Public Accounts of Guyana along with other Ministries, Regions and Departments. The report is the 10th presented by Sharma during his tenure as the Auditor General.

Delivering remarks before presenting the report, the Auditor General outlined the tedious task his staff had in compiling the report. He noted that in recent times, he has met the statutory deadline for the reports five times, which is in keeping with the Mission Statement of his office to pro-

vide “timely reporting of the results to the legislature and ultimately, the public”.

Sharma pointed out that after the report is presented to the National Assembly, it will be sent to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) for review and those sessions are open to the public. “This is a great opportunity for the citizens to hear if their tax dollars are spent in accordance with the estimates and all monies have been applied to the purpose or purposes for which they were intended, and in accordance with the required regulations, procedures and policies,” the Auditor General said.

He went on to say that over the last year, the Auditor General Office has managed to increase its technical competencies, with infrastructural development in the Information Technology (IT) Department and enhance its human resources functions as it continues to engage stake-

holders. “These improvements would not have been possible without the continued sup-

Guyana values immensely contribution from its Diaspora – Finance Minister

Government has not given up on Guyanese who have migrated from the country during times of hardship, but is rather proud of their achievements in their adopted homes, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh told a large gathering of Guyanese in Los Angeles, California on September 28.

“The Guyanese Diaspora has distinguished itself wherever it has gone, whether it is in academic or professional accomplishments, whether it is in civic and political affairs, whether it is in business or entrepreneurial activities, … but in every field of endeavour, Guyanese nationals and Caribbean nationals in their adopted homes have distinguished themselves, and we are immensely proud of what they have accomplished and the contribution they have made in their adoptive homes,” Singh was quoted by the Government Information Agency (GINA) as saying.

Dr Singh had accompanied President Donald Ramotar’s delegation to the 69th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, and the team took the opportunity to meet with the Guyanese Diaspora in the United States. The President

himself had addressed Guyanese audiences in New York and Washington, DC.

In addressing the mostly professional members of the audience, the Finance Minister noted that with the passage of time and the proliferation of technology, members of the diaspora are no longer disconnected from their homelands. He pointed to the instantaneous manner in which the Internet allows Guyanese abroad to communicate with their loved ones at home, and the swiftness with which they can access information on current activities in Guyana. This, he said, has also helped Guyanese and Guyanese organisations overseas to make meaningful and timely contributions to their country.

Richer engagement

“Today’s interconnected, connected wired world allows Diaspora communities like yourself to remain in touch with your source country, your homeland Guyana and allow you, I believe, to have a far richer engagement and a more substantial contribution, and we are delighted to see that communities like yours have seized that oppor-

tunity,” Dr Singh said.

“I want to say to you that we value immensely that contribution, not only the tangible contribution in helping to build hospitals and so on, but you have an important role to play too in ensuring Guyana is represented, the Guyanese flag is flown proudly, that you are good ambassadors”.

He also pointed to the significant importance of Guyanese living abroad in ensuring Guyana maintains its rightful place in the global community and advocating the country’s interest at every possible forum.

The Finance Minister stressed that Guyana needs the advocacy of its diaspora to tackle the legislative challenges facing the country at this point in time. He also spoke of Guyana’s progress in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and reiterated the Government’s commitment to moving Guyana to a place where all Guyanese can enjoy maximum social benefits. However, he noted that Government alone cannot achieve this, and, as such, looks forward to the continued contribution of the Diaspora.

port from the IDB (InterDevelopment Bank); CESO (Canadian Executive Service Organisation); ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme) as well as the Government of Guyana… (I) hope we can continue our strong relationship to improve the Audit Office, which is “committed to the promotion of good governance including openness, transparency, and improved public accountability,” Sharma stated.

The Auditor General further stated that his office will continue to improve its services and is currently seeking IDB’s assistance to implement audit management software,

which will result in efficiency and productivity in the audit processes. Additionally, Sharma mentioned that the Auditor General Office celebrated its 130th year in existence in August.

Meanwhile, Trotman lauded the Audit General Office for once again meeting its deadline. He recognised the challenges that the staff would have faced to prepare the report. “What may appear now to be a simple exercise, I know it’s not at all simple, because we have heard about your work, we’ve heard about your challenges, we’ve heard about your vision for improvement,” the Speaker said.

Trotman noted that the

report will be presented to the National Assembly before being handed over to the Chairman of the PAC for review. He pointed out that while the PAC was a vibrant committee of the National Assembly, there were some areas where the work of the Committee can be improved to strengthen its functions. “I’d like to see a Budget Control Office so that the MPs are better advised, to have some accounting expertise, how to ask the right questions and not to have same over and over when they were already given the answer… I also wish to say such an office should be buttressed by a legal officers department at this House, headed by a lawyer and have staff that could support work not just of the Public Accounts Committee but of other committees,” said Trotman.

Also present at the presentation ceremony was PAC Member, Parliamentarian Manzoor Nadir, who noted that the timely presentation of the report was due to the fact that the ministries were able to submit their information on time. He said that while the work of both the Accountant General Office and the Auditor General Office has improved; however, there is still a long way to go. Nadir added that the Committee will continue to ensure that transparency prevails as it relates to spending money. “We will work to ensure that transparency, value for money, and accountability are the hallmarks of the administration,” he reassured.

US plugs $125M into fighting gender-based violence

By Vahnu Manikchand

The United States Embassy here on Monday evening donated US$600,000 (GY$125,069,970) to three Civil Society Organisations to help fight gender-based violence.

The funds were handed out as the Embassy hosted a reception to raise awareness on the issue. The three organisations that received the grants were: the Roadside Baptist Skills Training Centre, which got US$89,962; ChildLink Incorporated which re-

ceived US$99,999 and the largest sum – US$400,000 went to Red Thread.

The Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires, Bryan Hunt, said that the grants will be used to enable the organisations to expand their existing grassroots work in order to prevent such

acts and assist meaningfully its victims. He noted that while adequate strides have been made to end the scourge, there is still much more work to be done by removing the roadblocks that would enable women to get involved in the political, economic and social arenas. Hunt emphasised the need for a global coalition inclusive of all stakeholders, such as Governments, civil society, private industry and individual men and women, to collectively respond and prevent genderbased violence. “Doing more certainly includes raising awareness, changing societal attitudes, and offering care and support for victims of gender-based violence. It includes building more shelters, offering additional counselling to victims and their families, and assisting victims in achieving economic independence from their abusers. International donors, civil society and

the Private Sector can and should unquestionably assist in this area,” he stated.

Expanding activities

The Chargé d’Affaires further highlighted the need for gender-based violence to be recognised as a criminal offence and the importance of law enforcement, prosecutors and the courts to get involved and ensure that perpetrators of these acts are brought to

not do it. She further spoke about the need for community and religious leaders to play an active role in curbing this global pandemic by engaging in discussion with persons in society, particularly abusers.

“You need community intervention... we need that to happen and that is not happening. We need to start looking at violence from a different perspective and we need to be there in the com-

justice. Hunt noted that the grants the Embassy distributed will help to empower the three recipients to commence expanding their local efforts to eliminate the societal scourge. He disclosed that the proposals that the funds will be supporting vary from educational and awareness activities to improved implementation of the existing criminal penalties for domestic violence.

The Chargé d’Affaires recognised that while these three entities alone cannot do this, their projects are part of a much broader tapestry of stakeholders’ efforts, which are ongoing in the country and have began to demonstrate a transformative impact on such issues.

Chairperson of the Gender and Equality

munities to give leadership, to guide; people don’t usually have anyone to talk to… this is where we need to be more involved,” the Gender and Equality Commission chairwoman said. She recalled that when the Commission was established years ago, genderbased violence was immediately picked up as a key area to focus on. Chandarpal noted that years ago domestic violence used to be treated as a “family affair” and persons tend to ignore it rather than get involved; however, there have been efforts over the years to remove such acts from the realm of the family and make them criminal offences. The Chairwoman of the Commission disclosed that at a recent conference held on the same issue, it

Commission, Indra Chandarpal, reiterated the need for a collaborative effort to tackle gender-based violence, as she pointed out that Government alone or society on their own can-

was revealed that Guyana is ahead regarding its legislation on the issue, but there was still much more to be done to eliminate the scourge. (vahnum@guyanatimesgy.com)

Narendra Modi, Barack Obama vow to take ties to next level

By arun KuMar

ndia's Prime Minister

INarendra Modi on Tuesday called India and the US “natural global partners” and vowed with US President Barack Obama to take their ties to the next level by resolving outstanding issues like their stalled nuclear deal.

After a summit meeting with Obama in his Oval office at the White House, Modi said they had also agreed to intensify their counter-terrorism and intelligence cooperation and deepen their security dialogue and defence relations.

“We discussed existing terrorism challenges, including in South Asia, and the new threats of terrorism in West Asia and beyond, and agreed to intensify our counter-terrorism and intelligence cooperation,” Modi said.

“Given our broad range of shared interests, we will also continue to deepen our security dialogue and de-

fence relations,” said the Prime Minister, who had switched to a dark bandhgala suit for the summit, speaking in Hindi.

“We are serious about resolution of issues on both sides to enable civil nuclear energy cooperation to take off. It is important for India’s energy security,” he said after the summit that lasted over two hours, going over 45 minutes beyond schedule.

Modi said they spoke about many of their common economic priorities and expressed his belief that “India-US economic partnership will also grow rapidly in the coming years.

“I also sought President Obama’s support for continued openness and ease of access for Indian services companies in the US market.”

“There was great convergence in international matters,” he said. On the issue of Afghanistan, “we both are committed to helping Afghanistan and improv-

ing our coordination in this area”.

Defence cooperation

India and US have also decided to renew the framework agreement for defence cooperation for a further 10 years and the US will cooperate as a knowledge partner for India’s

planned National Defence University, officials said.

Modi said they had a candid discussion on the Bali Ministerial Round of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). “India supports trade facilitation. However, I also expect that we are able to find a solution that takes care of our concern on

food security. I believe that it should be possible to do that soon,” he said.

Modi said they also “agreed to consult and cooperate closely on climate change issues, an area of strong priority for both of us”.

Before Modi spoke, Obama, wearing a navy blue suit and blue tie, welcomed Modi to the White House for the first time and said: “We have decided to deepen our existing ties with India.”

“Last night, during a private dinner, we spent most of our time talking about the economy,” Obama said.

“We agreed that in both countries, one of our primary goals is to improve education and job training so that our young people can compete in the global marketplace.”

They also talked about the international situation and security issues.

“We addressed challenges in the Middle East and violent extremism, the fight against ISIL (now known as

Islamic State or IS),” said Obama.

The peaceful transition of power in Afghanistan and the need to work together to ensure stability was also discussed.

The President said they had “discussed how we can continue to work together on a whole host of issues from space exploration, scientific endeavour to dealing with humanitarian crisis like Ebola in West Africa”.

Obama said he was impressed with Modi’s interest in not only addressing poverty in India and revitalising the economy there, but his determination that India help bring about peace and security in the world.

“I want to wish him luck in what I’m sure will be a challenging but always interesting tenure as Prime Minister in India,” he said.

The remarks ended at 13:19h with both men standing to shake hands and smile for the cameras.

(Business Standard)

No-Confidence Motion first up on agenda

… parties confirm readiness for debates

By Svetlana MarShall

Even as the three main political parties gear up to debate the historic No-Confidence Motion against the Government, the Parliament Office has confirmed that the Motion is on the Order Paper.

Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs on Tuesday said though a date has not been set for the reconvening of the National Assembly, the NoConfidence Motion has been placed on the Order Paper. Shortly after October 10, the National Assembly will reconvene from its August recess.

Days before the House went on recess, the Alliance For Change (AFC) submitted the No-Confidence Motion to National Assembly against the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government. On Tuesday, AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan told Guyana Times that his par-

ty will be proceeding with the motion during the first sitting. “It will be the first and only sitting,” he posited, noting that the Opposition would be moving ahead “full force”.

Though the PPP/C would want the 65 Members of the National Assembly to debate the historic motion, Ramjattan said this would not be permitted, explaining that only a percentage of the members would debate. The mover of the motion, Moses Nagamootoo will be debating the motion, Ramjattan said, in addition to Cathy Hughes for the AFC.

“We will prove that the Opposition is united on this motion,” the AFC Leader declared, as he said the smile on Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee’s face would be transformed into a frown.

“They (People’s Progressive Party/Civic) would have uncontrollable tears running down their faces,” he opined.

Wholehearted support

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Chief Whip Amna Ally said the APNU would be supporting the No-Confidence Motion “wholeheartedly”. “Our position has not changed,” Ally told this newspaper during an interview on Tuesday. According to the APNU Chief Whip, due to the fact that the NoConfidence Motion is a “normal motion”, it would be debated in a similar fashion, allowing for only key Members of Parliament to represent their parties.

The AFC had proceeded

to submit the No-Confidence Motion to the Clerk of the National Assembly after securing the support of the APNU. However, eyebrows were raised when Opposition Leader David Granger presented President Donald Ramotar with an ultimatum for the holding of the longawaited Local Government Elections.

The coalition was accused of backpedalling on the NoConfidence Motion, as it feared that it may lose the next General and Regional Elections. When contacted, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds said that the PPP/C is more concerned about passing the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) and the establishment of the Amaila Falls

Hydropower Plant. “We are concerned about nation building, the development of our country,” the Prime Minister stressed.

Since 2013, the AML/ CFT Bill was sent to the Parliamentary Special Select Committee; to date, it

is yet to return to the House for debate and passage. Though APNU, the AFC and the PPP/C have agreed on the AML/CFT Bill of 2013, they have fundamental differences on the amendments made to the Principal Act of 2009. Due to its continuous failure to meet the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) deadlines, the country has been handed over to the international Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Prime Minister Hinds has made it clear that the PPP/C will “respond more than adequately,” when the motion arises in the House for debate. He is of the option that all members of the House would be given the opportunity to debate the motion.

If the motion is successfully debated and passed, President Donald Ramotar would be forced to dissolve Parliament, paving the way for General Elections within 90 days. (svetlanam@guyanatimesgy.com)

GT&T distances self from email leak

One day after Legal Affairs Minister and Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall called for an international probe into the alleged leak of an email exchange between himself and Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority, Khurshid Sattaur, local Internet service provider Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) has distanced itself from the scandal.

Nandlall said he welcomes a decision by the Kaieteur News to share the alleged emails, supposedly sent to him by Sattaur, with the diplomatic community and more specifically, the local United States Embassy. However, GT&T, in a release to the media on Tuesday, affirmed that it had nothing to do with the emails being made available to Kaieteur News or anyone for that matter. The release said: “We can say without fear of contradiction that any such perception would have no basis in fact. Our customers can rest assured that their personally identifiable information and the contents of their communications are treated as strictly confidential, as is required under sections 35 and 53 of the Telecommunications Act, the Interception of

Communications Act of 2008, section 5.11 of the ATN/ GOG Purchase Agreement and sections 40 and 41 of the GT&T Licence.”

The company noted that while the law prohibits the interception of communications in the course of transmission and the disclosure of its contents, just like any other public telecommunications services provider, GT&T has an obligation and a responsibility to aid the law enforcement officers by providing the necessary information.

“However, the law provides adequate checks and balances to guard against

abuse. Such lawful interception can only be authorised (under section four of the Interception of Communications Act) by a judge who is satisfied that such action is necessary in the interest of national security or for the prevention or detection of certain categories of offences,” said GT&T.

It was noted that an interception warrant must, among other things, specify the persons whose communications are to be intercepted, the identity of the agency authorised to intercept the communications, the persons to whom the intercepted communications may be disclosed, and the arrangements to be made to ensure the confidentiality of the intercepted communication.

Security

“GT&T takes very seriously its obligation to treat its customers’ personal identifiable information and the content of their communications as confidential. However, our customers too must share responsibility for the security of their information. GT&T provides Internet access, but individual network owners are responsible for their own security.”

Over the last few weeks, Kaieteur News Publisher

Glenn Lall alleged that the Government was plotting to shut down his newspaper operations because of its continuous reporting on corruption and the misuse of State resources. The newspaper made these allegations after the GRA began probing an incident, which saw the abuse and misuse of Government’s Remigrant Scheme Project to avoid paying over $100 million in taxes on the importation of two luxury Lexus vehicles.

Two pensioners who are in their seventies are at the centre of the scam after they were allegedly used as fronts to import the vehicles under the Scheme by Lall and his wife, Bhena. The latter two have admitted publicly to utilising the vehicles after they were brought into the country.

It is the GRA’s contention that the Lalls provided the funds for the purchase of these vehicles by the two pensioners in the US. Lall, through the Kaieteur News, launched a brutish attack on the Commissioner-General, the Government, and former President Bharrat Jagdeo as he alleged that a plot was being executed to silence his media house because of the probe, which had widened after more anomalies were discovered.

Family, friends, and colleagues bid Bhagwandin Madho farewell

Hailed as a “humble human being”, the late Bhagwandin Madho was given a farewell deserving of a true son of the soil, Tuesday, at his home in Crane, West Coast Demerara.

Family, friends and colleagues in the rice industry were thrown into mourning with the sudden death of the popular West Demerara rice farmer and miller.

During the funeral service, the Prime Minister, and Acting President, Samuel Hinds expressed condolences on behalf of President Donald Ramotar, noting that Madho was a “fine gentleman”.

tal in donating part of the land that was used to build the $600 million access road from Schoonard to La Parfaite Harmonie, a large housing scheme just off the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

In closing, Hinds reminded the family that there is strength in remembering the achievements of their loved one.

Meanwhile, Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali said that Madho will be remembered for his patriotism and philanthropy as he donated 14 acres of land to the Government of Guyana,

this region. The land donated to the people and the Government came with a pure and sincere heart. This man sincerely gave this land as a gift.”

“I celebrate a true champion not only among rice farmers, but for all those who would benefit from that road,” Minister Ali related.

Condolences were also expressed by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament, Bibi Shaddick.

The late Madho was one of the largest rice farmers in the West Demerara area,

“He was a fine gentleman who generously granted the land for housing development. Comrade Madho also has achievements in yields for acres in rice production,” the Prime Minister related. Madho was instrumen-

to facilitate the alternative access to La Parfaite Harmonie, to benefit an estimated 40,000 persons.

Ali said, “Though ordinary, he has left a rich legacy for Guyana and for

and was vocal on a number of issues affecting the industry.

The 66-year-old was the father of three and also leaves to mourn his wife, Gomatie.

Trotman avoids media query on molestation allegations

Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman on Tuesday avoided answering questions on the shocking child molestation allegations against him during a news conference at his office.

The Speaker was accused of sodomising Johnny Welshman when he was 12. Welshman is now 22. Trotman has since dismissed all the allegations, describing them as malicious and unfounded “by an unstable young man who, sadly, appears to have a troubled mind. I categorically deny his wicked assertions”.

Trotman said unfortunately, Welshman seems to have been “conveniently encouraged by manipulative and diabolic political forces… There is absolutely no truth in the allegation, and I am confident that the masterminds and supporters of this dastardly plot will soon be exposed. I call for a thorough and professional investigation into this scurrilous allegation. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

In addition to allegedly sexually assaulting him, Trotman is accused by Welshman of pampering him with gifts during the alleged period of his sexual abuse. “He started to sexually assault me when I was 12, it first started in his office, at that time I did not agree with it, but he offered to take me to Dairy Bar (formerly located on Croal Street) to buy me ice cream and then later that day he took me to the House of Flavours and so I start to give into him,” the young man had alleged.

Welshman went on to say that, after the assault continued, he complained to his father who turned a deaf ear so he continued to collect the things which were offered to him by Trotman.

“Around school time he would usually take me to buy all my school things telling my parents that he will take care of the expenses, he would also make sure that

I wear the most expensive clothes and also buy me fancy sneakers and everyone in my class would usually tell me that I am rich with the amount of money I used to go to school with, all of that Uncle Raphael give me,” Welshman had noted.

No effect on motion

Meanwhile, during the news conference, Trotman declared that the allegations of sexual molestation levelled against him will, in no way, affect the impending No-Confidence Motion debate slated for next month. Trotman declared that the Government had from the inception demonstrated no confidence in him. This was quite evident when he was selected to become Speaker of the National Assembly in 2011. “I was elected on a slim one-seat vote. The Government MPs have already no confidence in me when they voted against me when I was being elected,” he said, continuing that he doesn’t know that he has ever won their confidence. “In the face of the fact that the Government never had any confidence in my performance, I have done my best to function in my constitutional office, so I am not at all minded by statements that they have no confidence in me as Speaker”.

The Speaker said both himself and Government understand the position, reiterating that he has done his best as Speaker of the National Assembly. Questioned on whether he thought the current sexual allegations made against him would affect the tabling of the debate of the no-confidence motion. Trotman responded, clarifying that the motion, which “embodies absolute disbelief in the work of the Government, has nothing to do with me as an individual”. He said it was a straightforward motion like any other set in the National Assembly, adding that frankly he could not anticipate anything at this point.

Around the world

First Ebola case diagnosed outside of Africa

... being treated in the US

The first case of the deadly Ebola virus diagnosed on US soil has been confirmed in Dallas, Texas. Officials at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital say the unidentified patient is being kept in isolation.

The man is thought to have contracted the virus in Liberia before travelling to the US nearly two weeks ago. More than 3000 people have already died of Ebola in West Africa and a small number of US aid workers have recovered after being flown to the US.

“An individual travelling from Liberia has been diagnosed with Ebola in the United States,” Centres for Disease Control and Prevention Director Thomas Frieden told reporters on Tuesday.

According to Frieden, the unnamed patient left Liberia on September 19 and arrived in the US the next day without displaying any symptoms of

the virus. Symptoms of the virus became apparent on September 24, and on September 28, he was admitted to a Texas hospital and put in isolation.

A hospital official told reporters on Tuesday the facility already had proce-

dures in place to deal with any such potential cases. Preliminary information indicates the unnamed patient was not involved in treating Ebola-infected patients while in Liberia.

Wave of attacks in Shi’ite parts of Baghdad kill 35

At least 35 people were killed in a wave of car bomb and mortar attacks in mainly Shi’ite Muslim districts of Baghdad on Tuesday, Iraqi Police and medical sources said.

It was one of the most violent days the capital has witnessed since US-led forces began bombing Islamic State insurgents in Iraq last month.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attacks but Islamic

State, ultra-radical Sunni Muslim militants who seized swathes of Northern Iraq in June, claimed several suicide bombings in the capital earlier this year.

Two car bombs exploded in busy streets in the al-Horreyya district, killing 20 people and wounding 35, according to the Police and medical sources. There was also a mortar attack in the Sab al-Bour neighbourhood of Northern Baghdad

that killed five people and wounded 15.

Later on Tuesday, at least seven people were killed and 18 wounded when a car bomb exploded in the mainly Shi’ite Zaa’faraniya district of South-East Baghdad, Police said.

Three mortars also landed in the Shi’ite al-Shula district in the capital’s NorthWest, killing three people and wounding 12, Police said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Hong Kong democracy protesters seek National Day boost

Pro-democracy crowds have stayed on the streets of Hong Kong at the start of National Day –which activists hope will see the largest protests so far.

Tens of thousands of people have been blocking parts of the city for days.

They are demanding that China withdraw plans to vet candidates for the next leadership election in 2017.

Current leader CY Leung

has urged the protesters to go home, and Chinese President Xi Jinping has reaffirmed Beijing’s influence on the territory.

On Tuesday Xi told Communist Party leaders in Beijing that his Government would “unswervingly implement the guidelines of ‘one country, two systems’ and the Basic Law, and steadfastly safeguard the longterm prosperity and sta-

bility of Hong Kong and Macau”.

Leung, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, has rejected campaigners’ call for him to stand down. He is due to attend a ceremony marking National Day, a public holiday that celebrates the founding of communist China in 1949.

The authorities have cancelled a fireworks display that was due to take place late on Wednesday. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Microsoft unveils Windows 10 system with Start Menu

Microsoft has disclosed the first details of Windows 10 – its next operating system (OS).

The name is a surprise, bearing in mind it represents a jump from the last version – Windows 8. The software will run on a wide range of devices, from phones and tablets to PCs and Xbox games consoles, with applications sold from a single store.

It also marks the return of the Start Menu, which had been removed from Windows 8. In addition to offering a list of the user’s favourite applications, the menu also brings up resizable tiles – similar to those featured in Windows 8’s touch-centric interface on PCs and tablets.

These provide a quick view of notifications from relevant applications, such as details of new emails,

Facebook messages and weather forecast updates.

The company said the facility was intended to make the software seem familiar to both users of Windows 8 and Windows 7.

The behaviour of the OS will depend on the type of device with which it is being used. Unlike its predecessor, users will not need to switch between Desktop Mode and the touch-focused alternative. (Excerpt from BBC News)

UN raises alert over neglected Ebola orphans

The number of orphans who have lost at least one parent to an Ebola virus is expected to double in West Africa, the UN children’s fund has said, intensifying a childcare problem as extended family members shun offspring of Ebola victims.

Ebola outbreak has claimed more than 3000 lives in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, leaving at least 3700 children in the hands of relatives who are too frightened to take care of them, UNICEF said.

“The fear surrounding Ebola is becoming stronger than family ties,” Manuel Fontaine, UNICEF’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa, said on Tuesday.

He said that thousands of children mourning dead

parents and in urgent need of support felt “unwanted and even abandoned”.

UNICEF announced that more than 2500 Ebola survivors – who are thought to have some immunity to the virus – will be trained in Sierra Leone to provide care and support to quarantined children in treatment centres.

“Ebola is turning a basic human reaction like comforting a sick child into a potential death sentence,” said Fontaine.

“The vast majority of the children affected by Ebola are still left without appropriate care. We cannot respond to a crisis of this nature and this scale in the usual ways. We need more courage, more creativity, and far far more resources.”

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Police honour

top students of Angoy’s Avenue

B Division Commander

Brian Joseph

Police in Berbice are seeking partnership with youths in an effort to reduce criminal activity in that area, Commander of B Division (Berbice), Assistant Commissioner Brian Joseph has said.

According to him, most of the crime reported is committed by youths. Joseph said the Division is trying to work with those persons.

“We want to continue the partnership with those persons,” he said on Saturday, as he presented monetary donations to the most successful National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) students of Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam.

That section of New Amsterdam has a history of criminal violence.

The Commander made the monetary donations to five students at his office. This follows awards

the five students received two days before as the Safe Neighbourhood Programme (SNP) sought to reach out to them. Commander Joseph noted that of the five students, two of them came from single parents. He urged the students to continue to work hard and not to be distracted. “It is your behaviour that will take you far in life,” he told the students.

Inspiring

Of the students: Shane Sulkar obtained 484 marks at the NGSA, while Marciana Totteram got 501 and Quacy Mohabir, 506 marks. Shellon Scipio obtained eight subjects at CSEC and Ravivana Parsram nine, inclusive of eight grade ones. This is the second straight year that the Division has awarded the most successful students from the community. In 2013, Parsram was a recipient of a quantity of text books from the Commander who said she had made him proud.

On Thursday, the five were recipients of awards from the SNP, which, between 2009 and 2012, trained more than 150 young persons from the same community with skills which can help them to further develop themselves.

2014/2015 Chevening Scholars off to England

Speaking with the Guyana Times , one of the recipients’ parents said it has been “a difficult road”. According to Marcia Totteram, a mother of four, her daughter was always focused on her books. “I could not afford to send her to lessons. I did not have what it takes to send her to extra lessons. She will do her school work and read the newspapers,” she said.

Chakumba Scipio, a single father who lost his wife three years ago, said since then he was forced to bring up three girls alone. “I never had problems trying to get them to do their school work, but it is difficult to bring up three young girls and then have to work,” the proud father said.

SNP Community Relations Officer Philip Rose said that checks were made to the homes of the awardees, and all of them were found to be living under difficult circumstances. He said it was a major achievement that they were successful at their various examinations.

British High Commissioner Andrew Ayre and his wife, Bettina, recently hosted a farewell lunch for the 2014/2015 Chevening Scholars Roovindra Singh and Joann Bond.

High Commissioner Aye congratulated Singh and Bond on being awarded the prestigious scholarship and wished them great success in their studies, which will ul-

timately enable them to gain essential skills and knowledge to benefit Guyana.

Singh will be pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) in Structural Design and Construction Management with Sustainability at Kingston University, while Bond will be pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM) in Advanced Legislative Studies at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies,

University of London. The High Commissioner also announced that for the 2015/2016 period, the Chevening Scholarship award in Guyana would be tripled to six. Applications for 2015/2016 Chevening Scholarships are now open and will close on November 15. Go to www.chevening. org to apply and for more details.

Caribbean looking to boost China trade

GRA to offer tax status updates at GuyExpo A

Taxpayers will be afforded a real-time update on their tax status when they visit the Guyana Revenue Authority’s booth during the Guyana Trade Fair and Exposition, billed for this weekend at the Sophia Exhibition Site.

Patrons are encouraged to take full advantage of the opportunity that will be available throughout the period October 2-5 at the Sophia Exhibition Site. It is the first time the Authority will be providing such a service at GuyExpo, GRA said in a release, adding that as a precondition for accessing their tax information, patrons are asked to provide their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).

The GRA’s booth, located within the Service Pavilion of the Sophia Exhibition Centre, is in the process of being outfitted with the req-

uisite utilities, including Internet access, allowing the GRA staff on site the capacity to provide tax status updates.

Meanwhile, the team of Tax Specialists and Public Relations Officers manning the booth will also be available to answer questions and offer advice on any tax related matter. Patrons are also free to uplift booklets and other publications at zero cost.

GuyExpo 2014 provides yet another opportunity for the GRA to fulfil its mandate of promoting compliance through education. It is a mandate that has fostered the Authority’s participation in other public events like Berbice Expo and Career Fair activities. Taxpayers should always be conscious of their current tax status to ascertain whether or not they are indebted to the GRA or entitled to a refund.

contingent of representatives from four of the Region’s Business Support Organisations (BSOs) participated in the Eighth China-LAC Business Summit in Changsha, September 12-13, supported by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export). The Summit is the promotion mechanism and platform of economic and trade cooperation between China and Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

The mission to China, led by Donville Inniss, Minister of Industry, International Business, Commerce and Small Business Development for Barbados, sought to build relations, discover new potential trading partners and promote the Caribbean for viable investment opportunities.

Speaking at the ChinaLAC Summit, Minister Inniss noted that the areas for future cooperation

between China and the Caribbean included financial services, logistics, tourism and hotel development, agribusiness and infrastructure development.

The participation of these BSOs – JAMPRO, InvestSVG, the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Chamber of Commerce of Haiti, is an important step towards not only strengthening the capacity of the BSOs to understand the Chinese market but also to enable the BSOs to work with the Region’s private sector to strategically target and penetrate the Chinese market for exports and investments.

Increased access

The Caribbean delegates also took the opportunity to further discussions with the Tianjin authorities and business groups on investment and prospects for future trading relations. Meetings with the China Ministry of Commerce, and in particu-

lar the International Trade Development Bureau, enabled the discussion on the support that could be offered to the Caribbean allowing for increased access of Caribbean products into the Chinese market. In addition, talks with the China Development Bank led to enlightenment as to how the Caribbean could access available resources in China earmarked for infrastructure development, as well as commercially viable projects in the Caribbean.

Another key meeting that was held during the mission was with ChinaGoAbroad whose members-only platform provides information and connections for Chinese companies as well as their global counterparts seeking international business partners, investment opportunities and joint ventures in a variety of sectors. Future collaboration with these partners will be led by Caribbean Export as the Agency seeks to strategi-

cally position the Region for trade and investments from China. Caribbean Export is a regional export development and trade and investment promotion organisation of the Forum of Caribbean States (CARIFORUM) currently executing the Regional Private Sector Programme (RPSDP) funded by the European Union under the 10th European Development Fund (EDF). Caribbean Export’s mission is to increase the competitiveness of Caribbean countries by providing quality export development and trade and investment promotion services through effective programme execution and strategic alliances.

The China-LAC Business Summit is managed by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT). The event promotes policy dialogue at the Government level, but also promotes Chinese investments in Latin American and Caribbean markets.

Demerara Bank donates cash to Anna Regina Fire Station

To aid in the promotion of Fire Prevention Week, which officially commences on October 5, Demerara Bank’s Essequibo Branch on Tuesday made a monetary donation to the Anna Regina Fire Station.

The handing over of the cash was done by Branch Manager Anna Abraham. Abraham said that it is the second contribution made by the Bank to help the Fire Station to promote as well as to observe Fire Prevention Week. Accepting the contribution was Officer in Charge of Anna Fire Station, Edoo Kalamadeen who thanked the Bank for the donation. He said that the money will be put to good use informing persons about Fire Prevention. Several activities, including a school rally, is planned to observe the week.

Next phase of Protected Areas System Project set for implementation

In another major step for Guyana’s Protected Areas, the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry recently concluded discussions with the German Development Bank (Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau – KfW), that will pave the way for the launching of the Guyana Protected Areas System Project (GPAS), Phase III.

The agreement will see €4.8 million (approximately US$6 million) in funding being provided towards activities in selected Protected Areas and surrounding buffer zones, the Ministry said in a release on Tuesday.

According to Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud, the GPAS Phase III is a major step in addressing the needs of the country’s new National Protected Areas System. The Project will commence in 2015, and will focus primarily on infrastructure for the effective management of Shell Beach, Kaieteur National Park, and the Kanuku Mountains, he said.

Further, Minister Persaud pointed out that the funding will also support sustainable livelihood projects in communities adjacent to these Protected Areas, visitor facilities, biodiversity assessments, and the strengthening of the Environmental Protection Agency, as the Ministry increases the enforcement of environmental safeguards in the buffer areas surrounding the Parks.

This is the latest initia-

tive in a long history of cooperation between Guyana and Germany. In 2004, the countries implemented the €2.56 million GPAS Project – Phase I, which supported sustainable livelihood projects in more than 30 Amerindian communities, the drafting of the National Protected Areas Act, delineation plans for both the Kanuku Mountains and Shell Beach Protected Areas, and a draft Kanuku Mountains Management Plan.

The successful implementation of Phase I led to the approval of an additional €5 million for GPAS – Phase II, which is currently in its final stages of implementation. Phase II saw the provision of €4 million as an endowment to

the Protected Areas Trust Fund and over €1 million in support for the establishment of the Protected Areas Commission’s main office, the completion of the Tukeit Guesthouse in the Kaieteur Falls gorge, new staff quarters for Kaieteur Rangers, and the drafting of the first Management Plan for Shell Beach Protected Area. A detailed Separate Agreement for GPAS III is to be developed shortly, and it is the intention of the Government of Guyana that this new commitment will be used to further support the country’s efforts to conserve Guyana’s forests through the National Protected Areas System, and ultimately the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

wednesday, october 1, 2014 | guyanatimesgy.com

APNU in outreach to Corentyne

APartnership for National Unity Member of Parliament Joseph Harmon and a team of officials from the party on Sunday visited the East Berbice-Corentyne area (Region Six), meeting residents as part of their countrywide outreach exercise.

Harmon met with residents of Skeldon, Number 52 Village and Caledonia, the party said in a release. Harmon, in his ad-

dress to residents, dealt with matters such as the APNU’s persistent call on the Government of Guyana to name a date for the hosting of Local Government Elections which is constitutionally overdue. Harmon also reiterated that Local Government Elections were not held for over 17 years, and “this is a blatant violation of the laws of Guyana”. He outlined to residents the Partnership’s position relating to Local

Government Elections and General Elections. “APNU continues to call on the Government to ‘call’ Local Government Elections and is also supportive of the AFC’s tabled ‘No-Confidence Motion’ in Parliament.” According to the release, he told residents of the three villages that APNU expects the President to abide by the Constitution and name a date for Local Government Elections.

Adventist Pastor abducted during church service in East Ukraine

ASeventh-day

Adventist pastor is missing after being abducted by gunmen during a communion service last Sabbath at a church in separatist-controlled astern Ukraine, local church leaders said.

Unidentified men carrying machine guns and wearing camouflage burst into the church in the city of Horlivka on September 27 and seized Pastor Sergei Litovchenko, the Ukrainian Union Conference said. “They interrupted the worship service and forced the worshipers to disperse,” it said in a statement. “They ordered Pastor Sergei Litovchenko to close the church, forced him into a car, and drove away in an unknown direction.”

The incident occurred as the pastor was leading the congregation in a communion service in the small, rectangular church located at 1 Ulitsa Horlovskoi Divizii. Adventist churches around the world commemorated Jesus’ Last Supper on September 27 as is customary on the last Sabbath of each quarter. The Horlivka gunmen justified their actions by saying that “this is Orthodox land and there is no place for various sects here”, the conference statement said.

They refused to say who they were and what right they had to disrupt the church’s activities, replying bluntly to church members’ questions, “It’s none of your business.”

The Ukrainian Union Conference was trying to establish the whereabouts of the pastor. “Where he is and what has happened to him is unknown,” said Vassily Nichik, Director of the Public Affairs and Religious Liberty Department of the West Russian Union Conference, which borders eastern Ukraine.

“Please pray for him,” he said on his Facebook page.

Troubling development

The abduction is a troubling development for the Adventist Church in eastern Ukraine, where clashes between pro-Russia separatists and Ukrainian Government forces have killed more than 3500 people since April. Separatists, who support the Orthodox faith and have spoken critically of Protestantism as a sect, have detained several church members in the past, but always released them quickly.

No Seventh-day Adventist has been injured or killed in eastern Ukraine, where the conflict de-escalated into an uneasy cease-

fire on September 5. Only one church building has suffered major damage.

John Graz, Director of the Adventist world church’s Public Affairs and Religious Liberty Department, expressed deep concern over the kidnapping and said he was puzzled over why anyone would target the pastor. “Our church is officially recognised in Russia and Ukraine, and we expect our members and pastors to be respected by the authorities on the territory of eastern Ukraine,” Graz said Monday. “The Seventh-day Adventist Church is not involved in politics, and we don’t understand why it should be attacked.”

(Adventist News Network)

Winners of MoneyGram Back-ToSchool promotion receive prizes

Winners of the MoneyGram and SurePay Back-toSchool Promotions received computers, printers and bill certificates at the presentation ceremony hosted by Neal and Massy Services Limited (NMSL) on Friday at NM staff facilities at Ruimveldt, Georgetown. The five winners of the MoneyGram promotion who received laptop computers with printers were Marlene Dookie of Zeeburg North, West Coast Demerara; Annie Gordon Morgan of Jackson Street, Better Hope, East Coast Demerara; Charles Harvey of One Mile, Linden; Bernadette Smith

of Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden; and John Singh of Martyrs Ville.

Three SurePay winners – James Lowe of Charlotte Street, Lacytown; Savita Ramrattan of Second Street, Alexander Village; and Deonarine Nandealall of Better Hope South, each received bill certificates valued at $20,000.

NMSL Chairman Deo Persaud congratulated the winners and all customers who participated in the promotions and disclosed that there will be another promotion to coincide with Diwali celebrations while the annual Christmas promotions will be launched in

November.

“Education is important to all of us and the “Back to School” promotion provides the tools to equip our valued customers to pursue their educational goals,” he added in reference to the presentation of computers and printers to the winners.

MoneyGram Manager Debbie Baldeo said the much-anticipated promotions, which started on August 1 and ended on September 14, attracted loyal customers from across the country. A few of the winners expressed their gratitude to MoneyGram and SurePay for hosting the promotions.

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

(May 21June 20)

CANCER

Keep your creative ideas under wraps. It’s likely that you will find a market for your innovations, but this is not the right time to say goodbye to your current employer.

Love and romance will be at the top of your list. Sharing your feelings and dreams with someone special will strengthen your bonds and give you insight into what the future holds.

Residential changes are imminent. Get started redecorating or renovating. Legal and real estate issues will come to a favorable conclusion. Make your next move with confidence.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

PISCES

(Feb. 20March 20)

All work and no play is unhealthy and unnecessary. Prepare something that you can do with your peers, colleagues, friends or family in order to reduce your stress level and build closer relationships.

By the time you explain what you want done, you could have completed the work yourself. Take time to do the things you enjoy most. You deserve some fun.

Use your peers as sounding boards to get feedback regarding your next venture. You’ll receive some worthwhile contributions and suggestions. Use whatever criticism you receive to your benefit.

This is a fine time to move forward with a professional change that you’ve been contemplating. A minor windfall or a surprising reimbursement or gift can be expected. You are in a high creative cycle. You will be able to make the most of every situation if you let your intuition guide you. Complete your plans.

Retreat to the sidelines and watch what develops. You should delay making any decisions or refinements to your plans until you are confident that you can achieve success.

Excessive personal, financial or emotional upheavals need to be avoided. Practice patience and learn to take gradual steps that will lead to a steady and positive future.

Create an opportunity to prove your value. You have the knowledge and personality to be successful, but your talents will go undiscovered if you don’t display what you have to offer. Stay on equal terms in a personal relationship. If you are constantly making concessions just to please someone, it’s time to start a dialogue and share your grievances. Ease your mind by voicing your concerns.

A...

Marsh, Hogg knock Lions out

Amust-win pressurecooker contest for a team, an improbable equation from the outset, then a lost toss, a batting collapse, a seriously underwhelming total of 124, followed by an even more challenging taskto hold the opposition to 78.

Olympic

For most, it would have been a lost cause. But when it's a team from Pakistan, one almost expects a miracle every single time.

Lahore Lions employed Test-match fields from the first over, their spinners created panic in the Perth

swimming champion Michael Phelps arrested for drunk driving

Michael Phelps was arrested for drunken driving early on Tuesday after speeding and then crossing the double-lane lines inside the Fort McHenry Tunnel in Baltimore.

The Olympic swimming champion was clocked by radar at around 1.40am travelling at 84mph in a 45mph zone, police said. The 18-times Olympic gold medalist was booked and released.

Police said the 29-year-old was “unable to perform satisfactorily a series of standard field sobriety tests,” adding he was cooperative “throughout the process”.

Phelps issued an apology via his Twitter account on Tuesday.

“Earlier this morning, I was arrested and charged with DUI, excessive speeding and crossing double lane lines,” he wrote.

“I understand the severity of my actions and take full responsibility. I know these words may not mean much right now but I am deeply sorry to everyone I have let down.”

Michael Phelps was stopped by police in Maryland and "was unable to perform satisfactorily a series of standard field sobriety tests". Rafael Neddermeyer/Getty Images

The swimmer has been charged with drunk driving before. In November 2004, he was stopped in Salisbury, Maryland, after failing to stop for a stop sign. Phelps pleaded guilty to driving while impaired and was fined $250 and ordered to serve 18 months probation. (theguardian)

Scorchers ranks, their fielders gobbled away all the chances, the wicketkeeper affected a stumping, there were appeals that were given, there were ones that were not given too. For 13 overs, the hopes of Lions' progression to semis remained strong as Scorchers were reduced to 64 for 7, until Brad Hogg drove, cut and hoicked 15 runs in the 14th over, bowled by Adnan Rasool, to shut the doors on Lions and let Chennai Super Kings through to the knockouts. The result - Scorchers winning by three wicketswas only of academic interest.

Lions had been in such a situation in the qualification stage of the tournament too. Faced with a must-win task, they bowled out Southern Express for 109 to register a heavy 55-run win. But their batting this evening, and the Robert Frylinck assault in their previous game that ate away on their net run rate, left them too big a task at hand.

Still, Mohammed Hafeez shrugged away the shadow of suspect-action sleuths and provided the ideal start, nipping out the wicket of open-

er Craig Simmons in the first over, getting him caught bat-pad at short leg. Replays showed the ball had missed the edge though. There was an inside edge off the very next ball, and the catch was taken at short leg, but unfortunately for Hafeez, the umpire Rod Tucker missed it completely.

The first over set the tone for Lions' fightback as their spinners made regular strikes, with Mustafa Iqbal picking up two wickets in the fifth over. By the ninth over, Scorchers were reduced to 40 for 6 but Mitchell Marsh, the stand-in skipper, maintained an aggressive stance against the spinners and fast bowlers alike. Once Scorchers crossed the figure of 78, the 125-run target was achieved with relative ease.

Even that target had appeared improbable after the start Lions had to their innings. Joel Paris removed Nasir Jamshed and Umar Siddiq in the first over, then Marsh picked the big wicket of Hafeez in the second. Wahab Riaz, promoted up the order, did not make a dent to the score, departing in the

SCOREBOARD

Lahore Lions innings

Nasir Jamshed c Hogg b Paris 1 Umar Siddiq b Paris 1 Mohammad Hafeez* b Marsh 0 Wahab Riaz c Agar b Marsh 0 Saad Nasim not out 69 Umar Akmal† c sub (JP Behrendorff) b Hogg 26 Mohammad Saeed b Paris 20 Asif Raza not out 2

Extras (w 5) 5

Total (6 wickets; 20 overs) 124

Did not bat Mustafa Iqbal, Adnan Rasool, Aizaz Cheema Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Nasir Jamshed), 2-2 (Umar Siddiq), 3-2 (Mohammad Hafeez), 4-11 (Wahab Riaz), 5-54 (Umar Akmal), 6-102 (Mohammad Saeed)

Bowling: JS Paris 4-0-223, MR Marsh 3-0-12-2, Yasir Arafat 3-0-27-0, MA Beer

4-0-27-0, GB Hogg 4-024-1, AC Agar 2-0-12-0 Perth Scorchers innings CT Bancroft b Mustafa Iqbal 22

(Simmons), 2-2 (Whiteman), 3-23

Mashrafe named ODI captain, Mushfiqur stays Test captain

Mashrafe Mortaza will lead the Bangladesh ODI side in the five-match series against Zimbabwe from November 21. Mushfiqur Rahim remains the Test captain but only for the upcoming series, which effectively means his reign as captain has been terminated by the Bangladesh Cricket Board. Mushfiqur's term was to go on until the 2015 World Cup when he was retained as captain in November 2013.

Shakib Al Hasan has been named Mashrafe's deputy, while Tamim Iqbal will be vice-captain in Tests. Bangladesh will have split captaincy for the first time and the three new appointments create a larger leadership group, with the team's four most experienced cricketers involved.

"The board has decided to appoint Mashrafe Mortaza as ODI captain for the Zimbabwe series," BCB president Nazmul Hassan said. "His deputy will be Shakib Al Hasan. Mushfiqur Rahim will remain as Test captain, with

Tamim Iqbal being his vicecaptain. Before we announced the new captain, the board has spoken to Mushfiqur, who was not negative about any of this.

"What we decide for the future will depend on what happens in the Zimbabwe series. This [split captaincy] is an experiment before we take a final decision on the World Cup. Prior to their departure for the Asian Games, I spoke to Mashrafe, Shakib and Tamim. They know of their responsibilities, but I reminded them that they are senior cricketers and our best players. Everything that they do - their attitude and behaviour - is linked to the team spirit."

Shakib assumes a position of greater responsibility for the first time since being sacked as captain in 2011. Tamim was made vice-captain for the Sri Lanka tour at the start of 2014, but it was Mashrafe who was made stop-gap T20 captain when Mushfiqur got injured in the Test series. There had been tension in the Bangladesh camp, after which

Tamim stepped down from the vice-captain's role.

The decision to release Mushfiqur from ODI captaincy was made to help preserve his batting form. He is Bangladesh's highest run-

scorer in fifty-over cricket this year, with 491 runs at an average of 44.63 with a hundred and four

Franklin guides Tridents to lone victory

James Franklin guided Barbados Tridents to a solitary win over Northern Knights in the inconsequential final group match of the Champions League T20. With 12 needed off the final over, Franklin hit fellow New

Zealander Tim Southee's full tosses for a six and a four to haul Tridents home with two balls and six wickets to spare. Zimbabwe limited-overs captain Elton Chigumbura played his part, lofting and pulling Trent Boult for a couple of fours in the penultimate over with 23 needed off 12. Jonathan Carter, the leading rungetter of the main round of the tournament, chipped in with a steady 30 before he fell to another relay catch from Knights, Anton

Rafael nadal beats Richard gasquet in china on injury return

orld number three

WRafael Nadal made a winning return from injury by beating France's Richard Gasquet 6-4 6-0 in the first round of the China Open.

Nadal, 28, was playing his first match since recovering from the wrist injury that has sidelined him since Wimbledon.

The 14-time Grand Slam champion was joined in the next round by Novak Djokovic, who beat Spain's Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 6-2 6-1.

The world number one is aiming for a record fifth China Open title . Djokovic, 27, is unbeaten in the tournament, having won all his previous 19 matches since his 2009 de-

but. He missed the 2011 edition through injury.

"Most of the players do feel a little bit exhausted," said the Serb.

"But I'm fighting for number one of the world. Of course, every tournament is important. This is already a huge motivation."

Djokovic will play Vasek Pospisil in the second round in Beijing after the Canadian beat Lukas Rosol 6-4 6-3 on Monday, while sixth seed Andy Murray saw off Poland's Jerzy Janowicz 6-7 (9-11) 6-4 6-2.

Nadal, who goes on to face German qualifier Peter Gojowczyk, was satisfied with the way his wrist responded to competition.

"It's not 100%, but let's say 90%," said the Spaniard.

"I have to be happy the way that I played. Three months without a match, winning against a good player like Richard, is a very positive comeback for me."

Third seed Tomas Berdych also made progress as he defeated Feliciano Lopez 6-1 6-2, dropping just 10 points on serve.

British number one Andy Murray, who is seeded sixth and won the Shenzhen Open title on Sunday, is in action against Poland's Jerzy Janowicz on the Lotus Court.

In the women's competition, top seed and world number one Serena Williams beat Bulgarian qualifier Tsvetana Pironkova 6-2 6-3 in the second round.

"I wanted to start out strong, so that was the main difference," said the American, who had to recover from 5-0 down in her opening match on Monday.

"It was just making sure I was able to win a game early on."

Second seed Simona Halep beat Lin Zhu 7-5 6-4 in round two, while fourth seed Maria Sharapova defeated Elina Svitolina 6-2 6-2.

Italy's Roberta Vinci caused an upset with a 6-4 6-4 win over fifth seed Agnieszka Radwanska, while Germany's Sabine Lisicki beat eighth seed Eugenie Bouchard 6-2 6-4. (BBCSport)

Devcich and Daryl Mitchell the combination this time after Southee and Mitchell did it against Lahore Lions in the qualifiers.

The catch gave Ish Sodhi his third wicket, and it was the legspinner who had dented the chase after Tridents had motored to 49 for 1 in seven overs. Sodhi had Raymon Reifer and Jason Holder holing out in the space of three deliveries in his second over.

Dilshan Munaweera had given the chase a kickstart with a quick 20, but fell to a spectacular diving catch by Mitchell. Carter and Franklin steadied the innings with a 56run fourth-wicket partnership in just under eight overs before Franklin and Chigumbura shared an unbeaten stand of 33 off 20. Knights had labored to 135 for 8 in 19 overs after the match was marginally shortened following a nearly hour-long rain interruption during their innings. Before the break, Devcich and Daniel Flynn had put on 60 in 8.2 overs but the Knights captain fell to Munaweera just before the players went off, and Knights tapered off after the resumption.

Devcich was around till the 13th over but could never really get going in a run-a-ball 47. Several of his strokes were powered straight to fielders. He played and missed regularly, and even when they hadn't lost too many wickets, Knights weren't able to build much momentum.

In the same over in

which Devcich was run out, Scott Styris swung his second ball to deep midwicket. BJ Watling looked good during his swift 29 but Devcich's crawl had cost Knights too many overs, and despite taking 46 off the last four overs, they fell short of posting a daunting target. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

WB o promises to investigate Paul smith’s defeat by arthur abraham

Paul Smith could be handed the chance of a rematch with Arthur Abraham after the World Boxing Organisation acknowledged one of their judges “screwed up” in Germany on Saturday in the world super-middleweight title fight.

The WBO president, Paco Valcarcel, has promised to investigate Fernando Laguna’s decision to score the fight 119-109 to the champion, Abraham, while the other two judges made it 117-111.

Smith’s promoter, Eddie

Hearn, said that, despite the unanimous and emphatic decision, he planned to appeal to the WBO to have Paul Smith installed as mandatory challenger and his request could now be granted after the intervention of the official.

“Regarding #AbrahamSmith, I assure you that I review each and every scorecard for WBO title fights. Fernando Laguna screwed up Sat night,” tweeted Valcarcel on Tuesday.

“35yrs in boxing have taught me that anyone

can have a bad night- but not two. Our WBO officials should be aware of this.”

The WBO general secretary, José R Izquierdo II, later added on Twitter: “Procedure for #AbrahamSmith: Championship Committee receives petition, analyzes supervisor report, hears both sides and makes determination.

“Also a possibility as part of the WBO’s assessment of #AbrahamSmith is commissioning a panel of independent and anonymous judges to review.” (theguardian)

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Somerset appoint ex- glamorgan coach

Matthew Maynard has been named as Somerset's new director of cricket.

The 48-year-old has been coaching in South Africa and the Caribbean Premier League since quitting as Glamorgan boss four years ago.

The former England batsman and batting coach arrives at Taunton following the departure of Dave Nosworthy at the end of the season.

South African Nosworthy announced last month he was to leave the county two years into his three-year contract.

Somerset finished the summer in sixth place in the Championship Division One table, having failed to reach the knock-out stages in the limited-overs competitions.

"The spine behind the club is really solid and they're all good people - that's what really impressed me," Maynard told BBC Somerset.

"It's exciting times. They've got a number of good young players alongside the skilled senior players.

"Now it's down to me to create an environment for them to reach their potential and that's certainly

what I'll be trying to do."

Maynard was a Glamorgan player for 20 years between 1985 and 2005, and led the club to the Championship title in 1997. He went on to become director of cricket at the Welsh club, but resigned in 2010 after Colin Metson was brought in as head coach. Maynard took a break from the game following the death of his son Tom, the former Glamorgan and Surrey batsman, in 2012, before working abroad in the Twenty20 game, as well as coaching Glamorgan's youngsters. (Cricinfo)

Andy Murray fights back to beat Jerzy Janowicz at China Open

Andy Murray followed up his first title for 15 months with a hard-fought win over Poland's Jerzy Janowicz in the first round of the China Open.

The British number one came through 6-7 (9-11) 6-4 6-2 and will face Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas in round two.

Murray, 27, was back on court just 48 hours after ending his title drought 900 miles away in Shenzhen.

The Scot began the week 10th in the race for the eight places at November's season-ending ATP Finals in London.

With a number of rivals likely to improve their standing in Beijing this week, it was vital that Murray built on the winning run he began in Shenzhen.

"The conditions here are

opposite to what I've played in Shenzhen," said Murray.

"Today when we finished the match it was 11 degrees. When we were playing in Shenzhen, it was 33, 34 degrees, and incredibly humid. It was very, very different and a quick turnaround to get used to that.

"I'm just going to play each match, try and fight through them if I can.

"I don't feel like I played a particularly good match today. I fought very hard and tried my best and managed to get the win. That's what I'll try and do this week."

Janowicz, ranked 36th, took advantage of some slack Murray serving early on to break three times on his way to a 5-1 lead, but the Pole has been inconsistent this year and looked increasingly fragile as his op-

ponent found some rhythm. Murray appeared in control at 4-1 in the tie-break but was pegged back in an edgy contest, and failed to convert two set points - the second of which offered the Scot an inviting chance at a backhand pass. When Janowicz, 23, grabbed his third opportunity to seal the set with a crunching forehand winner, a frustrated Murray smashed his racquet into the court.

After six breaks of serve in the opening set, the second was a tighter affair, but having saved an early break point Murray got the decisive breakthrough at 4-4, thanks in large part to a poor smash and ill-judged decision to serve-volley from Janowicz.

If Murray had cut a frustrated figure for much of the first two hours, it was Janowicz who boiled over heading into the third as two double faults saw him drop serve at 1-1 - the Pole responding by hurling his racquet across the court. Murray was now crowding the baseline, his footwork looking sharper, and a searing backhand winner earned the double-break at 5-2 as he went on to close out the match in two hours and 28 minutes. (BBCSport)

Flex Night Int'l set for December 7 at Cultural Centre

Flex Night International 2014 is set for December 7 at the National Cultural Centre. Flex Night Inc, headed by Donald Sinclair, on Tuesday launched the 2014 Flex Night International at the Hermandston Lodge in Georgetown.

The event will feature muscle men and women from the Dutch Island of Aruba, Suriname, Barbados and Brazil, clashing on stage with some of Guyana’s finest and for the first time, inmates from the Camp Street Prison and representatives from the Guyana

Prison Service will be participating at a body building competition.

According to Sinclair, the response from gyms across Guyana is overwhelming.

Reigning Mr Flex Night International Koese Soepe of Suriname is expected to make a return to Guyana

to defend his title, while Sinclair noted that two females are expected from Brazil; one based in the South American country and the other from the northeastern state of Amapa.

Meanwhile, for the first time in Guyana, Flex Night will have a Men’s Physique competition.

Flex Night Inc was legally incorporated in January 2012 and has committed itself to the highest standards in the planning and staging of bodybuilding and fitness events in Guyana.

The mission of Flex Night Inc is to propagate, through the planning and execution of appropriate bodybuilding, fitness and related promotional events, the attractiveness of the health, fitness and bodybuilding lifestyle.

The company has pledged its full support and cooperation to the GABBFF and the Sport and Health Ministries, as those entities pursue strategies aimed at raising awareness of the contribution of sport, especially bodybuilding and fitness, to the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.

Manchester City held by Roma

Manchester City discovered how hard they will have to fight to qualify for the Champions League knockout phase after they were held to a draw by Roma at Etihad Stadium.

Sergio Aguero's penalty put City ahead in the opening minutes but veteran Francesco Totti set the Serie A runners-up on the way to a fully deserved point when he became the oldest player to score in the Champions League with a clever equaliser before halftime.

At 38 years and three days, he eclipsed Manchester United's Ryan Giggs and left City still searching for their first win in Group E following their opening defeat by Bayern Munich in Germany.

City will still feel confident of qualification from the group

but, with Bayern favourites after two wins, Roma have demonstrated they will pose a serious threat to their aspirations of moving out of this tough section as Manuel Pellegrini's side still have to visit Italy.

Former Italy attacker Totti may be in the twilight of his marvellous career but he showed a guile and composure that often proved beyond City, who still seem to be searching for a self-belief in this competition that equates to the stature of the players in their squad.

Roma, without injured midfield powerhouses Kevin Strootman and Daniele De Rossi, were combative in midfield and showed the sort of pace in attack that will trouble City in the return meeting.

And in former England defender Ashley Cole, they have an accomplished player still

more than capable of holding his own in the Champions League.

City battled manfully but struggled to find the drive and quality to break down Roma, whose fans were far more satisfied at the final whistle than the home side's followers.

As expected, City goalkeeper Joe Hart was recalled after being rested for two games, but the first action came at the other end as the hosts took the lead from the penalty spot inside four minutes.

Former City defender Maicon senselessly dragged Aguero back as he raced into the area. The veteran Brazilian looked mystified but his protests fell on deaf ears and Aguero sent Lukasz Skorupski the wrong way.

If City thought this would smooth their path, Roma had

Sunil Narine likely for CLT20 semi-final

Kolkata Knight Riders have accepted the decision taken by the match officials against Sunil Narine, their premier offspinner, whose quicker ball was reported as suspect by the on-field umpires during the match against Dolphins in Hyderabad and are likely to field him in their XI for the semi-final against Hobart Hurricanes on October 2.

Narine has been put on the warning list, but is allowed to play on in the tournament. However, any subsequent offence will disqualify him from bowling in any BCCI-conducted tournament. Narine had finished with figures of 3 for 33 on the day to script a 36-run victory for Knight Riders and is the highest wickettaker in the tournament. His consistency has been key to Knight Riders qualifying for the semi-finals with a clean slate in the group stage.

ESPNcricinfo understands that on-field umpires Anil Chaudhary and

Narine was on a hat-trick after he grabbed two wickets off the last two deliveries of his third over. Then, two balls before ending his spell, Narine pitched a length delivery that missed Kyle Abbott's stumps by a few inches. That ball was measured at 100 kph. Narine was told about the complaint after the game by match referee Andy Pycroft in the presence of the on-field umpires. It is understood that Pycroft told Narine specifically of the three deliveries being under the scanner and nothing else. Pycroft also spoke with Knight Riders coach Trevor Bayliss later. Incidentally Kumar Dharmasena, the ICC Elite Panel umpire, was the TV official for last night's match and has now been involved in official complaints for all the four bowlers reported for suspect actions so far in the tournament. Considering the sensitive nature of the issue, of-

other ideas and Maicon should have equalised almost immediately when he raced on to Totti's pass and hammered a rising shot against the bar from an angle.

Roma kept coming, however, and the equaliser they deserved duly arrived after 20 minutes. Totti was sent clear by Radja Nainggolan's pass and took advantage of an unfortunate slip by Hart as he came off his line, showing wonderful touch and technique to score with a lofted finish.

It had been an anxious first 45 minutes for City and their fans, with Pellegrini opting to introduce more solidity at the start of the second half by introducing James Milner for Jesus Navas.

There was no immediate impact on Roma as Hart blocked crucially from Miralem Pjanic and the keeper was relieved to see his curling 25-yard shot drift inches wide seconds later.

Pellegrini felt the need to add further experience after 56 minutes when Frank Lampard replaced the subdued Edin Dzeko - and he almost added to his tally of four goals in the past 10 days with a low shot that was turned aside by Skorupski.

As Roma's efforts took their toll in the closing minutes, David Silva almost grabbed a winner, but he could only turn Pablo Zabaleta's cross wide at the near post. (BBCSport)

Chettihody Shamshuddin specifically picked the fourth and fifth deliveries of the 15th over and the fourth ball of the penultimate over of Dolphins' innings as suspect. All were quicker deliveries.

On Monday, Narine's first over had gone for 12 runs including three fours and he was held in reserve for the later overs. Dolphins were recovering from a poor start with the middle-order pair of Khaya Zondo and Andile Phehlukwayo adding 44 runs when Narine returned. The equation read 77 runs to win from the last six overs.

Phehlukwayo, the 18-year-old left-hander from KwaZulu Natal, punished Narine for bowling short with consecutive boundaries off his second and third deliveries, including a reverse pull. Narine hit back, bowling a straighter delivery that pegged back Phehlukwayo's off stump and sent the bails flying. The delivery speed was 98 kph. Narine bowled a carrom ball next, clocked at 99 kph, and deceived new batsman Robbie Frylinck and the edge flew towards third man.

ficials from various teams have remained tight-lipped on the incident. But one official from a team whose bowler was reported admitted that the exercise seemed to be part of the "same thread" of enforcement by the ICC on suspect actions. He said that the clause on illegal bowling actions had been part of the IPL and CLT20 for a while, but it was only recently that "the decision that we are going to enforce the clause" was taken. "It is not that they are after us specifically," the official said. This is the second time Narine's action has come under the scanner. In 2011, after Trinidad & Tobago won the Caribbean T20 championship, Narine was one of the nine players match officials had listed to have had a suspect action. Narine underwent rigorous tests before he announced himself to the world in the 2011 edition of the Champions League Twenty20. After Knight Riders bought him for US$ 700,000 in the IPL auction in 2012, Narine played a big hand in the franchise winning its maiden crown.

TV audiences double for 2014 CPL

– remarkable success continues off-field with release of outstanding broadcasting figures

New figures published today indicate a significant growth in fans for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), with over 65 million people across the globe tuning in to see the likes of Chris Gayle, Kevin Pietersen, Kieron Pollard and Sunil Narine entertain in the 2014 edition of the Biggest Party in Sport.

The stand-out figures show remarkable growth in the Indian fan base, with 21m fans, a seven-fold increase on 2013, following the tournament.

Viewing figures in the Caribbean showed a strong rise, from 31m to 39m, while there were 1.6m viewers in Pakistan and 600,000 in South Africa – a ten-fold year on year increase.

There was a 174 per cent rise in British fans following the tournament, while viewing numbers in Australia (65 per cent), New Zealand (192 per cent) and the USA (10 per cent) also jumped markedly.

Pete Russell, Chief Operating Officer of the CPL, said; “The Biggest Party in Sport just keeps getting bigger, and for that we would

like to thank our fans and broadcast partners. A unique blend of sport and entertainment has helped to establish the CPL as one of the key highlights in the cricketing calendar, and we can’t wait for next year, where our fans will be able to see even more global stars competing in the most exciting T20 tournament around.”

The Barbados Tridents were handed victory by CPL officials in the 2014 edition in a highly controversial final which the Guyana Amazon Warriors have since challenged.

Laparkan 11-race cycling meet on Saturday

The inner circuit of the National Park will become a cycling speedway for some of the country’s top cyclists in the Laparkan Holdings Limited annual 11-race cycling programme on Saturday.

Now in its tenth year, and organised by national cycling coach Hassan Mohamed, the event will begin at 09:00h and cyclists will compete in a number of categories.

Robin Persaud will defend his title in the feature 35-lap School Boys and Invitational race, having won the event last

Albion beat Port Mourant to reach final

Albion Community Centre made light work of arch rivals Port Mourant Cricket Club in their semi-final match of the Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) First Division 50-Over Knock-out Cricket on Sunday at the Port Mourant Community Centre and in the process set up a meeting with Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club Cricket team in the final.

The final is billed for Sunday under lights at the Albion Community Centre. In their semi-final match on Sunday Port Mourant lost the toss, were sent in to take first strike and found runs difficult to come by. They were eventually all out for 138 in 49.2 overs.

Loyydel Lewis provided little resistance with a top score of 34 while Troy

Gonsalves chipped in with 26 and Zamal Khan made a patient 34.

Port Mourant never threatened to make a challenging score, as Gudakesh Motie and Veerasammy

Permaul spun a web around the Port Mourant batsmen, each taking 3 for 20 off 10 overs each.

Andrea Percival grabbed 2 for 15 from 9 overs as runs were non-ex -

istent in many overs and the Port Mourant batsmen seemed to be playing a four-day game. Balchand Baldeo and Daniel Lewis each took one wicket, as Port Mourant failed to bat out the 50 overs, falling four balls short.

Set a modest 139 for victory, Albion started cautiously but soon were up and merrily on their way.

Berbice wicket keeper batsman Anthony Bramble was particularly severe on the bowlers, forcing Port Mourant to use eight bowlers to send down 26 overs, as Albion overhauled the total with almost half of the overs remaining. Bramble was left not out on 58 and Permaul on 13 as Albion reached 1404. David Latcha was dismissed for 22. (Andrew Carmichael)

Registration for 5-stage gaining momentum

– October 13 is deadline for submission of entries

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Registration for this year “Ride for Life” Five-Stage cycling meet is gaining momentum, but according to chief organiser Hassan Mohamed, the number of entries is expected to increase significantly as the time draws closer.

Dubbed, Guyana’s premier event on the local cycling calendar, the cycling meet in its eighth year, is billed for October 16-19.

In an invited comment on Tuesday, Mohamed, the long-serving national cycling coach, revealed that registration has been slow so far, but he is not worried as that has been the norm over the years.

year in one hour, 18 minutes, 16 seconds (01h: 18:16). He crossed the line last year ahead of Alanzo

“The event always attracts a large turnout of cyclists both locally and overseas, and while the entries are coming in slow I am not worried because what you find is that the cyclists would register at the last moment,” Mohamed said.

According to Mohamed, the deadline for registra -

Greaves, while Godfrey Pollydore was third, followed by Junior Niles, Paul Choo Wee Nam and Raymond Newtown, to close out the top six.

Other winners last year were Junior Niles, who took the winner’s trophy in the Veterans’ Under-50 race. Linden

tion is October 13 and those riders interested in participating are advised to contact Mohamed at his office, located in the Help and Shelter building, during regular working hours.

The event covers a distance of 266 miles of the country’s roadways.

After cyclists and officials travel to the Ancient County on October 15, the opening stage will be held the following day from Corriverton to New Amsterdam (46.6 miles) from 07:30 hours; while

Blackman finished first in the Veterans’ Over-50 category.

The Veterans’ Over60 category was won by Maurice Fagundes.

In the BMX Boys Open, Jamal John won that race, while Stephan Wilkinson won the BMX Boys 9-12 years category.

Stage Two will be on the same day from Rosignol to Georgetown (60.4 miles) from 14:00h.

Stage Three will take place on October 17 from Wales to Parika (35 miles) from 09:00 hours, while the penultimate stage will be contested from 07:30 hours the following day from Supenaam to Suddie, covering a distance of 62 miles. The fifth and final stage will commence in Linden at 08:30 hours and finish in Georgetown on October 19, covering a distance of

Romello Crawford rode to victory in the Boys 12-14 race, Sherwin Sampson took the BMX 6-9 race, while Richard Charles crossed the finish line in the Mountain Bike category. Jamal Eastman won the Juveniles’ category.

Meanwhile, represen -

62 miles.

As was the case in previous years, the event will be held with the objectives of increasing awareness and knowledge about HIV/AIDS among participants and the general public, and increasing HIV/AID activism and volunteerism among the participants and inspiring them to become ambassadors in the fight against HIV/Aids.

Team Coco’s Raynauth Jeffrey is the defending champion of the Open category, having won last year’s event in a time of 10 hours, 05 minutes, 33 seconds. Hamzah Eastman was the leading Junior rider with a time of 10 hours, 09 minutes, 56 seconds, while Raymond Newton was the top Veteran in a time of 10 hours, 09 minutes, 57 seconds. Meanwhile, Mohamed further revealed that preparation is moving apace and remains optimistic for another successful event.

tatives of Laparkan will be on hand to assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion of the meet on Saturday. The race will be used as a warm-up for the Annual Ride for Life Five-Stage road race that is scheduled for October 16 to 19.

Senior Inter-County 4-Day Tournament…

Khan, Barnwell stifle Essequibo

– Crandon, Bramble put Berbice in commanding position

By Rajiv Bisnauth

Anumber of Essequibo batsmen failed to capitalize on their good starts on a batting friendly Bourda pitch on the opening day against Demerara in the final round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Senior Inter-County four-day game. They were restricted to 263 all out in 67.1 overs.

At the close, Demerara reached 60-2, with openers Trevon Griffith (32) and Shemroy Barrington (20), the batsmen dismissed. Night watchman Amir Khan is unbeaten on three. Hemchand Persaud and Royan Fredericks are the successful bowlers so far for Essequibo.

Demerara bowlers, especially leg-spinner Amir Khan (4-54), and medium pacer Christopher Barnwell (3-27), did a commendable

job to stifle Essequibo. Ricardo Adams smashed an attractive half century but could not prolong his in-

nings to more than 54 runs, while Royan Fredricks, Tulsieram Premnauth, Brian Herbert and Mark Gonsalves all made positive starts.

Earlier, Essequibo won the toss and make first use of the surface on what looked like, and later proved to be, excellent batting conditions.

Openers Royan Fredricks and Kevon Boodie batted sturdily and frustrated the hosts by putting together 43 for the first wicket.

However, Barnwell soon after discovered the rewards of bowling tightly. He stuck to trusted lines and Boodie’s wicket became Demerara's first success of the match. He was dismissed for 19.

Following Boodie’s's dismissal, Barnwell had Ricardo Peters (8) taken behind by wicketkeeper Joseph Perry to spark celebrations among the Demerara players.

Ricardo Adams joined Fredricks, but the latter, after given a life on 21 failed to make the most of the chance when off-spinner Zaheer Mohamed (1-72) induced an edge for Barnwell to take the catch at first slip.

Fredricks made 40 with eight boundaries and by lunch Essequibo were 73-3.

After the post-lunch session, R Adams and Mark

Gonsalves added 82 runs for the fourth- wicket, with Adams taking the attack to the Demerara bowlers, scoring at will to complete his half-century off just 58 deliveries, with ten fours to his credit.

But two balls after reaching his 50, Adams was unfortunately run out. Gonsalves hit six boundaries in his 25 before Khan accounted for his dismissal.

Tulsieram Premnauth, who joined Anthony Adams, did more to force the runrate with a lively 44 off 29

balls, including five fours and three sixes but was soon dismissed by Barnwell shortly after Essequibo passed 200, and at the interval they reach 222-6.

Essequibo had looked relatively composed at the crease after tea until they found themselves pinned against the wall after a three wicket burst from the leg-spinner. Khan removed A Adams (16), Ronsford Beaton (2) and Brian Herbert (40) before part time spinner Trevon

Griffith (1-12) wrapped up the innings with the wicket of Heimchand Persaud without scoring. Meanwhile, aggressive tons from Anthony Bramble and Royston Crandon propelled Berbice to a overwhelming first innings total of 418 against the GCB Developmental XI in the other final round game at Wales ground. Crandon, the former West Indies ODI player batted for 151 minutes, scored a brisk 121 off 128 balls with eight fours and four sixes, and shared a partnership of 217 with fellow centurion Anthony Bramble, who scored an rapid 160 off 156 balls with 22 fours and one six.

Seon Hetmyer (40), Kandasammy Surujnarine (31) Keon Joseph (30) and Veerasammy Permaul (24) also made valuable contributions.

Right-arm spinner Sharaz Ramcharran was the pick of the bowlers, end-

ing with figures of 4-126, while Steven Sankar (3-92) and skipper Steven Jacobs (2-57) were also among the wickets. Play resumes at both venues today at 09:30 hrs and admission is free.