Guyana Times Daily 14th Feb 2014

friday, february 14, 2014|

Budget 2014 for House reading in March

By Samuel Sukhnandan

The final touches are now being made to Budget 2014, which is expected to be completed and presented for reading in the National Assembly by the end of March, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh has said.

Dr Singh told Guyana Times on Wednesday that the budget was well on stream, especially since the technical work began a few months back.

That process, he said, is almost near completion and as soon as it is completed, some fine-tuning will be done before this year’s budget is presented to the National Assembly.

Dr Singh explained that the process of policy formation and project identification is an ongoing one that had started since last year. His ministry, he said, has now refined certain strategies of the various sectors.

“It’s progressing well.

We’ve had the benefit of excellent engagements with a number of stakeholder groups, including the PSC [Private Sector Commission]; the labour unions.

"Those meetings provided us an opportunity to get a sense of what their priorities are and we got to share with them our perspective on issues,” he added.

However, the minister said it was unfortunate that the opposition did not avail themselves of an open invitation from government.

The invitation remains open and the government is still willing to meet with the opposition at any time, Dr Singh said.

“I hope that is not the precursor of some adverse stance they intend to take in relation to the Budget 2014. The budget should really be evaluated on its merit and voted on the basis of its merit,” he said.

Optimist

Asked whether he is at all concerned about the opposition again cutting funding for various projects, Dr Singh said: “I remain eternally an optimist. So I’m hopeful that we would see smooth passage of the 2014 budget. I would like to think that we would secure unanimous support for the passage of the budget.”

Dr Singh added that he was hoping that the opposi-

tion will use its one-seat majority more wisely.

“I hope that the one-seat majority is not used by the opposition to display might, but instead that it is used responsible. And responsible means that the opposition would vote in favour of initiatives good for Guyana,” Dr Singh asserted.

The finance minister noted that the people will also hear the budget presentation and should be able to judge for themselves whether the budget is one of substance and will benefit them and the country.

Threats

However, the Alliance For Change (AFC) has already stated its position on Budget 2014. AFC Chairman Khemraj Ramjattan had threatened that massive cuts will be inflicted to the budget when it is presented to the National Assembly.

Ramjattan told Guyana Times previously that despite a promise by Dr Singh that Budget 2014 would

have been discussed with all parties, no discussion was held with his party or the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

However, Minister Singh said he had extended an invitation to the opposition to meet since July 2013, but had received no response.

Ramjattan, who did not indicate what he intends to cut, said that owing to what he called government’s "failure" to consult with the opposition, “a lot of questions” would be posed regarding allocations proposed by the government.

He said emphatically “there will be massive cuts”.

APNU Chairman, retired Brigadier David Granger told this publication previously that there has been a total breakdown in discussions between the coalition and the government.

As a result, he said, this year’s budget would be “deficient” and short of the input of the parliamentary opposition.

He noted that while there

was some back and forth between the finance minister and APNU’s finance pointperson Carl Greenidge, the government never moved beyond that to ensure that both parties met to discuss the budget in greater detail.

In December 2011, Granger called for the establishment of a Tripartite Budget Committee, but he claimed that despite promises by the government, it has not materialised.

Concerns were also expressed over the procedure which allows for the judiciary and the Auditor General’s Office to be financed through a government ministry.

According to Granger, these offices should be financed independently. The Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), among other stakeholders, however, met with the government on budget. (samuelsukhnandan@guyanatimesgy.com)

TCL launches new road construction technology

Trinidad Cement Limited Guyana Inc (TGI), last weekend demonstrated the use of one of the latest technologies in road construction when the company partnered with the Public Works Ministry to effect road repairs using the soil cement stabilisation technique.

The pilot project was conducted at the junction of Princes and High streets, Georgetown, where the road was severely deteriorated, TGI said in a statement. This rehabilitation work followed a July 2013 meeting with Public Works Minister Robeson Benn and staff of the ministry, at which time he gave his approval for pilot projects to demonstrate the soil cement stabilisation technology, inclusive of the repair work done over the weekend.

Technique

In the soil cement stabilisation technique, asphalt and other unusable material are removed. A sub-base is then laid by stabilising the existing material that remained, mixing it with cement and water, rotovating the mixture and compacting it. The base layer is then placed above the subbase where crusher run is also stabilised with cement. The surface is then sealed using a bitumen sealant.

The works were carried out by B and J Civil Works.

TCL Group Civil Engineer Avaleen Mooloo was on hand to oversee

and lend technical advice for the process and commented, “I am confident that the newly-stabilised road will be stronger than the normal flexible roads. Although some ravelling of the surface is expected due to the constant trafficking of heavy-duty vehicles, coupled with the fact that the asphalt surface had not been installed, we anticipate that the road will stand up longer with time. This strip will be monitored for its longevity by ministry and TGI personnel, as is the norm with demo strips.”

TGI, as part of its strategic plan to improve sales, has been pushing for the use of cement in the construction of roads and, with its parent company TCL, has held a number of awareness sessions for government officials, students from the University of Guyana and technical institutes, contractors, engineers, and even individual private sector companies.

During those sessions, the technologies for using cement in road construction were explained. It was also emphasised that cementbased roads are more durable and have a substantially lower lifecycle cost. The company said it remains committed to being a reliable supplier of quality cement to the Guyana market, and viewed the dissemination of information on best practices in the use of cement and concrete as a major part of its responsibility.

Guyana says no need to fear drug mafia link

By Bhisham mohamed

Atop anti-drug enforcement official here says there is no evidence to prove Guyana is under threat after the explosive revelations that locals were linked to a drug syndicate operating in Mexico and Italy.

The official believes, from reports so far, that the issue has been blown out of proportion, noting that the panic button has been pressed for no reason.

He revealed that law enforcement authorities were not in receipt of any information from the United States authorities which suggest that Guyanese were arrested or implicated in the sting earlier in the week, but have since contacted them requesting information.

The only information available to Guyanese authorities, the official added, is the fact that one of the suspects who were arrested claimed he knew someone in Guyana who prepared the illegal substance for export. According to the official, cocaine does not come to Guyana from Mexico, but rather it is shipped from Colombia to Mexico then to the United States.

Confirmation

Meanwhile, Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, Francisco Olguin Uribe on Thursday, in a telephone interview, confirmed that neither law enforcement in the United States of America nor local police have contacted his country in connection with the crackdown. Ambassador Olguin also stated that there was no evidence in their possession that indicated Mexicans are involved.

He noted that most Spanish-speaking nationals are usually confused with Mexicans, but a number of elements have to be considered to prove that the persons in question are indeed Mexicans.

“When people are arrested with a Spanish accent, they tend to give wrong information about their nationalities so that when they are deported, they are not sent back to their original countries… once we get informa-

tion about any arrests, we investigate based on their accent, regional connections, and popular culture,” the ambassador explained.

The Mexican ambassador stated that once the law enforcement entities request assistance in their investigations, his government would be willing to assist.

Strategic location

Weighing in on the issue, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana D Brent Hardt said the recent development was a major issue when one takes into consideration Guyana’s location.

He added that Colombia and Peru are the two main exporters of cocaine, noting that quite recently it was established that most of the drug comes from Venezuela, although the drug is grown in Colombia.

“It crosses over the borders and it is transported by ships and planes up that route,” he said.

He pointed out that drugs can be easily leak into Guyana at the Venezuelan border, which is difficult to patrol. The U.S. envoy added that given its proximity to the drug-producing nations, he did not see why Guyana would not be a key strategic location for drug traffickers looking to get drugs to Africa and Europe where the price of cocaine is actually higher than it is in the U.S.

Ambassador Hardt told media operatives that traffickers are looking to maximise their profits and are figuring out ways to get the commodity across to Africa

via Suriname and Guyana, which is one route that has to be looked at.

Hardt disclosed that the drug business is international in scope, adaptable, and flexible. He said whether it is the Mexican or Colombian or other cartels, they operate on a global basis.

This recent crackdown, he added, does not surprise them, as cartels look for places that they can operate easily. He disclosed that the U.S. assistant secretary for international narcotics has caused them to push very hard to clamp down on the drug trade between Mexico and Central America, where the drugs have been flowing in the past decade.

The ambassador explained about 90 per cent of the drugs entering the U.S. do so via these routes.

“But as we strengthen our effort there, it is always a risk of what we call a blue effect, which would see drugs entering the Caribbean, which has been a primary route for the past decade and the cartels are adaptable and are quite happy that they move to a more Caribbean route if that is going to be the path of least resistance,” he said.

He noted that law enforcement authorities have to be fleet-footed, working and adapting and trying to stay a step ahead, but it is a tough job.

Speaking on Guyana’s request for information, acting Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Gail Teixeira said she was cognisant of the request, but the response time was not as effi-

cient as they would like. To her knowledge, she added, no information has been passed on, but she hoped that there will be an effort on the part of the U.S. authorities to share what is available at this time.

Teixeira recalled that information sharing has always been a challenge for developing countries, including Guyana, and as a former home affairs minister, she said sometimes you have information but information is not always shared.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader David Granger reiterated concern, on behalf of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), with the recent revelation of the existence of the Guyana-Italy cocaine conspiracy, which is evidence of a dangerous deterioration in public security. At a press conference, Granger said APNU is of the view that the prevalence of narco-trafficking is a direct result of the failure of the Home Affairs Ministry to implement a credible counternarcotics strategy, to enforce domestic laws and to bring traffickers before the courts. He added that the cocaine conspiracy confirms that Guyana is drifting towards becoming a narco-state. This must not be allowed to happen, he asserted.

Crime families

It was reported that two dozen suspected narco-traffickers linked to the Gambino and Bonanno crime families and the Italian crime syndicate known as Ndrangheta had been arrested earlier this week in New York and Italy during the coordinated American-Italian operation “Operation New Bridge”. The clans were in the advanced stages of plans to smuggle some 500 kilograms (1000 pounds) of pure cocaine from Guyana to the port of Gioia Tauro in Calabria. Italian investigators estimated the street value of the shipment to be US$1 billion. The conspiracy began to unravel when the Malaysian news agency Bernama reported that a container from Guyana was intercepted with cocaine in coconut milk in November 2012. (bhisham@guyanatimesgy.com)

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

Changing intervention rationale

In this month’s eponymously named magazine, “Foreign Affairs”, the article, “The Rise and Fall of the Failed-State Paradigm”, details a scenario that should be of interest to those at the U.S. State Department, their local embassy, and the organisations that are insistent on implementing the “democratisation” project, LEAD, in Guyana.

This “democratisation” initiative was part and parcel of a U.S. strategy of “nation building”, premised on the assumed dangers of “failed states” in the international arena. The following excerpts summarise the thesis:

“For a decade and a half, from the mid-1990s through about 2010, the dominant national security narrative in the United States stressed the dangers posed by weak or failing states. These were seen to breed terrorism, regional chaos, crime, disease, and environmental catastrophe. To deal with such problems at their roots, the argument ran, the U.S. had to reach out and help stabilise the countries in question, engaging in state building on a neo-imperial scale.

“(But) as the Australian political scientist Michael Wesley argued, state weakness is primarily a political problem, and yet state building is often conceived and executed as if it were an apolitical exercise.

“The intention of remaining aloof from politics while concentrating on technocratic reforms has proved unrealistic,” he wrote. “Even seemingly technocratic tasks confront international administrators with essentially political decisions: the nature and basis of elections; which pressure groups to consult; the reintegration or de facto separation of ethnic communities; school curricula; degrees of public ownership of enterprises; the status of women; and so on. However technocratic their intention, statebuilding missions inevitably find themselves factored into local rivalries.”

“In trying to force change on recalcitrant governments and societies, moreover, outside interventions undermine internal motives for reform by transferring responsibility for a better future from local leaders to external actors. The outside power needs cooperation from its local clients more than they need its sponsorship. The result is a dependency paradox that impedes reform.

“As success stories from South Korea to Chile show, the path from state weakness to strength has to be travelled by the states themselves, gradually and fitfully, most often under the influence of strong, decisive leadership from visionary architects of governance. It is an organic, grassroots process that must respect the unique social, cultural, economic, political, and religious contexts of each country. And although it can be encouraged and even modestly shaped by outside contributions and pressure, it cannot be imposed.”

“The idea of a neo-imperial mission to strengthen weak states and stabilise chaotic societies always flew in the face of more important U.S. global roles and real mechanisms of social change. There is still work to be done in such contexts, but in more prudent and discriminate ways. One of the benefits of this change, ironically, will be to allow local institutional development to proceed more organically and authentically, in its own ways and at its own pace. Most of all, the new mindset will reflect a simple facing up to reality after a decade of distraction.

“After a decade of conflict and effort with precious little to show for it, the recent era of interventionist U.S. state building is drawing to a close. And although there are practical reasons for this shift – the United States can no longer afford such missions, and the public has tired of them – the decline of the state-building narrative reflects a more profound underlying truth: the obsession with weak states was always more of a mania than a sound strategic doctrine.”

We fully agree that the U.S. can play a significant role in the developmental efforts of states such as Guyana, if for nothing else than the fact Guyanese of all persuasions see that country as its model.

Almost every Guyanese family has relatives in the U.S. and thousands of our citizens have visited that country and wants to imitate its ways. The U.S. should allow Guyanese democracy to evolve without too much direct intervention.

Countdown to Mashramani

Suicide hinders the progress of a new beginning

Dear Editor,

Suicide is an act committed by the weak. Suicide is not an end product of strength and determination. The act of suicide never brings an end to disappointment and frustration. It opens the chapter to advertise.

Suicide is prevalent in Guyana and other parts of the world. There are many aspects of suicide. Some sacrifice the lives and the lives of others in the name of power, politics and beliefs.

In Guyana, the Jonestown tragedy was referred to as ‘mass suicide’, which was imposed on the victims by a religious dictator. In other parts of the world, especially the Middle East, suicide bombers destroy the lives of innocent citizens in the process of retaliation, which is rooted in power and hatred.

In Guyana, victims of su-

icide choose this insignificant path as a criterion to end their sorrows, grief and frustration. This choice is a cowardly act, since the prospect never did a proper selfintrospection, but arrived at a conclusion through emotions from an extroverted mind.

Emotions can powerfully influence one, whether in the state of ecstasy or depression.

The individual who arrived at the conclusion of self-destruction failed to recognise that he is affected only by external things in the form of relationships.

The individual sees himself as unworthy of the environment in which he or she dwells, or not fit for the person with whom he or she entrusted his or her love or confidence.

To escape this tragic experience, one has to be more honest and compassionate to

himself. A continuous security of sense of self has to be established regardless of the influences.

The development of any character traits start early in the life and matures as one advances in age. The characteristic of prospective suicide victims are exhibited many times, but little or no attention is given to the individual. It is only acknowledged when the tragedy takes place.

Anyone who nurtures the negative propensities of these cowardly acts must pause to reflect on his birth as a divine gift and those around too are also Godgiven.

This dastardly act of suicide only brings an end to the mortal coil. The individuality and not the identity of the person that is lost. Such an act brings pain to family members, relatives, friends and even causes harm to the

community.

Berbice has a very high statistic in this regard. I am sure that the good people in this region are bowing their heads in disgust. I am also convinced that our country is being statistically and socially affected with the indulgences of these cowardly acts.

It must be noted that the universe and our scriptural injunctions have every answer to life’s questions, as such, one should be more harmonious in the relationship to life’s answers.

Premature decisions is the product of the under-developed mind, which has the component to derail the full process of evolution. Civility costs nothing but buys everything.

Yours truly, Pandit Ravi Persaud Viraat Sabha

Youths and their involvement in crime

Dear Editor,

The great work of our police officers to curb crime in Guyana has once again been acknowledged, this time for the arresting of two teens that had in their possession assault rifles and hand grenades.

It is generally disturbing to learn of crime related incidents that involved the use of weapons that can cause

potential harm or death to people. However, it is even more troubling when we realise that it is our young children that are participating in such illegal activities.

Psychologists believe that many young people are often drawn to crime by the thrill of breaking rules and being caught. In fact, it is believed that many youths become so caught up in the mo-

ment that they rarely ever think of the consequences of their actions.

In such cases, I often wonder what role parents play in the lives of those children who find themselves caught up in such illegal activities. Ideally, they themselves should be reprimanded since it is their responsibility to bring up their children with good values

and morals. I urge parents to pay more attention to their children and their whereabouts. Additionally, I urge police officers to express no hesitation when it comes to contacting the parents of children who are caught in compromising situations.

Sincerely, Karen

Rodriguez

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

Get to the bottom of Caribbean Airlines terror threat

Dear Editor,

Regarding the Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) terror threat (as reported in the media recently, and which also made news on ABC TV, as well as New York Daily News), kudos to passengers who continued (stuck with) their flight plan from Monday through Wednesday out of Guyana.

Thank you CAL for sticking with your flight schedules. Only about a dozen passengers cancelled their flights (out of some 1600). The travelling public and airlines should not allow themselves to be blackmailed by terrorists.

They must not allow terrorists to disrupt their normal routine and or shape or influence their lifestyle or flight plans. Otherwise, the terrorists win.

This is a busy season (Mashramani and Carnival).

Flight cancellations and disruptions are not in the interest of the airlines, passengers or governments – revenues would be impacted, not to mention people’s vacations.

The officials of CAL and

the governments of Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago must be applauded for the extra security precautions taken for flights out of Guyana to ensure the safety of the passengers and incident free flights.

CAL has an exemplary record on safety and security (except the lone landing incident in Guyana almost three years ago). The U.S. government should also be saluted for its quick response to the threat (efforts to protect its citizens) and whatever assistance was provided to the governments of Barbados, Trinidad and Guyana to address the threat.

The region has not been the source of any serious terror threats or security issues. This one is shocking to Guyanese Americans. I received several calls from friends and family members querying about it. I am in the dark like others and can’t get the sense of it.

The threat is unreal and many view it as a joke (though not a joking matter) for the simple reason that Guyanese or Trinidadians have virtually no history in acts of terror. We

are a terror free region with no links whatsoever with terror.

The vicious rounds of violence found in other regions are completely absent in the Caribbean. I travelled several times to every territory and found people to be warm, friendly and hospitable.

And a threat against CAL? It provides a vital service – virtually the only reliable transport link to Guyana and most of the region. Why would anyone want to disrupt our lives or means of transport that is our economic bloodline?

The security agencies of Guyana, Trinidad and Barbados should get to the bottom of this threat and seek the intelligence services of the U.S. (lives of Americans were affected and the flights were heading to the U.S.) to find the culprits and bring them to justice.

We cannot afford to have terrorists (and neither should we allow them to) invade our space.

Yours faithfully, Vishnu

Bisram

Is Bulkan a forest expert?

Dear Editor, Kindly permit me to state the following in your newspaper. Joseph Harmon, People’s National Congress (PNC)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) member of Parliament and member of the Sectoral Committee on Natural Resources, wants Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud to answer questions at the committee’s next meeting based on matters raised by Janette Bulkan and John Palmer in their fivepart series on the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) 2005-2012 Annual Reports, published in another section of the press, under the headline, “Why the National Assembly should hold public hearings on the GFC.”

Bulkan is aware that, when she refers to the National Assembly, she is mainly referring to the opposition PNC/APNU and Alliance For Change (AFC) members of the House, since they have a one-seat majority, and her brother, Ronald

Bulkan is an APNU/PNC member of Parliament.

So this is why Bulkan is using the National Assembly to further her anti-government and spiteful agenda against the GFC? It is indeed mind-boggling why a forest expert can be so petty, engaging in mischievous agendas instead of playing a credible and constructive role in the area of her expertise.

But Harmon is giving credence to Bulkan. Is Bulkan a forest expert? If she is, then why did she allow a woodworking company to collapse by not providing market forecasts, which resulted in the company’s market shares to be devoured by competitors?

The company was thriving and dynamic and won Caribbean awards. If Bulkan is a forest expert, I am challenging her to resuscitate that company.

Bulkan was a chairperson of the Guyana National Initiative for Forest Certification (GNIFC) in 2003 to develop a national

forest standard guided by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) process, which failed miserably. Is Bulkan a forest expert?

Bulkan was on a technical advisory panel established by the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) and raised no objection when Suriname placed the New River Triangle area on its map when that country was preparing to achieve REDD+ readiness.

The GFC raised strong objections and the New River Triangle area was removed from the maps of Suriname. Is Bulkan a forest expert? And is this the reason Harmon is giving credence to Bulkan who attempted to give away a portion of Guyana’s territory, which is ecologically sacred to Suriname?

It is better for Harmon and the sectoral committee to wake up when dealing with matters pertaining to Bulkan.

Yours sincerely, Peter Persaud

Showering to use a swimming pool is standard policy worldwide

Dear Editor,

In another section of the press, Freddie Kissoon repeatedly chastised the government over its policy or standard operating procedure (SOP) of requiring people to shower before they use the spanking new swimming pool at Liliendaal.

Showering helps to keep the pool clean and germ free. It is a wise policy. Another SOP worldwide is people with runny noses and/or the cold and other contagious ailments should not use the pool.

Freddie’s position on showering is so jejune. He

needs to read up on the importance of showering and the use of pools. Apparently, Freddie does not know that showering is standard protocol in the use of any pool in every society.

Olympic rules require athletes to shower before entering a pool. Public pools in America require showering before entering them. The few public schools with pools also require that students shower before entering the pools.

Colleges worldwide require showering before the use of a pool. I know from my experience at

CCNY, NYU, York College, Hunter, Queens, etc, that one must shower before going into a pool. My professor (Hutcheon) was insistent that we showered (often in ice cold water) before entering the pool, docking our course grade if we didn’t shower. I travelled worldwide and swam and used many pools at hotels and resorts, including one of the largest public pools in Durban, South Africa. A sign is posted at the entrance, at the locker room, and on a bulletin board next to the pool, “Shower before entering”, at virtually every

location. So the Liliendaal sign is not unique.

I used the pool at the residents’ club at Albion Estate. Showering was mandatory and the lifeguard enforced it. In any hotel or public facility, if you don’t shower first before plunging into the pool in any hotel, people looked at you with an angry face. Showering is refreshing in addition to leading to a healthy lifestyle – one feels

so good when one showers.

Why is Freddie so recalcitrant about the policy requiring a shower before using the pool? And why does he take the policy so personally? Why does he feel the policy is directed at him?

The policy is for everyone.

The government is not picking on Freddie. I don’t understand by what stretch of imagination he feels the government is picking on

him to take a shower. Does he think the government has justifiable reason (for a sign) to remind him to take a shower?

If my friend Freddie feels showering does not apply to him, then don’t bother with it. Don’t use the pool if you don’t wish to abide by the policy!

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Page Foundation

Did you give your friends valentines and little heart-shaped candies on Valentine’s Day? Do you ever cross your heart when making a promise that you really, really mean? Or turn on the radio to hear a guy singing about his broken heart?

We see and hear about hearts everywhere. A long time ago, people even thought that their emotions came from their hearts, maybe because the heart beats faster when a person is scared or excited. Now we know that emotions come from the brain, and in this case, the brain tells the heart to speed up. So what’s the heart up to, then? How does it keep busy? What does it look like? Let’s find out.

Working that muscle

Your heart is really a muscle. It’s located a little to the left of the middle of your chest, and it’s about the size of your fist. There are lots of muscles all over your body – in your arms, in your legs, in your back, even in your behind.

But the heart muscle is special because of what it does. The heart sends blood around your body. The blood provides your body with the oxygen and nutrients it needs. It also carries away waste.

Your heart is sort of like a pump, or two pumps in one. The right side of your heart receives blood from the body and pumps it to the lungs. The left side of the heart does the exact opposite: It receives blood from the lungs and pumps it out to

the body.

How to make Valentine’s Day a family affair

the heart beat? Before each beat, your heart fills with blood. Then its muscle con tracts to squirt the blood along. When the heart contracts, it squeezes – try squeezing your hand into a fist. That’s sort of like what your heart does so it can squirt out the blood. Your heart does this all day and all night, all the time. The heart is one hard worker!

Heart parts

The heart is made up of four different blood-filled areas, and each of these areas is called a chamber. There are two chambers on each side of the heart. One chamber is on the top and one chamber is on the bottom. The two chambers on top are called the atria. If you’re talking only about one, call it an

atrium. The atria are the chambers that fill with the blood returning to the heart from the and

does it know which way to go?

Well, your blood relies on four special valves inside the heart. A valve lets something in and keeps it there by closing – think of walking through a door. The door shuts behind you and keeps you from going backward.

lungs. The heart has a um and

The two chambers on the bottom are called the ventricles. The heart has a left ventricle and a right ventricle. Their job is to squirt out the blood to the body and lungs. Running down the middle of the heart is a thick wall of muscle called the septum. The septum’s job is to separate the left side and the right side of the heart. The atria and ventricles work as a team – the atria fill with blood, then dump it into the ventricles. The ventricles then squeeze, pumping blood out of the heart. While the ventricles are squeezing, the atria refill and get ready for the next contraction. So when the blood gets pumped, how

Two of the heart valves are the mitral valve and the tricuspid valve. They let blood flow from the atria to the ventricles. The other two are called the aortic valve and pulmonary valve, and they’re in charge of controlling the flow as the blood leaves the heart. These valves all work to keep the blood flowing forward. They open up to let the blood move ahead, then they close quickly to keep the blood from flowing backward.

It’s great to circulate

You probably guessed that the blood just doesn’t slosh around your body once it leaves the heart. It moves through many tubes called arteries and veins, which together are called blood vessels. These blood vessels are attached to the heart. The blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart are called arteries. The ones that carry blood back to the heart are called veins.

The movement of the blood through the heart and around the body is called circulation, and your heart is really good at it – it takes less than 60 seconds to pump blood to every cell in your body. (Kids Health)

BY JENNIFER CHUNG

Valentine’s Day is a special day to focus on those you love. It’s a perfect opportunity to teach children about the meaning of love within your own family as well as to perform acts of kindness for others. To help parents make this day a family affair, here’s a list of some fun, creative ways moms and dads can teach their children about love through activities.

Eat with love. Make a Valentine’s dinner together using only foods that are red in colour (before and/or after cooking). For example, for starters make a red carrot salad, or tomato salad; for main dishes make steak, or red snapper fish; for dessert make strawberries, or raspberry fruit salad. Drinks can include champagne with a dash of cranberry juice or wine for mom and dad, substitute sprite with grenadine or cranberry juice for the children. Let the children help chop, cook and decorate the table.

Family movie date night. After enjoying your special Valentine’s Day

family dinner, why not end your night with a romantic family movie. Fortunately, there are many romantic movies that children love such as “Beauty and The Beast,” “Anastasia,” “Be My Valentine Charlie Brown,” “Cinderella,” “High School Musical” and many more. So grab some popcorn and cuddle up!

Sharing your love Show your children what love is truly all about by sharing it and volunteering together at a dog shelter, nursing home or orphanage. The nursing home residents will love seeing bright, happy young faces. Ahead of time, make special valentines to hand out.

Secret Valentine exchange. Instead of a “Secret Santa” try a secret valentine exchange with small handmade gifts and candy. Ask each family member to pick a name. The gifts must all be Valentine’s Day themed. This will give you and your children an opportunity to be crafty and creative. Think outside of the box to come up with the perfect gift for your valentine (think baking heart shaped cookies, red and pink handmade bracelets, Valentine’s photo frames, etc). Every member of the family will love having their very own special valentine.

Sweet treats scavenger hunt. A fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the children is through a scavenger hunt. Provide them with a map or leave clues around the house that lead to yummy valentine’s treats and cards. If you have more than one child, try giving your children different maps for different surprises to keep it interesting, competitive and fun.

Tree of love. Trees aren’t just for Christmas anymore. Pick up an artificial Christmas tree (you should be able to find one on clearance), spray it pink (or buy a white one) and decorate it as a family with handmade valentines, pink and red paper hearts, pink lights and family photos. Creating the “ornaments” of love will ensure an afternoon of fun!

Valentine’s Day is a special time to teach children important lessons about loving and serving others while at the same time creating meaningful family traditions. Modelling love through shared activities has a profound impact on children and it is so easy to do. Happy Valentine’s Day!

(Newsobserver)

Security guard shot dead in Canje school

By Andrew CArmiChAel

Four persons are in custody as the body of a security guard was discovered on Thursday morning lying in a pool of blood on a desk at Canefield Nursery School in East Canje with a gunshot wound to the forehead.

Dead is 56-yearold Kenneth Kanhai of Gangaram Village, East Canje, Berbice. The Home Safe Security Service employee was the lone person on duty Wednesday evening. The discovery was made by residents.

According to one resident, the sound of what appeared to be two gun shots was heard about 02:00h on Thursday. “Ah hear bladam, an I jump up an Ah hear bladam again, an Ah start listen, but Ah ent hear anyting else,” he said.

The resident said he could not see the school from his home, but, at the time, was unsure of where the sound came from.

According to the dead man’s brother, Rohan Kanhai, who also works with the same security service and at the same location, he was not scheduled to work Wednesday night. The younger Kanhai said he spent that night at the home of a close female friend and was on his way home Thursday morning when he was told of the incident.

“There was a big crowd there and I went in the school compound an Ah notice him lie down on a school table… When I go at the back, the neighbourhood police was there an Ah see two spent shell on the ground,”

he said. He said at the time, no one could have gained entry to the building without breaking in. There was no

the school has no guard hut and as such, the headteacher gave them a key for the building. “We does open the padlock and go inside the building an den open the back door and come around and lock the padlock and go back inside from the back an bolt the door,” he explained.

There was a five-foot trail of blood on the floor leading to the desk where the body was lying.

The slain man’s fatherin-law Jaidyal Ramkissoon said it was customary for Kanhai to return from work about 06:15h. He said after 06:30h passed, he called another son-in-law who lives in the vicinity. That sonin-law went in search of Kanhai, and reported that

evidence that another person entered the building. The back door was bolted from the inside when the discovery was made.

Kanhai explained that

the school gate was padlocked. Neighbours were contacted and launched a search, which took them into the school compound when the discovery was

made.

Ramkissoon said Kanhai left home on Wednesday at the usual 17:00h. “Dah is the time he does always lef. He does wuk two night and two night he does deh home.”

Kanhai previously worked with the Region Six administration as a security guard at a pump station in New Forest, which is another village in the district, but took up the new appointment in 2013 after the pump station was closed.

His widow, Jagwantie, told this publication on Thursday that she was in Georgetown when she got the news of her husband’s demise.

She described her husband as a good person. “Only one, one time he does fly in a temper, then he does calm down back. We didn’t had no problem or no fight at all. Me just leff to go by me cousin birthday Saturday an Ah tek a little vacation.

"Up to yesterday, me an he talk. Ah ask he if he alright an he say yes and he ask me weh you visa gon expire an Ah tell he Ah gon give he a surprise… Ah neva leff house so long…,” she said.

The couple have been married for 30 years and have one child, who is currently living overseas.

Kanhai was expected to give evidence in a preliminary inquiry (PI) into a murder later this month. He is the second witness to have been killed. As police continue their investigation, four persons have been taken into custody.

OAS, PAHO to offer scholarships to promote health, research

The Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), sister entities of the Inter-American system, on Tuesday signed an agreement to join forces to strengthen education and human development in the Americas.

This will be done through the joint promotion of scholarship opportunities for the citizens of the region in training programmes designed to enhance health and the production of research on health issues.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed Thursday at the headquarters of the OAS by the OAS Human Development, Education and Employment Department Director Marie Levens, representing OAS Secretary General José Miguel Insulza, and PAHO Assistant Director Francisco Becerra Posada.

It reaffirms the commitment of both institutions to recognise education as one of the determinants of health and to help strengthen the technical and research abilities of those working in the health field.

Director Levens said the agreement “represents a unique opportunity for cooperation with a well-known entity in the health sector, with which we will execute programmes that will help us join forces and capabili-

ties for the benefit of our peoples”. She added that the initiative has great significance for the OAS, as the issue of health also represents a priority for the organisation.

For his part, Assistant Director Becerra, representing PAHO Director Carissa F Etienne, said: “The areas of health and health research are increasingly taking a more important role when it comes to universal coverage, equity, and social justice.” Health research, he added, “plays a major role in… the generation of research results for better decisionmaking based on evidence”. Finally, he expressed gratitude for the initiative of the OAS to seek partners specialised in important sectors such as health.

According to the document signed, the OAS and PAHO will provide scholarships for training, undergraduate and graduate programmes, and/or research at universities or institutions of higher education. Studies may be carried online, onsite, or a mixture of the two. Both institutions emphasised that the goal is to consolidate access to quality education for all as a key to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting human development and equality and understanding among peoples, while positively influencing economic growth and the eradication of poverty.

friday, february 14, 2014| guyanatimesgy.com

PNCR congratulates Dr Cummings on MP appointment

The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has congratulated Dr Karen Cummings on her recent appointment as a Member of Parliament (MP) for A Partnership For National Unity (APNU).

Cummings, a medical doctor, has replaced Debra Backer who resigned her seat due to illness.

In a statement, the PNCR – the largest party in the APNU coaliation – said Dr Cummings is a highly trained medical doctor and a hardworking community leader and member of the party.

“A graduate of the University of Guyana (UG) with degrees in physics, chemistry, mathematics and medicine, Dr Cummings also holds a master of public health from St George’s University, Grenada, West Indies,” the statement said.

Dr Cummings has also served as a leader at the grassroots village level. She has worked with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) as a coordinator and as chief of party for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)/President’s Emergency

Dr Karen Cummings

Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) project. She has also lectured at the UG and has served as regional medical

superintendent in Region Four. She has conducted several medical outreaches and has given talks on women’s health issues in various parts of Guyana.

Recently, Dr Cummings was awarded the prestigious “Outstanding Victorian Award” for her community work in the village, and served as president of the Victoria Conference Leadership Committee and the Indaba. She has also worked as an executive committee member of the Victoria Reconstruction Trust (VRT).

Dr Cummings is a strong advocate for women and public health issues. She is currently a member of the Guyana Medical Association (GMA) and an honorary member of the Community Based Rehabilitation. She is attached to the Georgetown Public Hospital and is a member of the Central Board of Health.

In welcoming Dr Cummings to the National Assembly, Opposition Leader, retired Brigadier David Granger said he is confident that her contribution to the work of the National Assembly and the work of APNU would be invaluable.

None so blind...

...as an arrogant twerp

We’ve written before of the twerp over at the Stabber News who affects Michael Jackson locks falling delicately over one eye. We’re not sure what message he’s trying to convey, but he looks coy more than anything else. But was anything but coy when he went after Clement Rohee yesterday. Words like “ludicrous”, “stupid”, “juvenile”, “dangerous mindset”, “paranoia” were only some of the adjectives Samaroo hurled at Rohee.

But in line with the lowdown (down low?) line carried by Samaroo, he didn’t even have the self respect to frame his diatribe professionally. He kvetched that Rohee’s statement about the Stabber’s biased coverage against the PPP/C ignored his role as the Home Affairs Minister. Truth is, Rohee specifically spoke as “General Secretary of the PPP/C”. So half of Samaroo’s rant was against a strawman of his own construction – the Home Affairs Minister. And it’s not that Samaroo doesn’t know about people having multiple roles. Surely when he’s sent out every day to buy lunch for Anand, the fellow at the Chinese takeout should only berate asking for black-bean pork rather than roast pork. But calling Rohee’s statement “ludicrous and stupid” – when he didn’t refute even a single fact uncovered by the survey, the PPP/C’d conducted on the Stabber’s coverage, only made HIM look “ludicrous and stupid”.

So not to repeat Samaroo’s journalistic sin of attacking the messenger and not the message, let’s address some of his contentions. He says he has a “sickening suspicion that the government and ruling party would do everything in their power to shut down the independent press”. So on just this “sickening suspicion”, the fella declares:

“We cannot be passive about such draconian, dictatorial, dogmatic paranoia, because were it to take root in the public mentality, we would see irreparable damage to the social and political integrity of our nation. We must confront the ruling party, government and Mr Rohee on this irresponsible stupidity.” Now you tell me, who’s paranoid?

Identifying several “crises” that his straw-man, Rohee the Minister, should’ve been addressing, Samaroo claims one is “judicial integrity”. And this wanker can talk about the “rule of law” being trampled by others!!! Just because he disagrees with the acting Chief Justice’s ruling, we now have a crisis of “judicial integrity”?? Once again, we see the totalitarian mindset at work.

Samaroo and the Stabber also claimed to be “guardian of the masses’ interests. We’re still reeling from the image of David De Caries at the head of striking sugar workers and the masses from Albouystown, but we’ll let that slide.

So, who’ll guard the “guardians”? Or as David would’ve asked in Latin: “Quid custodiet, ipsos custodes?” Stabber News?

...as the power hungry

So here we are in the midst of all kinds of allegations against the police – led by no one else, but the opposition. Funny enough (not “ha ha” funny...just “interestingly”), the Home Affairs Minister agrees and would like to reform the police. The opposition, however, wouldn’t even agree to change the name of the police from “Guyana Police Force” to “Guyana Police Service”, much less get rid of some bad apples.

So why would the same Opposition now ask – as part of their last minute proposal to alter the AML/CFT Bill –that the police be authorised to seize from any citizen funds in their possession amounting to more than $2 million. That is, in real money, less than US$10,000! And “funds” in this instance includes “jewellery”. Are they for real?

The bling bedecking your humble Eyewitness, when he steps out Saturday nights, is more than that!

...forgetting an icon

It’s rather sad that our intelligentsia hasn’t remarked on the passing of the WI born intellectual, Stuart Hall. One of the founders of “British Cultural Studies”, more than anyone else, he put the black in the Union Jack.

Corporal punishment commonplace despite ban

– Manickchand restates opposition

By Gomatie GanGadin

Education Minister Priya Manickchand on Wednesday restated her opposition to corporal punishment in schools in the face of new reports of students being brutalised by their teachers, contrary to a partial ban on physical disciplining.

A parliamentary committee is currently reviewing the issue and has consulted with a number of organisations. Manickchand made the comments on the sidelines at the opening of the Children’s Mashramani Competition being held at the National Cultural Centre.

The minister, who was at the time responding to questions, said: “I have my own views and that is very strongly that we should not be beating children in school or at home, but I do not get to voice that view unto the nation.”

Manickchand further noted that the Education Ministry’s guidelines on maintaining order speak to the regulated and documented use of corporal punishment in schools as a last resort, which must be sanctioned by the head teacher.

Permission

However, the use of corporal punishment in schools is so commonplace that teachers appear not to recognise when they are using this form of punishment. Additionally, the very fact of allowing “regulated and documented use of corporal punishment” gives teachers permission to use it.

This was acknowledged by Manickchand who stated that while the ministry has its rules and regulations for administering corporal pun-

ishment, the reality is these are being breached.

“Our rules say that a child should not be flogged for not being able to learn, not doing school work; our rules say that children should not be flogged in the presence of other children, but the reality is that these rules are being breached and so as a country we need to decide which way we want to go,” said the minister.

Manickchand also noted that the National Assembly is in talks to find a suitable solution to this problem. “Happily, the National Assembly is examining the multi-party approach where all three parties are sitting down at the table looking at what we want and what will be best for the everyone involved,” she added.

Injuries

Children have, over the years, suffered needless injuries as a result of corporal punishment, and, in many cases, the teachers responsible for the injuries were not authorised to administer corporal punishment by their superiors.

Manickchand’s comments come against the backdrop of recent reports of a city headteacher severely beating a child on his buttocks. Reports were that the student of West Ruimveldt Primary School was of severely beaten with a bamboo wrapped with adhesive tape because he had allegedly taken fire crackers to school.

An investigation was launched into the matter. The child’s mother said her son sustained more than six lashes from the headteacher, while two other students held him down.

“The headteacher said she was scolding him for

Man fined for damaging property

Terrence Doogan, 54, a street dweller, appeared in court on Thursday before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, charged with the offence of damage to property.

Prosecutor Micheal Grant said that from statements received, on Tuesday February 11, in the vicinity of the Stabroek Market area, the accused threw an obstacle at pickup truck GKK 2537 and broke the rear-view mirror valued at $25,000.

The defendant, who was unrepresented by

an attorney pleaded not guilty to the charge and when asked to give an explanation by the magistrate, he explained that on the day in question, he was at the Stabroek Market area changing into his work clothes, when the owner of the vehicle ordered his workers to physically abuse him. He then picked up a rock and threw it at them which missed and hit the vehicle.

Prosecutor Micheal Grant had no convictions against the accused and the defendant asked the magistrate for leniency in his case. He was subsequently fined $25,000 for the damage caused.

bringing the firecrackers and she didn’t take the time to find out the truth about the story, because she was getting different stories from the children, so she just made a judgement and beat him. And all she tell me was sorry,” the woman had told another section of the media.

Back in May 2013, the National Assembly had adopted the Report of the Special Select Committee of the National Assembly on the United Nations Human Rights Council with regard to the abolition of corporal punishment in schools.

The committee had begun work in 2012 following the move to adopt a motion addressing the issue which was tabled by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds in August 2012.

Hinds had reported to the National Assembly that Guyana appeared before the United Nations Human

to it

Rights Council during the first cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in May 2010, and then in September 2010. The second

cycle is to take place in 2016.

Government is of the view that parliamentary consideration of this matter would enhance the national consultations procedurally, by being the subject of a special select committee which would organise the national consultations in a complementary, credible way. Several organisations have since made presentations before the committee.

In recent times, a number of civil society groups have come out in support for a total ban on corporal punishment.

The latest being the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) ,which urged the authorities to take steps to strengthen and expand awareness programmes in order to promote positive and alternative forms of discipline.

SASOD said it has been

increasingly focused on children’s issues in Guyana, noting that in December 2012, it launched its Child Protection Policy, which echoed its commitment to ensuring that the rights of Guyana’s children are respected and protected, as well as to provide a framework to assist all representatives in carrying out their duties to safeguard children’s welfare and promote awareness of child protection issues.

In January 2013, SASOD, along with three other civil society groups – Red Thread, Family Action Consciousness Togetherness (FACT); and Artistes In Direct Support (AIDS) – made a joint submission to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child that focused on “Sexuality and Gender Issues Affecting Children in Guyana” as the state’s record was under review.

Teixeira blames APNU for Guyana's name "going abroad" again

By Svetlana MarShall

Borrowing a phrase from a popular song,

“Sly Mongoose” government's Chief Whip Gail Teixeira said the opposition’s stance on the anti-money laundering bill has resulted in Guyana’s name going abroad again.

“We went abroad in the 70s for rigged elections, we went abroad in the 80s for Jonestown when 900 Americans were killed on our soil, we went for the first free and fair elections in 1992, now we are going abroad for not being able to pass the money laundering law that will make us compliant in the local market,” Teixeira, the chairperson of the special select committee fine-tuning the bill, said.

At a meeting Wednesday night, the committee discussed the possibility of conducting a teleconference with the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) to address problems stalling the passage of the critical bill.

But while the opposition appears to be in favour of the teleconference, it is pushing for such discussions to occur when the chief parliamentary counsel completes the draft to the amended bill.

Via a letter, the chief parliamentary counsel sought further clarification of the amendments proposed by the opposition late Sunday night. The counsel is expected to submit the draft amendment next Wednesday when the committee meets again.

Speaking with Guyana Times on Wednesday night, Teixeira said she recommended that a teleconference

be held after considering the cost factor that may have come into play if government is to facilitate CFATF officials coming to Guyana.

According to the chairperson, the opposition has agreed with the government on amendments made to the bill, but made it clear that it will not support the bill if its amendments to the principal act are not included.

“The people have no worry, there is no hurry, these people have no rush in their bones, and so we may be lucky tomorrow (today) with FATF [Financial Action Task Force] and they might give us little more time, but we are taking enormous chances as a country …,” she said.

Risk Teixeira told this publication that the opposition, particularly the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), continues to put the country at risk, owing to its deliberate move to stall the passage of the bill which will put Guyana in compliance with the CFATF and the FATF recommendations and standards.

It was pointed out that the bill was presented in the National Assembly on April 22, 2013 and was defeated on November 7 after returning from the committee. Subsequently, in December 2013, it was sent back to a second select committee.

Notably, Teixeira said, after close to 10 months, the opposition waited until the “last minute” on February 9 to table amendments, not to the bill in question but the principal Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act 2009.

Opposition Leader David Granger said the reason for the delay was that both the government and the opposition were going through the bill, clause by clause, but Teixeira said this was far from the truth.

“We were not going through the bill, clause by clause, so either he had been misinformed or forgotten, or, in fact, it is a grand design to put us at Sunday night on the eve of February 9 in a situation where major amendments were made to the principal act which has major consequences,” he said.

Embarrassment

The select committee chairperson said government, local stakeholders, and even the international community had called for the opposition to disclose its amendments but to no avail.

“I feel embarrassed as a Guyanese, every single country in this region… rose to the challenge and I feel embarrassed as a Guyanese that the opposition has the nation at ransom. When you look at Belize, it rushed to pass six of their bills so they could say to FATF look… sig-

nificant efforts have been made to comply,” she said.

Teixeira also alluded to recent calls made by the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (Caricom) to pass the bill, asking if the opposition was insensitive to the regional and international leaders.

“Are we not ashamed? How could the opposition do this to the Guyanese people?” she asked.

Junior Finance Minister Juan Edghill also weighed in on the issue, chiding the opposition over the frequent delays in the passage of the bill.

“If APNU had queries that they wanted to ask CFATF to clarify, they did not have to wait Sunday night for such a request. If they know they had amendments and it takes time to draft, they didn’t have to propose those amendments in writing on Sunday night.

"If they wanted Guyana to meet the deadline so that we could have been in compliance, they had 10 months to do so,” he said.

APNU Member of Parliament (MP) and newly selected Deputy Speaker, Basil Williams confirmed that the parties are considering the possibility of having a teleconference with CFATF to clear the air on amendments put forward.

He said the members will meet on February 19 pending the completion of the draft bill by the chief parliamentary counsel.

Noticeably present at Wednesday night’s meeting was Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Khemraj Ramjattan in addition to Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh and APNU MP Joseph Harmon.

De Pullice Farce was

tryin to pull a fast one

Hard time is a part of every body life. Dem people in de U.S. and UK goin thru a hard time wid de weather. It was sheer hard time fuh Guyanese under de PEE-N-SEE. Mook Lall put a lotta people thru a lotta hard time to get to de U.S. Then de Mook he self went thru a lotta hard time to get back he visa.

De Harding fella going thru a lotta hard time these days. At one time, he probably never tought tings coulda get harder than life itself. Then maybe he change he mind and tink that tings would never get harder than dealin wid de pullice, especially when de pullice gotta baton in dem hand.

After all, de pullice look like dem was tryin to pull a fast one pun Harding. It look like dem was even tryin to pull a fast one pun de whole nation. Even Minister Rum Saran try to pull a fast one in Parliament. But now that de medical examination pull out de truth, de pullice commishunner gon have to pull back he words.

De top cop tought he was on top of every ting. De commishunner even went on top a podium and seh de pullice was on top of de baton saga. But is now he realise that some body in de pullice station went on top of Harding when dem pull he into Timehri.

Well, now it now leff pun de top cop to get to de bottom of that. And when it come to gettin to de bottom of any ting, de pullice does either be fast or slow. At this rate, it look like de pullice was fast to get to de bottom of de lil boy who jump up pun de roof, but slow to get de medical examination.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! But dem fast to bruk all dem new pick-ups and slow to answer dem pullice station phones. Now dem slow to get to de bottom of crime because that might mean gettin rid fast from top to bottom of de whole pullice farce!

Preliminary results of 2012 census coming soon – finance minister

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh said the 2012 National Population Census is in its final stages. Dr Singh said he is expected to receive a preliminary report on that census “in the not-too-distant future.”

According to the finance minister, the process is ongoing and a more detailed analysis is now

being done, on the various variables that were collected. “I expect a preliminary report not too long from now and before the end of this year, a full census report,” he added. Asked whether the field work has been completed, Dr Singh said the process was completed long ago and tabulations are now being done. “It’s more data

analysis now,” he added. Data extracted from the surveys conducted in villages across the country is now being processed.

Behind schedule

The Guyana National Bureau of Statistics (GNBS) will provide a preliminary report for the 2012 national population census to the minister.

The GNBS is the agency mandated to carry out this exercise. The bureau started work on September 15, 2012 and was scheduled to complete a preliminary report in early 2013. However, as a result of several issues, the deadline was extended to September last, which was also missed.

During September last, the GNBS was going back into the field to conduct verifications. This meant that officers were still visiting homes randomly to ensure the accuracy of the

information received during the field enumeration exercise. The verification process also targeted persons who would have been left out in the initial stages of the exercise.

According to an official there, the GNBS wants to ensure it publishes accurate information, hence the verification process. However, this did not excuse the fact that the exercise was way behind schedule. There were concerns raised about completing the exercise efficiently, especially in the interior locations.

A traditional population and housing census is among one of the most complex and massive peacetime exercises a nation undertakes. It requires mapping of the entire country, and mobilising and training of enumerators, among others. The census is a critical planning tool, helping pol -

icymakers plan for the future in terms of schools, clinics, hospitals, roads, urban infrastructure, and more. It can measure fertility, mortality and spatial distribution, so as to predict and plan for demographic trends. It can uncover gender disparities in employment, literacy, age of marriage, and assets. The census also reveals the number of people with disabilities and orphans by area, and can map out dwelling types, drinking water sources, telecommunications access, and patterns of energy use, among other things.

Guyana’s last census survey was conducted in 2002 when a population of 751,023 was recorded. Census 2012 was part of the United Nations’ 2010 round of global population and housing censuses. The 2010 round spans the period 2005-2014. Censuses are conducted every 10 years.

Guyana Relief Council short of funds, volunteers – Hinds

By Jomo Paul

The Guyana Relief Council is in dire need of funding and volunteers to effectively carry out its mandate, the chairperson of the charitable organisation, Mrs Yvonne Hinds has said.

“We need more people to come on board, so we can move forward and do more things,” Hinds told Guyana Times during an interview. She noted that the GRC, which is celebrating 20 years in existence, is not adequately funded and does not have the resources to take on bigger projects.

Hinds related that although the government provides some assistance to the council, it was inadequate, merely serving to maintain security at the organisation. Funding to keep the organisation afloat comes primarily from its overseas chapter in Miami.

The chapter would provide approximately $1 million to the council to assist in its work. Other donors would include the corporate sector. On the issue of fundraising, the chairperson related, that the council hosts several events throughout the year, including raffles and its annual anniversary dinner.

Assistance

The GRC head lauded those companies that have been providing assistance to the organisation over the past 20 years. She, however, noted that they would only offer assistance when being asked in times of a disaster. “Corporate Guyana doesn’t come and say ‘look, you take this. We know you do good work, so take this’… we have to go and ask them.”

She added that human resources also play a pivotal role and the GRC is in need of more volunteers.

“If you do not have a passion for the work, then you can’t do it, you have to really want to help people,” said Hinds.

She pointed out that if persons applied enough empathy to humanitarian work, much could be accomplished not only in the GRC but in other humanitarian organisations.

Reflecting on the council’s work, Hinds said she was proud of its stellar accomplishments over the past 20 years, noting that

Grove man accuses police of harassment

– says ranks squeezed his testicles

Fresh off of allegations of sexual and physical abuse, ranks of the Guyana Police Force stationed along the East Bank Demerara corridor are now being accused of harassment.

GRC Chairperson Yvonne Hinds

its mandate of providing assistance to fire victims has been expanded to include victims of other disasters.

Hinds stressed that victims stay at the self-contained GRC shelter until they are able to reconstruct their homes. Beds, other household items and new clothing are among the articles donated to disaster victims.

Guyana Times spoke with some of the persons who were helped by the council. Virginia, (only name given) who lived in the apartment complex in Kingston that was ravaged by fire in 2011 related that she was very grateful for the work done by the GRC. She said she stayed at the shelter for one month subsequent to the fire.

She emphasised that she and the others who stayed at the hostel were properly treated, noting that they were provided with adequate meals.

Savitree Williams, who had her home destroyed by fire in November 2013, also praised the GRC. She said her entire family, except for her, suffers from diabetes and her husband whose leg was amputated cannot work, but the GRC provides insulin and groceries for her family.

As part of the 20th anniversary celebrations, a slew of activities were planned, including a pictorial exhibition at the National Library.

The exhibition will conclude today.

A disturbed resident of Grove New Housing Scheme (name given), is pleading with the relevant authorities to take action against several officers whom, he said, have been harassing him and his family.

He said since last year, owing to a problem with a neighbour, whom he named, and whose husband is a police officer, he and his family’s lives have been made miserable.

According to the man, the woman and her family began renting the house next door about a year ago.

He said the landlady of the house subsequently dis-

connected the utility services from the house, because the woman was not paying her bills, and as such, he began supplying her water.

He added that the woman and her landlady would get into disputes during which the woman would assault the landlady.

Appalled by the woman’s behaviour, he decided to stop giving the woman water and this caused the rift between them.

“From since then, she always cussing my family and when I go report the matter to the police station, they don’t do anything, ‘cause she does call her husband and he does get she off everything,” he pointed out.

He said the woman’s husband is stationed at the Agricola Outpost, but would sometimes be at the Diamond/Grove Police

Station.

He stressed that there are several ranks and they are friends of the policeman who would target him every time there is a road block. He noted that they would stop his vehicle and search him, during which time they would squeeze his testicles.

Armed threat

The man recalled another incident where he went to the said station to report his car lights being stolen and not only did the officer refuse to file the report, but he also threatened him with a loaded firearm. He disclosed that the latest incident was on Monday and involved his five daughters.

According to the man, his neighbour was imprisoned for four months after she was found guilty of using abusive and threatening lan-

guage to his daughters, ages 10 months to 15 years. He continued that when she was released from prison on Monday, the woman went in front of his house where his daughters were home alone and began abusing them. She then left and subsequently returned with a police constable from the Diamond/Grove Housing Scheme. The officer began honking his vehicle horn consistently.

Ramdhani said his eldest daughter went out to the veranda with the baby in her arms. “When she come out the officer (name given) point to her and say ‘you, you, you put down that baby and come right now’. My daughter get scared and tell him that her parents are not home and he said she should come,” the man related.

MoU signed for floating patrol base P

The agencies of the National Task Force on smuggling on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the use of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Floating Patrol Base, which is located in the mouth of the Pomeroon River.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee and Assistant Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud at the ministry’s boardroom, Brickdam.

It was signed by Guyana Police Force (GPF) Commissioner Leroy Brumell; GDF Deputy Chief-of-Staff, Colonel Kemraj Persaud; Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) head James Singh; Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Commissioner General Khurshid Sattaur and Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) head, Mahender Sharma.

The floating patrol base will be under the command and control of the GDF. It is now mandated with detecting the smuggling and trafficking of drugs, firearms, and other contraband items, with each agency being given specific tasks.

Before the signing, Rohee pointed out that the task force contributes significantly to the strengthening of the collaboration and cooperation among the member agencies. He added that this would also allow for enhanced joint oper-

ations among the agencies.

“It is important to note that these departments have all signed on to a collective Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), which will guide and inform them with respect to their individual and collective activities,” he stated. The minister said the floating base is placed strategically in an area that is frequented by smugglers and traffickers.

National security Rohee further disclosed that within the next few months, the GPF will be setting up identical floating bases at strategic points along the country’s waterways to curb criminal activities.

In closing, he reminded the agency heads that they have to work together cohesively to counter smuggling of drugs, firearms and other contraband.

In his remarks, the deputy army head said the MoU is a step closer to the operationalisation of interagency coordination, which is intended to provide resources and appropriate responses to matters of national security, as well as internal peace and stability, while contributing to national wealth.

“Heartened, because we recognised that other major participants are joined in unity for this national call and are willing to sacrifice and make their respective contri-

bution in making, in a very small way, Guyana safe and secure. I am reminded that you don’t have to serve in the military to be identified with issues of national security,” Colonel Persaud stressed.

He went on to say that the other member agencies will now be reassured of the coast guard’s responsibility to police the waterways in an effort to overcome the challenges presented by those intending to “flout the laws in their convenience”.

The deputy GDF chief-ofstaff noted that he was ready and willing to support the minister’s vision with respect to interagency cooperation, adding that it is the way to respond to common threats.

Meanwhile, former Chiefof-Staff Michael Atherly noted that the five agencies through the MoU will further join forces to prevent, detect, suppress, investigate, and prosecute criminal activities and violations of the law which include, but are not limited to, fuel smuggling and trafficking of contraband.

“This can certainly assist with removing the tools of crime from criminal gangs, as well as depriving wrongdoers of the potential proceeds of their crimes. We must send a powerful message to smugglers, pirates, and alike across the length and breadth across Guyana,” Atherly stated.

Grove man accuses police...

He added that the officer then began shouting at this daughter, demanding that she come downstairs, and the baby and his two-yearold daughter started to cry.

The man said his 15-yearold was forced to leave the baby on the veranda and go to the police officer.

The man noted that the gate was padlocked at the time, so the officer walked up to the bridge, demanding that his teenage daughter open the gate and come with him to the police station. “My daughter get more

scared and started to cry.

Five girl children I had home at the time and how could he tell my daughter to leave my crying baby down? This is wrong, he should not have done that,” the man vented.

He said his daughter then told the officer that she would not open the gate and he should come back when her parents are home.

The disturbed father said he had previously sought the help of many senior officials of the police force but rarely, if at all, got justice. He stated the only reason his neigh-

No evidence that rooftop teen was sodomised – Kennard

olice Complaints

Authority (PCA)

Chairman Cecil Kennard on Wednesday said there was no evidence to recommend any charge against policemen accused of sexually molesting a young man at the Stabroek Police Outpost earlier this month.

Kennard said: “I am not recommending any charges to be brought against policemen; because he failed to identify them... he failed to identify any of the persons that were on duty.”

In an interview with Guyana Times, Kennard related that when the evidence presented was taken into consideration, charges cannot be instituted: “He failed to identify the men,” Kennard insisted.

The chairman added that the policemen who were on duty on the day of the incident and the day lead-

ing up to the incident were all placed in the identification parades. On the issue of whether a medical was provided, Kennard noted that a medical was provided, but whether or not the 16-year-old was raped cannot be ascertained, because the young man engages in same-sex activities.

He further stated that the file will also be sent to Director of Public Prosecutions Bibi Shalimar Ali-Hack who will make recommendations.

The young man recently staged a rooftop protest on Robb Street after he claimed he was raped by ranks stationed at the Stabroek Outpost after he was arrested pending prostitution charges.

The teen told Guyana Times in an earlier interview that after two identification parades, he was un-

able to positively identify the perpetrators. He claimed the wrong policemen were placed in the identification parades.

He added that the first parade consisted of eight police ranks and the second, 14 but these ranks were not from Georgetown, hence his inability to identify his assailants.

The young man has suggested that Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell inspect the records at the Stabroek Outpost to ascertain which police officers were on duty the night that he was allegedly sodomised. He also accused the police ranks of covering for each other.

Police Commissioner Brumell told media operatives that the DPP will review the case and forward her recommendation to the force.

Govt, U.S. to meet on rejected USAID project

Close to a month after talks were initially scheduled between the governments of Guyana and the United States of America regarding the controversial U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Leadership And Democracy (LEAD) project, a meeting has been planned for next week.

Presidential Adviser Gail Teixeira made this disclosure on Thursday during this week’s post-Cabinet briefing, which she had hosted. According to Teixeira, there has been a private agreement to have a meeting during the course of next week.

Asked whether the project has been halted, she pointed out that while the government has received acknowledgement of its letters and correspondence on the issue, there has been no word from the U.S. on the status of the project.

“We have no indication from the Americans officially or unofficially that the project was on hold as re-

bour was arrested and placed before the courts is because he had called the Force Control, since the woman always threatens his daughters that she will burn them alive.

Asked whether he had approached the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) with his woes, the man said after he had made reports, the authority had called him; however, before he could have met with the PCA, the officer in question called and threatened him for one hour.

Out of frustration and

desperation, he said he has taken it upon himself now to get justice and has been protesting outside the police headquarters and the Office of the President.

The man said the police needs to be exposed for their lawless behaviour. “I need justice, my daughters are still traumatised about what happened Monday and I’m not going to let this go so easy. This nonsense going on for too long and it got to stop, because every time they do something wrong, they getting off,” the man said.

quested by the government,” she stated.

U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, D Brent Hardt, on Thursday told Guyana Times that he has not received any word from the government on meeting to discuss the project. Speaking to this publication a few hours after the Cabinet’s press briefing, he said he was not aware of any agreement to meet next week, but he noted that he would welcome such an invitation readily.

The ambassador, however, pointed out that he has been very busy and has not had a chance to check with the embassy’s staff about an invitation from the government.

Ambassador Hardt explained that the U.S. has not pushed for a meeting during the past few weeks because the Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr Roger Luncheon, who is a key player in this issue, has not been well. Nevertheless, the ambassador reiterated his readiness to meet with the government. “We are avail-

able anytime to meet with the government.” Dr Luncheon, at a postCabinet briefing last month, disclosed that government had agreed to meet with the U.S. However, he reiterated government’s position that genuine engagement on the way forward cannot be done with government negotiating under duress.

He said if in the exchange there is indeed a mature bilateral spirit, there is no reason the negotiation would not end in agreement.

The USAID project was not approved by Cabinet and this was formally indicated to the relevant authorities, but unconfirmed reports later indicated that project activities were being implemented.

Government subsequently stated that it had disapproved of the project, because it was not included in the initial stages when the project was being drafted. This, however, was disputed by the U.S. authorities causing a chilly exchange between the two governments.

Man charged for possession of cannabis

Aman appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Thursday. Treon Charles, of Lot 107 old Road, Eccles, East Bank Demerara and a vendor at the Stabroek Market area was charged with possession of cannabis.

The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge which states that in the Stabroek

Market area, the defendant was found with five grams of cannabis in his possession by ranks of the Guyana Police Force. The defendant was sentenced to six months community service and fined the sum of $3000. Chief Magistrate SewnarineBeharry also noted that the defendant is to report at the Palms Geriatric Home every Monday to perform his services.

Govt lobbying int’l support for AML/CFT Bill

Presidential Adviser on Governance Gail

Teixeira has admitted that the Guyana government has been lobbying international organisations to have them support the passage of the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Amendment Bill.

At a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday, Teixeira said the government raised its concerns over the non-passage of the bill with friendly countries, adding that she saw nothing wrong in doing that.

Recently, the Organisation of American States (OAS) made a public statement calling for the passage of the bill. It noted that the legislation would make Guyana compliant with the requirements of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), thus preventing unnecessary damage to the country’s financial stature. The OAS offered its cooperation and support, through the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD).

Statements

Caricom has issued at least two statements regarding this issue, pushing to have the bill passed, so as to keep Guyana in compliance with international financial obligations. The regional grouping said it remained deeply concerned that failure to pass the bill in Parliament could result in action by CFATF, which could have an adverse impact on the Guyanese economy and by extension, the Caricom region as a whole.

Teixeira slammed the

opposition for the delay, explaining what occurred during meetings of the select committee reviewing the bill, which she chairs. “There is simply no excuse for the bill being in limbo, it should have never been in limbo,” she asserted.

During the meeting held on Saturday last, a proposal was made by the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) members to have a bilateral committee established to review bills which do not receive the president’s assent.

Teixeira said the government agreed to the proposal, but under the condition that the amendments as they were would be approved by both sides and returned to the House for passage at the Monday, February 10 sitting. This did not materialise.

According to Teixeira on Sunday, President Donald Ramotar received a letter from Opposition Leader David Granger, which called for the work of the committee to reach a mutually acceptable conclusion and urged that a mutually agreed statement be issued in relation to the bilateral committee. Then, Sunday saw the bill being approved by both sides in the committee. But later on, things changed and the opposition became reluctant to pass the bill.

Teixeira also slammed Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Khemraj Ramjattan for what she said was a “callous disregard for the work of the committee”. The special select committee chairperson said Ramjattan remains firm on his position that the AFC will not support the amendments, unless the government shows it is willing to set up the Public Procurement

Belgium extends “right-to-die” to terminally ill children

BCommission (PPC). She said his behaviour is reckless, since Parliament is making headway to have both opposition parties nominate candidates to sit on the PPC.

Reckless

The presidential adviser maintains that some of the amendments proposed by the opposition to the AML/ CFT Bill could be dangerous. She pointed particularly to the proposal that customs officers be empowered to stop and search persons, and if a person is found with $2 million or more local currency, it can be seized if the police has reasonable suspicion that it is the proceeds or the subject of money laundering. This, she explained, is unreasonable, stating that Guyana is still a cash-based economy and that the amendment will not be relevant.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) held its three-day plenary in Paris which ended on Thursday. That meeting will decide if Guyana should be granted more time or be subjected to a total review. Teixeira said while there is some chance that Guyana would be given an extension, “given its unique nature”, time is running out. She stated that, therefore, both sides will still have to move swiftly, to ensure that the bill is passed, as soon as possible. The presidential adviser pointed out that government has done all it can and this is known here and abroad.

The parliamentary select committee has been adjourned until February 19, when members of the committee would consider APNU’s proposed amendments. Parliament resumes on February 27.

Jamaica, Interpol sign visa-waiver agreement

The signing of an agreement between the government of Jamaica and the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) will mean ease of travel through the country’s borders for Interpol agents on official business.

The explanation was given by Assistant Commissioner of Police Kevin Blake, who heads the National Intelligence Bureau, following an announcement by Information Minister Sandrea Falconer

that Cabinet had approved the signing of the agreement for the recognition and acceptance of the Interpol Travel Document when used by Interpol officials at Jamaica’s borders.

The information minister told journalists at Wednesday’s Jamaica House press briefing that Interpol documents will be accepted in cases where the traveller is from a country that would require them to have a visa. In addition, she said the Interpol epassport/e-ID card must

be presented with a letter of invitation from the relevant authorities in Jamaica and a valid national passport. She said the agreement is to be reviewed in three years.

Interpol is mandated under international public law to ensure and promote mutual assistance between all the police authorities within the limits of the laws in the different countries and in the spirit of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

elgium became the first country to allow euthanasia for terminally ill children of any age on Thursday when its lower house of parliament passed new “right-to-die” legislation by a large majority.

The law goes beyond Dutch legislation that set a minimum age of 12 for children judged mature enough to decide to end their lives. It has popular support in Belgium, where adult euthanasia became legal in 2002.

In the Chamber of

Representatives, 86 lawmakers voted in favour, 44 against and 12 abstained. Most opposition parties supported it, as well as the governing socialists and liberals.

One man in the public gallery shouted “murderers” in French when the vote was passed. The Christian Democrats, although members of Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo’s coalition, voted against. Christian, Muslim and Jewish leaders denounced the law ahead of the vote in a rare joint declaration and Catholic bish-

ops have led days of prayer and fasting against it.

“This is not about lethal injections for children. This is about terminally ill children, whose death is imminent and who suffer greatly,” said Carina Van Cauter, a lawmaker for the Flemish Liberal Democrats who back the law.

“There are clear checks and balances in the law to prevent abuse,” she said of the legislation, which now has to pass the largely symbolic stage of being signed by the country’s monarch.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Rowley awarded substantial damages by Trinidad High Court

The High Court

Wednesday awarded Opposition Leader, Dr Keith Rowley TT$475,000 (US$76,000) in damages following remarks made by a former senator five years ago about a controversial land development project. Former independent Senator Michael Annisette, who is also President of the Seamen and Waterfront Workers Union SWWU), had made reference to the so called “Landate Affair’ in and out of the Senate that involved allegations that materials were siphoned from the Scarborough Hospital project to a private housing project owned by Rowley’s wife.

Dr Keith Rowley said he was satisfied with the ruling and was prepared to take anyone before the courts to clear his character

Rowley said that the “Landate Affair” had been the subject of a Commission

of Inquiry and other probes by the authority and on each occasion there had been no truth to the allegations made.

Last year, Attorney General Anand Ramlogan said that the Landate Affair was still the subject of a police investigation.

Attorney Faris Al-Wari told reporters that the judge in awarding the “highest award of damages in Trinidad and Tobago in the sum of 475,000 dollars and also legal costs in the sum of 160,000 dollars reflected that this attack (on Rowley) was at least as offensive as the most serious defamation in the cases considered by the court”. (Excerpt from Caribbean360)

friday, february 14, 2014| guyanatimesgy.com

No disrespect to Kissoon! …

AGranger says it was his decision to relegate her

Partnership for National Unity (APNU)

Leader David Granger said it was his decision to have the coalition’s Region 10 parliamentarian Vanessa Kissoon placed on the back bench in the National Assembly.

The APNU leader said there is no need for the endless buzz over the issue, pointing out that Kissoon was not the only parliamentarian to be shifted. Granger was grilled on the issue at the APNU’s weekly news conference on Thursday.

He explained that the recent resignation of the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Debra Backer had caused the party to make some administrative adjustments. “There should be no controversy. Ronald Bulkan had to move, some persons in the front bench had to shift their seats. A new MP had to be installed and we are confident that Kissoon will continue to do her best to represent the people of Linden," he said.

Kissoon had earlier claimed that she was never informed of the seating re-arrangement. Responding to this, Granger said the party had sent out emails, informing members to check on their new seating arrangements when they turn up at the National Assembly.

He is unsure whether Kissoon received that information. “Emails were sent out notifying MPs of the need to check on the new plan. The

new plan was only approved by the assembly on the very day,” Granger said.

The contention of Kissoon is that there must have been a motive behind her being moved. She was unsure if her acquaintance with longstanding People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Aubrey Norton was responsible in part for the decision by APNU’s leader. It is alleged that Aubrey Norton and APNU have an ongoing rift. However, the coalition leader reiterated that there was no sinister motive behind the re-arrangement. He also said he was unaware of any problems between Norton and PNCR/APNU.

Granger said the change was necessary and was within the policy line of the party. Since the replacement,

Guyanese, far and wide, have raised their voices in condemnation, stating that it was total disrespect to the people of Linden. The concerned citizens lament that the mining town has, over the years, been a stronghold of the PNCR and even played a major part in its success at the last national election.

Granger responded: “There is no disrespect there, because several important members of the party served on the back bench. The head of the GYSM [Guyana Youth and Student Movement] serves on the back bench and there is no disrespect to the youth.” Granger said everyone cannot serve on the front bench, pointing out that the party’s nine shadow Cabinet members utilise the space on the front bench.

Kissoon has since said that her placement on the back bench would not affect the quality of her work or representation, since her service in the National Assembly is for the people of Guyana.

“It matters not where I am seated. My voice will still be heard. I will still represent the Guyanese people. I am here to serve and sound my voice regardless of where I am. I am still a member of the National Assembly and that’s important,” she had told Guyana Times

Kissoon was appointed a Member of Parliament eight years ago on the PNCR/One Guyana (PNCR1G) Platform.

Man wanted for cocaine in

Three days after the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) issued a wanted bulletin for a shopkeeper in connection with the cocaine found in achar at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), the law enforcement agency issued another bulletin, this time for Tarachandra Persaud of Republic Park, East Bank Demerara.

On Monday, a man and a woman who were apprehended at the CJIA with the cocaine were charged for possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. United States citizen Winston Blake, 77, and

Sadika Neola Odie, 38, of Lot 186 Thomas Street, Kitty, Georgetown pleaded not guilty to the charge and were remanded to

achar

prison. The 20 kilograms of cocaine were discovered during the scanning of the couple’s luggage by CANU ranks. The duo was headed to the John F Kennedy Airport, New York on BW Flight 526. This publication was told that upon their arrest, the couple told ranks that someone had given them the achar as presents for persons in the U.S. The cocaine was wrapped in brown tape and shaped to mimic seeds in the tamarind achar.

Anyone who has information on Persaud’s whereabouts can contact CANU at 227-3507.

U.S. rock band arrives for Rupununi festival

Alternative rock band

“Filligar” will be performing at the Rupununi Music and Arts Festival this weekend as part of their eight-day tour of Guyana, courtesy of the United States embassy in Guyana.

The young band, which has arrived in Guyana, comprises four members: lead vocalist Johnny Mathias, pianist Casey Gibson, bassist Teddy Mathias, and drummer Pete Mathias. During their visit the band will engage in a range of musical exchanges and activities which include workshops at the National Music School, educational presentations to students, and a public concert at the National Cultural Centre on February 18.

“Filligar” is described as one of the best young bands in America and has been selected by the U.S. Department of State as cultural ambassadors, representing the “American people and their cultural values”. The band was established 13 years ago; however, it was only christened “Filligar” six years ago. The band’s last album “Hexagon”, which was released in July 2013, was named ‘Best News Music’ by American Songwriter Magazine. The band’s previous album was nominated for “Best Rock Album”

at the 2012 Independent Music Awards.

The four-member band has also shared the stage with acclaimed American artists such as “Counting Crows”, “The Black Keys”, and “My Morning Jacket”. Apart from touring 45 out of the 50 states in the U.S., “Filligar” has also played in the United Kingdom, Azerbaijan, and Canada.

The U.S. embassy hosted a press conference to introduce the band to the media. In his introduction, Ambassador D Brent Hardt said over the past three years he has developed a series of cultural exchanges between the U.S. and Guyana during which he had brought jazz band the Phil Dunlap Trio, and supported the performances of Keen Dance Theatre of New York and the Classique Dance Company of Guyana. He noted that he has also hosted a display of artwork from both countries as well as a Native American flutist who had toured Guyana.

According to the ambassador, he is undertaking this initiative because “there is a need for understanding the U.S. beyond what is being seen on television”.

The members of the band told local media that they are here to share their own music and experiences with Guyanese, while

learning what Guyana has to offer. They noted that although Guyana and the Caribbean as a whole have their own genres of music, they are still excited about performing here, or in any foreign country, since they get to learn about different music and interpret it in their work. “We are here to share our own evolution of that music,” the band stated.

“Filligar” members explained that artistes do not really get the opportunity to travel deep into countries, so when this invitation came, they jumped on the opportunity immediately. The band members are very young and well educated, not only in music, and have managed themselves for more than 11 years. They said they were not in any way fulfilled by the accolades but by making and playing music. “The ability to have a voice is a gift,” they stated, adding that most artistes of today has lost sight of that fact. The members are advising young artistes, before anything else, to get an education, and never take any audience or stage for granted. They noted that as long as people make time to listen to you and you have something to share, do it, regardless of the size or location of the audience.

SUDOKU

Temptation will lead to loss. Avoid a get-richquick scheme. Resist high-pressure sales tactics, and get all the details before you sign on the dotted line. Consider the consequences if you act impulsively.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Don’t feel neglected if someone doesn’t go along with your plans. You could go along with the group or spend some time working independently on something else you enjoy.

A project will demand your full attention. Be thorough, resist distractions and maintain your focus until you have perfected your approach. Procrastination will result in frustration.

Time spent worrying is time wasted. Keep your mind off your troubles by staying busy and accomplishing something uplifting. Don’t dwell on what you cannot change.

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

Indulge in things you find pleasurable. Soothe your nerves by listening to your favourite music or enjoying a special meal. Relaxation could help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Proceed with caution. Someone may be trying to take advantage of you. Make sure you are aware of what’s expected, and don’t be coerced into doing something you’ll regret.

(March 21-April 19)

Go ahead, make the improvements you have been contemplating. Take the necessary action to reach an important goal. You will be pleased at the results and impress someone you care about as well.

(April 20-May 20)

Go over your records to determine whether you have been careless with money. Be honest with yourself and make adjustments to your budget before your debts take over.

(May 21June 20)

Your outgoing nature will lead to an interesting invitation. Accept what’s offered, and take advantage of the chance to expand your social circle. You will encounter someone special.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Get out and mingle. Sitting at home will only make you more lethargic. Get up, get moving, and indulge in something you’ve never done before. You could gain a whole new perspective.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Review contracts before you make a commitment. Make sure everyone is in agreement and that you are being treated fairly before you proceed. Better to be safe than sorry.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Enroll in a course, begin a creative endeavour or get involved in a sports activity. You will meet people with similar interests, and learn something valuable in the process.

Entertainment

Carib Soca Monarch finals this Saturday at National Park

Twill be transformed into a carnival atmosphere Saturday evening as 14 of the best soca artistes will take to the stage to battle for the coveted title of Carib Soca Monarch, 2014.

Those who have made it to the finals are Shelly G, Passion, Roger B, Kemmy, Bones Man, Vanilla, Lil Red, Lady T, AJ, Avalanche, Ace and Mysterious.

Last Saturday evening, Berbicians witnessed “smoke” but come competition night, the entire arena will go up in flames with rivalry of the highest extent. It will be one stage one night, one title and one crowned winner.

As we celebrate a day of love today, most persons would want to spend the day with the most special person in their life and at the most sophisticated place around. As it gets dark, however, the place to be is at

Who will hold the title of Carib Soca Monarch for the next year and have the privilege to represent Guyana at the International Soca Competition in 2015 in Trinidad and Tobago?

From the semi finals in Berbice, there were several

high class performances by various artistes. These included performances by Shelly G, Vanilla, Bonesman, Kemmy and Lil Red along with Kwesi “Ace” and Roger B.

With the buzz around town, Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo who recently returned from Trinidad and Tobago is all ready and will not let

anything out of the bag other than to “bring u rags; flags;

anything to get on bad”. The reigning monarch is eyeing the title for the third consecutive year.

He encouraged his fans to turn up in their numbers and have a great time, while noting to come expecting anything.

As the hour draws near, the artistes are putting their final presentation into perspective. The Heatwave Band is also ready to take to the stage come Saturday evening. Apart from the Guyanese artistes, there will also be Kees and his band to add some flavour to the evening.

Twenty of the biggest chutney/ soca artistes in the world will take to the biggest stage in chutney soca for a slice of the biggest payday in the history of the event. Over TT$4.5 million in cash and prizes are up for grabs come this

the Pelican Inn, on Hadfield Street, Werk-en-Rust for a Valentine’s night event called “Lovers Rockaway”

“Lovers Rockaway” will feature Dowieman and Romeo Starke of the Reinforcement Band (from Suriname), GT&T Jingle and Song Competition 2011 winner Brandon Harding, Ras Abna Hakim, Mario K, Benji Diamond and Gad I, among others.

The Reinforcement Band from Suriname has a track record of touring Holland and other European countries. The group has several CD and DVD recordings, including the popular Nelson Mandela

tribute song and video “Prison to President” by lead singer – Desmond Lewis aka “Dowieman”.

Dowieman, Romeo Starke, Brandon Harding and a host of artistes recently performed at the “Reggae Fever” to commemorate Bob Marley’s 69th birth anniversary at the Pegasus Hotel. “Lovers Rockaway” will afford interested persons a chance to enjoy a repeat of aspects of the “Reggae Fever” show.

Music will be supplied by RasBenji of Foundation Sounds out of London, England. Admission is only $500.

the winner this year will receive a whopping TT$1 million.

Saturday evening at Skinner Park Grand arena, San Fernando.

Unfortunately, none of the Guyanese contenders made it to the finals but among those sighted to take the title this year are KI, Ravi B, Rikki Jai and coming close to the others in the semi finals was Rick Ramoutar.

Apart from the 10 listed as potential winners, other vying for the title are Omadath Maharaj, De Hunter, Anand Yankeran, Reshma Ramlal, Hemlatha Dindial, Snakey and Heaven Charles, Nadia Madoo, Crazy and Edwin Ayoung, Olatunji and Kavita Maharaj.

Also in a good position to capture the title this year is young heartthrob, Veekash Sahadeo, along with Nishard Mayrhoo, Adesh Samaroo, Sally Sagram and Kenneth Supersad. It will all be bacchanal come this Saturday, as the artistes promise to set the stage on fire.

Reigning international monarch, Raymond Ramnarine will not be defending his title this Saturday due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless,

To vote for your favourite artiste(s), all you need to do is text the code of every artiste to 78247. The codes are as follows: Blaxx – BLAX; Crazy –CRAZ; Snakey – RED; Hamlatha Dindial – HD; Kavita Maharaj – KAV; Kenneth Supersad –KS; De Hunter – WIN; Nadia Madoo –NAD; Adesh Samaroo – SAM; Nishard

All set for

Demerara Park is expected to explode this evening as nine calypsonians take to the stage with the aim of dethroning reigning champion, Lester “De Professor” Charles. It is expected to be a heated rivalry as all the artistes are ready to perform to perfection.

The event will see 10 contenders battling for supremacy and a chance to win $600,000 as the first prize, $400,000 going to the first runner-up, $250,000 to the second runner-up and $100,000 to the third runner-up.

The contenders who are all

finals tonight!

ready and hyped to hit the stage this evening are Roger “Young Bill Rogers” Hinds, Karen “Queen Makeeba” Bennett, Dawn “Lady D” Edwards, Garfield “Mighty Roots” Campbell, Derrick “Bright Colours” Mangal, Darcia “Queen Davey” Barrow, Lindon “Mighty Sniper” Thomas, John “Ras Marcus” and Kenny “Mighty Believer” Fraser. Those who made it to the finals put on a great show for the Barticians despite heavy downpours on Saturday

“Cupid’s chokehold”

Vevening last. However, leading the group into the finals was “Young Bill Rogers” who has the charisma to win the title, taking into consideration he is the 2012 monarch.

Another person to keep your eye on is the Junior Calypso Monarch Shontelle Gittens who proved she has what it takes with her powerful vocals and excellent stage presentation. All the

artistes will undoubtedly bring their ‘A Game’ this evening. All the finalists will be backed by Mingles Sound Machine and some entertainment will be provided by guest artistes Tennisha De Freitas and the X Factor Dance group. Admission to the event is easy and showtime is 20:00h.

Prince JP/Bunty Singh’s “Holi in GT” to hit airwaves on March 5

Two vocal power houses, Prince JP and Bunty Singh have joined forces to record their first duet which is a saucy Phagwah song entitled, “Holi in GT”. The song, written by Prince JP with some assistance by Bunty Singh, wll be a pleasure to listen to. The rhythms and choruses will definitely have you on your feet as the nation celebrates Holi in a few weeks time. The song is set for release on March 5 on 89.1FM radio with WR Reaz’s Mega Mix Reload.

Collaboration has always been on the minds of the two former GT&T Bollywood contestants but only recently they decided on the venture. The duo is also due to record a chutney song later in the year. However, Holi in GT is recorded with all Guyanese in mind and is expected to take the airwaves by storm come March 5. The song composes of a mixture of Hindi and English, with a touch of soca-chutney to create the right vibes for a celebration. The song was recorded in Bunty Singh’s Studio in Shieldstown, Berbice and was made possible by the kind complements of WestSiderz Entertainment. So look out for the new collaboration between the duo and many more to come.

alentine’s night is the perfect night for lovers and there is no other place to be other than Palm Court as Pulse Entertainment celebrates

tonight at PC five years of real entertainment. Tonight patrons can meet their true love at Pulse Entertainment’s annual lover’s party called “Cupid’s

Chokehold” at the new and modernised Palm Court on Main Street.

The entertainment giant is celebrating its fifth anniversary with love in the air and patrons are bound to enjoy every moment of it. It will be an unforgettable night filled with love, cake, drinks and music to suit all from soca to dancehall and R&B.

Admission to the event is $2000 with free love shots upon entry. Music and lighting will be provided by Pulse Entertainment. Prove your love at the door and win a Pulse Heart and free passes to their upcoming events.

The event is sponsored by Dixie Lee, 704 Evolve, Miami Subs, 93.1FM, Truck Masters, CULT Energy Drink and Welcome to Banks Country.

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Young designer –Randy Madray

Randy Madray is a Guyanese designer who has been taking the catwalk by storm with his impressive line of clothing for both men and women.

This 20-year-old was raised in the small village of Meadow Bank on the East Bank of Demerara. Madray grew up with his parents and three siblings: two older brothers and one younger sister. The Taurus born designer was raised closely knitted to his extended family.

Randy enjoys spending time with friends and family, swimming, a good game of beach volleyball and drawing and painting. He is very approachable and describes himself as outgoing and adventurous.

Randy pursued his secondary education at Queen’s College where he studied in the Science and Arts streams. He was successful in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and also the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).

This talented young man became the only Guyanese to have completed the CAPE Art and Design course in years and is very proud of this achievement.

Madray was always encouraged by his art teachers, principal and friends to pursue his dream of fashion designing which led to many making fun of his choice of career. Nonetheless, Randy began his journey of becoming a successful fashion designer at the age of 15 when he represented Queen’s

College in the FACTS 3 student designer competition in 2009.

In FACTS 3, Randy was off to a great start as he was featured by numerous media houses throughout the competition, whether he won a challenge or not. This boosted his confidence and motivated him to work even harder and focus on other things rather than just books and school.

In the end, he presented a collection titled “Disturbia” which slanted to the gothic side. The then 16-year-old Madray emerged the winner and won the Student Designer of The Year award. From then on he was referred to as “The gothic designer”.

Randy went on to design for private clients and beauty pageants. He always had a passion to work and design for pageantry. He designed pieces for his first pageant in 2010, dressing a delegate in the Miss Guyana Earth Pageant. After that venture, he received great reviews and publicity which lifted him to the next level.

Madray launched his first ever swimwear collection at Creek Fest, one of the main summer events in 2011. That year, as well, he auditioned for the Barbados Fashion Week young designer wearable art competition.

From applicants from around the Caribbean, Randy was selected as one of the top four finalists. He also launched an evening wear collection called “Caribbean Sea”, at the first ever Feminition, which

was held at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

He showcased alongside veteran designers, and was also the youngest designer in the bunch. The collection was a hit; all the local newspapers and entertainment websites featured the young designer and his work.

Randy continued to improve and was then selected to design for the Miss Guyana Universe, Miss Guyana Talented Teen and Miss Guyana World pageants. He won several designer awards for his exemplary outfits. In addition, he was also the first winner of the National Dress Competition hosted by Simpli Royal.

Randy is now well known for his one-ofa-kind Haute Couture gowns. His greatest hits are the famous Ayana Whitehead black sequin gown which was seen at Miss Guyana Universe 2013 and the famous red handmade see through lace gown worn by local fashionists and model, Stacy Ramcharran at the annual Pulse Entertainment New Year’s Eve party.

Randy continues to work very hard for 2014 and sees great things in his future. He is very grateful to his supporters and remains humble. At present, he is working on two new projects behind closed doors which will be revealed in due time.

Jamaica all out for record low 49 against T&T

Hosts Trinidad and Tobago powered their way to the final of the NAGICO Super50 regional cricket competition when they demolished Jamaica by seven wickets in the first semi-final played at the Queen’s Park Oval here Wednesday.

Having won the toss and dismissing the Jamaicans for 49 off 24.2 overs, Trinidad and Tobago knocked off their target in just 13.1 overs rushing to 51 for three off 13.1 overs.

Trinidad’s captain Dwayne Bravo made early inroads into the Jamaican line up scraping the cream of the top order with three of the first four wickets to fall. He ended with final bowling figures of three for 10 off six overs.

Bowling with swing and accuracy Bravo sent back John Campbell caught behind for a duck and trapped Kenar Lewis leg before wicket for two. Tamar Lambert went in similar fashion leaving a delivery alone before he had scored. In between that flurry

of wickets Jamaica lost Nkrumah Bonner caught at short mid wicket pulling at Ravi Rampaul for just one. They never recovered from four wickets for five runs. In the end only two Jamaican batsmen reached double figures, Andre Mc Carthy who was one of four victims of Rayad Emrit perished for 16 lofting to

mid-wicket and Jerome Taylor who was undefeated on 13.

Emrit continued where Bravo and Rampaul left off, accounting for Dave Bernard one, Andre Russell four and last man Andrew Richardson for no score to finish with the impressive figures of four for 19 off 6.2 overs. Ravi Rampaul claimed two for six off five overs.

Trinidad and Tobago also started shakily losing the aggressive Evin Lewis for no score caught at mid on by Andre Russell pulling at Jerome Taylor. Back in the Jamaica side after a long layoff due to injury, Taylor also sent back Imran Khan leg before for one and Lendl Simmons who played on attempting a square cut when he had reached 21.

The Bravo brothers then guided the Trinidadians safely to their target. Darren Bravo remained 23 not out and Dwayne who was named man of the match hit the winning runs with a nonchalant boundary to mid on off Nikita Miller to be undefeated on five. Jerome Taylor had an impressive spell with a haul of three for 11 off six overs. (WICB Media Release)

SCOREBOARD

Bowling: Dwayne Bravo 6-010-3, Rayad Emrit 6.2-019-4, Ravi Rampaul 5-3-62, Sunil Narine 7-3-13-1.

Trinidad & Tobago innings

L Simmons b Taylor 21

A McCarthy c Lewis b Emrit 16

C Baugh+ c Darren Bravo b Rampaul 4

D Bernard* c Darren Bravo b Emrit 1

A Russell c Ramdin b Emrit 4

N Miller lbw b Narine 3

J Taylor not out 13

A Richardson c Lewis b Emrit 0

Total: (all out; 24.2 overs) 49

Extras: (wd 4, lb 1) 5 Fall of Wickets: 1-3, 2-4, 3-4, 4-5, 5-14, 6-25, 7-29, 8-36, 9-40, 10-49.

E Lewis c Russell b Taylor 0 I Khan lbw b Taylor 1 Darren Bravo not out 23

Dwayne Bravo not out 5 Total: (for three wickets; 13.1 overs) 51

Extras: (wd 1) 1

Fall of Wickets: 1-1, 2-10, 3-34

Bowling: J Taylor 6-1-11-3, D Bernard 2-0-10-0, A Richardson 10-0-8-0, N Miller 3.1-110-0, A Russell 1-0-12-0.

carl froch and george groves agree to rematch

British super-middleweight rivals Carl Froch and George Groves have agreed to a rematch, to take place at a football stadium on May 31. Nottingham’s Froch, 36, retained his WBA and IBF titles with a ninth-round stoppage of Groves last November.

But Londoner Groves, 25, complained the fight was ended too soon.

“I listened to the public and gave them what they wanted. I expect this to be one of the biggest fights the country has ever seen,” Froch said.

“I am still shocked that Froch has agreed to take the fight. I respect him for his bravery.

“Britain will have its own Hagler-Hearns to talk about for years to come.”

The bout is the biggest rematch in British boxing since Chris Eubank fought Nigel Benn for a second time at Old Trafford in 1993.

Froch-Groves II is expected to break the boxoffice record for a British fight, with Old Trafford in Manchester and Arsenal’s

Emirates Stadium being suggested as possible venues.

Promoter Eddie Hearn said he wanted upwards of 80,000 people to be at the fight, adding: “I believe this is the biggest fight in British boxing history. I want to see how big we can make it.”

The record attendance for a post-World War II boxing show was for Ricky Hatton’s fight against Luan Lazcano, which drew 55,000 fans at the City of Manchester Stadium in 2008.

There were bitter recriminations in the wake of the first fight between Froch and Groves at the Manchester Arena. Groves led on points after flooring the champion in round one but referee Howard Foster stepped in to halt proceedings when Froch went on the attack in round nine.

With Froch angling for a rematch against American Andre Ward or a fight with Mexican Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in Las Vegas, it looked like Groves might have to wait for his chance to avenge the loss.

He initially rejected a “seven-figure” offer from Froch’s promoter Eddie Hearn for a rematch, claiming there were too many “stipulations”.

But then, last month, the IBF ordered Froch to fight Groves again within 90 days or risk losing his belt. Groves also petitioned the British Boxing Board of Control to restore his unbeaten status by declaring his defeat by Froch a no contest.

Froch continued: “It’s been a difficult period for me following the first fight. I’ve had to listen to his endless whining and appeals when ultimately the referee did him perhaps the biggest favour possible and saved him from a devastating knockout, whilst denying me the right of a clinical finish and a great comeback victory.

“I was poor in the first fight. I didn’t give him the respect as a fighter. I can’t wait to get back in there and do a proper job.”

However Groves said he was within his rights to appeal. He told Sky Sports: “All I want is a rematch.”

Under the terms of the IBF’s rematch directive, challenger Groves was only entitled to 15 per cent of the purse.

However, Hearn said the directive would only have been relevant if the fight had gone to purse bids and suggested Froch had agreed to shift on the percentage.

Froch’s victory in the first fight took his career record to 32 wins from 34 fights, while defeat for Groves was his first in 20 professional outings. (BBC Sport)

guyana Volleyball federation to hold annual general meeting

The Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) will be hosting its annual general meeting on February 15 at 14:00h at the Guyana Defense Force (GDF) Coast Guard base in Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

All executives and representatives of each volleyball association, totaling at least nine persons, must be in attendance.

All relevant persons are asked to take note and make a very special effort to attend this very important meeting, a release from the federation said. Persons are asked to be seated at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the meeting.

Johnson flattens South Africa

Mitchell Johnson ran through South Africa’s top order on day two to give Australia total control of the first Test at Centurion. Johnson took 4-51 as South Africa slipped to 140-6 in reply to Australia’s first-innings 397 before rain brought an early end to the evening session at SuperSport Park.

The left-arm paceman, who claimed 37 wickets during his side’s 5-0 Ashes whitewash of England, removed Graeme Smith (10), Alviro Petersen (2), Faf du Plessis (3) and Ryan McLaren (8) during his 13.3 overs.

AB de Villiers resisted with 52 not out, putting on 67 with JP Duminy after the fifth wicket pair came together with South Africa on 43-4 when Peter Siddle trapped lynchpin No 3 Hashim Amla lbw for 17.

Johnson did the early damage, bouncing out Smith and Du Plessis and having Petersen caught behind cutting during a

lively opening spell. Siddle followed up with the key wicket of Amla and, after De Villiers and Duminy fought back either side of tea,

spinner Nathan Lyon had Duminy (25) caught by Johnson running back from mid-off.

And Johnson added his fourth wicket late on, bowling McLaren via inside edge.

Australia had themselves collapsed in the morning, going from an overnight 297-4 to 397 all out shortly after lunch.

Steve Smith, resuming on 91, did manage to collect the nine runs required to complete his fourth Test hundred - all the others coming against England in the last year - from 211 balls, including 13 fours.

But Smith went for exactly 100, edging a McLaren delivery to Petersen at second slip.

Shaun Marsh advanced from 122 at the start of the day to a career-best 148 before he became Vernon Philander’s lone victim in the innings and Dale Steyn cleaned up the tail to finish with 4-78. (Sky Sport)

Courts support Goodwill Boxing Championship

– contributes to Athletics Association of Guyana

By

Courts Furniture Store

Inc has made significant contributions to sport in Guyana, plugging sponsorship into the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) and the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) on Thursday at the store’s main branch on Main Street.

The GBA received a cheque for $200,000 to aid the successful hosting of their Goodwill Boxing Series, which is set to start Friday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Marketing Officer/Media Officer Trudy Abrahams explained the reason for the nation’s leading furniture store contributions to both of the associations.

“We are very very pleased as a brand to be supporting sports because sports is the life and blood of a nation, so we are very very happy to be making a donation to the Guyana Boxing Association and the Guyana Athletics Association,” Abrahams stated.

President of the GBA Steve Ninvalle was grateful for the sponsorship from the leading furniture store, saying it is significance for the tournament.

“It’s especially important if we are to take sports to the next level that we have a good relationship with corporate Guyana and with the government.

“Courts has always been a good corporate citizen, not only to boxing, but to any other sports. We at the Guyana Boxing Association want to

say a heartfelt thank you to Courts,” Ninvalle stated.

Vice President of the AAG Gavin Hope was thankful for the undisclosed donation by Courts, which will be aiding the AAG in sending a team to the Junior Carifta Games over the Easter weekend.

“Track and field is a growing discipline in Guyana, we are seeing progress, and the athletes are achieving greatness at these games, so we are grateful for this sponsorship and we hope to continue a long and fruitful relationship in our future endeavors,” Hope stated.

Meanwhile the Goodwill Boxing Championships will punch off from 18:00h, featuring fighter from Jamaica, St Lucia Trinidad and Tobago, and host Guyana.

Fitness Express partners with GABBFF

Ahead of their Annual Novices and Intermediate Championships, which will be staged on March 1 at the Theatre Guild Playhouse, Kingston, Georgetown, the Guyana Amateur Body Building and Fitness Federation (GABBFF) received a timely boost, compliments of Fitness Express.

This marks the fourth consecutive year that Fitness Express has been associated with the GABBFF competition, which will showcase young and emerging talent in the sport.

At a simple presentation ceremony, heled at the company’s location at 47 John and Sheriff Streets, Campbellville, Owner/ Manager Jamie Mc Donald handed over a cheque for an undisclosed sum to GABBFF Organising Secretary Videsh Sookram.

Prior to the ceremony, Mc Donald reminded that, despite being a fairly new business, they have been investing in significantly in Guyana’s sports development.

“We are once again very pleased to be associated with the development of body building in Guyana,” he said.

“This is a task we have committed ever since opening business here and we will continue to be associated with the sport. We’ve supported every activity relating to the sport and are very proud of the achievements of our athletes,” Mc Donald said.

The contribution will cover all trophies for the competition, while the company will also be presenting supplement hampers to some of

HJ Day of Sports set for Sunday

By TreisTon Joseph

Hits and Jams (HJ)

Entertainment will be adding a new flavour to sport by hosting their inaugural Day of Sports on Sunday at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

At the launching of the event on Thursday at HJ’s headquarters in Queenstown, Georgetown, Director of HJ entertainments Kerwin Bollers said the Day of Sports will be an annual attraction and explained the reason for staging the event.

“We just felt that sports in Guyana maybe has taken the back seat, and we are hoping that, with the start of this new venture, that Hits and Jams and the rest of the entertainment fraternity can partner with the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) to have such

meets.

“We would like to see athletics go back to the forefront, where it use to be, where you used to leave from school and just go and check out athletics,” Bollers said.

Former national athlete and Director of HJ Rawle Ferguson weighed in on how the event can benefit the country as a whole.

“We just want to have input into it. We had a chance to go around to some of the school championships and, no disrespect, I think there is a lot of work to be done…

“If we take the lead in terms of what we promote, what we write, and what we do, we think that Guyana will follow, and if we do this once every year, and everybody looks forward to it, then I think we will be in better shape in the future, and I think Guyana will benefit,” Ferguson said.

National and Olympic Coach Lyndon Wilson assured that the event will see professional judging and officiating when the meet kicks off from 10:00h.

“There will be professionalism, there will be a professional starter in myself, there will be professional judges and time keepers, so nobody can boast about the time they want to run, because there will be professionals officiating,” Wilson said.

Further, it was revealed that the proceeds from the bar will be donated to the AAG and other charitable organizations, including the Keem Foundation.

Meanwhile, the event is set to attract some of the biggest names in entertainment and the media, as the 100-metre dash is set to be the event of the day, which is being dubbed a “mustsee”.

Persaud speaks out against GFF boss

– claims he is being victimized

By TreisTon Joseph

President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Christopher Matthias continues to remain tight lipped on the allegations brought against him by the current Vice President of the federation Ivan Persaud.

Persaud has called for the president’s resignation, stating that it appears as if he (Persaud) would have to make his evidence public before an official GFF response is forthcoming.

However, Persaud, who admitted to asking the president to resign because of what he claimed to be a dictatorial style of leadership and allegations of lying, proceeded to make public some of his evidence in a press conference at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) on Thursday.

al, signing a contract that led to the non-payment of levy fees to various associations, and the unconstitutional suspension of the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA).

that it was wrong for the Matthias to terminate and hire persons without due process being used.

the outstanding performers on the night.

In brief remarks, Sookram lauded the sponsor for coming on board with the GABBFF. He called on other entities in corporate Guyana to emulate Fitness Express.

According to Sookram, 25 athletes have registered so far to compete in the championship, which gets under way at 19:00h.

Admission to the Theatre Guild is $1500.

Some of the main allegations that Persaud made public were the alleged misleading of the nation and GFF executives by Matthias regarding a US$22,500 fine for not participating in the CONCACAF Beach Football Tournament.

Others include allegedly allowing the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) to host the Banks DIH Knock Out (KO) Tournamnet without the requisite approv-

In addition, Persaud noted that the president has alleged that the current league is sponsored by Banks DIH, while having no official bars from the beverage company.

Persaud also claims that Matthias has not yet produced a report on an audit initiated in July 2013, based on hearsay of financial irregularities by past executives at a cost of $3 million.

Presaud, in detailing his allegations, also pointed out

Meanwhile, Persaud also believes that he is being victimized, as members of the executives were paid their stipends and has not received any.

Further, Persaud noted that if the president does not come clean, he will take the action that he needs to in an effort to bring closure to the alleged transgressions of Matthias.

However, when quizzed on what those actions might be, Persaud stated that he preferred for Matthias to prove his allegations wrong before venturing down such a road.

GSCL Inc Republic Cup softball tourney bowls off today

Sixteen of Guyana’s premier softball cricket teams will begin battle for supremacy today, when the inaugural Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc (GSCL) Republic Cup softball tournament bowls off with several games in the capital city.

The three-day tournament will be played in two categories – the open and over-40.

Preliminary matches will be played at Everest Cricket Club, Police Sports Club, Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) and Demerara Cricket Club grounds today and Saturday, while the final is scheduled for Sunday at the Everest Cricket Club ground.

The final in the open category will be broadcasted live on NCN radio.

Eight teams were drawn into two zones in each category at the launch of the tournament at the GNIC pavilion on Wednesday evening.

In the open category, Memorex, Regal XI, Bartica Challengers and DVD Titans were placed in Zone A, while Zone B consists of Wolf’s Warriors, Farm XI, Speed

Boat XI and Trophy Stall.

In the over-40 category, Floodlight, Savage, Regal Masters and Industry Superkings make up Zone A, while Zone B comprises Frontline XI, Mike’s Wellman, Parika Defenders and Success Masters.

Teams will play each other once in their respective zones and the top two teams will go through to the semi-finals.

Today’s first round in the open category will see Bartica Challengers playing Regal XI and DVD Titans facin Memorex in Zone A, while Wolf’s Warriors will come up against Trophy Stall and Farm XI will match skills with Speedboat XI in Zone B.

Floodlight will take on Industry Superkings and Savage will clash with Regal Masters in the Zone A, while Frontline XI will play Success Masters and Mike’s Wellman will battle with Parika Defenders in the opening fixtures in Zone B in the over-40 category.

The winning team in the open division will take home a trophy, $600,000 and medals, while the losing final-

GCB re-launches Grassroots Cricket Programme today

The 2014 Grassroots Cricket Programme of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) will be launched today at the Banks DIH Thirst Park Club House and Ground.

The launch will involve the participation of the GCB staff and executives, Sport Director in the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry Neil Kumar, President of Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) Colin Bynoe, Field Secretary of the GTU Lance Baptiste, and representatives from the Allied Arts Department of the Education Ministry.

The launch will immediately be followed by a friendly match between male and female individuals of ages 11-17 from Queen’s College and the Tucville Secondary

School.

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Grassroots Cricket Programme will be conducted in various locations across the country, and will focus on those of the targeted age group who have an interest in cricket, but currently possess limited cricketing experience.

The programme will also help to provide a continuous pathway for those with earlier exposure to the game of cricket, in particular, those who may have benefitted from the WICB Scotia Bank Kiddies Cricket Programme.

The GCB is re-launching the programme after a two-year hiatus. Many local coaches will also gain employment through the programme.

ist will pocket a trophy and $200,000.

The victorious team in the over-40 category will receive a trophy, $500,000 and medals, with the losing team set to collect a trophy

and $200,000. The man-of-the-match in the final and player of the series will be given a trophy and a three-piece living room suite respectively.

Black re-elected president of WBCA

David Black was reelected unopposed as the president of the West Berbice Cricket Association (WBCA) for a 10th consecutive term, when the association held its annual general meeting on February 6 at the WBCA head office, D’Edward Village, West Coast Berbice.

Black will be assisted by Tagenarine Ramroop as the vice president. Secretary is Carol Nurse, while Lochan Muklall will be Nurse’s assistant.

Carl Peterkin will fill the role of treasurer, with Rabindrauth Saywack serving as assistant treasurer.

The other members elected to serve on the association are Wayne Fraser, Jaipaul Heerall and Ouditt Gossai.

Blairmont and Hopetown Cricket Clubs have not yet confirmed their representatives.

Abel Seetaram was appointed as the public rela-

tions officer for the association.

Meanwhile, Black has pledged his continued commitment toward the development of the game at all levels.

He also indicated that cricket clubs can look forward to a good year of cricket, as the WBCA will be introducing more club cricket at all stages, with good incentives.

Barbados defeat Guyana by 7 wickets

Barbados defeated Guyana by seven wickets to book a date with Trinidad and Tobago in the NAGICO Super50 final in Port of Spain.

Chasing 182 runs for victory, Barbados were off to a flying start, thanks to Dwayne Smith. Together with Kraigg Brathwaite, both batsmen put on 81 runs for the opening stand.

Smith was, of course, the more aggressive of the two. He struck 61 runs from just 37 balls, hitting nine fours and three sixes in his 47-min-

ute stay at the crease. When he went, things drastically slowed for Barbados. Guyana took two more quick wickets to give themselves a fighting chance of getting back into the game. Barbados were soon rocking at 110/3. However, Kenroy Williams joined Kraigg Brathwaite at the crease and both batsmen patiently steadied their team.

They put on an unbroken stand of 72 runs to take their team to the final. Brathwaite ended on 55 not out from 122 balls, while Williams was un-

beaten on 40.

Guyana recovered from an early slump to post a competitive score of 181 all out, but it still was not be enough to guarantee them a spot in the NAGICO Super50 final.

The Barbadian bowlers came out all guns blazing after Guyana won the toss and elected to bat. They were quickly reduced to 26/4. Narsingh Deonarine saved the day, hitting a patient 58 runs from 108 balls. His knock included seven fours.

Christopher Barnwell was a little more aggressive, striking 37 from 54 balls. He hit four fours and a six during his hour-long stay at the crease.

Anthony Bramble also provided good company at the end, scoring 34.

Fidel Edwards was the pick of the bowlers for Barbados, finishing with 4-16 from 7.4 overs. He singled-handedly effected two run outs before ending the Guyana innings in the 49th over.

Barbados needed to score at a rate of only 3.64 runs an over and the task never appeared beyond them.

Shivnarine Chanderpaul had been ruled out of the match as he failed to recover from the flu. Paul Wintz was also out with the flu. Strangely enough, Rashidi Boucher also caught the flu and did not play

for Barbados. Tino Best again missed out.

Both teams were allowed an emergency fielder had they needed them. Barbados had allowed Javon Searles, while Guyana were allowed Dion Ferrier.

In the prelimary matches, Guyana lost one game to Jamaica in Group A, while Barbados had their second Group B match against the Combined Campuses and

Colleges at Shaw Park in Tobago rained out and abandoned.

Barbados ended up topping Group B by gaining 10 points, while Trinidad & Tobago placed second in the group with 10 points, but they lost the group head to head match with Barbados. Guyana on the other hand placed second to Jamaica, which had won all three group matches.

SCOREBOARD

Guyana

T Griffith c Stoute b Edwards 7

A Fudadin c Benn b Edwards 4

R Sarwan LBW Edwards 0

L Johnson LBW Holder 7 N Deonarine c Nurse b Holder 58

C Barnwell* c Holder b Williams 37

R Crandon LBW Benn 0

A Bramble+ run out Edwards 34

V Permaul run out Edwards 0

D Bishoo not out 0

R Beaton c Benn b Edwards 0

Total: 181 All Out (48.4 Overs)

Extras: (3NB, 6WD, 5LB, 1B) 15

Fall of Wickets: 1-10, 2-15, 3-22, 4-26, 5-91, 6-91, 7-146, 8-181, 9-181, 10-181.

Barbados Bowling: F Edwards

7.4-2-16-4, J Holder 9-0-352, Carlos Brathwaite 7-1-260, A Nurse 6-0-24-0, S Benn 10-1-39-1, K Williams 5-0-

Barbados (Target; 182) D Smith LBW Permaul 61 Kraigg Brathwaite not out 55 K Stoute c & b Permaul 1 J Carter LBW Bishoo 9 K Williams not out 40

Total: 182/3 (46 Overs)

Extras: (1NB, 8WD, 7LB) 16 Did not Bat: Sulieman Benn, Carlos Brathwaite, Shane Dowrich (wicketkeeper), Fidel Edwards, Jason Holder, Ashley Nurse.

Fall of Wickets: 1-81, 2-83, 3-110 Guyana Bowling: R Beaton 8-1-44-0, C Barnwell 5-1-190, V Permaul 10-1-44-2, D Bishoo 10-1-35-1, R Crandon 2-0-7-0, N Deonarine 10-022-0, L Johnson 1-0-4-0.

West Indies announce squads for Ireland matches – Miguel Cummins lone uncappped player

The Selection Panel of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has named 13-member squads for a brief series against International Cricket Council (ICC) Associate nation Ireland.

The series comprises two Twenty20 Internationals and a One-day International to be staged later this month at Sabina Park in the Jamaica capital of Kingston.

Twenty20 squad: Darren Sammy (captain), Samuel Badree, Dwayne Bravo, Andre Fletcher, Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine, Denesh Ramdin, Ravi Rampaul, Andre Russell, Marlon Samuels, Krishmar Santokie, Lendl Simmons and Dwayne Smith.

One-day International squad: Dwayne Bravo (captain), Darren Bravo, Miguel Cummins, Kirk Edwards, Christopher

Gayle, Jason Holder, Nikita Miller, Sunil Narine, Kieran Powell, Denesh Ramdin, Marlon Samuels, Darren Sammy and Lendl Simmons.

Team management unit: Ottis Gibson (head coach), Richie Richardson (team operations manager), Stuart Williams (assistant coach), Andre Coley (assistant coach), Saqlain Mushtaq (assistant coach), C J Clark (physiotherapist), Hector Martinez

Charles (strength and conditioning coordinator), Richard Berridge (video and statistical analyst), Virgil Browne (massage therapist) and Philip Spooner (media relations manager).

Kieron Pollard was not considered for selection to either side due to injury. He continues his rehabilitation following a knee injury sustained late last year. Santokie and Smith have been recalled,

after playing the last of their T20Is almost two years ago.

Santokie last appeared in a T20I against Australia in March 2012 at the Beausejour Cricket Ground in St Lucia, and Smith last played against Bangladesh in December that year at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Dhaka.

Darren Sammy has overcome a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the preceding two T20Is on the tour of New Zealand last month and returns to the line-up to captain the side. Also making a return following injury are opener Chris Gayle, fast bowler Ravi Rampaul and batsman Marlon Samuels.

On the ODI side, fast bowler Miguel Cummins has been selected for a senior West Indies side for the first time ever and is the only uncapped player. Darren

Bravo and Sammy, both of whom were restricted to one appearance apiece in the ODIs on the tour of New Zealand over the Christmas/New Year period, have been selected, while Gayle and Samuels have also returned following injury.

The team management unit has also been boosted with the addition of Saqlain Mushtaq.

The legendary Pakistan off-spinner conducted a spin bowling clinic with a number of established and promising spinners in the Caribbean last year, and has joined the team management unit to fortify this area that has become critical in the side’s armoury.

Schedule of matches: February 19: 1st T20I; February 21: 2nd T20I; and February 23: only ODI.