Guyana Times Daily

Guyana, Suriname parliaments to work together

From slum to thriving scheme: Mahdia on the rise Woman recovering after vicious attack

Barbados pilloried for opening of floodgates comment Consumer body to make public comeback

Land co-ops posing big problems for govt – Dr Gopaul

monday, october 28, 2013 | guyanatimeSgy.com

From slum to thriving scheme: Mahdia on the rise

BY SVETLANA MARSHALL

Mahdia, Region Eight, is on the “verge of transformation”, Regional Executive Officer Ronald Harsaywack told Guyana Times . According to him, the landscape is gradually changing from a slum to a scheme with modern towering edifices.

Mahdia, situated in the Potaro-Siparuni region, which is famous for its gold-mining activities, is inhabited by three primary groups: the Patamonas, coastlanders and immigrants from the Caribbean and neighbouring Brazil.

Mining activities

“Due to the influx of people and mining activities, there is a spin-off effect, even in the trans -

The gold rush is having a trickle-down effect, but on a positive note. According to Harsaywack, the commercial sector is on the rise, with a wide crosssection of commercial services being offered, from supplying groceries to mechanical services, to hospitality and Information Communication Technology (ITC) services.

portation [sector], with increasing numbers of taxis and minibuses.”

In the area of infrastructure, the regional executive officer said the commercial and residential sectors are now changing from wooden to concrete structures, ranging

from flat concrete buildings to three-storey buildings.

“The Mahdia you know three, four years ago, is not the Mahdia we have today. Without a doubt, I can say, there are improved facilities and services,” he posited.

Faced with problems

But like many other communities within the country, Mahdia is faced with several problems. “Well, of course, those things come with their negative impacts, like in any other region. We are forced to deal with the issue of security, issue of environmental soundness and social ills that we have to deal with.”

In the area of security, he explained that due to the sparse and mountainous settlements, ranks of the Guyana Police Force operating within the subdistrict cannot effectively execute their duties, noting that often times they cannot carry out frequent patrols.

“If the police are at one location and something happens or they receive intelligence for them to get to a different location within a timeframe”, the terrain makes that difficult.

No official report

According to Harsaywack, with a porous security system and increasing movement of people, illicit drugs and even guns and ammunition are reportedly trafficked easily.

Prostitution, child labour, robberies and murders are also areas of concern, he said. “We had two cases where we found under age children working in the backdam.”

Asked about human trafficking, Harsaywack said while there have been informal reports that TIP exists within the mining community, there has never been an official report.

“When you walk on the road, you hear people talk about people being trafficked, but we have never had a documented case, so there is nothing on record that says persons have been trafficked to Mahdia.”

Meanwhile, in the electricity sector, much is left to be desired. Since the commencement of the year, residents have been

plagued with power outages for extensive periods caused by a plethora of problems.

It was only earlier this month that the community started receiving 18 hours of electricity. Initially, it was supplied with 12 hours of power after the power company, Mahdia Power and Light (MPL) started experiencing financial difficulties.

In a quest to clear the air of any misconception, Harsaywack explained that a 650-kilovolt-amperes (kVA) generator set and a 355-kVA generator are the main source of electricity in the mining community.

However, during the peak period, only 30 per cent of the electricity generated is utilised. “The load is not there, so we produce electricity, but the people are not there to take off the electricity because of that, the revenues are not enough.”

Through the Office of the Prime Minister, a smaller generator set is being sourced to eliminate the problem, the regional officer posited, noting that the situation would likely get better in 2014.

“So with that smaller gen set, we will be using less fuel... hopefully, we should have a balance with revenues coming in and inputs in terms of fuel and operation cost,” an optimistic Harsaywack said. (svetlanamguyanatimesgy.com)

Barbados pilloried for opening of floodgates comment

BY WHITNEY PERSAUD

Tricia Jean Kippins is one of many Guyanese who have suffered the indignity of being placed on a bench at the Grantley Adams Airport, Barbados, by immigration officers.

Winds: Easterly between 0.55 and 1.38 metres per second.

High Tide: 11:32h and 23:59h reaching maximum heights of 2.11 metres and 2.15 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 04:52h and 17:30h reaching minimum heights of 1.07 metres and 1.13 metres respectively.

Although married to a Barbadian, Kippins said she has lost interest in moving to that country to live with her family. Instead, she and her husband have made arrangements to spend time together by means of vacation trips back and forth, which would be more costly; however, they have made their final decision.

The woman is just one of many Guyanese and Caribbean nationals with such stories and who welcome the recent decision handed down by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in a case brought against the Barbados government by Jamaican Shanique Myrie.

Satisfaction

Kippins has expressed satisfaction at the CCJ ruling while slamming the often inhospitable treatment that is meted out to Guyanese and other Caribbean nationals in Bridgetown. “She deserves it. Barbados is not a place like Guyana, I mean, if there are people going in to visit the island, I don’t think they should be treated inhumanly. I see they treat foreigners far better than Guyanese, St Lucians and Jamaicans, etc,” Kippins stated.

Relating her personal experience with the Barbadian officials and the long and embarrassing process she was made to put up with, Kippins said during her first visit to the country to spend time with her then intended husband, she was given a hassle by a female immigration officer at the airport.

“In 2006, September 29, I travelled to Barbados and I came back in October same year… After my husband decided to travel at that time, he was going to come down

to Guyana for Christmas, we went in to get extension and they refused to give us the extension and kept my passport,” Kippins related.

The woman said the situation was a very embarrassing one and she was treated like a thief/deportee, and for this reason, the couple decided to bring forward their wedding, which was held in January 2007.

Put on a bench

“I was told that I had to leave by October 28, one month after I arrived in the country… the woman put me on a bench to sit down and then she told me I am not to travel to the country after six months,” Kippins related.

She said owing to various reasons, the main one being work conditions, her husband was required to go back to Barbados before she was ready to fly out of Guyana.

She continued: “We got married January 13, 2007 and he travelled before me, but I travel in the same January on the 30th and they grant me four months vacation,” she said. She said the same immigration official that stamped her passport, urged that she apply for her official status, and she did.

According to Kippins, the officer had questioned her reason for waiting so long to travel again and she explained the situation to him.

She said that when the officer checked the system to

see what the reports jotted down in the records stated, she indicated to her that no such information was in the files.

“There was no reason listed as to why we couldn’t be given the extension, I was the first passenger to go to the plane when they took my passport, they escorted me to the plane,” she recalled.

Kippins has two children, who were both born in Barbados, at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. “I don’t want to go back, I had to pay money to give birth there,” she said.

Award

After two years of a court prolonged battle, the CCJ awarded Myrie J$3.6 million and ruled that she had been wrongfully denied entry into Barbados. A panel of judges determined that Myrie had been subjected to a humiliating cavity search, unlawfully detained and improperly denied entry. The court, however, rejected her claim that she had been discriminated against because of her nationality, deciding instead that Barbados had violated a treaty allowing the free movement of citizens among Caribbean Community

(Caricom) member states. She had been seeking the equivalent of J$500,000, in part to compensate for what she said was psychological trauma. The CCJ, established as the court of appeal for Caricom member states in 2001, is charged in part with enforcing the treaty. Myrie was stopped at the Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados in March 2011 by a police officer who suspected she was a drug courier. Immigration authorities detained her overnight because she allegedly provided false information about where she would stay while in the country and then expelled her.

Floodgates

While many have hailed the CCJ ruling as a good one in advancing the free movement treaty in Caricom, Barbadian Prime Minister Freundel Stuart voiced concern about its implications, saying an automatic sixmonth stay for Caricom nationals visiting Barbados would attract the unemployed and criminals.

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

No education crisis

Yet again,Guyana has dominated theCaribbean Secondary Education Certificate Examinations (CSEC) awards. We recently reported that this year (2013) Guyana won five of the eight awards including:most outstanding overall student, most outstanding student in humanities, most outstanding student in sciences, most outstanding student in business studies and most outstanding student in technical vocational.

It should also be noted that within the last decade, Guyana has been consistently winning CSEC awards because of the excellent performancesrecorded by students. In 2012, the country won four of the eight regional awards.

This achievement is quite commendable and we wish to take this opportunity to applaud the efforts of all those who had a role to play in the successes of our students, including the Education Ministry, parents and the students themselves who have made tremendous sacrifices by putting in many hours of hard work. When our students perform well in any field, whether it is in academic, sport or the performing arts, it is the entire country that gets the recognition.

It is hoped that these students will continue to keep the Guyana flag flying high as they seek to further their studies in various fields. For most of them, this is a just one of the first milestones in life, as they will go on to become professionals in their own fields. They have certainly made themselves, their families, their communities and their country proud.

Moreover, we hope that this quality of excellence will serve as benchmarks so that all students of Guyana can aspire to excel academically. The success stories of the various top students were published widely in the local press and we were told about how many of them were able to overcome various adversities and triumph in the end. These experiences will certainly help to motivate students all over the country that no matter what challenges they face, they can overcome them.

More importantly, these results prove that the various interventions and investments being made by government to raise the level of performances of our students are paying off. Recently, Education Minister Priya Manickchand had cause to respond strongly to suggestions made by Opposition Leader David Granger that there is a crisis facing the local education sector. Granger had called for a commission of inquiry to examine the problems facing the education sector and make recommendations.

While the ministry should not dismiss the concerns raised by Granger, we do not believe that the problems facing the sector could justifiably be described as a crisis. As far as we are aware, the ministry had accepted that all is not well in the education sector and there is room for improvement in various fields.

It could be recalled that from the very onset of the announcement of the 2013 CSEC results, the ministry had said that it was dissatisfied with students’ performances in key subject areas such as mathematics and English. In fact, most of us would know that countries throughout the world are indeed struggling with mathematics and these include developed countries as well.

Not that we are justifying the poor results of students in these subject areas, but it would be unfair to conveniently ignore the steps the ministry has taken to address these deficiencies. For example, the ministry has introduced continuous professional development courses in English and mathematics for teachers, it has offered incentives for teachers who graduate from these courses and has also offered additional training for teachers in low performing schools. Further, the ministry has prepared and presented a range of television programmes for students in maths and English.

While we must accept that there are certain challenges facing the education sector, it is necessary that we give credit whenever it is due. That being said, perhaps the opposition may want to consider seriously engaging the government and other key stakeholders on important national issues such as education. For too long we have been focusing on the ‘problem’ and making unnecessary criticisms rather than working towards finding a solution.

Dancing belles

The mayor’s fig leaf is gone

Dear Editor,

Guyana is a truly amazing country. Dr Jennifer BasdeoGreen, the wife of Mayor of GeorgetownHamilton Green, is being taken to court for non-payment of rates and taxes she owes to the cash-strapped city of Georgetown.

Here we have a leader of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)/ People’s National Congress (PNC), and mayor of Georgetown who constantly blames the government for the city’s financial woes when his wife is being taken to court for non-payment of over $10 million in rates and taxes owed from 1997 to 2013 – 16 years.

We all know that Green, for as long as anyone could remember, has been publicly regurgitating -- that unless the government increases the city’s tax bases, its financial woes would not end.

That is the fig leaf that the mayor was using to cov-

er incompetence and corruption at the Mayor and City Council (M&CC). Well, now thanks to the acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba, Green’s fig leaf has finally fallen off and everything is now exposed. This leaves one to wonder how many more of the mayor’s associates are enjoying privileges such as those being enjoyed by his wife.

What is even more amazing is that since this whole saga hit the media quite a while ago, we have been seeing the re-emergence of the real Green.

Instead of paying his fair share of taxes, he chose to resort to bullyisim and threats. He seems to forget that the PNC is not in power and that Guyana has moved on.

Green somehow seems to believe that he enjoys some sort of immunity of which only he is aware of. This chief citizen, a he is commonly referred, is well known for his public pro-

nouncements in the media on every moral and ethical issue under the sun, yet he himself refuses to act morally, ethically by ensuring his wife pays her taxes.

Leaders like these, instead of bringing grace, bring disgrace to their communities and people.

I have also noted the fact that not one of those opposition leaders who flood the airwaves with their rhetoric about accountability, good governance and conflict of interest has uttered a single word on this matter. This is yet another fine example of the hypocrisy of the entire opposition.

This level of hypocrisy, the opposition must understand is not what will make Guyana a better place. They must break their silence.

And what about the others who champion such high causes, Lallbachan Christopher Ram, Freddie Kissoon, Lincoln Lewis and other musketeers. Not a word. It has not gone un-no-

ticed that there is no article in the Stabroek News or Kaieteur News on this matter.

As for Green, could he tell us where in the world he would not have been forced to resign in disgrace? An interesting fact about this chief citizen or to be more precise, chief tourist, is that he is always visiting some city around the world on city taxpayers’ money. His justification? Learning and sharing of experiences on how to manage a capital city. Well, it looks like Green’s head is really hard. It is clear from the way he manages the city of Georgetown, that he has learnt noting.

It is time Green resigns. He has bought nothing but disgrace to an entire nation. I am sending this letter to the Stabroek News and Kaieteur News also. Let’s see if they will publish it.

Yours sincerely, Faruk Mohamed

GPL is trying amid shortcomings

Dear Editor, I wish I had a magic wand. I would have reinstated, very quickly too, the $5.2 billion that was cut from the Guyana Power Light (GPL). This was the joint opposition’s doing even though members knew what that such an act meant, that is, the serious setback affects on several large scale enhancement projects that were already underway. Some time has elapsed, but GPL is still making good progress amidst this shortage of funds.

Just a few days ago, a US$32 million, five-compo-

nent Wartsila generator arrived at the John Fernandes Wharf. The aim overall is to support the Georgetown and Berbice systems once the two are linked.

As for Georgetown alone, generation capacity will move from 80 to 106 megawatts, and this really translates in a better form of service in terms of reliability and non-fluctuations.

A lot of people have been complaining about outages and voltage inconsistencies. The word for Essequibians is not that great for now, as this investment cannot be stretched to facilitate the en-

tire county. I am sure there are plans to bring Essequibo fully on stream. In fact, if it were not for the Budget 2013 chopping, this investment would have been very national.

Just recently, 30 hinterland power station operators went through a four-week training programme. These functionaries were made to absorb some serious work in the area of power station operation and heavy diesel mechanics.

GPL must never lose sight of the fact that its various equipment are not cheap. So proper use, care

and maintenance must always be at the forefront. GPL must push on and find ways to make ends meet. The company must also consistently let the public know how much pressure it is under because of what the opposition did. I also ask that our many electricity thieves desist from the practice – GPL must deal with the guilty herein. Jailing them may be the route if they cannot pay up their accumulated bills too.

Sincerely,

Ronald Butters

Mothers of criminal children

Dear Editor, If and when mothers see their sons with large sums of money and they are not gainfully employed, why do they not ask where the money is coming from, or at least be suspicious? They should never use poison money of crime taken by force or death, or they become part of the crime and bring universal damnation on themselves as well.

If they know their children are involved in criminal activities, why do they not report them to the police? It is better they go to jail than get killed by their fellow criminal associates or in confrontations with the police.

Why is it that whenever there are Jamzone, reggae, R&B shows, and others with what I call reggae madness, there are visible hypes in crime, with the murderers and thieves being most brutal and inhuman?

The police and government of Guyana are aware of this. Many commissioners of police have lamented the fact that whenever these shows come to Guyana, people want to have a good time and they will kill in the most dreadful manner, cause social chaos and mayhem in families, so they can eat and wine…with the lewd vagarious gyrations. Are they without con-

science, leaving children and wives without a father? Is it because most of them grew up without fathers?

A few days back just before the R Kelly show, one young man (named) left his home in the Corentyne, his mother being a policewoman. He told her and the family he was going to the R Kelly show. She was asking the media why would he leave Corentyne, Berbice and go and commit a crime in Mahaicony? My heart goes out to this mother, for she brought that boy into the world, and she rightfully says she saw mothers screaming for their dead children, and only now she understands what it feels like.

I also wonder how the promoters of these kinds of concerts feel when they know that people will rob, injure, kill and destroy families to see their shows and have a good time. After the shows, the showmen and promoters enjoy their profits, some coming from the thefts and robberies, and deaths of innocent and positive people who work for a living. It is the worst thing in the world for a mother to lose her child. She said the bottom of the belly was scraping her. Herein lays the power of motherhood. Even if the child is a known criminal

committing the most heinous of crimes, she will say her son is innocent.

Only mothers can understand that scraping of the bottom of the belly when a child is killed or dies. I have seen many mothers who hold their bellies, and that is because she nourished her unborn from her belly, her stomach, her blood. The pains of a child lost for whatever reason destroys a mother, it hurts the father but always the mothers suffer more.

She admits he was arrested for growing marijuana and an illegal weapon, but never stole. So she is adamant with her daughter that the son does not thief.

The fact remains he is a criminal, he grew and sold marijuana and had an illegal firearm which could kill. So why could not acquire another?

He needed instant cash, and he got his associates from an area and make their hit, so they can vulgarly gyrate, eat and drink more and play big with other peoples money and miseries.

We do not hear from his father and usually we do not hear from the fathers, as it always the mother, the sister and grandmother that these children grow

up with, and they want the good things in life without working hard, and without an education.

Even for him in his crime, loss of human life is regrettable. His family lost, and Guyana lost what could have been a productive son of the nation had he been schooled right. I usually do not feel pity for criminals with guns, but because of the mother’s pain I feel so sorry for her. When mothers know their children are doing wrong thing or any relatives, report them and that could save their life.

Parents, and grandparents, teach your children well. Fathers do not abandon your children.

They need a positive role model, or they will join gangs, cliques, some delinquent, and remember the delinquent of today is the criminal of tomorrow.

If your child is in crime, do them a favour, save their life and future, take them into the law, or be responsible and feel the guilt when they are hurt, imprisoned or killed.

Sincerely, Roshan

Khan

Chairman, Electric Mosque’s “Teachings of Islam”

Payment of new minimum wage must be enforced

Dear Editor,

The implementation of the new minimum wage is a serious matter and one that should be addressed firmly with employers who fail to put it into effect accordingly. The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) is in receipt of many reports, detailing non-compliance with the law by many employers, mostly within the private sector.

The Labour Ministry is expected to further address the complaints made and decide on the necessary actions to be taken against employers guilty of non-conformity. The new minimum wage law was effective as of July 1. The law stipulates that every person employed in Guyana must not be paid less than $202 per hour; $1616 per day; $8080 per week; or $35,000 per month as the case may be.

Additionally, individuals who were being paid more than the minimum wage prior to the passing of the law should not have their salary reduced by their employer to meet the new minimum wage.

Ideally, a normal work week involves 40 hours and should not exceed five days. Any work beyond normal time is considered as over time and individuals should be compensated accordingly.

I applaud the addition of this labour law, but the necessary measures need to be taken to ensure that it is fully implemented by all employers’ country wide.

The Labour Ministry is advising all employees to not hesitate in reporting any employer failing to abide by this new law.

Sincerely, Name withheld by request

The truth about road safety

Dear Editor, The occurrence of road accidents is most often as a result of human error and regardless of how many road laws and regulations there are, accidents will continue to happen. Evidently, the only way to minimise or prevent accidents is to specifically target and educate the many drivers utilising the road ways.

Traffic signs, lights, and paintings only prevail to a few law abiding road users. There are many drivers who disregard the laws governing proper use of roadways.

Just recently, I approached a stop light in the vicinity of Mandela Avenue and Cemetery Road and irrespective of the traffic code, two taxi drivers proceeded to maneuver around me and go on their way.

Against all odds, I congratulate the Region 10 Road Safety Association for embarking on a road safety initiative. Volunteers have spent the last few weeks sprucing up old signs, painting new ones and have even attended

several meetings with members of the E Division Traffic Department, stakeholders within the community and the Region 10 chairman. They have all been diligently working to promote safer roadways for both motorists and pedestrians. However, I feel that there is need to redirect focus on arrogant insubordinate drivers. Road accidents are serious matters that need to be addressed with utter importance. Too often drivers manage to by bypass the consequences of their irresponsible acts. This kind of approach only encourages reckless and careless use of the road ways. Severe sentences need to be enforced on those drivers who irresponsibly claim the lives of innocent people. The implementation of stringent measures such as demerit points and increasing insurance premiums are few additional steps that we can take to show drivers how serious driving should be taken.

Sincerely, Ibrahim Bacchus

Pensioners get a timely boost

Dear Editor, Just recently I was educating a few of my unemployed friends on the assistance that the government is willing to offer pensioners. Though it took some time for the government to follow through with this initiative, it is highly appreciated by many. Scores of pensioners will now be relieved of the burden of paying electricity bills.

Registered pensioners with active Guyana Power and Light (GPL) accounts will now benefit from a subsidy of $20,000 per person. The initiative is expected to guarantee authenticity.

Presently, the focus is primarily on pensioners who completed the preliminary GPL verification process during the period July 22 to August 13. These individuals will have their accounts credited respectively. Other batches of pensioners can also expect to benefit from this offer in due time. Though it is not an over-

whelming offer, it still shows that the government has the well-being of the senior citizens of the nation at heart. Several people belittled the offer, but are actually in dire need of such charitable assistance. These individuals need to be less self-conceited and show gratitude instead. One of the main reasons for unemployment in Guyana is because people are rarely ever satisfied with what is available to them. Remuneration packages, stringent work hours and responsibilities are often considered as unnecessarily challenging and inadequate.

I strongly recommend that those individuals who are jobless take the extra step to alleviate themselves. Like many other individuals who are gainfully employed, they themselves also possess the competency and capacity to be a part of the working world.

Sincerely,

Maurice Harmon

Page Foundation

Parenting For Success

The effects of children taking on parental responsibilities

– ChildLink’s vision is a Guyanese society where every child enjoys the right to a childhood in a safe and caring family, free from poverty, violence, and exploitation

Authors Jo Aldridge and Saul Becker in their work on children as carers suggest that “when children take on care-giving roles in the family, their educational, social and emotional experiences and health can often be seriously jeopardised…. These roles may be complete if parents do not receive the support to which they are entitled, and if professionals fail to address the needs of children in this context”. There are many factors that may lead children to take on care-giving roles in the family: poverty, death of a sole provider in the family, mental illness or disability of a parent, and so forth. These factors can impact negatively on children’s development, the effects of which are explored below in one family’s story. Ray Jones is a 13-year-old boy living in a rural community with his mother, Zena, who for medical reasons is unable to work. Ray currently lives in a small, unpainted, one-bedroom apartment with his mother. His mother often struggles to keep the home running with no means of income, as two years ago, Ray tragically lost his father in a road accident. Ray had

been attending school regularly until his father’s death. As a result of these unfortunate circumstances, Ray adopted the role of provider after watching his mother struggle to care for him.

Out-of-control behaviours

Adopting this new role meant that sacrifices must have been made. Ray’s school attendance dropped significantly, he began to beg on street corners, sell fruits and run errands for adults for which he was paid. The money he made was given to his mother to purchase food, clothing and pay the bills. Ray’s desire to earn an income meant that he was returning home very late in the evenings and was sometimes absent from the home for days. Zena became worried about her son’s new and outof-control behaviours.

Zena, along with her concerned neighbours, would often spend their evenings looking for her son, but most times they were unable to locate him. This behaviour continued for one year, until Ray was picked up on the street for wandering by police. Ray was referred to ChildLinK for support and

his mother was advised to attend ChildLinK parenting support group.

Upon conducting an assessment into Ray’s case, the counsellor discovered that Ray was an average performer when he was attending school regularly; however, he often showed up to school without lunch. A visit to the child’s home verified that the environment was not suitable for a teenage boy: the home did not have

any chairs or proper storage for his clothing, his bed was made up of pieces of cloth on the floor and the kitchen was not properly equipped with kitchen utensils.

During a community visit, it was also discovered that Ray was stealing from his neighbours, would often become aggressive and was regularly picked up by the police for begging and wandering. One neighbour reported that she caught him

smoking marijuana on several occasions. Ray confided in the counsellor that he was not comfortable at home because of the lack of meals, and money for clothing and school.

The counsellor worked with Ray for six months in counselling sessions. The aim was to allow him the opportunity to express his feelings on what he was experiencing at home.

During one of the sessions, he related that he missed his father and wished he was around. At this point, it was clear that he needed to work through the loss of his father, because it was still having an effect on him.

Through several sessions, Ray was allowed to reflect on the positive memories that he had with his father before he died, and expressed his feelings and thoughts on these memories. He was encouraged to keep these memories alive by maintaining memory book drawings and messages that he had developed about his father during the sessions.

Some of the sessions also focused on anger management and behavioural changes. Ray was supported to explore things and situations

that cause him to display aggression towards others.

After identifying what would make him angry, he then looked at positive ways in which he can express his angry feelings. The feelings of anger were often normalised by the counsellor, during the session, saying, “Ray, it is OK for you to feel angry; however, what is not OK or accepted is when others are hurt in any way because you are feeling angry.”

Alongside the sessions with Ray, Zena was being supported by a ChildLinK parenting trainer to develop her parenting skills and learn how to take responsibility in supporting Ray to change his behaviours. She benefited from discussions on how to support a teenage boy, how to keep a tidy home, and how to implement rules and boundaries with the child.

In addition, the ChildLinK team was able to locate a family member who was willing to offer financial support to Zena and Ray to ensure that he did not wonder and beg on the road. This added support allowed Ray the chance to be re-enrolled in the school system.

Presently, there is food in the home on a regular basis, Ray is attending school regularly, and Zena is supporting him and playing a more active motherly role in his life.

Children who adopt parental responsibilities, such as providing income for the home, caring for younger siblings and/or carrying out house chores that are unsuitable for their age, for example, a five-year-old girl cooking a meal for the family, are cheated out of their childhood development.

These children lose out on significant childhood experiences such as school and playtime which help them to grow into healthy adults. It is important for parents to understand that it is their responsibility to provide for the home, and not their children’s.

Parents in situations similar to the above who are struggling to provide for their families are encouraged to seek support from the Human Services and Social Security Ministry or ChildLinK Inc.

Please contact us on telephone number 231-7174 or email us @ programmes. childlink@networksgy.com for any support you may need on parenting and other challenges you are experiencing with your children.

Lall, Yassin owe further $156.7M plus interest in rates, taxes

The Kaieteur News has again been exposed for carrying a misleading article – the most recent one published in its edition on Sunday regarding Property Holdings Inc (PHI), which is headed by Executive Director of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), Winston Brassington.

The article, which appeared on page seven, claimed that the PHI owes the Mayor and City Council for rates and taxes on six properties. It noted that a request to waive interest was sent to the M&CC through the

Local Government and Regional Development Ministry.

What is glaringly and deliberately missing from the article is the fact that the indebtedness of PHI is a direct result of the failure Mohan Lall, aka Glenn Lall, and Tony Yassin to pay rates and taxes.

Lall and Yassin owe M&CC

$156.7 million, plus interest of $91.1 million, for rates and taxes on the six properties. In 2004, PHI filed legal action to recover the properties, but the trial is yet

to start. The most valuable properties of PHI are a garage property, an electrical property, a property at New Amsterdam, Berbice and another at Lima, Essequibo Coast.

These four properties are some of the most valuable remaining assets of PHI. But shareholders are upset, as Lall and Yassin have not paid a single cent to PHI since 2000. Comments by the respective parties on the matter are muted given a court order.

PHI, which has over 1500 shareholders, was created in 1999. Each shareholder received shares in PHI at no cost. PHI shareholders are former employees and members of the public. The annual general meeting of PHI for 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012, which was held on October 23 at Regency Suites on Hadfield Street, Georgetown, was adjourned for a poll vote.

Meanwhile, a number of persons have been hauled before the court for non-payment of rates and taxes to the M&CC amounting to millions of dollars. Among them is Mohan Lall, aka Glenn Lall, who was represented by attorney and

leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC) Khemraj Ramjattan.

Lall and his wife, Bhena, are accused of owing the M&CC more than $5.6 million in taxes for a property at 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, according to court documents seen by this newspaper. In a Kaieteur News report on October 11, Lall admitted to owing rates and taxes, but claimed that he had an understanding with the M&CC that the millions of dollars he and his wife owe would be off-set via services provided by his muckraking newspaper.

Also being sued is Lallbachan

“Lalloo” Christopher Ram who has three matters. Ram reportedly owes more than $11 million in taxes for properties on Waterloo Street, North Cummingsburg. In a press release issued on October 11, Ram admitted to owing taxes and claimed that discussions on the matter go back to the 1990s when agreement was reached to have balances due for services rendered to the M&CC offset the millions of dollars he owes in rates and taxes.

Barbados pilloried for opening...

However, he told Barbadians to respect the ruling, saying Barbados was not “any banana, plantain or fig republic” but “a country governed by the rule of law”. He also urged customs, immigration and police officers at the border not to interpret the court’s reference to “hassle-free” travel in Caricom so loosely “that people can walk through the airport without anybody asking them anything” for fear of being sued. In an 88-minute address at a meeting of the St Philip North branch of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) at the Hilda Skeene Primary School, Stuart said people with good jobs were unlikely to be keen on spending six months in Barbados.

Denounced

The prime minister’s remarks, however, were denounced by Opposition Leader David Granger, who deemed them “unfounded”.

Granger told Guyana Times that there is no evidence to suggest that unemployed persons or criminals enter territories as a result of hassle- free movement in the region. “This is something that we had during the Cricket World Cup and we all realised that there was no in-

flux of criminals and undesirables, so I believe that the comments by the prime minister of Barbados are unfounded.” He argued that the “Caribbean has committed itself to free movement” and the ruling solidifies that position. Granger noted that Stuart’s remarks are antiCaribbean integration.

Automatic entry

President Donald Ramotar for his part said the CCJ ruling will see many errant immigration officials putting themselves in order. Ramotar also brushed aside comments by the Barbados prime minister, instead asserting that Caricom countries already have an agreement for free movement and this should not see any Caribbean national being hassled or harassed once they are in compliance with travelling and airport conditions. The Guyanese leader reassured that Guyana and the rest of the Caribbean are not suggesting that the authorities drop their guard as it relates to security, but noted that if the countries have signed onto an agreements, the rules must be followed.

Meanwhile, St Vincent and the Grenadines Dr

Guyana, Suriname parliaments to work together

Guyana and its neighbour Suriname have renewed their pledge to become closer through their respective parliaments by sharing experiences and knowledge.

This was disclosed by Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman following his meeting with Suriname’s Speaker Dr Jennifer Geerling-Simmons on Saturday at Parliament Building. Dr GeerlingSimmons was on a visit to Guyana along with an 11-member delegation.

According to Trotman, the visit sought to bring the two parliamentary systems together with a view of gaining firsthand experience on how their systems work. Trotman is hopeful that this exchange can continue, whereby parliamentarians from Guyana can travel to neighbouring countries on an annual or biannual basis and collaborate on a number of priority issues.

According to Dr GeerlingSimmons, “We agreed very much that we need a structural form of cooperation between the parliaments.”

She said while there were agreements, both parliamentary bodies need to return to their nations to formally conclude arrangements. As both countries face similar challenges in the various sectors, Dr Geerling-Simmons said they should be able assess experiences taking place within the two Houses and governments, and work together to solve problems through the sharing of information.

Connecting two peoples Trotman expressed similar sentiments, noting, “The best way to connect the two peoples apart from direct contact between the peoples, and they have a lot of it, is to connect the parliaments, to try to have the parliaments talk to each other, so that we experience what are the

challenges and we might be able to consider a legislation in Suriname, maybe on economical issues,”

He added, “There are tens of thousands of Guyanese living in Suriname and shortly from the Guyana end… we cannot be unmindful of the fact that we are joined by the hip… the river really unites us rather than separates us, it’s really a bridge between us”.

With Suriname-Guyana flights already a fact and a bridge expected to be built across the river soon, Trotman said: “The parliaments need to get their acts together and also to formally join themselves to each other.”

Meanwhile, responding to questions on formalising the backtrack route between the two countries, the Surinamese Speaker said she believed it was something for the two countries’ governments to address.

Apart from the relations that exist between the two governments, she said her visit and the strengthening of parliamentary ties would seek to formulate linkages at that level to strive for more opportunities.

On Friday, human trafficking and piracy were among issues discussed by the Surinamese delegation when they met members of the foreign relations committee of Guyana.

Just last month, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Surinamese National Army renewed their commitment to combat transborder crimes through joint operations in the Corentyne River. The modality of this joint venture is yet to be finalised; however, it is anticipated that the GDF Coast Guard and the Surinamese Navy will begin operations within the next six months in the Corentyne River. Together, they will clamp down on piracy, human and drug trafficking, and firearm smuggling, in addition to illegal fishing.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves is on record as saying that Caricom nationals have an automatic right of entry to other Caricom states, subject to the rights of the respective states to deny entry on the ground of undesirability or that a person is likely to be a charge on the public purse. He said under Kingstown’s immigration laws, those decisions were left to the immigration officer “simply to say you are undesirable”, but added this is not the case when dealing with Caricom nationals.

“When you are dealing with Caricom nationals, the community law applies and where there is a conflict between your national laws and the community law on that question, the community law prevails and you have to put your domestic house in order to meet the community law,” Gonsalves said.

“A person can’t just say that you are undesirable. You can only be judged to be undesirable in relation to fundamental interest of the state,” he added, mentioning maintenance of public morals, national security, and public safety and health as the only reasons.

Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque has

said that the ruling would cause a shift in the way community business was conducted. “It has also cemented the community’s rules-based system and continues to engender a high-level of confidence,” the secretary general

said. He stated further that the decision was far-reaching, addressing decisionmaking in the community, the nature and effect of community law, obligations of member states, and rights of community nationals. The

secretary general also noted that the ruling reinforced the critical role of the CCJ in the integration movement as a court which will ensure that the community’s decisions were adhered to.(whitneyp@ guyanatimesgy.com)

monday, october 28, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com

Land co-ops posing big problems for govt – Dr Gopaul

All cooperatives and friendly societies have approximately one month remaining to submit their financial audits to the Labour Ministry, failing which they will be disbanded, subject minister Dr Nanda Gopaul has warned.

He told Guyana Times in an interview last week that since the request for submission of audits was made two months ago, the ministry has been receiving financial audits from many cooperatives across the country. He noted, however, that the ministry was still not seeing 100 per cent cooperation.

Dr Gopaul asserted that the ministry will not be extending the deadline and those co-ops that fail to submit their reports to the ministry or make contact on or before November 30 will likely face serious sanctions. “Our aim is not to close down co-ops and take punitive measures, but to democratise and make them more self-sufficient,” he em-

phasised.

He explained that the ministry was reducing the financial burden on these cooperatives by giving them the opportunity to do their own audits. However, Dr Gopaul stressed that cooperatives must hire credible auditors.

Financial difficulties

Approximately 1000 coops are registered under the Cooperatives Societies Act, but a large number of them are dysfunctional or on the brink of collapse owing to financial difficulties. Dr Gopaul said reports have indicated that there are co-ops that have not held elections for an extensive period, creating a series of problems such as poor financial records.

Systems will soon be put in place for the holding of elections for co-ops whose progress have been stymied as a result of the lack of elections. In addition to the auditing of co-ops’ financial records, cooperative societies

will be reassessed to determine whether they are fulfilling their mandates.

The Labour Ministry said it continued to experience difficulties with coops that were given plots of land, noting that some have indulged in the illicit sale of house lots and government property.

The minister will be making recommendations for land titles and benefits to be given to cooperative

movements that continue to perform exceptionally well.

In March, the labour minister announced that the Cooperative Department would be revamped. His announcement came shortly after Chief Cooperatives Officer Kareem Abdul-Jabar was sent on leave following his involvement in the sale of the Lamaha Gardens playground to the tune of $25 million. Abdul-Jabar’s services were subsequently terminated.

According to Dr Gopaul, the cooperative movement, which is the third largest institution in the country, owns in excess of $15 billion in assets and this cannot be compromised.

Similar treatment will be meted out to the hundreds of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the country registered under the Friendly Societies Act. These will be held accountable, in particular those that have been soliciting financial assistance from the public for the execution of various activities.

Eyew tness

Flogging a...

...dead cause

Ralph Ramkarran is supposed to be a senior lawyer. He’s “senior counsel”, isn’t he? This means at least he’s been around for a while...and practised at the bar. One would’ve hoped by now he’s settled on whether he argues the law “as is” or “how he would like it to be”. And we’re not even getting into arguments about “legal positivism” versus “natural law”.

The problem, of course, is that every Tom, Dick and Harrilall has an idea as to what the law should be... including judges. Can you imagine the anarchy that would be unleashed if everyone then acts according to his version of the law? Obviously, Ramkarran can’t. Or doesn’t want to.

Take his column in the Stabber News this week. He defines the present People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government as a “minority government” and then questions why the opposition only seeks to “expose and depose” the government!!

From a legal standpoint, what the heck is a “minority government” in Guyana?? Under our Constitution, there are specific rules for forming the government: either the party in power has satisfied the conditions or it hasn’t. It’s like the old observation on being pregnant: either you are or you aren’t. There is no such thing as being “almost pregnant”. Or, in the case we’re discussing, being a “minority government”.

After the last elections, the PPP/C satisfied the conditions established by the Constitution and was mandated to form the government. What people like Ramkarran and the opposition do by affixing the prefix “minority” in front of the government is to suggest that it is somehow not fully “legitimate”. And hence the willingness to “oppose and depose” the government with nary a thought of the consequences. After all, in politics, it’s your duty to remove something that’s not legitimate, isn’t it, Ramkarran?

But what is actually playing out here – at best – is Ramkarran’s naïveté about the opposition’s intentions as he plaintively wails that they’ve abandoned Hoyte’s supposed last-minute conversion to the cause of “shared governance”. Does Ramkarran really think the People’s National Congress (PNC) – call it by whatever name – ever wants to share power?

Forbes Burnham revealed that long before he’d split the PPP in 1955, he’d already identified persons whom he’d have inveigled to join him to seize power. Burnham imparted to his party his Machiavellian view of “real politik”, where power must always reside with the “prince or kabaka”. Ramkarran would do well to remember that David Granger is such a faithful Burnhamite that even Hoyte had to sideline him in favour of Joe Singh, when Hoyte made his move to seize control of the PNC.

...dangerous cause

The Pro-Guyana group, comprising the mainly New York supporters of the Alliance For Change (AFC) who decamped into A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), revealed the end game that inevitably unfolds once you start denying legitimacy to the legally-elected government of the day: there’ll be people who’ll try to overthrow it “by any means necessary”.

Dr Walter Rodney, we know, made such a call against the PNC in 1979 – but he had the firm evidence from numerous credible institutions – domestic and foreign – of rigged elections. What does the group at the University of Guyana (UG), which Pro-Guyana revealed is plotting the PPP/C’s armed overthrow, have against the PPP/C government other than Ramkarran’s and the opposition’s claim that it is a “minority government”?

In a letter in the Stabber News, Tarron Khemraj and cohorts offered some crocodile tears as they asked the UG students – whom they obviously know – to practise “regular politics”. But these armchair generals are as naive as Ramkarran, if they really believe their own words. We don’t think they are: they just think they’re clever. They should remember the folk wisdom about where all “smart flies” end up.

...irredeemable ignorance

Hamilton Green wants to know why people can’t live under high-voltage cables when they can park their cars there. Because they wouldn’t be sitting in their cars for hours being bombarded by possible radiation? Wanker!

Aspiring lawyer wins Miss NGSS title

Fifteen-year-old Hahdiel Jedidah

Harry outshone her eight rivals to cop the title of Miss North Georgetown Secondary School (NGSS) on Saturday evening. The pageant was held in the school’s auditorium.

The aspiring lawyer, who hails from Lethem, Central Rupununi, also won the prizes for Best Introduction, Best Talent, Best Evening Gown and Best Stage Appearance. Her platform for the pageant was eradication of sexual abuse among children.

Coming in as first runner-up was Cindy Ann Khan, who aspires to be a Justice of Peace while Yonella Burkett, who wants to become an accountant, copped the second runner-up spot, followed by Johnali Stewart, another aspiring lawyer in third place.

Zhoria Wilburg, who would like to become a midwife, secured the fourth runner-up position.

Wilburg also copped the prize for Miss Congeniality while the Most Disciplined Award went to Jehoshebeth Ferdinand. The teenager with the Best Smile throughout the competition was delegate number four, Cindy Khan.

All the delegates were also awarded with hampers from Ricks and Sari while those who did not make it into the top five would have received a monetary prize from the North Georgetown Secondary School Alumni Association.

Ecstatic Immediately after the crowning, the newlycrowned queen explained that she was ecstatic to have won the crown and will represent it to the fullest. She promised to implement programmes that will boost the school’s moral and more so, its identity.

Harry added that it has not been an easy road to pageant night, but must acknowledge her parents and siblings, teachers and moreso her colleagues for believing in her. According to the 15-year-old, it was a wonderful experience and she would encourage any teenager to get involved in pageantry, claiming that it can be a learning experience, one that they will live with for the rest of their lives.

However, from the beginning of the contest, the newly-crowned queen was on the leader’s board, full of confidence and charm, and topping it off with a unique smile.

During her introduction, she displayed confidence and

intelligence and was well received by the audience.

As the competition continued, the queen performed a dramatic dance piece to support her platform titled: “The Eradication of Sexual Abuse Among Children”. Dressed in a shimmering gold and white outfit, she executed the dance routine to perfection.

She also went ahead as the favourite to win the title after the highly anticipated intelligence segment, which saw each delegate being questioned on their platform. While some of the delegates were left fumbling for words to answer the questions posed to them, Harry was in high spirits as the crowd was 100 per cent behind her.

Stiffer penalties

She was asked, “If crowned Miss NGSS, how would you use your influence to help eradicate sexual abuse among children?”

With eloquence combined with poise and charm, Harry responded “since education is the best preventative tool against sexual abuse, education for the general public about their children’s ownership of their body, how to be bold and say no if felt violated... also lobbying for stricter penalties against sexual predators”.

The crowd went berserk after she answered the question. The delegates then displayed their evening gown and Harry’s was designed by Neilson Nurse. This was followed by the announcement of the special prizes and the final five.

In the question-and-answer segment, each delegate was asked a question by the panel of judges, including Miss Guyana Jamzone 2013, Alicia Bess, Michelle Plater, Clive Prowell and others. As usual, there were some disgruntled patrons who were not too pleased with the decision. The activity was organised by the NGSS Alumni Association and the school’s Parent-Teachers Association (PTA).

Mook Lall gon do any ting fuh lil attention

Old people seh all lil pickney does want big people attention. And lil pickney does do a lotta tings to get big people attention. Some does holler and bawl. Other times dem does do some ting wrong. As dem grow bigger dem does find other tings to do so that dem can get attention. But when dem get too much attention, dem does behave like spoilt child. And no attention just as bad as too much attention. That is when lil pickey does get outta control and give dem mummah and daady plenty problems.

It got plenty big people who does want attention too. One a dem own a mud paper. He grow up stupiddy like a Mook, so no body used to give he attention. He used to holler and bawl and that nevah wuk. Now he mouth does still look like he bawlin even if he not bawling.

Now that he get big, he is even a bigger Mook. De Mook try to change he name from Mohan and call heself Glenn to get attention. From Glenn he turn a Hen to get attention. Well, that was when he start gettin a different kinda attention.

De other day de Mook even buy long grey suit fuh a weddin whah he nevah get invite to. Was attention he had want to get at de weddin house. But he still put on de suit and tek out plenty photos. One a dem boys who seh dem is boys send out de photos. That give de Mook more attention. Problem is de Mook so dotish that he tink he look good. But that is a whole Link Show all in one photo.

Fuh sure, Mohan turn Glenn turn Hen does get a lotta attention from dem boys who seh dem is boys but dem is not boys, although dem does dress like boys.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! And every day dem boys who seh dem is boys group gettin bigger and bigger. Dem boys group got special qualification to get in. But dem seh once yuh in yuh in. Just like de Mook.

Woman recovering after vicious attack

Denise Hope, 43, of J-28-947 Tucville, Georgetown, who was brutally stabbed to the neck, back and chest by her shunned lover on Saturday is recuperating and is out of danger, according to the woman’s daughter.

“Cammy” (only name given) said her mother was never in the Intensive Care Unit as was reported. She said after the surgery, her mother was taken into the recovery room.

“She is conscious, but we do not want to pressure her in talking about the incident… we will give her sometime,” the woman added.

The woman also confirmed that her mother’s attacker is in police custody. Guyana Times understands that the ex-city constable was arrested on the West Bank of Demerara. He is expected to be charged shortly.

Hope and her assailant separated almost two months ago. The man called “Lammy” reportedly went home after committing the act, collected a poisonous substance and told his son that he was going to commit suicide since he had little hope that Hope would survive the stabbing.

Based on reports, Hope was walking along Wellington Street, Georgetown to collect her “goods cart” when the man who disguised himself stepped out of his car, threw his armed around her neck, pulled out a knife and inflicted the wounds after she refused to reconcile their relationship.

The woman reportedly managed to escape from him and ran into the Universal Church of God (the old Strand Cinema) for help, but she was held by her hands and legs and thrown onto the streets.

Times Notebook

Guyana under siege – opposition politicians in pursuit of power at any cost

Not for the first time, Guyana is under siege. Guyana is being held hostage not by aliens, not by foreign forces. Guyana is held under siege by its own citizens, politicians and antigovernment commentators, who are determined to grab power at any cost.

In the latest strategy to steal power through the backdoor, the opposition politicians in Guyana are using parliamentary blackmail and economic sabotage to suffocate the government and inflict pain and suffering on the people of Guyana.

The two parliamentary opposition parties have combined forces to harm Guyana and to cause suffering of the people in the false hope that the people will rebel against the government and allow the opposition to take over government. But Guyana is a free country and we have evolved into a robust democracy.

It is this democracy that is today being abused in order to inflict pain on the country and make the country ungovernable. Parliament so pregnant with opportunity has been converted into a hotbed of peril for the nation. Our hard-earned democracy is under siege.

The anti-money laundering amendment bill is as a result of an international obligation to make Guyana compliant with new international agreements designed to curb money laundering and stop criminal empires from promoting lawlessness in the world. Unless Guyana becomes compliant, business transactions that involve movement of money will become extremely difficult.

Such money movement could be money transfers to family from Guyana or to Guyana, for business transactions, such as paying for goods and services, procuring equipment and raw materials for construction and other businesses and payments for medicines, among other things.

Parliamentary blackmail

Money transfers are critical elements of everyday business for banks and insurance companies. Failure to pass this important bill would create fatal jeopardy for business and for the economy in Guyana, destroying hundreds of businesses and the lives of thousands of people.

Already banks are reporting that their regular international transactions are becoming more complicated. Insurance companies have begun to feel the squeeze and certain Trinidad and Tobago companies are beginning to scale back financial transactions with Guyanese companies. American banks have similarly made transactions with their counterparts in

Guyana more difficult.

Putting Guyana under siege is part of the opposition’s heinous master plan to seize power. As part of the siege, the opposition politicians have targeted Guyana’s business enterprises for punishment for not opposing everything the government proposes. The opposition has rejected the notion of merit that the private sector utilises.

The private sector has been critical of government on certain issues and it has provided support on others based on merit. The private sector has been able to pursue their business interests and remain politically independent under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government. That is why business flourishes today, compared to the days prior to 1992 when the private sector was reduced to a wimp.

The opposition demands that the private sector opposes the Marriott Hotel project, the Cheddi Jagan Inernational Airport (CJIA) expansion, the Amaila Falls Hydro projects and the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) initiative. Since generally, these projects have the support of the private sector and the population, the opposition has decided to punish the government, the private sector, and the people.

The parliamentary siege is only a part of the devious strategy to derail development of the country. But since the end game is power, the opposition sees its own selfish benefit – the commanding heights of control through political power and controlling the reign of government.

Delaying the bill to amend the money-laundering act is designed to create difficulties for the private sector and for government and most horribly, to inflict pain on ordinary citizens of Guyana. It is designed to humiliate the country and to bring shame to our people.

The present parliamentary blackmail is, therefore, a well-orchestrated strategy to place Guyana under siege. The opposition’s parliamentary blackmail is intended to chase away the investors who were willing to invest in ensuring Guyana has access to save, clean, affordable power through hydro-electricity.

Intimidation

It is aimed at stopping construction of the Marriott Hotel, not because it is bad for Guyana, but because it is competition for the Pegasus owned by a major benefactor of the Alliance For Change (AFC). It has been used to stop legislation that would have made it more difficult to bring into Guyana small illicit arms which the criminals

use to carry out crimes in the communities.

But the parliamentary siege is possible because of a one-seat advantage that has been turned into a monster. Instead of being used to benefit the people, it is being used to put the country under siege and punish people who refuse to be pawns of the opposition.

But the parliamentary blackmail exposes a group of politicians who will not settle for anything less than possessing power at any cost. The opposition, according to Joseph Harmon, a senior spokesperson for the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), has warned the private sector and investors that should they become

involved in any development projects, like the Marriott Hotel, APNU will not be obligated to honour those agreements should it become part of the government.

LCDS a victim

This is not an idle threat.

The AFC and the APNU together are using Parliament to create deadlock and paralysis as part of the sinister plot to seize power.

They are using threat and intimidation by warning investors that they will not honour agreements signed with the elected government of Guyana and they have urged donors and partners to stay away from Guyana.

The LCDS has been com-

mended throughout the world by the highest authorities and all the relevant experts as a progressive approach to development in response to global warming and climate change. It has created a brand new revenue pipeline, without restricting revenue flow from any existing pipeline. It has been innovative in bringing development and benefit to the remotest communities of our country and it has brought prestige to our country.

But the opposition has used parliamentary and nonparliamentary approaches, including old-fashion intimidation, to frustrate the seamless implementation of the LCDS. The APNU and

the AFC have sought to paralyse the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF), which uses the income from Norway to fund community and infrastructure development in Guyana.

Times Notebook asks readers to reflect on the 20022006 crime wave in this nation. There are numerous other examples of previous siege approaches in Guyana. This time the opposition forces are using it with greater ferocity and recklessness. This time they have decided that the only endgame is power at any cost.

Readers are invited to comment on this article via email (times.notebook@gmail. com) and on Facebook.

Donna Ramsammy James launches “Muujiza wa Amani”

Renowned Guyanese designer Donna Ramsammy James on Sunday evening launched her 2014 collection called “Muujiza wa Amani” at an event held on the lawn of her D’Urban Street home.

The audience was treated to a 45-minute presentation, which featured more than 150 pieces for men and women. The atmosphere was right, with the appropriate music for the various designs. The models did a fantastic job during the presentation, captivating the hearts of those present as they took to the runway.

The name “Muujiza wa Amani’ means “Magic of peace” and the designs were

carefully put together using various fabrics such as linen and cotton.

The eye-catching colours of the presentation were breathtaking – shades of green, orange, yellow, and blue complemented with black, white, grey, and brown.

The collection is about “peace” and the environment. Each design was worn with matching costume jewellery and handbag where appropriate.

Ensembles

The evening started with the models appearing in ensembles made of brown cotton with masks covering their faces. As they stood in single file,

they unmasked themselves to the members of the audience.

Little children were also a part of the historic event and they reiterated that getting rid of garbage is a way of keeping our surroundings clean.

At the end of the fabulous display, the designer, Donna Ramsammy James stepped onto the runway to loud cheers. Immediately after the private viewing, the designer told media operative that the designs presented had been in the making for a year.

This collection, she added, is her 15th and she will soon concentrate on the 16th edition, which is expected to be held at the Herdmanston Lodge, Peter Rose and Lamaha streets, Georgetown in November 2014. She recalled that for the past 15 years, the private viewing was done at her residence, but she believes that it has outgrown the space, hence a decision was taken to shift the venue.

Ramsammy James recollected that when she started a few years ago, a handful of people were invited, but now, her clientele has expanded tremendously. The designer also revealed that her work is creating an impact in Italy, London and other countries.

One important fact to note is that outfits are made to order and cannot be purchased at any store. Prices range from $15,000 to $35,000 a piece.

Cigarette vendor shot three times

A37-year-old cigarette vendor was shot three times in front of his Orange Walk stall late Sunday night.

The man, Troy Bacchus from West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was sitting in front of his stall when he was attacked by the lone gunman. Bacchus was shot in both of his legs. He is currently a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Bacchus’ wife, Natasha Bacchus, who was present at the time of the shooting, said the gunman passed a group of men and singled out her husband, shooting him thrice.

“I was sitting in the chair and my daughter was sitting on the bench and the man just come out from between the stall, come round, pass

some boys sitting right there and just come and shoot at he,” she recalled as she wept. The gunman, who was reportedly dressed in all black, escaped on foot.

Bacchus is convinced that

the shooter knows her husband, but could not say why the attack was launched. “The person got to know him, because there were so many people out there, how he just come and shoots at he?”

Opposition wants more respect in the House

– urges president to assent to bills passed

The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) said the National Assembly must overcome its obstacles in order to advance the work it was established to do.

Speaking at the party’s weekly press briefing last Friday, co-chairman of the coalition, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine said APNU can have any agenda when the National Assembly resumes this week, but until the House overcomes barriers faced and resolves them, the current legislature will have great difficulties with any plan parties carry to Parliament.

“This remains for us crucial in this upcoming sitting that we will have to resolve, some of these problems that have plagued the last sitting and have obstructed the development of the Parliament as a body,” Dr Roopnaraine, a frontbencher on the opposition side said.

ANPU’s leader David Granger said topping the agenda for the partnership is the issue of good governance, which he said if not fixed will stall development and poverty alleviation.

He said the opposition would like to be assured of presidential assent to bills which are passed by the National Assembly, and would like to see Parliament being managed in a more respectful manner. “This is in terms of the attention paid by matters raised by the opposition, we don’t just go there to pass motions and engage in debates. We would like to see these measures which we have taken a long time to prepare, produce and present… approved by the executive.”

He noted that this has been a major stumbling block, adding that the opposition will be going back to Parliament determined to persuade the executive to adhere to the programmes and decisions of the House since it is a democratic body. Granger said APNU would also like to see the advancement of local government since this is vital to the advancement of the people.

Budget talks

Touching on tripartite talks for Budget 2014, Granger said APNU is not seeking agreement for everything, but it feels that there are certain priority areas which the administration should consider. He disclosed that five months away from the expected presentation, APNU’s shadow finance minister Carl Greenidge has not been invited to meet with Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, to hammer out the framework for the 2014 budget.

He emphasised that the budget is continuous as there are programmes which are ongoing. “That is why from December 1, 2011, we

had called on the president to establish a tripartite to plan for the whole five-year period… but we have been reduced to this jerky process which results in repeated car crashes and we don’t want that.”

The APNU co-chairman stressed that his party would like the budget process to move more quickly and smoothly than it is going at present. Granger maintained that the party does not set out to cut any parts of the budget, but aims to have a budget which satisfies the development needs of the people. He maintained that all APNU cuts have been based on principles Dr Roopnaraine said APNU is prepared to assist in the preparations of Budget 2014 to avoid the collision that occurred in the last two budget debates.

“So we can arrive at essentially a shared view of how to move forward, ensure that areas of neglect in the economy that we perceive are addressed… we were hoping that in these tripartite discussions, we could put all of these things on the table.”

The APNU envisages that funding for the National Communications Network (NCN) and the Government Information Agency (GINA) could be slashed again if government does not move to reform these two entities.

Wrong approach

Meanwhile, writing in his weekly blog this week, former People Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) executive member Ralph Ramkarran said Guyana cannot progress with a minority government operating with a majority mindset, nor with an opposition which sees its function as only to “oppose”, and “expose”, if not to “depose”.

Ramkarran, a former speaker of the National Assembly said it could be that a more considered strategy by APNU is at play, namely, the assertion of complete opposition authority over the executive, powered by its legislative majority or even, more modestly, pressuring what it sees as a recalcitrant executive into a more open, accommodating and consultative rela-

tionship. One of these limited and limiting objectives might possibly be the case, to the exclusion of any overarching considerations. He made reference to an August 17, 2002, statement by late president and People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) leader Desmond Hoyte at a PNCR press conference: “An adjusted system of governance for our country – whether we call it ‘power sharing’, ‘shared governance’, ‘inclusive governance’ or any other name – appears to be an idea whose time has come.” Some months later, on February 8, 2003, in a paper entitled “Towards Greater Inclusive Governance in Guyana”, President Jagdeo announced that “further arrangements for inclusive governance can result after consultation with our constituents and the electorate”.

Ramkarran said no political initiatives resulted from these statements despite the enabling environment created by the post-Herdmanston constitutional reforms of 2001-2002 and the new parliamentary regime, armed with significant reforms. However, he said the 2011 election results have caused many to believe that the opportunity has arrived to satisfy the historic national urge for a re-creation of something akin to the broadbased ethnic and class collaboration achieved by the 1950 People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Efforts in the early 1960s, the second half of the 1970s, the mid 1980s did not succeed.

Ramkarran argued that the current strategy of APNU does not reflect the political transformation that the PNCR embraced under Desmond Hoyte of an open press, free and fair elections and shared governance, despite its controversial history.

“It seems that even though both the PNCR and the PPP have proved that they are capable of transformative initiatives, when presented with the real possibility, they retreat to a past trapped in intense hostility. The only conceivable explanation is that it is the unconscious political expression of a history of ethnic hurts or presumed ethnic hurts.”

Indian singers thrill Diwali Utsav audience

Despite heavy downpours, the show at the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabah’s Diwali Utsav attracted thousands who were well entertained by Indian singers, Gunjam Singh and Jeffrey Iqbal when the event was hosted on Saturday evening at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

The rain interrupted proceedings just as Singh was performing her last song for the evening. This saw attendees including President Donald Ramotar, former President Bharrat Jagdeo and Culture, Youth and Sport Minster, Dr Frank Anthony scampering for cover.

The rain started with a drizzle, followed by heavy downpours. Soon after the heavens closed, most of the audience would have left, but those who stayed witness a breathtaking performance from Iqbal.

The show started with local talents, Sookrane Boodhoo, Mona and Rekha Singh, who evidently put the patrons in the right mood as some were seen dancing and cheering as the singers belted out their renditions. As normal, they performed to the satisfaction of the audience and were backed up by talented musicians from Mumbai and Guyana.

There were also some breathtaking performances by the Sabah’s Dharmic Nritya Sangh dancers. In colourful costumes, they delivered as expected. The dances were well choreographed with the young ladies moving gracefully on

more saucy renditions which definitely added some spice to the evening as even the president and his colleagues were tapping their feet and clapping lustily after every song performed by Singh.

As she was making way for the Dharmic Nritya Sangh dancers and Iqbal, the heavens opened. However, about an hour after, decked in a pair of jeans and a pink and black long sleeve jersey, Iqbal made his appearance on stage to the delight of those who remained.

With his melodious and spirited voice, he engaged the audience to the maximum.

He dished out some of his tunes including “Dil KI Zarurat”, “Nayee Zameen”, “Tu Mere Dil”, “Rabaru” and others. The U.S.-born singer performed to perfection and received overwhelming support from his fans who screamed and chanted his name as he performed.

His performance was complemented with the dancers of the Dharmic Nritya Sangh. Singh and Iqbal also performed several duets together which sent the crowd into a frenzy. Their coming together was definitely a bonus for the pa-

stage during their presentations.

After about an hour of local acts, Gunjam Singh was introduced to the audience, and received a resounding welcome. Known for her versatility, the renowned singer serenaded her fans to the fullest.

Engaging

She started off with the less saucy hits but increased the tempo, causing everyone to clap and cheer. As she performed, she sought the services of young dancers from the audience to join her on stage, but they were too shy, and decided to dance to the tunes on the ground, and did so to perfection.

Among the tunes she sang were “Bindiya Chamke Gi”, “Noorie”, “Kabhi Aar Kabhi Paar”, Aaj Phir Jeene K”, and also some of her original songs, including “Kinna Sohna”, “Kawan”, “Nachle” and “Naiyon Dil Lagda”.

She also sang a few requested selections, including “Bonita Oh My Darling” and others. Singh then turned up the heat with some of the

Consumer body to make public comeback

Guyana Consumers Association President Pat Dyal said the organisation will be moving soon to re-introduce its weekly columns in one of the four daily newspapers.

This column, which focuses on consumer concerns, was published in the Sunday Stabroek for almost 30 years and was managed by the now retired consumer advocate Eileen Cox, founder and former president of the association. According to Dyal, the association is looking to have a variety of persons write these weekly columns, which could also come from the officials of the organisation.

Consumer education, he said, is very important and is one of the main objectives of the association. The column focuses on consumer education.

Dyal told Guyana Times that while little has been publicised about the organisation of late, its work has never stopped. He explained that the association has been doing a lot of work to make repre-

sentation for consumers countrywide.

He said the association was also looking to do more broadcasts on the radio and television. Dyal noted that the association continued to actively engage with state and other agencies to raise consumer concerns in an effort to have them addressed.

Consumer advocate

The association shares a very close relationship with the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC). Dyal said this was especially so, since the association can only make representation for consumers, but the CCAC is the legal body that can take action against errant businesses.

Many cases which are usually reported to the association are taken to the CCAC, which usually deals with the matters in their entirety, which could lead to legal action.

trons who braved the weather to be a part of the action.

Despite the rains, the night ended on a high note with some excellent performances by the two international artistes as well as the local talents.

The Sa Re Ga Ma Pa singer will be at the Diwali Motorcades in Berbice where he is expected to visit the site of the shelter being built for the less fortunate children.

Despite the significant and unparalleled achievements made under the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration to title and demarcate Amerindian lands, President Donald Ramotar remains concerned about some common issues of contention over these territories.

During his interaction with toshaos on day four of the seventh National Toshaos Council (NTC) meeting at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, President Ramotar highlighted the importance of all stakeholders working to resolve land issues swiftly and evenhandedly, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.

“The issue of mining and Amerindian land is very important, and I had said very clearly to our colleagues that we need to solve those as fast as possible, in a very fair manner,” the president indicated.

Litigation over lands owned by Amerindians be-

The association has raised this issue on many occasions, noting that the cost of electricity is too expensive. Dyal said once the power company is allowed the opportunity to upgrade its facilities, costs would be reduced and systems would become more efficient.

The GCA was formed 70 years ago and is a member of Consumers International. It has an active executive body that meets regularly and would usually nominate a member to represent the association at meetings where matters of consumer concerns are raised and discussed. The association plans to do more public awareness campaigns that will educate citizens on making better choices and to continue to make representation for their concerns.

Meanwhile, as the association advocates for the rights and well-being of consumers, Dyal said it remained supportive of the restoration of the annual subsidy to the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL). He said this was important, as many consumers are faced with high electricity bills.

Ramotar urges speedy solutions to Amerindian land issues

ing exploited by miners has stalled the land titling process in some villages in the Upper Mazaruni, Region Seven.

The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) took some of the blame for lagging in addressing what the toshao of Jawalla described as illegal mining activities in the Upper Mazaruni area.

Hailing from a riverine community, Karia Karia, in the Essequibo River where the tributaries were the lifeline of the people, President Ramotar said pollution has to be a concern of his. “When rivers and creeks are polluted, I constantly think about my own life growing up on the banks of the Essequibo River and that was my source of water,” he explained.

Natural resources exploitation

He assured the toshaos that concerns about natural resource exploitation are being felt by his administration as much as it is a worry for the Amerindians. “Many of our other colleagues are intimately aware of life in the interior regions and this is

not only a question of government relations with the various communities, but a lot of it is also from our own personal experiences, and we would like to see the quality of life of all of our people being improved,” Ramotar said Eclipse Falls (Region One) Toshao Emanuel Henry complained about the length of time it is taking for land titling and demarcation to be undertaken in his village. He explained to the authorities that the promotion of sustainable development initiatives and the resolution of minor problems being faced in the village hinge on the completion of the land titling and demarcation process. Only recently, the Guyana government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed a document for the titling of 13 communities and the demarcation of 33 others. The funding for this project has come through the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF) after the governments of Guyana and Norway signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Jack Warner on local elections loss: We stooped too low

Interim leader of the Independent Liberal Party (ILP) Jack Warner has admitted that he’s paying a heavy price

for spewing gutter politics, getting into a dog fight and playing tit-for-tat with the United National Congress (UNC) leading up to the October 21 local government elections. He believes this has led to the party’s defeat at the polls. Warner said the party’s actions, however, worked against them in last Monday’s elections, where they were toppled in all 14 corporations it had contested.

Though Warner confessed to being disappointed by the results, he said he was now learning from his mistakes and intended to take a different approach for the St Joseph

by-election on November 4. Having viewed where the party went wrong, Warner said preliminary analysis showed the ILP’s candidates had fallen short by failing to bond with its voters. Also, there was little time to train its slate on how to canvass and campaign.

In hindsight, Warner said, the ILP did not concentrate on specific corporations, such as Tunapuna, Chaguanas and Sangre Grande where they should have won.

He said the ILP’s membership made a lot of demands on the party, urging them to contest all the seats. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Colombia’s FARC frees ex-U.S. marine after four months in jungle

Colombia’s FARC guerrillas have freed a former U.S. marine who was kidnapped in June while he trekked through the jungle in a known guerrilla area, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the U.S. government said on Sunday.

Kevin Scott Sutay, a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, had been backpacking through several Central and South American countries before he was cap-

tured by the FARC. He had ignored police warnings against hiking through a “red zone” for rebel activity in the southeastern province of Guaviare.

“We are pleased about the liberation today of U.S. citizen Kevin Scott Sutay who was in the hands of the FARC,” said a statement from U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, in which he expressed profound gratitude to the Colombian government and President Juan

Manuel Santos for their efforts.

Sutay was handed over in Guaviare to a delegation of the governments of Colombia, Cuba and Norway and members of the International Committee of the Red Cross before being delivered to U.S. embassy officials at the airport in the capital Bogota. An ICRC doctor had deemed Sutay to be in good health and fit to travel, said ICRC spokeswoman Patricia Rey. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Peru’s UFO investigations office to be reopened

Peru’s air force is reopening an office responsible for investigating UFOs due to “increased sightings of anomalous aerial phenomena” in the country’s skies.

The Department of Investigation of Anomalous Aerial Phenomena (DIFAA), first created in 2001, is being revived after lying formant for five years because more UFO sightings have been reported to the media, said Colonel Julio Vucetich, head of the air force’s aerospace interests division.

Third multi-purpose cargo ship built in Cuba en route to Venezuela

As part of the regional integration policy implemented by the Bolivarian Alliance for the People of our Americas (ALBA), the third multipurpose cargo ship built for Venezuela at the Damex shipyard in the Cuban capital departed on Thursday to the South American nation.

The new vessel will operate as part of a fleet for international trade and support humanitarian actions to be

taken in the event of natural disasters, as it was the case of assistance shipped to Cuba following the damage inflicted by hurricane Sandy in the eastern part of the island.

Fitted with modern navigation and satellite communication systems, as well as with all technical standards, according to international regulations and norms of safety for sailing and preserving human life

at sea, the ship is specially designed to navigate in the Caribbean Sea. According to CubaVenezuela joint cooperation accords for 2014, another vessel is scheduled to be built and delivered by Damex shipyard to Venezuela. Also included is the construction of two patrol boats that will be operated by the Venezuelan Navy. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

New immigration law in Cayman Islands

The new Immigration Reform Bill for the Cayman Islands which was passed by Legislators last week, will become law tomorrow, extending the term limit for work permits from seven to nine years.

As a result, the Immigration Department here is preparing for an influx of customers tomorrow when the Term Limit Exemption Permits (TLEPs) expire.

The law gives a 45-day reprieve to non-Caymanian workers, who otherwise would have had to leave the islands after tomorrow when their Term Limit Exemption Permits expired.

Those exempted workers, about 1500, can now stay in the British Dependent territory until December 9, as long as they get their passports regularised tomorrow or Tuesday.

Chief Immigration Officer Linda Evans says the Immigration Department is setting up temporary facilities to assist some of the Term Limit Exemption Permit holders who need to get their passports stamped. After the December 9 deadline issues are resolved, employers of the exempted workers will have to apply for a new work permit on behalf of those individuals. (Excerpt from Nation News)

Former Surinamese president quits parliament

The unit will bring together sociologists, archaeologists, astronomers, meteorologists and air force personnel to analyse these events, Vucetich told the Guardian. “Many people don’t report UFO sightings because they fear they will be labelled mad or made fun of, but nowadays with new technology – cellphone videos, Facebook, Twitter – they can be much more open, without feeling that they are the only ones who have seen what they’ve seen,” he said.

“This new office needs those people to come and report their sightings so we can open a file and, using their information, do the respective analysis and investigation,” he added, flicking through a hefty scrapbook of newspaper cuttings recording Peruvian UFO sightings dating from 1950 to the present day. Peru’s Institute for Studies of Historic Aerospace is turning it into a book.

(Excerpt from The Guardian)

In an unexpected move, former President Ronald Venetiaan resigned on Friday from Suriname’s parliament. In a letter to

Speaker of the House Jenny Geerlings-Simons, the former head of state announced that from October 27, he will no longer be a member of parliament.

In an interview, the former leader didn’t present any specific reasons why he is resigning and why now. “I just want to give younger persons the opportunity to serve in this capacity,” he said.

Venetiaan’s seat in parliament will now go to his fellow party member Hesdy Pigot, who was also his secretary during his presidency. According to former speaker of the House, Emile Wijntuin, Venetiaan kept his integrity during his entire political career,

starting as a minister of education in 1973 and later as president.

“During all those years not once was his name mentioned in any corruption scandal, controversy or whatsoever,” said Wijntuin.

Ronald Runaldo Venetiaan (born June 18, 1936) served as the sixth, eighth and ninth president of Suriname. His first term as president ran from 1991 to 1996, after which he lost in the elections to Jules Wijdenbosch. In 2000, however, he regained his former position under the New Front banner, receiving an absolute majority of 37 from 51 votes in the parliament. (Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

Vote count under way after Argentine mid-term elections

People in Argentina have voted in a midterm Congressional election widely seen as an important test for President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner. Exit polls suggest the opposition has won key seats in the province of Buenos Aires. Fernandez has been out of action during the campaign following emergency brain surgery earlier in October. She is currently constitutionally

barred from running for a third term in office.

More than 75 per cent of the electorate took part in the polls, said the country’s Interior Minister, Florencio Randazzo. He said voting had been peaceful and orderly.

It was the first time 16 and 17-year-olds could vote.

Opposition candidates from the Renewal Party led by the president’s former chief of staff, Sergio Massa, were leading by a

wide margin in the province of Buenos Aires.

Massa, currently the mayor of the wealthy town of Tigre, split from Fernandez party. He is seen as a possible presidential contender in 2015. Many see Sunday’s elections as the start of the race to replace her. Voters have been choosing 127 members of the 257-strong Chamber of Deputies and a third of the Senate’s 72 members. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Syria submits chemical weapons destruction plan

Refugee numbers at highest in 19 years – UN

Syria has submitted details of its chemical weapons arsenal and an initial plan to destroy it to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), the international watchdog said Sunday.

The Hague-based body said it received the plan from Syrian officials on Thursday, three days ahead

of the deadline set out by the organisation earlier this year.

“On October 24, the Syrian Arab Republic submitted to the OPCW its formal initial declaration covering its chemical weapons programme,” said the OPCW in a written statement.

“The document from Syria includes a general plan

of destruction for consideration by the OPCW Executive Council.” The OPCW, which won this year’s Nobel Peace Prize, said the document would help provide the basis for “a systematic, total and verified destruction of declared chemical weapons and production facilities”.

Syria had already given preliminary details of its chemical weapons stockpiles to the OPCW when it agreed to join the organisation as part of a U.S.-Russian deal adopted in a UN resolution in September.

The agreement, which sets a target date of mid2014 for the destruction of Syria’s entire chemical weapons arsenal, warded off possible U.S.-led military strikes against Damascus in response to an August 21 sarin nerve gas attack, which Washington alleges was carried out by the regime of Syrian President Bashar alAssad. (Excerpt from Reuters)

As Iraq seeks U.S. arms, bombs kill another 55

Adozen bombings in Iraq killed 55 people on Sunday as the prime minister prepares to travel to Washington to seek President Barack Obama’s help in confronting a wave of sectarian violence fuelled by Syria’s civil war. Killings, mostly blamed by the Shi’ite-led government on Sunni Islamists from al Qaeda, are running at daily rates not seen in five years and Nuri al-Maliki will ask Obama on Friday to speed up promised deliveries of drones and F-16 jets that he believes can help staunch the long desert bor-

der with Syria.

Iraq’s own security forces, trained and equipped by the U.S. troops who withdrew in late 2011 after a nine-year occupation, have been unable to prevent a surge in violence which has taken the civilian death toll so far this year to about 7000. Sealing the Syrian border would only address part of the problem.

On Sunday, police reported 11 vehicles blowing up in mainly Shi’ite Muslim areas in and around Baghdad, killing 41 people in an apparently coordinated series of explosions typical of al Qaeda. A further 14 people were killed when a suicide bomber drove up to a line of soldiers waiting to collect their pay from a bank in the northern city of Mosul and detonated his car. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Somali journalist dies from shooting injuries

ASomali journalist has died in hospital after being shot six times by unknown gunmen on his way to work this week, a colleague said, making him the seventh journalist to be murdered in the country this year. Mohamed Mohamud Tima-ade, who worked for the privately-owned UKbased Universal TV, was shot in the chest, neck and shoulder in the capital Mogadishu on October 22.

This impunity cannot continue. We call on the

Somali government to bring the killers to justice. Killers must face justice. Mohamed Ibrahim, National Union of Somali Journalists

Tima-ade was the Mogadishu correspondent for the television station, which is the most-watched Somali channel worldwide.

“We are deeply saddened, completely shocked by the loss of our dear colleague and friend. May he rest in peace,” Ali Naji, a colleague of Tima-ade, told Al Jazeera.

Tima-ade was buried in Mogadishu on Sunday.

Somalia is considered the most dangerous country in Africa for journalists. Last year, 18 media workers were killed in the Horn of Africa country, according to the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ).

“This impunity cannot continue. We call on the Somali government to bring the killers to justice. Killers must face justice,” Mohamed Ibrahim, secretary general of the National Union of Somali Journalists, told Al Jazeera.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

The UN says there are now more refugees than at any time since 1994. Thousands of asylum-seekers, mainly from Afghanistan and the Middle East, head to Indonesia each year to make the dangerous voyage across the Indian ocean to Australia.

They are seeking a new life, fleeing war, political unrest, and poverty. The influx of asylum-seekers is a major political issue both in Indonesia and Australia, particularly as Indonesia has not signed up to the

1951 UN Refugee convention and does not have to accept refugees.

Australia, on the other hand, is a signatory. The asylum-seekers pay thousands of dollars to people smugglers for a hazardous boat ride to Christmas Island.

Many refugees from African countries such as Eritrea and Somalia have been paying people smugglers thousands of dollars to take them to Europe via the Mediterranean, often on rickety and crowded boats

that sink in rough seas.

On Sunday, Italian authorities intercepted 800 migrants trying to cross the Mediterranean as EU leaders met in Brussels to discuss the problem. The problem has attracted global attention after a series of accidents on the Mediterranean killed hundreds of migrants.

Officials say the new wave of migrants entering Europe has grown in size due to large numbers of people fleeing the Syrian civil war.

Saudi Arabian women defy authorities over female driving ban

In an extraordinary display of civil disobedience, women in Saudi Arabia on Saturday defied their nation’s de facto ban on women driving by getting behind the steering wheel. After a campaign for change gathered pace on social media, numerous women filmed themselves behind the wheel Saturday in various cities and uploaded those videos to YouTube.

Several Saudi supporters of the October 26 Women’s Driving Campaign told

CNN that at least 25 women drove Saturday. Authorities stopped five women who were spotted driving in the Saudi capital and “each case was dealt with accordingly,” Colonel Fawaz Al-Meeman of Riyadh police told CNN.

Al-Meeman, an assistant spokesman for that city’s police department, explained that the women weren’t taken to police stations. Instead, they were kept in their vehicles until their male guardians arrived, at which point the women were

released after signing pledges not to drive again. Driving campaign supporter Mai Al-Swayan, an economic researcher, said she was one of the women who drove Saturday. She posted a video on YouTube showing her driving. She said she drove from home to a grocery store in Riyadh, and then back with her groceries. “I drove on the highway and was noticed by a couple of cars but they were fine with it,” she said. (Excerpt from CNN)

Pope Francis celebrates hitting 10 million Twitter followers

Ajubilant Pope Francis celebrated reaching 10 million followers on messaging site Twitter on Sunday, a milestone in the Vatican’s drive to spread the gospel through social media.

“Dear Followers, I understand there are now over 10 million of you!” the pontiff wrote on his nine accounts, which publish simultaneously in languages including Latin, Polish and Arabic. “I thank you with all my heart and ask you to continue praying for

me.” The first non-European pope in 1300 years has tripled the number of followers of the @pontifex handles since succeeding Benedict XVI in March, according to the Vatican, which announced Francis had reached 10 million after adding together the followers of all his accounts. This would make the pontiff more popular than the New York Times and just behind rapper Kanye West, according to websites.

But he still has a lot of tweeting to do before he can catch up with the three most followed people on Twitter: pop stars Justin Bieber, Katy Perry and Lady Gaga, who have more than 40 million followers each. The Vatican has long been interested in using the latest technologies to keep in touch with the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics and spread the faith, with radio inventor Guglielmo Marconi setting up Vatican Radio in 1931.

(Excerpt from The Guardian)

International Financial and Economic Report

The U.S. September employment report was released last Tuesday showing only 148,000 jobs were created in the month. The consensus view was for 180,000 jobs and the revisions to the previous two months were largely offsetting.

Employment gains for July were revised down to 89,000 from 104,000 and the increase in August was revised upwards from 169,000 to 193,000. Employment in September increased the most in construction, wholesale trade and transportation.

At the same time, the unemployment rate continued to decline falling to 7.2 per cent, the lowest since November 2008 with the participation rate steady. Average hourly earnings rose by 0.1 per cent but the average workweek for all workers remained at 34.5 hours.

There is little doubt that these numbers in September were discouraging with the private sector adding just 129,000 jobs per month over the last three months compared with the roughly 200,000 pace in the first half of 2013. In other words, the U.S. labour market had less momentum leading up to the federal shutdown than had been hoped for or expected.

The Federal Reserve’s balance sheet at the end of 2012 was 22 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as compared with 24 per cent for the eurozone, 25 per cent for the UK and 35 per cent for Japan. This has changed a little this year, but the Fed’s balance sheet is still slightly below 25 per

cent and is still below that of the Bank of Japan.

Obviously, some members of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) are concerned about the size of the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet and its growth since 2008 from below US$900 billion to the current level of almost US$4 trillion.

China owns almost US$1.5 trillion of government securities and this began to shrink in October and could well continue to fall over the forthcoming years. The same applies to other central banks especially from emerging countries which feel much freer to adjust their reserves than their developed country equivalents.

Total foreign exchange reserves of central banks were US$11,320 billion in August 2013 of which the vast majority US$8865 billion (78 per cent) are held by emerging countries. China is by far the single biggest holder of funds with US$3500 billion in August (which is currently well over US$3600

billion) and countries outside of China but still in Asia own US$2109 billion.

Middle Eastern countries account for US$1386 billion, emerging countries in Europe US$879 billion, and Latin America US$777 billion. Foreign exchange reserves of all central banks were US$2407 billion at the end of 2002 and US$6704 in 2007. Over the same period, foreign exchange holders from emerging countries were US$946 billion in 2002 and US$4272 billion in 2007.

On Thursday, the Federal Reserve proposed new liquidity requirements for large U.S. banks aimed at helping them withstand a credit crunch. Some of the standards in the proposal were stronger than those contained in the Basel III international regulation standards.

Also, the Fed is proposing that banks fully implement the new standards one year earlier than the European Union (EU) and two years earlier than Basel III, namely 2017.

According to newspaper

reports, JP Morgan Chase is nearing a US$6 billion settlement with institutional investors to resolve claims that it miss-sold mortgagebacked securities.

This is separate from a US$13 billion deal that allegedly the bank has made with the Department of Justice to resolve government claims that the bank sold mortgagebacked securities that were riddled with bad loans in the run-up to the financial crisis.

On Monday, it was reported that sales of existing U.S. homes fell in September by 1.9 per cent retreating from an almost four-month high as rising prices and mortgage rates discouraged would-be buyers. House prices rose 8.5 per cent in the year through August and 0.3 per cent between July and August.

Home affordability was almost at a five-year low in September with the median price up 11.7 per cent from a year earlier. On Thursday, the announcement was that the U.S. trade gap was little changed in August with the gap increasing 0.4 per cent

to US$38.8 billion from a revised US$38.6 billion in July that was smaller than previously reported.

Exports fell 0.1 per cent and imports were stable. Initial jobless claims fell by 12,000 to 350,000 in the week ended October 19, but these figures should be interpreted cautiously but reflect a weak labour market.

On Friday, the news was that orders for U.S. equipment unexpectedly declined in September for the second time in three months. Bookings for non-military capital goods excluding aircraft decreased 1.1 per cent while the economists had called for a one per cent gain while consumer sentiment dropped in October to a 10 month low with the index falling to 73.2 from 77.5 in September.

In overseas news, Spain’s GDP expanded by 0.1 per cent in the third quarter and the country is very slowly climbing out of recession. The Bank of England kept policy unchanged and GDP rose 0.8 per cent in the third quarter up from 0.7 per cent in the second.

The Bank of Canada dropped its language about the need for future interest rate increases and Norway, Sweden, and the Philippines left their interest rates on hold. In Japan, overall prices, excluding energy and fresh food, were unchanged from a year earlier after sliding every month since December 2008.

As worries about the strength of the U.S. recovery have mounted this week, and in the aftermath of the government shutdown, interest rates have continued

Market statistics Investors' guide

to fall. Ten-year yields in U.S. Treasuries have fallen from 2.58 per cent the previous Friday to 2.50 per cent last Friday and 30-year bonds have fallen from 3.65 per cent to 3.59 per cent. The euro has risen a little from US$1.37 to US$1.38 and the Swiss franc has increased from 0.90 a week ago to 0.89. The pound has remained at US$1.62, the Australian dollar has fallen modestly from A$0.97 to A$0.96 while the yen has risen a little. The Brazilian real has stayed at 2.18 and the Mexican peso moved down slightly to 13.0 while other emerging market currencies were generally pretty stable.

Oil prices (WTI) fell below US$100 a barrel for the first time since July on the forecast that crude supplies will increase in the U.S. Friday morning prices are US$97.23 a barrel as compared with US$101 the previous week, while gold prices moved up to US$1342 an ounce from US$1319. The Dow Jones rose 0.8 per cent during the week as expectations of “no tapering” grew alongside the idea that Dr Yellen is unlikely to change this policy at anytime soon when she takes over from Dr Bernanke on February 1, 2014. 2014 is expected to be a stronger year by most forecasters than 2013. Obviously, this is possible but, with modest growth in the U.S. and a slowing in many developing countries, this now looks problematic. Perhaps it is best to assume that 2014 will look a lot like 2013 with world growth in both years at three per cent.

Global Economy: No Halloween horrors in store from the Fed

Back in May and June, Federal Reserve

Chairman Ben Bernanke played a trick on markets by sketching out a timetable for reducing the central bank’s US$85 billion-a-month bond buying. Investors recoiled in horror and bond yields surged.

This week, though, they are in for a treat.

The Fed’s policy-making committee ends a twoday meeting on Wednesday and the chances are vanishingly small that it will start to dial down the monetary stimulus right away.

The recent government shutdown in Washington and the last-gasp deal to raise the federal debt ceiling have simply created too much economic uncertainty.

As a result, the usefulness of September figures on industrial output, retail sales and consumer prices as well as the Institute of Supply Management’s October manufacturing survey will be limited.

Apart from a dearth of ‘clean’ data for the Fed to analyse, the labour market’s lacklustre performance has convinced many economists that the Fed will delay ‘tapering’ until 2014.

What more could liquidity-driven markets ask for? Jamie Dannhauser of Lombard Street Research, a London consultancy, expects the Fed to start curtailing its bond buying in the first quarter of next year, by which time Bernanke will have been succeeded by his dovish

deputy, Janet Yellen, and to end asset purchases by the end of 2014.

Bullish

Dannhauser is bullish on the U.S. economy, not least because stiff fiscal headwinds will ease next year.

But he said the Fed was likely to maintain very significant monetary stimulus until growth gets closer to precrisis trends. Thus a rise in short-term interest rates was unlikely until well into 2015.

“Tapering and even an end to asset purchases are very different from a withdrawal of stimulus,” Dannhauser said.

“The U.S. economy still has a very big hole that needs to be filled, and people like Bernanke and Yellen are very acutely aware of this point.”

(Reuters)

715 youths awarded by PYARG

The President’s Youth Award: Republic of Guyana (PYARG) held its 15th award presentation at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) where 715 youths were awarded: 547 in the bronze category, 148 silver and 30 gold.

In 1998, Guyana adopted and launched the programme which is modelled after the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which was introduced in Great Britain in 1956. The Most Outstanding Participant award in the Gold Category was given to Teekaram Singh and Zimeena Rasheed from the Anna Regina Secondary School, Region Two. Special awards were also given to Micah Henry, Region One; Yougraj Rajhunauth, Region Two; Deuel Lewis, in Region Four; Mark Cameron and Shane Persaud, Georgetown; and Symyon Sears from Smythfield, Region Six.

The female most outstanding participants in the Bronze category include Athalia Wells, Mabaruma, Region One; Annalisa Alfred, Region Two; Lucius Hector, Parika Salem, Region Three; Natalie James, Georgetown; Nickesha Benjamin, Fort Wellington, Region Five; and Lydia Cameron, Silvertown, Region 10.

Region Six copped the Outstanding Region Award while Patentia captured the Outstanding Unit Award. Special recognition was given to those volunteers who served for over five years. These include Alicia

Geru Gordon, Courdel Glasgow and Adel Lilly. Meanwhile, Lester Rosine and Herald Alves were recognised for serving over 10 years to the PYARG. This year’s graduation was even more special because the PYARG is also celebrating its 15th anniversary, and this batch of graduates is also the largest, Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony said.

Brain power

The minister expressed his satisfaction with the fact that two of the gold awardees are also CSEC top performers in Guyana and one in the Caribbean. He

stressed that this is a good example of the brain power the PYARG has. He also encouraged them to become roving ambassadors for the organisation. He emphasised that the organisation has been at the forefront of teaching youths about Guyana.

The minister explained that through the programme, the participants have been able to see many parts of Guyana including the Pakaraima Mountain range, Kaieteur Falls and the hinterland regions; while many adults have not been able to see these marvels. He added that the expeditions the youths go on give them a better apprecia-

tion

Minister Anthony stressed that throughout the 15 years of the programme, over 17,000 youths have benefited from training that helps them to develop a better understanding of Guyana, and simultaneously help them to become better citizens.

The success of the PYARG has been recognised in Guyana and the Caribbean where it is esteemed as a best practice. This type of programme does not only occur in Guyana, in this regard, the umbrella organisation, the Duke of Edinburg award is working on ensuring that all the participating countries are

licensed to offer such programmes. This will see the organisation being rebranded and changes made.

Permanent field camp

While much has been achieved in the last 15 years, Minister Anthony projected that in the next five years, more youths should be recruited by the PYARG, more units and regional offices established, and a permanent field camp can also be set up. With regards to the latter, the minister explained that space for the camp site is available at the ministry’s property in Kuru Kuru.

Minister Anthony lauded the PYARG for its efforts

towards addressing social issues through the use of edutainment. In recognising the value of that tool, each unit was encouraged to carry out similar activities in their villages.

The graduates were told of the opportunities that await them at the schools that were instituted by the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry. These include the schools of music, drama, art and dance. The minister emphasised that these schools have valuable merits.

While encouraging the bronze and silver graduates to move towards achieving the gold award, Minister Anthony urged them to aid in the preservation of historical relics in their respective villages. He emphasised that while some may see this as not being important in the years to come, they will prove their worth to Guyana’s heritage. The minister also commended the parents for their support. He also called on village and religious leaders and the business community to support the programme.

Since the start of the programme, about 17,000 youths, aged 14-25, were given the opportunity to be involved in activities ranging from skills training, community service, physical recreation, and adventure journeys and exploration. These activities serve to enrich their lives while at the same time be of benefit to their communities, the Government Information Agency (GINA) said.

Lifeline’s Phillip Vanderhyden Walk a thon a success

By Whitney Persaud

This year, the Lifeline Counselling Services (LCS) and the Guyana Business Coalition on HIV and AIDS (GBCHA) joined their hearts and hands to restore dignity to persons living with HIV and AIDS through the annual Phillip Vanderhyden Walk a thon (PVW) on Sunday.

Donor companies’ employees and staff attached to the LCS, the GBCHA and National Aids Programme Secretariat (NAPS) took to the streets to celebrate the life of Phillip Vanderhyden, a founding member of lifeline, who is referred to as the first face for HIV and AIDS in Guyana, because of his courage to battle for dignity as a victim himself.

During an exclusive interview with Guyana Times , the non-governmental organisation (NGO) Executive Director Gloria Joseph said the GBCHA would usually partner with the LCS to garner more membership support and participation in the event

as the turnout is usually minimal.

“The Guyana Business Coalition assisted us with the walk, as you know, the GBCHA has a higher membership body and the idea was to get more support from them,” she said. Joseph said Citizens Bank was a first time participant and lifeline welcomes the financial institution on board in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Guyana.

“We look forward to seeing you in the future walkathons,” Joseph urged.

Also, the National Milling Company (NAMILCO) was awarded a trophy for being the largest contingent for PVW 2013. She said the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) would usually turn out in numbers, but this year, the authority was unable to be part of the activity.

Other donor companied included Banks DIH and Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL). Joseph urged that steps be taken to continue to work towards the reduction of the spread of HIV and AIDS, and more

importantly, the elimination of HIV in Guyana.

This year’s walk was held under the theme “Getting to Zero”. The walk commenced about 06:00h outside the Bank of Guyana and proceeded south on the Avenue of the Republic,

east onto Durban Street, north into Cummings Street, east into Regent Street, north into Albert and into the National Park.

The walkathon is also a fundraiser for lifeline’s Care and Support Programme, which aids those who are

living with or who are affected by the disease.

Lifeline Counselling Services is an NGO whose mission is to reduce the physiological impact of HIV and AIDS on persons living with, or affected by the disease.

The body was established in October 1996 primarily to provide counselling for persons affected by HIV and AIDS; however, over the years, services have increased and broadened to meet the changing needs of citizens.

SUDOKU

You will have difficulties with foreigners or while travelling or taking part in cultural events. Concentrate on whatever job you’ve been given and refuse to let last-minute changes upset you.

By Bernice Bede Osol

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

Pitch in and help, and you will avoid complaints. Size up your financial situation and look for a way to turn what you have into a lucrative endeavour.

Socialising with friends or peers will introduce you to hobbies or activities that will help you grow mentally or spiritually. Travel and communication will improve personal relationships.

Don’t let what’s happening in your personal life discourage you. Protect what you have worked so hard to acquire. Use unusual tactics when it comes to dealing with money matters.

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

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

Do your best to encourage someone you care about to get involved in whatever you pursue. Working alongside someone you know you can count on will lead to greater success.

(March 21-April 19)

Use your creative talent to get ahead. You’ll surprise someone with your ability to work with whatever you are given and come out on top. Don’t let emotions interfere with your productivity.

(April 20-May 20)

Use all your attributes to get ahead. You’ll learn a lesson from someone who is putting pressure on you. Stand up for your rights and follow through with your plans.

(May 21June 20)

Truth will make a difference to the outcome of a situation. A change in the way you do things will allow you to offer your skills to a wider variety of end users.

Let others know how you feel and what you want. You will get a good response. Encourage someone to join in and help you reach your goals. Love is on the rise.

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Size up your situation at home and at work, but don’t make a fuss or start a feud over something that is best left to fizzle out. Emotions must be controlled.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Put more into your appearance and hone your creative skills. Love will highlight your day if you show affection and offer romance to someone you fancy.

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Professional decisions will lead to a better position. Don’t divulge personal information when dealing with emotional matters. Adaptability will put you ahead of any competition you face.

DENtistry

Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte St, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034

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Learn to play the guitar, keyboard, drums, and train your voice at Foundation 7. Phone: 225-1151 or 617-4200.

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Govt fires back at APNU over environmental management

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry has chided the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) for its “double standards” on certain issues while endorsing a green economy.

The ministry’s comments come in wake of APNU’s criticism of government’s management of environmental issues as it called for the administration to develop a comprehensive strategy. Last Friday, Opposition Leader and APNU Chairman David Granger, during the coalition’s weekly press conference, said such a strategy was needed to protect the population from hazards, to preserve the environment from further degradation, and to create a sustainable ‘green’ economy in the shortest possible time.

On Sunday, in an eightpage press statement, the ministry criticised APNU’s stance on the creation of enabling factors for an environmentally friendly and sustainable Guyana. The ministry accused APNU of rejecting the government’s proposal for environmental tax for all plastic receptacles and its non-support for major low-carbon development projects such as the Amaila Falls Hydropower project. According to a feasibility study, the hydropower project would have replaced more than 95 per cent of the fossil fuels used for the generation of electricity.

“The internationally recognised and supported Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) provides visionary framework that will allow Guyana to build a model ‘green economy’.

Much investments and work have commenced with the participation of all stakeholders on making this a reality,” the ministry pointed out. On the local scene, the ministry said it had crafted its strategic plan with back-

German

ing from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Pollution

In the area of pollution, the ministry said currently the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was not playing an active role in the area of enforcement in keeping with its act of 1996 as a result of the extensive period for matters to achieve closure in the courts. But to cushion the impact, the agency is in the process of finalising Environmental Protection (Enforcement and Compliance) Regulations. In preparing for these regulations at an institutional level, the EPA established a new division in June 2013 to deal with enforcement and compliance.

“The issues related to hazardous wastes and air quality pollution have also been recognised, and back in 2011, the EPA established a Hazardous Wastes/ Materials and Air Quality Management Unit. Since then, the EPA secured an air quality field meter to measure and monitor particulate matter, and which has been deployed to resolve a number of complaints.”

The ministry alluded to the Hack Rice Mill, Cane Grove case which has been successfully resolved. “The numerous recommendations which were made by the EPA and implemented

by the rice mill were scientifically tested with the acquisition of the particulate matter meter. Results from the air quality monitoring, which was conducted from February 20, 2012 to March 18, 2012, revealed that particulate matter concentrations were below the World Health Organisation guidelines...”

The work of the environmental agency continues with investigation and monitoring of several other operations. The agency has moved to establish an air quality monitoring protocol for Linden, with implementation to occur shortly. “EPA is well aware of the constraints of having only one meter for monitoring air quality, and intends to acquire two other field instruments in 2014 to further support its investigation and monitoring operations.”

Two years into its operation, with a staff complement of three officers, the unit is still in the incipient stages of administering the hazardous wastes regulations. The environmental guidelines have been completed for the proper storage, transportation and occupational handing of biomedical waste. Additionally, the agency has conducted a series of consultations with stakeholders from private and government entities on the effective management of hazardous wastes. Turning its attention to water pollution, the body is in the process of establishing a Water Quality Unit.

In recognition and support of the steps taken by the agency, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission has stepped in, actively conducting water quality and turbidity tests, as part of its monitoring and enforcement exercises in various mining districts.

Earlier this month, the ministry signed on to a new international pact to control mercury emissions.

paper says Obama aware of spying on Merkel since 2010

AGerman newspaper said on Sunday that U.S. President Barack Obama knew his intelligence service was eavesdropping on Angela Merkel as long ago as 2010, contradicting reports that he had told the German leader he did not know.

Germany received information this week that the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) had bugged Merkel’s mobile phone, prompting Berlin to summon the U.S. ambassador, a move unprecedented in post-war relations between the close allies.

Reuters was unable to confirm Sunday’s news report. The NSA denied that Obama had been informed about the operation by the NSA chief in 2010, as reported by the German

newspaper. But the agency did not comment directly on whether Obama knew about the bugging of Merkel’s phone.

Both the White House and the German government declined comment.

The Wall Street Journal (west) reported on Sunday that the NSA ended the programme that involved Merkel after the operation was uncovered in an Obama administration review that began this summer.

The NSA was not immediately available for comment on the report.

The programme also involved as many as 35 other world leaders, some of whom were still being monitored, according to the WSJ report, which was attributed to U.S. officials.

Citing a source in Merkel’s office, some German media have reported that Obama apologised to Merkel when she called him on Wednesday, and told her that he would have stopped the bugging happening had he known about it.

But Bild am Sonntag, citing a “U.S. intelligence worker involved in the NSA operation against Merkel”, said NSA chief General Keith Alexander informed Obama in person about it in 2010.

“Obama didn’t stop the operation back then but let it continue,” the mass-market paper quoted the source as saying.

The NSA said, however, that Alexander had never discussed any intelligence operations involving Merkel with Obama. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Windies Women defeat England to win Tri Series title

RIDGETOWN –

BOpener Stafanie Taylor stroked a typically accomplished half-century to fire West Indies to an eight-wicket victory over England in the final of the Women’s T20 International Tri-nation Series on Saturday.

The classy right-hander finished on 51 not out as West Indies, chasing a meagre 116 for victory, reached their target with 19 balls to spare under lights at Kensington Oval on Saturday.

Taylor faced 47 balls and struck five fours, sharing an unbroken 78-run, third wicket stand off 64 balls with aggressive stroke-maker Deandra Dottin who hammered 46 from 35 balls with four fours and a six.

Their dominance, after the Windies slid to 41 for two in the seventh over, shut England out of the game and there was little doubt about the result thereafter.

Earlier, the Windies bowlers stifled England’s top order, and the tourists could only muster 115 for five off their 20 overs, after winning the toss and opting for first knock in good conditions.

Captain Charlotte Edwards (10) and Danielle Wyatt (12) put on 22 off 24

balls for the first wicket, but once Wyatt skied a simple catch to wicketkeeper Merissa Aguilleira off Shanel Daley off the final ball of the fourth, the inning went into decline.

Edwards was run out off the first delivery of the next over sneaking a suicide single and two balls later, Lydia Greenway was taken at backward square by Dottin off Taylor’s off-spin.

Tammy Beaumont looked to counter-attack but got as far as 13 from 22 balls before she holed out in the deep off leg-spinner Shaquana Quintyne, and suddenly England had lost four wickets for 17 runs in the space of 34 balls.

Natalie Sciver and Sarah Taylor then added a run-aball 50 for the fifth wicket to steady the innings. Sciver stroked 36 from 33 deliveries with one four and a six – a swat over mid-wicket off the last ball of the innings – while Taylor played the anchor role with 28 from 32 balls.

Stafanie Taylor was superb with one for eight off her four overs while leg-spinner Shaquana Quintyne and left-armer Shanel Daley both picked up one for 21 from their four overs.

In reply, openers Taylor

and Kyshona Knight started positively, adding 24 off 21 balls before Knight played a loose stroke and was taken at cover point by Greenway off Jenny Gunn in the fourth over.

Aguilleira lasted just seven balls and made only four before picking out Gunn at mid on off left-arm spinner Holly Colvin. However, whatever hopes England had of making further inroads into the Windies innings were quickly dashed by Taylor and Dottin who took command of the game.

Taylor’s only blemish was when she was dropped at cover by Gunn diving to her right but she overcame that hiccup to post her half-century off 46 balls.

Dottin, meanwhile, struck the ball with tremendous power, clearing long-on with seamer Natalie Sciver in the 12th over before finishing the contest with a full-blooded straight hit off left-arm seamer Natasha Farrant.

Fittingly, Taylor was named Player-of-the-Match while Dottin won the Playerof-the-Series honour. (WICB)

SCOREBOARD

England Women innings

C Edwards* run out (Campbelle) 10

D Wyatt c †Aguilleira b Daley 12

S Taylor† b King 28

L Greenway c Dottin b Taylor 0

T Beaumont c King b Quintyne 13

N Sciver not out 36

J Gunn not out 10

Extras: (lb 5, w 1) 6

Total: (5 wkts, 20 overs) 115

Fall of wickets: 1-22, 2-22, 3-22, 4-39, 5-89

Bowling: T Smartt 2-0-11-0, S Daley 4-0-21-1, S Taylor 4-18-1, S Quintyne 4-0-21-1, A Mohammed 2-0-16-0, D Dottin 2-0-14-0, S King 2-0-19-1

West Indies Women innings

Kyshona A Knight c Greenway b Gunn 9

S Taylor not out 51

M Aguilleira*† c Gunn b Colvin 4

D Dottin not out 46

Extras: (lb 1, w 8) 9

Total: (2 wkts, 16.5 overs) 119

Fall of wickets: 1-24, 2-41

Bowling: N Farrant 3.5-0-260, B Langston 4-0-28-0, J Gunn 3-0-16-1, D Hazell 2-0-14-0, H Colvin 3-0-25-1, N Sciver 1-0-9-0

Del Potro beats Federer in Swiss Indoors final

Top seed Juan Martin

Del Potro retained his Swiss Indoors title with a 7-6 (7-3) 2-6 6-4 victory against home favourite Roger Federer in Basel on Sunday. A sixth Swiss title for world number six Federer would have sealed his place at next month’s ATP World Tour Finals in London for a 12th successive year.

“It’s always a pleasure to play Roger. He’s the hero here and for me my biggest inspiration,” said Del Potro.

Federer said: “I fought hard all the way. I lifted my level but so did he.”

The 32-year-old, who has won only one title in 2013, produced some vintage moments but could not deny Del Potro his fourth ATP Tour 500 title in a calendar year.

The Swiss now has to beat Kevin Anderson or Mikhail Youzhny in his second-round match at the final qualifying event in Paris next week to ensure one of the eight places at the 02 Arena for the World Tour Finals, which would equal Ivan Lendl for the most successive appearances at the season finale.

Del Potro, already safely through to the Tour Finals, broke in the eighth game of the opening set but to the delight of the crowd Federer broke back imme -

diately to love. The home favourite saved two break points to take the set to a tie-break but quickly found himself 3-0 down and Del Potro went on to take the set.

A majestic cross court winner sealed a break early in the second, however, and Federer swiftly claimed the set in 36 minutes.

But having saved one break point with an overhead volley at full stretch, Federer lost his serve in the opening game of the decider with a double fault.

He had two break points in the next but was unable to take them, and had to stave off a break point opportunity for Del Potro in the seventh game before the world number five comfortably served out for his third successive victory against the 17-time Grand Slam winner.

Federer, playing in his eighth consecutive Basel final and 10th overall at the stadium where he got his start in the game as a ballboy nearly two decades ago, has only beaten one top-10 opponent in 2013, the then number eight Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the Australian Open quarter-finals.

He had been attempting to win his 78th career trophy from 113 finals and six or more titles at his fourth different tournament. (BBC Sport)

Sepp Blatter calls for zero tolerance towards racism

FIFA president Sepp Blatter says football’s world governing body will “have failed” if it does not adopt a zero tolerance approach to racism.

UEFA opened a disciplinary case against CSKA Moscow this week after Manchester City’s Yaya Toure complained of being racially abused by their fans.

Blatter said: “If we are not able to go zero tolerance, we have failed.”

FIFA’s Jerome Valcke will meet Russia’s World Cup 2018 officials in the next 48 hours to discuss the issue.

A new anti-racism resolution passed by FIFA in May means teams can now be forced to play matches behind closed doors as punishment for incidents of racism, with stiffer penalties in place for repeat offenders.

“In the first case there should be a warning, in a second case sanctions, disciplinary sanctions or to play without spectators,” said Blatter, 77, who has been FIFA’s president since 1998.

“But the third one is that you have to deduct points or expel a team from a competition.

“The [FIFA] congress has said we have to go zero tolerance. The

congress was standing, there was not one voice against that.

“Everybody wants it to happen. Now we have to apply it and have to have the courage to have to do it.”

Blatter called for the zero tolerance approach at a news conference in London, saying he had spoken to UEFA president Michel Platini at the Football Association’s 150th anniversary dinner about the need for football’s disciplinary committees to apply existing tougher sanctions.

Blatter said implementing the new measures was not

Platini’s problem and instead an issue on which national associations must be strong.

Toure made his complaint about discrimination in midweek, despite CSKA’s denial of any wrongdoing by supporters.

But the FIFA president insisted that even if racism remains a problem in Russia, moving the World Cup from the country was “impossible.”

FIFA general secretary Valcke will meet with Alexey Sorokin, chief executive office of the 2018 World Cup, to discuss the stance towards discrimination today (BBC Sport)

Vettel wins fourth F1 world title at the Indian GP

Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel clinched his fourth consecutive world title with victory in the Indian Grand Prix on Sunday.

The German, 26, drove a perfect race to secure his sixth consecutive victory this season and become only the fourth man in history to win four titles.

Vettel joins legends Juan Manuel Fangio, Alain Prost and Michael Schumacher as a four-time champion.

The victory keeps Vettel on target to equal the all-time record of nine consecutive F1 race wins.

Vettel’s Red Bull team also won the Formula 1 constructors’ championship for the fourth consecutive year.

“I’m speechless,” said Vettel. “I don’t know what to say, I crossed the line and I was just empty. You want to think of something to say and I just can’t. It has been an amazing season, the spirit in the team is great and it is a pleasure to jump in the car and drive.”

The win was Vettel’s sixth in succession and 10th in total in an incredible year that could yet see him match Schumacher’s record of 13 wins in a single season.

Despite his impressive form, Vettel has not always been a popular winner. Wins in Belgium, Britain, Canada

and Singapore were greeted by boos, and Vettel revealed on the podium in India how he had been affected by the abuse he had received.

“It has not been an easy season,” he said. “From the outside people will think it was easy but it wasn’t.

“It has been hard for me in particular. To be booed when I have not done anything wrong was hard, but I think I answered it on the track, which I am very pleased about.”

Should Vettel win the three remaining races in Abu Dhabi, the United States, and Brazil, he will also equal Alberto Ascari’s run of nine consecutive grand prix wins, achieved in 1952 and 1953.

He is six years younger than Schumacher was when he became a four-time champion in 2001 and will no doubt fancy his chances of eclipsing

his compatriot’s record of seven world titles in the coming years.

But the implementation of new regulations for 2014 onwards - which include new engine formula and the introduction of more powerful energy recovery systems - could see next season’s Formula 1 championship become more competitive.

Such has been Vettel’s dominance that he arrived in India needing only a fifthplace finish to be sure of the title, no matter what his only remaining rival Fernando Alonso did. The Spaniard had to finish in the top two to have any chance of taking the championship to the next race in Abu Dhabi next weekend.

But those hopes were over by the first corner, when Alonso was clipped by Vettel’s

team-mate Mark Webber, who was knocked sideways by Kimi Raikkonen’s Lotus.

The touch damaged Alonso’s front wing, and he had to stop for a new one on lap two, wrecking Ferrari’s strategy of starting on the harder ‘medium’ tyre and running a long first stint. He fought back to 11th place.

Webber was on the same strategy, while Vettel was among those who chose to start on the ‘soft’ tyre and make an early pit stop.

The German did so on lap two, rejoining in 17th place, leaving him needing to carve quickly through the field to ensure he could race for victory with Webber.

Vettel did so brilliantly, moving up to third place by lap 13, and second behind Webber by lap 21, by which time he was 11.8secs behind the Australian.

Webber made his first pit stop on 28, and surprisingly Red Bull fitted the ‘soft’ tyres for a short middle stint, rather than saving them to the end of the race when Vettel used a similar strategy in China.

It was not the absolutely ideal strategy but it made no difference. Webber had already lost the race by then thanks to his poor first lap and Vettel’s impressive drive back through the field. (BBC Sport)

Torres winner punishes Man City

Fernando Torres capitalised on a last-minute calamity in Manchester City’s defence to give Chelsea victory at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Sergio Aguero’s stunning equaliser looked to have given the visitors a point until a breakdown in communications between goalkeeper Joe Hart and central defender Matija Nastasic allowed Torres to pounce and send Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho into the crowd in celebration.

Nastasic looked in prime position to clear Willian’s speculative long ball but Hart’s dash from goal appeared to panic the 20-yearold Serb, who headed the ball beyond his keeper and Torres won the race to turn the ball home.

Torres had been the game’s central figure, setting up Andre Schurrle’s first goal since his £18m summer move from Bayer Leverkusen as well as missing a sitter and hitting the woodwork as Chelsea earned a deserved half-time advantage.

Aguero’s excellence helped City back in the game and manager Manuel Pellegrini looked distraught as he made his way down the tunnel after watching his team miss out on a point he will feel their endeavour deserved.

For Chelsea, it was joy unconfined as they moved up to second in the table and the

name of Torres rang around Stamford Bridge at the final whistle as the £50m striker delivered yet more hints that his career may be ready to undergo a renaissance under Mourinho.

There was an element of a gamble about Pellegrini’s team selection as, in the continued absence of injured captain Vincent Kompany, he gave a debut to Martin Demichelis.

The 32-year-old Argentine has been sidelined by a knee injury since making a £4.2m move from Atletico Madrid at the end of August, and he came into the heart of the City defence as Javi Garcia pushed into a defensive midfield role.

Torres was guilty of a dreadful miss when he shot wildly over the bar with only Hart to beat, but his general play had been excellent and he was heavily involved as Chelsea took the lead after 33 minutes - racing past Gael Clichy with ease before setting up Schurrle’s simple finish.

Torres nearly added a stunning second, beating Demichelis to send in an angled effort which left Hart helpless but it struck the angle of post and bar.

Aguero, operating as a lone striker, needed constant attention from Chelsea’s defence and gave a hint of what was to come when his powerful shot was blocked at the near post just before the break. (BBC Sport)

Windies to start WT20 against India

DUBAI, UAE - The West Indies will open its title defence against India in the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Twenty20 Bangladesh 2014.

The ICC on Sunday announced the match schedules and ticket sales plans for the tournament, which will be staged from March 16 to April 6, 2014.

The West Indies’ men will defend the title they won last year in Colombo while Australia’s women will aim to complete a hat-trick of titles after having won the previous two finals in Barbados and Colombo.

As many as 60 tournament matches (35 men’s and 25 women’s) will be played across Chittagong, Dhaka and Sylhet in the 22-day tournament. As in the past, the women’s semi-finals and final will be held on the same day as the men’s semi-finals and final, and at the same venue. The format for the men’s event in next year’s tournament has been changed following an increase in teams from 12 to 16.

As the teams’ seeding are based on the Reliance ICC T20I Team Rankings as on October 8, 2012, the top eight sides following the conclusion of the ICC World Twenty20 Sri Lanka 2012 will play directly in the Super 10 stage, while Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, which finished outside the top eight, will participate in the first round

that will be held from March 16-21. The first round of the men’s event will include eight sides that will be divided into two groups of four teams each, with the table-toppers progressing to the Super 10 stage.

In the first round, Group A will feature host Bangladesh alongside three teams that will qualify from the ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier UAE 2013, to be staged from November 15-30. Group B will include Zimbabwe, which will be joined by another three teams from the upcoming qualifiers. As such, the two groups will be final-

ised on November 30.

Group 1 – Sri Lanka, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Group B Qualifier 1 (Q1B)

Group 2 – West Indies, India, Pakistan, Australia, Group A Qualifier 1 (Q1A) Reigning champions West Indies will launch its title defence against India in an evening match on Sunday March 23. Earlier on the same day, Pakistan will lock horns with Australia, which is looking for the only global title that has eluded it to date.

If Bangladesh reaches the Super 10 stage, it will play all its matches in Dhaka, facing the West Indies on March 25,

India on March 28, Pakistan on March 30 and Australia on April 1.

The prize money for the men’s event will be US$3 million, with the winner receiving US$1.1 million and the losing finalist collecting US$550,000.

The ICC Women’s World Twenty20 2014 has been increased from eight to 10 teams after a recent ICC Board decision. The first round matches of the women’s event will take place in Sylhet from March 23 to April 2, with the top two sides from each Group progressing to the semi-finals.

The 10 sides have been divided into two Groups:

Group A – Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan, Ireland

Group B – England, West Indies, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh

Defending champion Australia will kick-off its campaign on March 23 when it will take on New Zealand. This game will be followed by the match between South Africa and Pakistan, which, along with Sri Lanka, qualified for the Bangladesh event after having reached the final of the qualifying tournament held in Dublin in August.

Host Bangladesh will make its maiden appearance on the world stage

on March 26when it will play last year’s semi-finalist, West Indies. 2009 champion England will start its campaign on March 24 against the West Indies.

The prize money for the women’s event will be US$180,000, with the winner collecting US$65,000 and the losing finalist getting US$25,000.

“The ICC World Twenty20 is the pinnacle of Twenty20 International cricket as it brings together the world’s best cricketers in a short and sharp nation versus nation tournament,” said ICC General Manager - Commercial, Campbell Jamieson, who attended the fixtures and ticket sales launch ceremony in Dhaka on Sunday.

“The successes of the previous editions in South Africa, England, the West Indies and Sri Lanka have proven the popularity of this tournament, and it is exciting that this event will now be staged in a country like Bangladesh which has a very proud cricketing tradition.

“Bangladesh hosted the ICC Champions Trophy in 1998 (then known as the ICC Knock-Out) and most recently the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, along with India and Sri Lanka. Following the legacies of these two successful events, as well as the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2004, I’m confident that Bangladesh will once again produce a worldclass tournament.”

Forde takes first leg of SA 10k

By Treiston Joseph

Using his trade mark sprint at the finish, Cleveland Forde took the first leg of the 2013 South American 10k championships that concluded in the National Park on Sunday afternoon.

With the moniker “Little Kenyan”, Forde out-sprinted Grenada’s Sherwin Paul to win the event in 32 minutes, 36 seconds to take the top prize of US $1,000.

Paul clocked 32 minutes, 49 seconds for second while Kelvin “Skello” Johnson was third in 33 minutes, 23 seconds. Cleveland “Fish” Thomas was fourth with a time of 34 minutes, one second while Dennis Horatio rounded out the top five with

a time of 34 minutes, 21seconds.

“It was a good race; it was challenging and I can say that I underestimate it. I thought Kelvin (Johnson) would have pushed the pace but after he did not, the Grenadian took and was going well I just had to run smart.

“I did what I would normally do in other races just wait until the end and did my thing…think I’m going to go to the next leg and try and be a bit more prepared for that,” Forde told Guyana Times Sport after the event.

On the distaff side, drama unfolded in the women’s race as favourite Euleen Jossiah-Tanner, dropped out, allowing Granada’s Kenisha

Pascal to win the event in a time of 42 minutes, 28 seconds with Alika Morgan taking the second spot in 42 minutes, 35 seconds.

Three-time Carifta gold medalist Jevina Straker was third in 43 minutes, 18 seconds while Andrea Foster came in fourth in 44 minutes, two seconds. Ilsida Tomere was fifth in 44 minutes, 32 seconds.

Meanwhile JossiahTanner stated that her reason for dropping out was due to a coach giving an athlete drinks on the course.

Linden’s Cassie Kirton won the female junior category, clocking 47 minutes, two seconds to take the event while Shauntelle Hinds was

second in 51 minutes, 15 seconds. Euodia Forte was third in 59 minutes, 48 seconds.

The boys’ junior event saw Carl Mackenzie taking top honors with a time of 37 minutes, 43 seconds to finish ahead of Kevin Nicolas (39 minutes, one second); Leon Benjamin was third in 40 minutes, 34 seconds.

The women’s Masters was won by Alisha Fortune, who clocked 51m, 29s ahead of Cyrleen Phillips who took second with a time of 52m, 32s. Carla Benjamin was third in 53m, 57s.

Eon Archibald took the men’s Master 40-55 in 40m, 29s while Llewellyn Gardner won the men’s Masters in a time of 41m, 46s.

WI Women skipper and coach say “well done” after lifting Tri

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – West Indies dominated from start to finish to beat England by eight wickets in the Grand Final of the Women’s T20 International Tri Series on Saturday night.

Playing in front a colourful crowd of 4,000 at Kensington Oval, the Windies restricted the visitors to 115-5 off their 20 overs. They then marched to 119-2 – to win with 19 balls to spare.

Stafanie Taylor won the Player of the Match award. She had the excellent figures of 4-1-8-1 with her off-spin and then made 51 not out –

her 11th half-century in this format. She added an unbroken third-wicket stand of 78 with Deandra Dottin.

The powerful Dottin ended on 46 not out off 35 balls including a six and a four boundaries – the final one which took West Indies to victory. She was named the Virgin Atlantic Player of the Series – for her 156 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 133.33.

“In the end to win by eight wickets with three overs to spare, would seem a bit easy, but I can tell you it was not easy,” West Indies Head Coach Sherwin Campbell said after Saturday’s match.

Series title

“We played well from start of the tournament to finish and the girls deserve this victory. They earned it as a result of their hard work and dedication. Tonight I am very proud of this team...the way they prepared and how they went out and executed the game-plan.”

West Indies captain Merissa Aguilleira was also pleased.

“This is a great result for us and congratulations to everyone who contributed to this fantastic result. We came here for this tournament and we knew once we played to our potential we would win,” she said after ac-

cepting the trophy.

“This is another one of the steps we are taking as we look to become the best team in the world. We will celebrate this tournament as we also look ahead to bigger and better things to come in the future.”

Before the final both teams were met by Alan Isaac, President of the International Cricket Council and Whycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron, President of the West Indies Cricket Board.

West Indies and England travelled to Trinidad on Sunday to play three OneDay Internationals at Queen’s Park Oval. (WICB)

Taylor to start series against England as number one

DUBAI, UAE – West

Indies’ all-rounder

Stafanie Taylor will start the upcoming threematch One Day International (ODI) series against England as the top ranked player.

The Jamaican opener is ranked the top player across the Reliance ICC Women’s Player Rankings for ODIs.

Taylor leads all three rankings’ tables - batting, bowling and all-rounder - and is the only player in history (man or woman) to ever be number one in both batting and bowling rankings in either Test or ODI cricket at the same time.

The latest Reliance ICC Women’s Player Rankings for ODIs were updated at the

end of West Indies’ 2-1 series win in a three-match series against visiting New Zealand that finished in Jamaica earlier this month.

England captain Charlotte Edwards is in third place of the Reliance ICC Women’s Player Rankings for ODI Batters and, in the second ODI of the upcoming series, will become only the second women’s captain to lead her side in 100 or more ODIs.

Only Australia’s former skipper and ICC Hall of Famer Belinda Clarke has captained more than Edwards (101 ODIs).

To date, Edwards has led her side in 98 ODIs, winning 61, losing 31, and record-

ing six no results. She has also skippered 66 Twenty20 Internationals - more than any other women’s captainwinning 50 and losing 14, with one no-result and one tied encounter. Edwards has also led her side in seven Tests, after making her Test debut in July 1996 against New Zealand.

Sarah Taylor in eighth, Deandra Dottin in ninth and Lydia Greenway in 11th are some of the batters inside the top 20 who are likely to be seen in action during the series.

In the Reliance ICC Women’s Player Rankings for ODI Bowlers, England will be without the services of number-two ranked Katherine

Williams beats Li Na to win WTA Championships

orld number one

WSerena Williams fought back superbly to beat Li Na 2-6 6-3 6-0 and retain her WTA Championships title on Sunday.

Li, the world number three from China, raced ahead and secured the first set in Istanbul with her fourth set point.

But Williams, 32, levelled the match and clinched her 11th title of the year in two hours and nine minutes.

The American has won 78 of 82 matches this year and will finish the year as the top ranked player for the third time in her career after 2002 and 2009.

It was her fourth WTA Championships success and she is the first player to defend the title since Justine Henin in 2007.

She is the eighth female player to win 11 or more titles in a year and the first since Martina Hingis claimed 12 in 1997.

Williams said lifting the Billie Jean King trophy had a special significance at the end of the year when the WTA has celebrated its 40th anniversary.

“It was an awesome year of tennis. To end with the Billie Jean King trophy af-

ter 40 years and after everything we had the celebration for this year, I don’t know if it’s written or what, but it’s just really exciting,” she said.

“I haven’t had a lot of time to think about it, but I’m happy. I’m really happy that I was able to finish it off.”

In the first WTA final between two players over 30, Li made a confident start to take the opening set against Williams, who was showing signs of fatigue.

Williams won a key game at the start of the second that went to nine deuces and lasted nearly 12 minutes, but Li levelled at 3-3 with her only ace of the match.

However, a double-fault and a forehand error gave Williams a chance to serve out the set, with three set points required to close it out.

Another double-fault by Li gave Williams a break of serve at the start of the third and the 17-time Grand Slam winner swiftly completed her 10th win in 11 matches against the new world number three.

“I’ve just had a really long year, and I’m just really excited, honestly. I really didn’t expect to get through this match today Sunday,” Williams added. (BBC Sport)

Atletico Madrid close gap on Barcelona in La Liga table

Atletico Madrid kept up the pressure on Barcelona at the top of La Liga with a 5-0 hammering of Real Betis on Sunday.

Brunt, but the other bowlers inside the top 10 who are likely to be in action for the visiting side are Jenny Gunn in seventh spot and Holly Colvin in 10th.

For West Indies, apart from top-ranked Taylor, who was the leading wicket-taker in the recent series against New Zealand (11) and player of the series, the others inside the top 10 likely to feature in the series are Shanel Daley in fourth place and Anisa Mohammed in sixth.

The West Indies play England in three ODIs, including two day/night matches at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad. (WICB)

Diego Simeone’s side led within 14 seconds when 18-year-old Oliver Torres scored from close range on his first start.

David Villa doubled the lead with a header after the break and scored again with a powerful effort.

Diego Costa added a fourth from Villa’s pass and Gabi scored from the edge of the box with the last kick.

Atletico, who have won nine of their 10 games, are one point behind leaders Barcelona and five clear of their rivals Real Madrid, while Real Betis remain in the relegation zone.

Villarreal kept up their impressive start to the season following promo-

tion with a 4-1 victory over Valencia.

Ikechukwu Uche, Hernan Perez and Giovani dos Santos put the Yellow Submarine into a 3-0 lead. Giovani missed a penalty before Ricardo Costa pulled one back for the visitors. But the result was put beyond doubt when former Tottenham player Giovani got his second goal.

Real Sociedad moved into the top half of the table with a convincing 3-0 win over Almeria, who remain bottom without a win from 10 games.

Antoine Griezmann gave the Basques a 2-0 lead with a brace and Jose Angel wrapped the game up with 35 minutes remaining.

Sevilla beat strugglers Osasuna 2-1 thanks to goals from Ivan Rakitic and Jairo before Oriol Riera’s late consolation. (BBC Sport)

GT&T Indoor Hockey Championships...

GCC upset Cadets 7-5 in semi-final action

In a reversal of their pool match earlier in the week, GCC created a stunning upset of the Cadets by 7-5 in the men’s first division semi-finals of the GT&T National Indoor Hockey Championships on Saturday evening at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

GCC got off to a cracking start through the phenomenal play of top tier strikers Kevin Spencer and Orland Semple who scored one each in the second and seventh minute.

Although the Cadets Captain Jamarj Assanah, who put in a sterling performance on the night managed to even the score brief-

ly at 1-1, Spencer scored a second and Andrew Xavier added one more to give GCC a comfortable 4-1 cushion before the Cadets could get on the board again. Assanah would launch an assault on the Bourda boys in the second half to complete his hatrick on the night which was capably matched by Spencer to keep GCC comfortably ahead. Cadets Andrew Stewart and Aroydy Brandford each scored a goal to complete the Cadets tally of five, but a double from Stephen Xavier and a second strike from Semple gave GCC the 7-5 victory and a coveted place in the final keeping alive their hopes of retain-

ing the crown.

In the other semi-final the Hikers steamrolled a depleted Old Fort by 9–3 with the tireless captain Robert France leading from the front with a hat-trick. Devin Munroe, Shane Samuels and the powerful Randy Hope each scored doubles to complete the Hikers nine-goal haul.

Old Fort managed to keep the game close in the first ten minutes with goals by Dwayne Allen and Dwight McCalman but only managed a solitary goal by Dwight Sullivan in the second half.

The Hiker Divas managed a cool 3-0 victo-

ry over Revelation securing second place for them in the pool and a spot in the semi-finals. Avonda James, Janella Munroe and Amanda Garnett shared the spotlight with a goal each in victory for the Divas.

The GCC Tigers outclassed the Spartans by 4 – 2 in the final ladies pool match of the evening. Despite a heroic performance in goal for the Spartans by new-comer Briawna Gordon, Tigers Captain Sonia Jardine was in fine form with a hatrick while Kerensa Fernandes added a single. Samantha Fernandes and Gabriella Xavier each managed goals for the Spartans but fell

short of the mark to halt the Tigers unbeaten run. The Tigers finished at the top of the ladies pool and face Revelation in one semi-final while the Hikers Divas will meet Spartans in the other.

Mark Sargeant led the scorers with two goals to his name when GCC met Old Fort in their men’s semi-final pool clash en route to a 5-0 hammering by the Bourda side. The McKenzie brother Kareem and Keon each added singles as did Eric Hing to close off the match and secure a semi-final spot in the competition.

In the other men’s second division clash of the evening, Hikers Recruits obliterated Saints by 9-2 in a

master class of hockey that underlined their top pool finish in the second division competition. Leon Bacchus who has recently emerged as a genuine goal threat led the scores once again with a hatrick which was supported by doubles from teammates Aroydy Brandford and Michael Harding while Jamarj Assanah and Joshua Carew added one each.

Taise Seepaul gave a brave performance for Saints in scoring its only two goals of the match. The Hikers will meet Saints in the semi-final crossovers of the second division while GCC will tangle once again with Old Fort.

There were no surprises in the veterans competition as GCC secured a perfect pool round by defeating the Hickers once again by 5-4. This time around however it would take a last minute shot to split the teams as the score remained even for much of the game.

In-form Philip Fernandes continued his goal onslaught with a hatrick while brothers Alan and Stephen added one each for GCC. Devin Munroe and Captain Brian Asregado each scored doubles for the Hickers. Both GCC, as pool leaders, and the Hickers have qualified for the veterans final.

The competition wrapped up last evening with the finals of the various categories at the National Gymnasium.

Jeffrey rules the road to win Digicel...

Cognisant of the amount of sprinters in the pack, Jeffrey pulled away from peloton as the race turned at Camp Street and Carifesta Avenue, just outside the YMCA building, and never relinquished the lead, powering to victory all alone. It was much to the amazement of the spectators who had gathered to witness the highly anticipated finish.

When race officials stopped the clock on Carifesta Avenue, Jeffrey had timed three hours, three minutes, 05.31 seconds (03h: 03m: 05.31s). It was yet another convincing victory for the talented rider, who has gained the unofficial title of “beast of the roadway”, as he captured the biggest cash prize in the history of local cycling.

“I know there were a lot of sprinters in the pack, so I know I had to make a move early. I did and it paid off,” Jeffrey said afterwards.

He added, “I was out [of competitive racing] for a while, but after yesterday [Saturday] race at the National Park, I know I would do well today

[Sunday]. I wasn’t feeling well yesterday [Saturday] and still finished third so I was very confident that I was in top shape for this race.”

Pollydore finished a distant second after a close sprint with Greaves, who occupied third spot, while Linden’s Orville Hinds, Geron Williams and Albert Philander rounded off the top six finishers in that order.

Jeffrey’s Team Coco mates, Michael Anthony and Junior Niles, capped an

excellent day for the four-man unit, winning the Junior and Veteran races respectively.

Anthony copped $60,000 ahead of Hamzah Eastman and Alonzo Ambrose in second and third respectively, while Niles carted off the $50,000 first prize, leaving Ian Jackson to settle for second and Ralph Williams, third.

Linden’s Hazina Barrett was the leading female rider, beating Naomi Singh to the line for the $50,000

first prize. The Veteran and Female riders started outside the Splashmin’s Fun Park on the Soesdyke/ Linden highway.

At the presentation ceremony which followed, Chief Executive Officer of Digicel (Guyana), Gregory Dean, expressed his company’s commitment to the fight against breast cancer, adding that Digicel will continue to sponsor the race and work to make it better every year.

The race, which was a

collaborative effort of Digicel (Guyana), the Guyana Cycling Federation and the Roraima Bikers Club, was designed to heighten awareness of breast cancer, a disease that has been plaguing women across the globe. It was held in October to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Apart from handsomely rewarding the top riders on Sunday, Digicel (Guyana) also distributed branded jerseys, water bottles and bags to spectators who

turned out to witness the race. Additionally, the company also delivered on its promise to match the sum donated by cyclists as a contribution to the Guyana Cancer Society. The cyclists were able to raise $35,000 and Digicel matched that amount.

Staff members of the Digicel were also able to raise $80,000, which will be given to the Guyana Cancer Society to aid in the fight against breast cancer.

Jeffrey rules the road to win Digicel Breast Cancer Awareness race

By Avenash Ramzan

He was out of competition for close to a month, but that was not a deterrence as Raynauth Jeffrey reminded his adversaries of how fierce a competitor he is on the country’s roadways.

INSIDE TODAY’S SPORT

With a strategic move, the East Coast Demerara riding sensation powered to victory in the Senior category of the second annual Digicel Breast Cancer Awareness 78-mile road race from Linden to Georgetown

on Sunday, easily carting off $250,000 and the Digicel trophy in the process.

The race attracted 70 starters and the Senior and Junior riders started at David Rose Avenue in Linden, with Jeffrey being the pacesetter

in the early stages. As the race progressed however, the lead changed hands with the possibility of an exciting finish imminent.

When the riders entered Georgetown, they were required to complete two laps

around the outer circuit of the National Park and the first pack to arrive included Jeffrey, the in-form Alanzo Greaves, Albert Philander and seasoned campaigner Godfrey Pollydore.

A chasing pack connected

with the leaders at the bell to signal the final lap, and just when it seemed that a heated sprint finish was in the making, Jeffrey, riding under Team Coco

made the decisive move.