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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 27, 2013
Good Friday, the holiest day for Christians
The feet of one of 12 persons being washed by a priest, a custom by Catholics on Holy Thursday Today is Good Friday, the holiest day for Christians. The period of Lent, which is being celebrated by many Christians, reaches a very important stage today with Christians commemorating the death of their Lord Jesus Christ. Today, churches will be packed as Christians attend special Good Friday
A nun kisses a crucifix during a Good Friday service in New Amsterdam services, some of them are three hours long, the number of hours Jesus hung on the cross. Catholics will gather from 15:00 hrs in their churches and also have special Good Friday worship, the Commemoration of the Lord’s Passion. The service will take the form of being consisted of three parts: the
reading of the Passion story; the veneration of the cross and Holy Communion. Several important celebrations are marked in Holy Week, including Holy Thursday, where Christians re- enact the Last Supper and where Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. Good Friday, in which Christians
commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus and the expectant Holy Saturday evening vigil whereby they await to celebrate the resurrection. Though not a religious element of Holy Week, there will also be the sale of the popular cross buns, which is a delicious treat for many. Monsignor Terrence Montrose, Vicar General of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Georgetown stated that during this entire week, Christians will be recollecting on the last days of a “very humble man”, Jesus. “He was struck down and he came in all humility to do the will of the Father. The week reminds us how to behave with each other…of service, humble service to other people.” Yesterday he stated, “twelve people will come here (to the church)…and they will have their feet washed…the priest will undress [take off his vestments] and he will kneel in front of those people and wash their feet”. Msgr Montrose added
that today (Good Friday), the faithful will return and turn their attention to the Biblical accounts of the crucifixion of Jesus “no singing, no bells, nothing else—we come and we listen to the story…” “The church asks of us during this week to pay special attention to the readings and everything we do here…as do all of the other churches around to the world… to see, to hear, to speak…as we try to understand the great mystery of God’s love.” The priest noted it is only when we have given ourselves over to God, then we can make our lives in such a way that others may come to see and know and follow God. He affirmed that often we stay at a distance and do not get involved in other people’s problems and lives… “We stay at a great distance—a safe place.” Today, he stated, many women are crying for their children, especially their sons. ”Jesus reminds us that
if we want to follow the Father and Him, we must follow him even to the cross…there is no safe distance for us”. Our women, he stated, will continue to cry. “Our society is paining; our society is looking for a way out; Jesus reminds us that we must serve each other…don’t simply stay at distance and look on…we must become involved.” Tomorrow, many Christians will once again gather in their churches late in the evening and participate in midnight Masses, to usher in the most joyous festival for them, Easter Sunday. Bells will ring loudly at midnight signaling the end of the sad period of Lent, to one of joy. Churches will be decorated once more with fresh flowers and other decorations which were usually taken down during Lent. Guyanese will take to the streets, skies and beaches on Easter Monday to fly their kites and spend time with their families and friends.
Tuesday March 27, 2013
Kaieteur News
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Govt. braces for tough fight to pass budget The government is bracing itself for a tough fight in the National Assembly to get its $208.8 billion budget passed. With both opposition Parliamentary parties downplaying the budget, they are sure to put the government to task when the related debates begin next week. The tough fight is expected when the government will have to justify its spending, line by line, or face an oppositioncontrolled Parliament that will deny spending where it sees fit. Even before the debates begin, Dr Roger Luncheon, the government’s chief spokesperson went on the
- Luncheon goes on the offensive offensive, castigating the opposition. “The debate, Cabinet felt, would expose those who pander to superficiality, seek confrontation and by their very act and their behaviour betray their lack of interest and resolve in achieving the best for Guyanese,” Luncheon said. At the same time, he said that the government would take a “constructive” approach during the budget debates. “It is Cabinet’s intention to pursue the budget, its
Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon debate, and its final endorsement in the most constructive of ways,
keeping focused its attention on development and the welfare of the Guyanese people,” Luncheon stated. He said the budget demonstrated that the PPP government had rejected any descent into superficiality and recklessness that characterized the opposition’s activities in the National Assembly. “The 2013 Budget was a rejection of the game plan of the opposition and it took the high ground in focusing on the development of Guyana; it took the high ground in appealing to Guyanese instincts to seek progress and to concentrate on developing our country,” Luncheon declared. He said that
US$200M Skeldon Sugar Factory seen as a letdown
The beleaguered Skeldon factory “hasn’t realised its promise within the expected time” The US$200M Skeldon Sugar Factory built as part of Government’s plan to reverse the sorrowful state of the country’s sugar industry is a letdown, says Dr. Roger Luncheon, Head of the Presidential Secretariat. Financing for the factory is derived from a mixture of state funds, grants from the European Union (EU) and loans from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and World Bank. Dr. Luncheon is doubtful whether Guyana has begun repaying the loans to the International Financial Institutions. Nonetheless, even if the factory never begins producing sugar to its optimum, as is currently the case, Guyana still has to
repay the loan. Noting that it sometimes takes about 20 years to commence repayments on these loans, Luncheon said he is hopeful that the factory would have, at that time, achieved its objectives. The Cabinet Secretary was unable to reveal at his weekly press conference how much Guyana would have to repay because of the “intricate financing involving public funds and a variety of donor agencies that have different terms”. He explained that money from the EU was in the form of a grant and there is no loan or repayment associated with that assistance. However, financing from the CDB and World Bank were loans, and in time, Guyana has to repay.
“Skeldon was and remains an incisive developmental initiative in agricultural and sugar in Guyana…We join with those who have expressed their concerns that it hasn’t realised its promise within the expected time,” he said. However, the Skeldon Sugar Factory is only a part of the challenges that the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) experiences. While some have called for Government to privatise the industry, others believe with proper management and necessary resources it has a chance of survival. Only recently, former Member of Parliament for the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Anthony Vieira blamed Government for the decline of the sugar
industry. Commenting on the industry being starved of funds, he said, “Beginning in 2006 the EU had started paying the development fund to Guyana which was our compensation for the loss of the preferential price for sugar in the EU markets”. The money was never released to GuySuCo, he said. However, Dr. Luncheon said that the money was for budgetary support and not directed for a specific project. He explained that a significant transition has been taking place to development aid by the donor community. There is a shifting from project financing to budget support which allows funds into the country’s revenue and is used for developmental priorities.
Cabinet contended that the budget was about the future and it was designed to promote the ambitions and the achievements of Guyanese “as we evolve into a middle class society.” According to Luncheon, the budget could best be seen in light of what is happening with the economies of in the Caribbean “to allow us to have a better and a more informed perspective about Guyana.” “The debate would provide Guyanese citizens, the public and the Diaspora with ample opportunity to discern who really… which political forces are out there with a focus on the development of the nation and the care, the welfare, of its citizens,” Luncheon stated. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh said Budget 2013 reflects the continued strong economic growth of Guyana, and the projections for further growth this year would allow Guyana to achieve its eighth consecutive year of upward economic growth. During a press conference on Monday night, Dr. Singh explained that the policies and programmes presented are aimed towards the wellbeing of the Guyanese people, with a strong focus on young people through education, and the improvement of that sector along with the development of sports. Minister Singh stated that the National Budget is also targeted towards improving the circumstances of senior citizens and young professionals. Tax relief was very prevalent in the Budget, he pointed out, along with financial measures to enhance the livelihood of low income earners and farmers. The Minister also emphasised the focus on ICT development, along with solid support for other sectors, with significant focus on electricity and tax relief for individuals and small businesses. Fielding questions from the press,
Minister Singh acknowledged that some of the recommendations and proposals put forward by civil society organisations, the private sector and the opposition political parties, were incorporated in the Budget. He observed that regarding the initiatives proposed by APNU, many of the suggestions and recommendations made were based on broad objectives, and Government already had those issues under implementation. “I am hopeful that the opposition will find in this budget clear indications that many of the objectives that they espoused are, in fact, objectives that this government has long been embracing and are objectives that are well served by some of the programmes in the budget,” he emphasised. Minister Singh also clarified the mortgage relief provisions made; explaining that the interest paid on a mortgage loan will now be added to a person’s income threshold and will no longer be subject to income-tax. The fine-tuning of this relief is still to be worked out. Dr. Singh maintained that there were many things in the budget that all Guyanese can be proud of and will appreciate, because they somehow or the other, positively impact the lives of the ordinary man. On the opposition’s criticisms of the budget, Dr. Singh expressed disappointment that they would seek to play down the importance of increased budgetary allocations. He said the administration was doing what was necessary to create change in the society through prudent economic management and the continued diversification of the country’s economy. The Finance Minister reiterated that the administration has made the right interventions in critical areas of interest that could continue to impact the health, safety and economic security of Guyanese.
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Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
BRICS Bank
For developing countries such as Guyana, one of the constraints to an accelerated but sustainable growth trajectory has been the question of financing its infrastructural development programme. While many of these countries are well endowed with natural resources, because they were under colonial rule they were considered as producers of primary products that were to be shipped to the ‘mother country’ for further processing and addition of value. Infrastructural development, which would have facilitated further domestic economic integration, was confined to export facilitation. The World Bank, established in the waning days of WWII as independence for the various colonial empires dawned, was supposed to provide the necessary financing. But controlled by the victorious western powers and working in tandem with its sister institution, the IMF, many developing countries concluded after decades of stagnation, bankruptcies and ‘structural readjustment programmes’, that these institutions were simply working to perpetuate ‘neo-colonial’ relationships. But there was no alternative: until now, that is. With the phenomenal development of China as the ‘factory of the world”, but more significantly of the USA, that country has piled up more than US$3 trillion in foreign reserves which it is looking to deliver higher returns than from US T-Bills. In the last decade, China has embarked on the deployment of its reserves to secure its strategic economic and political interests. This has been especially noticeable in Africa where the Chinese behemoth has moved to secure minerals and oil to keep its factories running while doling out massive low cost loans (and grants) to build infrastructure. The tiny islands of the Caribbean have not been overlooked: while they may not have vast mineral resources, they still have one vote each at the UN General Assembly. Witness the multi-billion-dollar Chinese resort in the Bahamas and the cricket stadium in Dominica. Very recently there has been a spate of loans from China for projects ranging from the expansion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport to e-governance communications infrastructure. Not surprisingly there have been concerns raised in Africa and elsewhere (including Guyana) about the leverage the Chinese have been gaining because of its loans which could develop into the same neo-colonial relationship fostered by the World Bank/IMF. It is akin, it is claimed, to replacing one master with another. Defenders of the new relationship, however, point out that unlike the Bretton Woods ‘sisters’, China has not imposed conditionalities on its loans that plunged so many countries into crises during the past half-century. But this lack of conditionality itself poses a danger, since it encourages moral hazard and rent seeking in the local political directorates which are, in effect, ‘bought over’. The announcement, therefore of the leaders of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) at their recent meeting in Durban - that they have placed another brick in the edifice of the BRICS Development Bank - is a welcome one. Floated at their meeting last year, the leaders confirmed that the proposed Bank would focus on infrastructure development because long-term financing and foreign direct investment, especially investment in capital stock, is sorely lacking. The plan is to initially capitalise the bank with US$50 billion of equity, but agreement on the individual funding contributions was not reached by the time the summit concluded. The Chinese have proposed that each member contribute $10 billion, with China picking up any shortfall. The leaders are expected to pick up the issue on the sidelines of the G20 meeting slated for September this year. The key concern from a Guyanese (and developing country perspective) is that no one country should dominate the BRICS Development Bank, because that would defeat the whole purpose immanent in the move away from the World Bank/IMF or direct loans from China. If each country has equal shares, then hopefully, the loans could then be rationalised from a consensual position that would have a multiplicity of views. At this point, the problem is that South Africa would not be able to meet the necessary commitment. We hope this issue is resolved by September.
Friday March 29, 2013
Letters... Where your views make the news
The difficulties with providing proof of identity DEAR EDITOR, My experience at GBTI is proof that Guyana is on the brink of being a failed state A few days ago I attempted to apply for a re-loadable VISA card from the Regent Street branch of GBTI. I was required to provide proof of address and two forms of identification. I had three pieces of ID (drivers’s licenses, passport and National ID); I provided an extract from an EMS envelope (with both sender’s and receiver’s address), it was rejected as a proof of address. The bank believed it was not authentic because it was handwritten; is there any other way in which EMS is prepared? Even though I believed that was ludicrous, I did not raise a voice of objection. However I was in for the shocker of my life when I was told that government issued documents were not acceptable proofs of address which included a driver’s licenses, TIN certificate, overseas shipping Invoices attached to customs clearance certificates, a business registration and motor vehicle registration certificate. The argument of the bank is that upon obtaining those documents there is no address verification at the issuing agency as such they are not reliable. It is also extremely bizarre that the bank was not prepared to accept a sworn affidavit from a
Commissioner of Oaths that judges and magistrates accept in depositions. If the bank believes that these agencies should be a little more stringent or diligent in their information collection procedures then they should take that up with the agency and law makers, not take it out on poor customers. We are on the precipice of failed a state when a private business entity subordinate to the state decides that government-issued and approved documents are invalid and do not meet their standards. Perhaps the board, directors, managers and staff of the bank have dreams of grandeur of running a parallel government. All banks require proof of address to fulfill a legal statute that is aimed at eliminating money laundering, the prevention of international tax evasion (tax havens) and secret offshore banking transactions and provide traceability for financing of international terrorist operations etc.: so that customers should not be faceless gypsies. In the same breath the international limit on such transactions is US$10,000. A transaction of $100,000 (US$500) transaction (such as the one I was attempting to do) hardly qualifies to meet clothes laundering expenses much less for creation of secret offshore banking, international tax evasion, terrorism financing and
money laundering. Judging from our last census and other available stats we have an adult population of over 200,000 persons who are not principal property holders or head of households and are not likely to have utility bills made out in their names. Then there is the huge squatter phenomenon where people just set up dwellings on dams or a piece of unsurveyed public land with no form of utility and no real postal address. There is also the growing housekeeper phenomenon where home owners migrate leaving a friend or relative (without official documentation) to tend their homes. The dying postal mail and the growth of BBM, Facebook, e-mail, e-greetings cards, Skype and a whole host of instant communication methods also make it difficult for one to have paper proof of an address outside of government issued documents. It is not proper (and probably illegal) for a nonstate agency to refuse to accept official documents issued by the state. State documents are official in every respect for the duration of their validity period, we cannot have any Tom, Dick and Harry invalidating state documents and procedures at their own whim even if the process utilized by the state is not entirely fool proof.
If the bank accepts a valid state issued document with an address on it, it would have satisfied the bank’s obligation under the law. Furthermore everyone in Guyana who has a National Identification (NID) Card has already fulfilled the legal requirements for a trace of location. GECOM’s house to house registration and the Claims and Objections was designed to sift village imposters, as such Guyanese living in Guyana in possession of an ID card has fulfilled the phantom proof test. The essential intent of the law is to prevent anonymous banking and I can’t see how one could be a phantom when (s)he is listed on a public list (at the risk of jail time for giving wrong information) in a particular village which is periodically scrutinized by villagers and political organizations to weed out false addressees. Because the GBTI was being so unreasonably inflexible, I ended up doing business with the only other bank that offers this service. I was reluctant to do business with the other bank because of poor courtesy issues I had encountered at that bank in the recent past. I urge GBTI and other private entities (including a popular telephone company) to desist from this illegal, illogical and repressive business practice. Lenno Craig
Friday March 29, 2013
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
Kwayana’s partition was the alternative Three lawyers but no DEAR EDITOR, I refer to a letter by Mayor Hamilton Green in the March 28, 2013 edition of Stabroek News (What must be debated is the need for Justice, Equity and Decency to be allpervasive). In the letter, the mayor repeats a familiar narrative that distorts our political history. Mayor Green wrote the following:”After the PPP victory in 1957, this question first surfaced and for political reasons, the PPP Administration began discriminating in the Administration of the colony. This led to Sydney King (Eusi Kwayana) from within the PNC raising a demand for partition.” The truth, which I am sure is known to Mayor Green, is that Kwayana’s principal “demand” was not partition. His principal “demand was for “Joint Premiership” between Mr. Burnham and Dr. Jagan with Partition as a Last Resort. Let me quote directly from the “Villager”, which contained Kwayana’s proposals on behalf of the African Society for racial Equality (ASRE): “Here is our special solution:Joint and equal Prime
Ministership according to LAW, between the leaders of the Indian and the African people. An independent Watch Committee established by Law, made up of people of all races and especially the minorities to supervise the spending of Government funds and the benefits derived by various races. The same committee will keep a watch over jobs and employment at all levels to see that justice is done to all races. A socialist system without foreign links and a state neutral BY LAW, of Russia and the U.S.A.By socialism must be understood a system of cooperatives in all fields, existing private enterprise and some state enterprises; production for needs, respect for all religions and for the religious tradition of our peoples. OR – If the power drunk Jagan, wanting to be a top dog as usual, should agree to this plan, all well and good. If he rejects it we should refuse to be ruled by him and call for a division of the country, before independence into three Zones – an African zone, an Indian Zone and a free zone
in which those who wish to live with other races may do so. The cities will be free.” I don’t wish to quarrel with the Mayor, a fellow fighter against the current political depravity and with whom I have cordial relations. I don’t know his reason for omitting the essence of Kwayana’s “demand” and highlighting the alternative to the “demand.” Maybe he wanted to stress his point. But in doing so, he painted a distorted picture that is obviously unfair to Kwayana. It is even more unfair to our young people to give them part of the story on such sensitive and important matters. As a student of history, the mayor must know that we ought to strive as much as possible for historical accuracy.
There is an irony to this story. Both Jagan and Burnham rejected Joint Premiership, a rejection that played not a small role in pushing the country to Civil War which left a portioned country in its wake. By the time Jagan made his own proposal for Joint Leadership, it was too late. Both Jagan’s PPP and Burnham’s PNC were to benefit politically from that partition. And it was Kwayana’s WPA that would struggle to unpartition the country. Another aspect of the irony is that both Jagan and Burnham and their respective parties would later embrace, even if only when in opposition, Kwayana’s “Jointness” as the solution to our seemingly chronic ethno-political illness. David Hinds
legal understanding
DEAR EDITOR, I am not a lawyer but I do know a thing or two about the law. I know that a court ruling, unless and until it is set aside, is binding and enforceable. That the court ruling is preliminary or provisional is irrelevant to its force and binding effect. Indeed almost every injunction granted is a preliminary or provisional ruling. Not even a layman would argue that an injunction so granted has no binding effect and force because it is preliminary or provisional!
The argument of the Alliance For Change [AFC] that the Chief Justice’s ruling in the Budget Cut Case filed by the Attorney-General is not binding on the National Assembly because it is preliminary or provisional is simply outrageous. That this party has three lawyers in its executive simply magnify this outrage. I am sure that those who think that the President was harsh when he recently described one of them as a beast of burden must be reconsidering their position. SUNDAR NAUTH
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Kaieteur News
Friday March 29, 2013
Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
Nepotism is at its highest level in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, Until now President Ramotar has been perceived as a person who ought to have been willing to work with the majority opposition to build Guyana and improve the lives of the people. At least that was what we gathered from his speech to open the 10th Parliament in 2012. However, his revelation on “RADIO LICENCE GATE” which he supported Jagdeo has completely shattered his image as someone who would work with the majority
opposition to deal with the high crime rate and with more than ten years of runaway corruption. Rather, from all appearances, he comes across as someone who is prepared to sacrifice the rights of Guyanese and is prepared to cover up the corrupt practices to protect the incestuous business interest that infects the PPP. These are not the action of a visionary; these are the actions of a cockalorum. Mr. Ramotar’s failure to follow
through on his own statement exposes his lack of leadership, hence his ability to govern the nation. President Ramotar is being viewed as a very weak President who waits for the orders from his immediate predecessor before making any major decisions. We thought that President Ramotar would have brought hope to the Guyanese nation early in his term when he made sweeping statements on the GPL generator and the NCN/ GT&T corruption scandal.
But again zero action from his office has backed up his statements? Was it pure empty political rhetoric? We are being told that all his pertinent actions on corruption since those statements, have been overruled by his predecessor, which is a total abandonment of his duty to the people on resolving these clandestine corrupt deals. His promise during the election campaign to end corruption, reduce crime,
lower VAT, improve the health and educational sectors and improve the lives of the masses has fallen on the wayside. As we now know, PPP cabal is more interested in themselves than in the working class or in the development of Guyana. This is evident in the near collapse of the sugar industry, the impending bankruptcy of NIS, the total collapse of CLICO, little or no efforts to reduce corruption, the regime’s refusal to lower the high toll on the Berbice Bridge, their contempt for the rule of law and their disrespect for the people. There are many acts of alleged corruption leveled against the Jagdeo regime starting with the clandestine awarding of multiple radio licence to close associates, to the Marriott deal for which the paying public has not seen the feasibility study, and now we have an airport contract for US$150 million with its high cost loan issued under questionable circumstances that is only designed to plunder the wealth of future generations. The end results of all these questionable deals is that many in the Jagdeo/ Ramotar cabal are now owners of mega-resorts on the Essequibo River and some of the largest Taj Mahals and business enterprises in Guyana all paid for from dark money. Many consider that the Pradoville Crew runs Guyana like a family business and have used the state resources as their own. In fact, the Jagdeo/ Ramotar cabal acts as though Guyana belongs to those members. Mismanagement, poor planning, gross incompetence and above all, corruption by the cabal have cost the Guyanese taxpayers an average of $ 40billion per year. This is what it would cost to give an across the
board increase of 10 per cent to the workers or to build 500 low cost houses at a cost of $8 million each. This is especially ironic when 40% of the Guyanese population live below the poverty line and 45% of the youths are unemployed! The members of the PPP cabal are accused daily in the independent news media as being the main perpetrators and beneficiaries of many corruption scandals from the Skeldon Sugar Factory to the Marriott Hotel. Today all this corruption has now manifested itself into an establishment where Jagdeo is accused of “back seat driving” of Ramotar on all the deals that profit the business cabal that surrounded the PPP regime since 2001. That period has seen the highest form of nepotism ever in the history of Guyana and by default that trend continues today. The children and best friends of the President of Guyana have benefited as much as we observe today. Just ask Nadira Jagan! When will it end? When will the Guyanese people who continue to toil in the sun in the sugar belt, in the rice fields and in the bauxite and gold mines really benefit from fair returns for their sweat? This 2013 National Budget must be rationalized to ensure that the process of change continues. No Public Procurement Commission; no funds for the contract workers at the Office of the President. No move on Rohee; no capital budget for the Ministry of Home Affairs? No action by Ramotar to revoke the licenses granted to Jagdeo’s friends and relatives, no money for NCN and the Ministry of Information. What do you think? Dr Asquith Rose and Harish S. Singh
BEST VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY? DEAR EDITOR, I have a Post Paid Cellular Telephone Account with GT&T. This account is paid up to the next billing period, April 14, 2013. As of Saturday March 23, 2013, I started receiving the following message when attempting to make calls on my cellular phone: “Your account does not have a sufficient balance for calls to the dialed number. Please recharge your account first”. Very surprising, since this is a message one would normally get on a Pre Paid phone when credit expires.
Further, I observed that I was not getting Internet Service on my phone, and that I was unable to send text messages. In total, I could only receive calls and text messages, nothing else. When I visited a GT&T office to enquire of this state of affairs, I was told that there was nothing wrong with my account, but they were experiencing some problems, and that there was nothing they could do. Sorry. Is that the best value for my money? Or should I switch to the “Bigger, Better Network”? Terrence Stuart
Friday March 29, 2013
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
Corruption, Great disappointment inefficiency at Bartica DEAR EDITOR, Barticians are being shortchanged. They have the continued employment of an unqualified and oppressive steward at the Bartica Hospital. The situation continues with the installation of an illegal IMC comprising a select clique of opportunistic PPP cronies. The legitimate elected officers of the NDC were unceremoniously forced from office amid allegations of fraud and corruption which are still to be proven in a court of law. Corruption is rife and widespread, a social epidemic that has affected the lives of every Guyanese both directly and indirectly. A recent visit to Bartica was very revealing. It is a fact that Bartica and Barticians are frustrated and plagued by the never ending garbage pile up in the community. There were supposed to have some relief of this health hazard through the signing of an agreement between Regional
Democratic Council and Cevons Waste Management. This agreement includes the managing, transportation and disposal of solid waste. This agreement was signed on December 5, 2012 and would be for fifteen years with the commencement date being January 2, 2013. To date Cevons has not been able to commence work due to the shoddy work done by the contractor. The contractor was paid to construct a roadway 1000 ft by 50 ft and a build a site with a certain amount of sand for the dumping of the waste. The government now saw it fit to inject $1.7M to have the road and site erected. This contract was not tendered but was given to a selected crony from the clique of PPP cronies. For years the legitimate elected councillors yawned for such financial assistance from central government but never received same. The substandard work by this contractor has caused the delay and further suffering for residents. The
REO must be held responsible and answer the following questions,(1) What is the cost for the contract? (2) Who is this contractor that has pocketed tax payers’ monies for substandard work? (3) Why was the works committee not involved in the process?(4) Has the contractor been paid in full? It is this said REO who recently appeared before the Public Accounts Committee and could not account for the retrieval of monies paid to NIS and GRA. The IMC who claim that they are going to correct the wrongs done by the NDC have not done anything noteworthy to date. There are some urgent concerns to be addressed— those errant business persons who use the council reserves to the detriment of residents. There are two unscrupulous and selfish individuals— a lumber yard dealer and an iron pile up on the roadway making traffic difficult for both pedestrians and motorists. Umar Saied
DEAR EDITOR, As usual, I planned inviting a number of my work colleagues to make a trip to the Caribbean for the Easter holidays. Being Guyanese, I thought it would be best this time around to encourage my buddies from other parts of the world to come and visit my homeland. In the process of planning, another friend told me that there was a website indicating that packages were being offered for persons to rediscover home/ Guyana. I visited the site www.rediscoverguyana.com and was elated with the information about possible tours and other interesting activities. This was exactly the type of stuff we were looking for. To my disgust and surprise, after calling the numbers of the Ministry of Tourism and being placed on hold for lengthy periods, I finally gave up. I subsequently learnt that this was a project that was being promoted in the US and around the world, but was never completed. Unlike many of our detractors, I always found favour in helping to promote my country. This was the reason I was so elated when I saw the website and all that information.
I’m sure it had to cost thousands of dollars to put that site together. I’m also sure that quite a lot was put into the planning by the Guyana Tourism Authority. There were many of us who were planning to take advantage of the trips to the various parts of the country. I can’t help expressing my utter surprise at the loss of such an opportunity, especially since so many Guyanese and other nationalities will be visiting for Easter, and would have loved to take advantage of such a planned program. I hope the authorities will get behind those responsible for this
foul-up, and explain to the many resort operators and disappointed persons, why there was such a failure, when we could have made a mark by expanding our visitor opportunities to so many different parts of Guyana. I never went to the Essequibo or the Corentyne. This was such a golden opportunity for me, my family and friends, as the information noted that there would have been effective security at all time, which was my greatest concern. I hope we can make up on this major blunder. Kenrick Williams Albany, New York
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Tuesday March 27, 2013
Tuesday March 27, 2013
Kaieteur News
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SQUATTERS SHOULD NOT BE COMPENSATED The government should not be assisting the persons from Tiger Bay any more than they assist other fire victims. There should be no preferential treatment. Whatever assistance is provided to persons who lose their homes outside of the city should be provided to those who have lost their homes in Georgetown. It is not yet clear how many of those whose homes were destroyed in the recent fire in Tiger Bay were squatters on private property. If, however, amongst those who suffered losses in the recent fires there were persons who were squatting on private property, then those persons should not be granted any government relief. Those who had permission to be living where they were living or owned the properties that were destroyed may be considered for assistance, but this assistance should be no more than what is provided to other victims of fires elsewhere. This is not an unsympathetic position. Many years ago, Janet Jagan was lured into helping some residents of Tiger Bay to relocate. They were given special treatment. Not only were they provided with government land, but they were also given money and materials to help them construct new homes on government-allotted lands. Before any new
assistance is given to Tiger Bay, the government should undertake an audit to determine just how many of those who were given lands have actually moved into their new residences and how many of them have remained in Tiger Bay, which is now a shanty town right in the middle of the capital city. Most of the lands that are occupied by shacks in Tiger Bay are privately-owned properties. Many of these lands once housed structures that were either destroyed by fire or deemed unfit for occupation. But no sooner were these lands cleared of their original structures, shacks were erected on them. Some of these shacks have electricity and running water, which calls into question the level of surveillance being exercised by the major utility companies. Tiger Bay needs to be regularized. But it needs to be regularized by ensuring that the lawful owners can take possession of their properties, not by offering assistance to allow possible squatting on these private lands. Many of the squatters would have come from other places and taken up residence in Tiger Bay because it is centrally located. While they are setting up their shacks, the real owners are having headaches removing them just like a certain location in Kingston which a few years
Dem boys seh...
Donald propping up Jagdeo Three holiday in four days and people skin dem teeth. Dem was happy. Dem didn’t have to go to wuk because dem claim that no matter how hard dem wuk de pay still small. Ash Knee telling dem that dem better be thankful fuh small mercies. Before he present de budget he tell de hard times paper that de budget got something fuh everybody. Right away people believe that de budget had something bout pay increase. Instead, it had something fuh dem old people and fuh all dem rich people who was paying property tax. When he release de budget and dem workers see that dem ain’t get nutten dem decide that de less wuk dem do de better fuh dem. That is why dem enjoying de holiday. But Ash Knee send a message that dem got nearly half de country who ain’t got wuk and if dem who got wuk play de fool he would change place wid dem who glad fuh get a wuk. Jagdeo ain’t got wuk, but he travelling more than some people who wukking. At one time people believe that he had a plane because since you miss he flying. De man is now a roving ambassador and he getting pay, but Donald ain’t telling people how much. That is because Jagdeo fix he own pay. And Donald suh smart that he keeping Jagdeo in de picture. He recommend that Jagdeo get de ACP big wuk. He send de man to Brussels after he lobby fuh de man fuh get de big wuk. He get de Chinee fuh put pressure pun Africa and all of dem vote. De man getting big money to add to wha he already got. And dem boys notice how quiet Barbie get. Since de government build it own bond he ain’t getting wha he use to. In fact, a man who dem never use to give contracts getting some now. But Barbie know that he gun now get sugar contract. Talk half and watch Jagdeo grow.
ago suffered a fire. Instead of using that opportunity to clear the premises of the squatters, a member of the Georgetown City Council actually made a statement which could only have had the effect of encouraging them to stay. There is an urgent need for some support to be given to individuals who own private property but are unable to have possession of the properties because of the presence of squatters. When one occupant leaves, another one takes over. It is a nightmare for the owners. The government has to develop policies and laws to support private owners and to outlaw squatting and make it a criminal offence. Otherwise
Guyana’s development will be stymied. When you have a property in Guyana you are fearful of leaving it unoccupied, because of squatters who move in, destroy it, and then give you hell in regaining possession. You are also afraid of renting it out because sometimes tenants refuse to pay their rent and it takes an eternity for the legal process to be completed. While you are pursuing these legal options, your building is falling to pieces. Many a decent property has been reduced to stumps because of it either being left unattended or being rented to unscrupulous individuals. This is why it is important
for the government to only assist legitimate tenants and homeowners who were affected by the recent fires, and only to the extent of the help normally given to fire victims. It is important also for the government - which spent millions helping persons in Tiger Bay to remove from that location - to do an audit to decide how successful was that exercise. Judging from the numerous shacks on private properties in the area, it is clear that the policy has not been effective in bringing much needed order. Living conditions are poor; persons are crammed together in small shacks and often have to share certain services; electricity and water theft in
the area is a problem and of course, the proximity of this shanty town to the commercial district is bound to affect legitimate businesses. The area is ripe for a major outbreak of an epidemic. If help has to be given, it should be done in a manner that benefits only those who are living in Tiger Bay legitimately. Squatters should receive no compensation.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 27, 2013
Freddie Kissoon Column
Ramkarran must now pursue a nationalist dream When Mr. Jagdeo’s autocratic power in the PPP led to the selection of Donald Ramotar as the PPP’s presidential candidate in the 2011 general elections, my reaction was to call on Ramkarran to spend the rest of his life on a journey to democratize the PPP. It didn’t turn out that way. Mr. Ramkarran subsequently left the PPP. For the political observer, it was the final act of self-destruction of the PPP. Last Sunday, Mr. Ramkarran published an essay that could be interpreted as the final rites. It was a poignant description of the death of the party that Dr. Cheddi Jagan and others
founded more than five decades ago. What Ramkarran wrote about the post-Jagan party last Sunday is what most analysts knew about the post-1999 PPP, even though Mrs. Jagan was still alive. For all intents and purposes the PPP as Guyana and the world knew it under Cheddi Jagan is dead. Beneficiaries of the Jagdeoite PPP will continue to write and speak as if that kind of PPP is still alive. Decent Guyanese know it is not. For this columnist, who is also a political activist, I have long concluded that the rule of the PPP has exceeded the Burnham era in immorality, morbidity and nationalist
betrayal. Even if Mr. Ramkarran does not accept that the PPP’s governance is more terrible than Burnham’s, he is still left with the question as to what happens with the rest of his political life. Mr. Ramkarran cannot be that self-deceiving to think he still has a career with the PPP. It is over and for three reasons. One is that given the type of semi-fascist frame of mind the PPP has been in since Mr. Jagdeo took over, reconciliation will not be pursued by the present PPP cabal. Secondly, the ambitious young monsters in the PPP will go to extreme lengths to preserve their dream that once
there are general elections, the PPP candidate will become the President. We humans cannot predict the future and the future is inevitably pregnant with amazing surprises, but one surprise that will not happen is a Ramkarran presidential candidacy for the PPP in the next election. The PPP days of Moses Nagamootoo and Ralph Ramkarran are over. Moses accepted it, Ralph should. Thirdly, let us say that the unbelievable possibility opens up and Ramkarran is accepted back into the PPP. At the next election he would be 69 years of age. It is unthinkable that either the
PNC or AFC would front him as their candidate. Even if he is a presidential candidate in 2016, at that age it is doubtful that Guyana will find that a pleasing prospect. All of this means that the political epoch of Ralph Ramkarran is nearing its end. The analyst has to ask – what then for Ramkarran? He can do one of two things. He can write as he is currently doing and then one day he will fade as age and energy leave. Or at his age now, before energy goes, he can attempt to save his country that he no doubt gave a greater part of his life to. Mr. Ramkarran is sixty-six years old, is semi-wealthy, lives in a upper middle class home of his own, has a lucrative law practice that his two sons will inherit. What more in life at his age does Mr. Ramkarran want? It would be his patriotic duty to dedicate his life to the future of Guyana. This will require an active political role. One requirement of that role is to pursue constitutional change so this country would never ever see a Burnham or a Jagdeo again, never see again one-party domination, as we saw under the PNC and now the PPP, never ever again see the ghost of political and ethnic domination roaming
Frederick Kissoon and devouring this land. Mr. Ramkarran cannot be that naïve to think his advocacy of democratization in the PPP can save the PPP. Although he is a lawyer and not a sociologist, Mr. Ramkarran is sufficiently well read to know that the PPP has crossed all the lines that separate logical thinking and irrational behaviour. The PPP is in dictatorship mode. Dictatorship has Freudian compulsions where motive and action become disjoined. Dictatorship cannot be saved. Dictatorship refuses to save itself. All the close associates, all the intimates, all the comrades that Mr. Ramkarran grew up with in the PPP that have remained in the PPP have crossed those lines. Mr. Ramkarran points to one exception, Mr. Navin Chandarpal. But he is part of the PPP leadership in name only. History waits for Ralph Ramkarran.
Four allegedly found with ganja remanded Four men who were nabbed by police on three separate occasions after they were found in possession of various quantities of marijuana were all remanded to jail by Magistrate Adela Nagamootoo, yesterday, when they appeared before her at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty to the charges of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. One charge stated that on Tuesday last (March 26) at around 10:00 hrs, a police mobile patrol in the Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam area spotted Gibran Ally, 29, of the same area ,who was walking on a dam with a bag in his hand. Upon seeing the police, the man started to run. After a lively chase he was captured and the contents of the bag checked, and what appeared to be leaves, seeds and stems of the marijuana plant were found inside. He was arrested and taken to the station where the contents were weighed and tested and found to be 1kg 150grams of the marijuana plant. He was subsequently charged. Meanwhile, on Wednesday (Phagwah Day) at 07:00 hrs, the police
conducted a raid on a house at Victoria Street Cumberland, East Canje, and nabbed two men, Samuel Singh called ‘Andy’ 21 and Andrew David Harrichan, 20, who were inside the house, with 1 kg 240 grams of leaves, seeds and stems of the marijuana plant. The drugs were allegedly found in a five-gallon bucket in the house. The two men were arrested and taken to the station where they were charged. And yesterday morning, at around 06:30 hrs, the police were again on mobile patrol in the Cumberland, East Canje area when they noticed Clive Thomas, 57, of Springlands, Corriverton, Berbice, walking on the road. He was challenged, stopped and searched and what again appeared to be cannabis leaves, seeds and stems were found in a bag he was carrying. He was arrested and the contents turned out to be 1kg 600 grams of cannabis sativa. All the accused were remanded to jail. Ally will return to court on May 14 for the continuation of his matter while Singh, Harrichan and Thomas had their matters transferred to the Reliance Magistrate’s Court where they will appear on May 15.
Tuesday March 27, 2013
Kaieteur News
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Canadian firm awards design contracts Woman gets suspended sentence for next large-scale gold mine for wounding paramour
Guyana’s next large-scale gold mining operator has awarded contracts for the engineering and design drawings for its tailings storage facility, river dike, and water diversion dams, taking the project a step closer to reality. According to the Canadian-owned, Guyana Goldfields Inc. (GGI), it has awarded its detailed engineering contract for early works at the Aurora Gold Project, in the Mazaruni area, Region Seven to Tetra Tech Inc. Tetra is the leading author of the updated Aurora feasibility study. GGI has planned an early 2015 start of full scale operations with a US$205M investment over time. “Detailed engineering of the early works will be completed over the next two months and will include the construction drawings for the tailings storage facility, river
dike, and water diversion dams,” the company said yesterday. In addition, GGI has carried out direct discussions with a number of potential consultants and contractors that have designed or constructed mines of similar size, scope, geographical, and climatic conditions to Aurora. “The company is currently performing site visits in Guyana which are scheduled to conclude within the next two weeks. Thereafter, GGI will perform its own due diligence site visits of projects currently in operation from the qualifying candidates.” Contracts for the construction are expected to be awarded in the second quarter, GGI said. The company, which has been in Guyana since 1996, said in January that it will be looking to plunge up to US$205M in the startup, a reduction from over the
US$500M it originally wanted to invest. An earlier estimate for the project in northern Guyana had proposed a $525 million cost for a mine with a life of 22 years and total production of nearly 4.4 million ounces of gold. The new mine plan calls for production of 3.29 million ounces of gold over an initial 17-year mine life at an operating cash cost of US$527 an ounce. Average annual gold production over the life of mine is expected to be 194,000 ounces and 231,000 ounces a year over the first 10 years. Since the departure of Omai Gold Mines a few years ago, Guyana has been without a large scale mining operation. Last year, in the face of high gold prices, productions from the small and medium scale mining operations broke new records, reaching 438,000 ounces.
GDF Special Forces training will continue despite US spending cuts - Vice Admiral Kernan
Commodore Gary Best (L) receives a gift from Vice Admiral Joseph Kernan. Also in photo is GDF Colonel Mark Phillips Spending cuts at the United States Department of Defence will not affect the continued training between the Special Forces of the Guyana Defence Force and the United States military. This assurance was given by Vice Admiral Joseph Kernan of the United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) Military Department when he and his visiting party paid a courtesy call on Guyana Defence Force Chief of Staff Commodore Gary Best, at Base Camp Ayanganna, recently. It was during the meeting that Vice Admiral Kernan indicated that due to spending cuts currently in
force at the US Defence Department, US military assistance to its allies worldwide will be reduced. The top US military officer expressed his admiration for the collaborative efforts of Guyana and Brazil to address security issues, describing it as a most welcome development. Commodore Best stated that Guyana was continuing to develop and strengthen military ties with its neighbours and made reference to his recent visit to Suriname where he discussed with his Surinamese counterparts, several issues related to military cooperation.
The discussions also addressed the GDF’s acquisition of the Metal Shark Boats which are to be provided under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative. Commodore Best and Vice Admiral Kernan exchanged gifts at the conclusion of the visit. The Vice Admiral, who along with Executive Officer to the Military Deputy Commander, Lt Colonel Pedro Matos, USSOUTHCOM Political/Military Affairs Caribbean Advisor, Mr. Steve Klingel, was on a three-day visit to Guyana, was accompanied by USMLO Commander Lieutenant Ryan Brooks.
A Soesdyke woman is expected to be on her best behavior, having been placed on a six-month suspended sentence. The sentence was handed down yesterday at the Providence Magistrate’s Court by Magistrate Leslie Sobers. At the hearing, 43-yearold Everanie Ram of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, was charged with wounding. It was alleged that on Tuesday last, she wounded Ivor Abdool Ragnauth, the father of her children. The accused pleaded guilty. The court was told that Ragnauth visited Ram’s home on March 22 and decided to sleep over. Several days later,
on the morning of Tuesday, March 26, there was a misunderstanding between Ragnauth and his son which caused Ram to intervene. The woman claimed that Ragnauth lashed her with a cushion and in retaliation she armed herself with a glass bottle and struck him on the head. Having heard what transpired, the Magistrate informed the accused that she would be given a six-month suspended sentence. Ram was further cautioned to stay out of trouble. Also at the court yesterday, a miner was granted bail after being charged with unlawful and malicious wounding. Vibert Calder is accused of
wounding Vibert De Younge on August 30, 2012. It is alleged that on the day in question, Calder and another man attacked De Younge on the Kaneville main access road. Calder pleaded not guilty to the charge. The court was told that Calder suspected that the mother of his child was having an affair with De Younge and this may have sparked the attack. According to the prosecution’s case, Calder and another known suspect attacked De Younge, who was sitting in his car, and dealt him several stab wounds about his body. Calder is expected to make his next court appearance on April 16.
Health Ministry looking to reclaim leadership status in vector control fight – Dr. Rahman In excess of $300 million is expended each year by the Ministry of Health through its Vector Control Services Unit in the quest to address the impact of vector-borne diseases on a national scale. And in order to maintain the fight, Director of the Unit, Dr. Reyaud Rahman, said that measures will be made to ensure that an improved service is offered complete with an adequate and qualified staff. “We want to create a service where we are an authority in the country concerning vector-borne diseases and bring vector control back to the levels that it was in the 1960s and 1970s, basically.” He revealed that during that period, Guyana had in place a national malaria programme which saw it easily being ascribed as the leader in South America and the Caribbean in its vector control mission. Moreover, he noted that Guyana is looking to regain this title. “We should never have dropped back, we should have progressed and continued to reach heights rather than slow up some of
our activities. I guess those were things out of everyone’s hands and that sort of thing happens, but we will be progressing and we are very adamant not to accept defeat.” As such, the young and vibrant Director has crafted an ambitious plan, which according to him, is geared at bettering the fight against vector-borne diseases. He disclosed that the Health Ministry is currently on track to actually decrease malaria as well as other emerging vector-related threats. “We just need to scale up a bit more what we are doing and it is exactly that that we are in the process of doing and we are already making a meaningful impact.” Dr. Rahman has for more than two years been actively involved in the vector control unit, but only recently was placed in the leadership capacity. However he has not shifted the focus of the fight, as according to him, “these things were in the pipeline and from my short time here, and with all the interactions and everything that we have put in place, although they
are not all bearing fruits yet, I know there is potential...there is great potential, because of the feedback we have been getting from our partners” “From all the positive things that have been coming out of the meetings and the activities which we have undertaken they are coming off very well and it seems that we will have a successful year based on the fact that we intend to carry through what we are doing.” According to him, while an impact may not be realised immediately, there is likely to be some impact evident by a decrease, for instance, of malaria. Dr. Rahman disclosed that the Ministry of Health has identified, and the Vector Control Unit is aware too, that there is a dire need to scale up the activities, a state of affairs which is premised on the fact that “we know there is an increased number of miners going into the mining localities. Our intervention is to scale up and just do more work...that is, getting more staff, doing more activities and operations and getting more medications and treated bed nets out there.”
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 27, 2013
Tuesday March 27, 2013
Kaieteur News
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GuySuCo to sweeten sugar factories with $3.1B this year Despite questions over the viability of the sugar sector as labour shortages and weather, coupled with mechanical and agricultural problems continue to take the sweetness out of the operations, government has vowed to continue spending. This year, it has allocated $1B for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). The state-owned company is now set to spend $3.1B in a factory improvement programme with a focus to determine the right balance of mechanisation, field conversion, drainage and irrigation, transport infrastructure and plant breeding. “The factory improvement programme will aim at producing sugar to meet the growing market requirements for higher quality, both in bulk and direct consumption with increased efficiencies at all seven factories. A specific element of the plan will be to have the new packaging plant at Enmore operating at full capacity,” Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh said during his presentation of the 2013
Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh National Budget to the National Assembly on Monday. Singh made it clear that Government’s position on the sugar industry is “clear and unequivocal”. “The industry is still of sufficient systemic importance to the national economy and to the livelihoods of so many rural communities and has such deep forward and backward linkages with suppliers and distributors nationwide, that no effort must be spared to
GuySuCo is set to plug $3.1B this year into its factories, as part of the efforts to boost production. ensure its long term viability, competitiveness, and profitability.” Over the years, Government has injected a total of $39.5B to recapitalise the industry and to support its operations. Last year, Government provided a transfer of $4B as GuySuCo fell short of meeting its
Development of the G/town Port is crucial for the economy An efficient and modern port system, capable of effectively servicing world commerce is money in the bank. This view was expressed by President of the Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA) Mr. Grantley Stephenson, during a feature address at the Annual Dinner and Presentation of Awards of the Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG). He said, “The development of the Georgetown Port at this time is crucial for the Guyanese economy.” Stephenson said that investment in infrastructure and particularly marine ports -which allow efficient movement and docking of
- Shipping Assoc. President merchant ships -will yield rich dividends and bolster national economies. By the same token, countries which do not provide facilities for their producers to exploit world markets will achieve relatively little growth. He reiterated that national economic growth based on world trade cannot be sustained without an efficient port supported by a ground transportation system of roads or waterways. The CSA executive said that it was no secret that welldeveloped ports and harbours, along with efficient roads and waterways, will yield significant benefits.
Burnt nine-yr-old at Rehab Centre…
Child protection agency to meet with school officials Officials from the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) are expected to meet with staffers at the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre to follow-up on an investigation concerning the nine-year old girl who received several burns to her face last Friday while at the facility. According to the child’s mother, Sherlyn Hamilton, she returned to the school yesterday only to be told that the matter was being
investigated. The woman told this newspaper that she went to the CPA, and they “immediately picked up the matter”. Hamilton said that staffers from the school along with officials from the agency have scheduled a meeting for next Tuesday to have the matter sorted out. According to Hamilton, her daughter Delicia who suffers from Cerebral Palsy, sustained burns to the face, last Friday, while at the centre.
“The initiative to expand the Panama Canal and the consequent moves by nearly every port in this region to upgrade, modernise and expand facilities are worthy of note.” He added that from the point of view of the CSA, it was therefore heartening to see that the public and private sectors in Guyana are trying to come together to make the upgrading and modernization of Port Georgetown, the main port, happen in the shortest possible time. “The good people of Guyana deserve no less than total collaboration of all stakeholders in this noble quest for development.” He cautioned the SAG to ensure that the initiative to modernize the Georgetown Port should not be seen by the populace as merely a shipping project for the benefit of only those in the maritime sector … because it wasn’t. “It is important that all the people of Guyana understand that this development is not about the shipping sector; it is not about narrow self-interest. On the contrary, it is about the economic development of their country and an investment which will reap real benefits for them, their children and their children’s children. All will benefit.”
financial loans and other commitments. The sugar industry, at one time the country’s biggest foreign exchange earner, has fallen behind gold and rice. Scores of workers have drifted to the lucrative gold and construction sectors as conditions grew tough at GuySuCo. Last year, the industry’s production fell to an all-time low under this government to just over 218,000 tonnes of sugar. TARGETED According to Minister Singh, “GuySuCo has recognised the challenges of returning to its production potential and profitability - it has now to confront its managerial, industrial, technical, marketing and financial realities”. “Thus, an updated Strategic Plan 2013-2016 is currently being prepared. The plan will support the mechanisation and field conversion drive and focus particularly on critical areas.” While GuySuCo has been claiming over 17,000 employees countrywide, industry experts say that reality is far less and labour shortage will continue to bother sugar. The Finance Minister believes that “industry customs and practices” of the
past must now give way to modern, innovative and creative tools and techniques to deal with managing a complex organisation in the process of change. The manner in which labour problems were handled in the past will also have to change. “GuySuCo will have to reengineer its management and human relations functions accordingly. Promoting a harmonious industrial relations climate is considered an absolute priority and will require accommodation on all sides.” Singh admitted that GuySuCo continues to battle weather and labour with cane lands under the corporation capable of producing in excess of 400,000 tonnes of sugar. “Field interventions to address the weather and labour constraints can only be successful with the requisite agronomic inputs. Agricultural operations must capitalise on the relative advantages of each estate, ensure daily field supervision and return the fields to the former levels of productivity.” LOOKING GOOD The Finance Minister was upbeat about the future of sugar given Guyana’s comparative advantage as a producer within CARICOM,
the existence of a captive market protected by the Common External Tariff, continued market access with the recent extension of the EU Sugar Regime to 2020, and the fact that Demerara remains a “marquee with considerable universal goodwill, even if not yet legally enforceable”. He pointed out that over the last few years, initiatives in field and factory operations have been undertaken to counter the labour shortages and the reduced opportunity days arising from changing rainfall patterns. “Mechanical harvesting has been accelerated and there are ongoing investments in drainage works and land conversion to mechanically friendly fields. Private cane farmers have been encouraged to take on a greater share in supply of canes to supplement GuySuCo’s production.” Meanwhile, regarding the US$200M Skeldon Modernisation project (which continues to be plagued with mechanical and other issues) falling short of expectations, Singh said these are being addressed “holistically and several modifications and adjustments have been completed to deliver higher levels of output and efficiencies”.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 27, 2013
La Parfaite school fire…
Students to complete exams in new term
The middle section of La Parfaite Harmonie Primary on fire last Tuesday. Students affected by last Tuesday morning’s fire at La Parfaite Harmonie Primary School, West Bank Demerara, will have another shot in completing their Grade Six exams when school re-opens two Mondays from now.
Chief Education Officer, Olato Sam, according to a government statement, has announced that a decision has been made to have the affected students sit their examinations when the new school term commences.
Halfway through the children’s Maths exams last Tuesday, invigilators were forced to evacuate the 81 students who were there, after fire broke out near the Head Mistress’ offices. The washrooms, kitchen
and areas temporarily housing a nursery school were all completely destroyed. However, the L-shaped, one-flat building, except for smoke damage and a few broken doors forced open by firefighters, remained intact. Yesterday, a school official said that a nursery school being constructed nearby will now be fast-tracked and the younger students shifted over there. The primary school students would continue to be housed in the wings of the damaged building but arrangements will have to be made for washrooms and other sanitary facilities. The race would be against time to have them ready for the reopening of schools. It was reported that the children were writing their exams when they were alerted to the smell of smoke. An investigation revealed the middle section of the school in flames. The $60M school was commissioned in 2011 after being in use for over a year. With La Parfaite Harmonie being one of the newest, largest housing schemes in the country, the damage to the school would be hard felt by especially the nursery students who were being housed in exactly the same area that was razed. It is believed that the blaze was electrical in origin. On Wednesday evening, the ruined section re-ignited, but neighbours with help of passersby entered the compound, and quickly extinguished the flames before a fire engine arrived. On Monday night, living quarters of teachers of Bygeval Secondary School, Mahaicony, were completely destroyed. That blaze is also being investigated.
Tuesday March 27, 2013
Kaieteur News
Food For The Poor intervention…
21 prisoners released from jail for Easter Several prisoners in the Caribbean have been released from jail for Easter, thanks to charity organization, Food For The Poor. According to the South Florida Caribbean News a total of 81 prisoners in Guyana, Haiti, Honduras and Jamaica would be free. In Guyana, 21 inmates were released on Monday from the Georgetown, Timehri and New Amsterdam Prisons. Since the inception of Food For The Poor’s Prison Ministry Programme in 1998, the charity has assisted in freeing, training and reintroducing prisoners back into the community as productive citizens. “Prison conditions and poverty are drastically worse in developing countries than they are in the United States,” said Robin Mahfood, President/CEO of Food For The Poor.
“Overcrowded prisons are common, and perpetuate the spread of disease and violence.” The barracks in CapHaitien, Haiti, are reportedly so congested, that men are forced to sit in rows on the floor and hug their knees close to their chests – taking turns to stand, and stretch out their limbs. While at the prison releasing inmates, observers noted that many inmates had died before receiving a trial, due to the rapid spread of disease within the prison. Most of the 16 prisoners released in Haiti in time for Easter were jailed because they stole food to feed their starving families. A 23-yearold father of two and caregiver for his paralyzed mother was released from the Cap-Haitien prison on March 25, after spending six months in jail. He had been accused of stealing a bag of rice. He was happy
to be free, but at the same time he was anxious about what circumstances were waiting for him at home. Another inmate, accused by his brother of stealing a goat, had spent the last five months in jail protesting his innocence. He described regaining his freedom as “God’s love in action.” He said God Himself freed him because he is innocent. Prison authorities have found Food For The Poor’s Prison Ministry Programme to be so successful that they have implemented a similar programme themselves. Some prisons now offer inmates jobs in the prison where they are held so that they can earn money to pay off their fines. Twice a year – during the week of Christmas and during Easter’s Holy Week – the Food For The Poor Prison Ministry Programme releases inmates who have committed minor offences.
Businessman’s son charged with attempted murder of Guyanese worker in St Kitts St Kitts (St Kitts Observer) - Darren “Dabo” Hendrickson, son of the owner of Builders Paradise, has been charged with attempted murder after he shot another employee at the building material and hardware store. Last Saturday shortly after 16:00 hrs, Hendrickson, a supervisor at the store, shot the Guyanese worker, whose name was given as Wayne Jeffrey, in the face while customers and other staff were present in the CAP Southwell Industrial Park business. “Officers from the Basseterre Police Station responded to a report at Builders Paradise where workplace violence between two employees resulted in a shooting incident. Initial investigation revealed that at about 4:10pm an employee at the business establishment received a gunshot wound and taken to the hospital. One person is currently in police custody assisting with the investigation,” police informed the following day. The victim was struck on the right side of his face and was warded at the JNF Hospital. Up until Sunday when the press release was issued, Hendrickson, who resides at Harbour View, Bird Rock, had not been formally charged with an offence. It was revealed that Hendrickson was recently issued a firearm licence. The police press release garnered much public
Shot in the face: Wayne Jeffrey criticism due to the fact that the shooter’s and the victim’s names were not included. Persons took to social media sites and blasted police for the scant release, asking if they were “protecting the shooter” because of his family’s political connections and inquiring why he had not been charged with attempted murder. Persons also commented that police routinely issue press releases with persons’ names, addresses and photos for “cursing in public” and driving without a seatbelt, yet the identity of the shooter was not mentioned even though the authorities had the
Charged: Darren Hendrickson individual in custody at the time. Police informed of Hendrickson being charged Monday evening.
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Patricia Chase-Green sworn in as Deputy Mayor
From left: Mayor Hamilton Green, Minister Norman Whittaker, Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green and President Donald Ramotar As duly elected Deputy Mayor of Georgetown, the first order of business for Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green is to engage Minister in the Local Government Ministry, Norman Whittaker, on the restoration of Georgetown. At her swearing in ceremony at Office of the
President yesterday, ChaseGreen expressed gratitude for being re-elected and vowed to continue to work with Mayor Hamilton Green and Councilors in favour of restoring the city. President Donald Ramotar, after congratulating Chase-Green, expressed high hopes that the Council would
speedily be able to “return Georgetown to glory.” He expressed faith that the Council would be able to work in the interest of citizens. Both the Mayor and Minister Whittaker congratulated Chase-Green and expressed well wishes in her endeavors. Photo in Friday server as chase
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday March 27, 2013
PEOPLE’S NATIONAL CONGRESS REFORM GUYANA AGRICULTURAL AND The People’s National Congress Reform extends Easter Greetings to all Guyanese and more especially to members of our Christian Community, both here and around the world, on the occasion of the celebration of one of the most important events in the Christian Calendar. This festival, which commemorates the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, contains, both in its symbolic significance and its secular relevance, important and powerful messages. For the members of the Christian Community, the Easter story represents the
fulfillment of God’s Prophecy that mankind would be offered the hope of eternal life through the sacrificial death of His son, Jesus Christ and His subsequent Resurrection from the dead. It is this faith which has kept the worldwide Christian Church alive and enabled its followers to significantly contribute towards making the earth a better place for all mankind. The Easter season in Guyana is best known for the widespread kite-flying activity that is seen by many as a representation of the theme of the Resurrection. Whatever may have been its origins, kite-flying attracts
widespread participation of Guyanese, from all walks of life, regardless of religion, ethnicity or culture. It, therefore, offers another opportunity for Guyanese to share common experiences and understand each other better. Let us hope that the symbolism of our kites soaring to the heavens inspire all Guyanese to emulate the example of Jesus for the renewal of hope for the resurgence of the conditions needed for the future development and prosperity of this our Dear Land of Guyana. A happy and blessed Easter to all!
GENERAL WORKERS’ UNION The principles and sentiments of some messages need not change from year to year, even when some actual circumstances do. The culmination of the Christian Lenten Season of self-sacrifice and cleansing happens over this weekend into the beginning of the new Holy Week. Easter is upon us and, like Christmas, it envelopes even nonChristians. This is because, with its resurrection story after its prophesied Crucifixion, hope is offered to mankind, through yet another
faith. The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) associates itself with the Christian community, especially the hundreds of its own members of that faith, as Guyanese reflect upon then celebrate the events of 2,013 years ago. Let the resurrection inspire Christians and all Guyanese to embrace the hope of the sacrifice of the one who died to exonerate His followers and inspire them to live and work in productive harmony and to wed spiritual peace to economic prosperity in his land where there can be
plenty. Easter’s message must inspire spiritual renewal of the period of fasting and introspections. Let us all, use the season in true Guyanese fashion, celebrate the risen Christ with kite flying, Easter eggs and cross buns and all the now seasonal Easter activities across our country. However, let the Easter tradition remind us not to waste the promise of the resurrection. There can still abundant everlasting life for us all to share. Happy Easter Guyana!
PEOPLE’S PROGRESSIVE PARTY FEDERATION OF INDEPENDENT The People’s Progressive It is obvious that in his The story of Christ has TRADE UNIONS OF GUYANA Party extends best wishes to lifetime Jesus Christ was many lessons for us in the Guyanese people and to the Christian Community in particular, on the occasion of Easter. The Easter message is an inspirational one which deals with human society, its trials and tribulations and the ultimate triumph of justice and truth.
slandered, lied upon and persecuted by various groups who wanted to deny his works. They ended up murdering him, crucifying him on a cross in a most brutal way. However two thousand years later we are observing his death and his triumph.
Guyana. As the message of Christ triumphed so too the message and works of the PPP/C Government will be acclaimed because we are working in the interest of all our people. Once more best wishes for a Happy Easter!
From the joyous spring festival of Holi/Phagwah less than one week ago, Guyana now experiences the reflections and joy of another religious-oriented observance – Easter. Though Christian, in origin and character, the message and theme of Easter transcend any one group or faith. They are universal in meaning and spirit and applicable to all mankind. For they depict, most dramatically, the worst and best in mankind. Though prophesied to occur, the politics and might of Roman power to silence a religious leader–turned Saviour exposed the ignorance, misused authority and savagery of a minority to
subvert a people’s search for spiritual comfort and purity whilst sharing in their society’s resources. The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) relates to these events as we embrace the rituals and celebratory aspects of Easter – the foundation of the Christian Faith. We appreciate that the execution of Jesus of Nazareth was never an end but the beginning of one of humankind’s most powerful spiritual movements, the guiding principles of which make for wholesome, productive living for all, Christian and non-Christian alike. The story of the resurrection, which Christians
hold dear, however, submerges the Crucifixion on the Cross. Whether the resurrection is myth or reality, the powerful message of hope, the guarantee of life of the risen lord, motivates a huge proportion of humanity to hold fast to a faith of sacrifice for the greater good. FITUG enjoins Christians at this time to spread the message of the resurrection to all Guyanese. Sacrifice and hope, as in other religions, flow freely from that Old Rugged Cross. Even as all Guyanese join Christians in the more celebratory aspects of Easter – from cross buns to kite flying, FITUG urges the celebrants not to waste the promise of the resurrection.
MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS OF THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN Today, we celebrate a very significant day in the Christian Calendar. It is a time when we reflect upon the life, teachings and sacrifice, of Jesus the Christ. It is one of the most joyous days in the Christian community. Easter celebration has
come to characterize the period when Guyanese, from different strata of our society, come together, to indulge in the traditional kite-flying and other merry-marking activities The act of kite-flying is a gesture of faith in a new reality.
The Mayor and Councillors hope that as you raise your kites to the winds, that you would contemplate ways of lifting your neighbourhoods to a place of good environmental health and stewardship. Once again, Happy Easter!
ALLIANCE FOR CHANGE The Leader, Executive and Members of the Alliance For Change extend Easter greetings to Guyanese across the Ten Administrative Regions of Guyana and in the Diaspora. Easter is a time of both solemnity and celebration. For our Christian brothers and sisters, Easter marks the solemn occasion of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his glorious resurrection. The message of Easter encourages us to examine the
way we live; our daily interaction with our fellow men and preparedness to sacrifice for the good of humanity. When we gather in churches and as we enjoy our picnics and kite flying with our family and friends, to give praise and celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, let us all be reminded of his humility, devotion, unconditional love, and the sacrifice He made to redeem us all from our sins.
In remembering Him who triumphed over evil and conquered death to become immortal, let us all emulate the qualities that he displayed, as we work to forge racial unity and peace within this dear land. Let the joy that Easter brings, renew our faith and confidence in his mercy and blessed assurance that change is coming, especially for a better way of life in Guyana. Happy Easter to all!
Tuesday March 27, 2013
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Tuesday March 27, 2013
Govt. acquires former NBS building for “more than $100M” - Land Registry for revamp
The Land Registry is to be moved to the former NBS Head Office on Avenue of the Republic Government has signaled its intention to relocate the Land Registry, situated on the ground floor of the High Court building, to the former New Building Society (NBS) Head Office, Avenue of Republic, which it acquired. Claiming to be unaware of the actual cost paid to the New Building Society for the facility, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, said that the Land Registry provided the cost of the Sales Agreement, which is more than $100M. He made that announcement yesterday at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing held at the Office of the President. The need for full utilization of resources and better functioning were cited
as the main reasons for the removal of the Land Registry from its current location, which it shares with the Deeds Registry. According to Dr. Luncheon, in October 2012, Cabinet commissioned an audit of the Land Registry and a comprehensive report was submitted earlier this month. He added that Cabinet endorsed the findings and disclosures of the audit conducted by an Attorney. Dr. Luncheon enlightened that Cabinet approved the preparation of an implementation camp and the establishment of a unit to see the realization of recommendations in the report. The audit found the Land Registry to be underresourced and there was weakness in its functioning,
particularly in process management, which has a great deal to do with transactions. Several recommendations were made, of which Dr. Luncheon shared three with the media. The intent to relocate the Land Registry is the move towards satisfying one of the recommendations. Funds available through the Competitive Programme will be used to enhance the facility to offer better services, he added. The report also recommends the implementation of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) applications - essentially egovernment, websites, and electronic communication - to the functioning of the Land Registry. Dr. Luncheon related that
the Land Registry did not benefit from ICT application upgrades when the Deeds Registry was upgraded, because the two entities got separated. It is hoped that with this upgrade there will be preservation of records, communication with users of the entity, and access, storage and retrieval of land titles. To bring the operations and functioning of the Land Registry to the level of contemporary norms, legislative reform would need to occur. “I think Cabinet is not unmindful of what has and is taking place with the reforms with the Deed and Commercial Registry and saw some parallels that could develop with regards to the land registry,” he added.
Haiti still faces disaster threat – President Martelly Although buildings codes are now in place, Haiti still remains under immense threat should another earthquake strike. At least this is according to the island’s President Michel Joseph Martelly, who in responding to a question on disaster preparedness of the Caribbean territory revealed that the impact could be just as dire as occurred in 2010. President Martelly was at the time addressing a press conference at the Turkeyen, Caricom Secretariat recently, at which time he disclosed “in a year and a half, let’s say two, we have done as much as we could do, but to be honest with you, the hundreds of thousands of homes that were built before the earthquake that were not destroyed by the earthquake and were built without respecting any code, since we didn’t have one, if we have another major earthquake today... don’t get me wrong although I have said that we have moved forward, we will be in a very strained situation.” However, he is optimistic
- but efforts being made to improve its standing that having lived through such a catastrophe, the people of Haiti are in fact more prepared to deal with such an occurrence “but to tell you that today we are fully prepared to survive another catastrophe of that magnitude it would be a lie.” The President revealed that subsequent to the disaster, in addition to institution of building codes which is a set of rules that specify the minimum acceptable level of safety for construction, Haiti has also sought to reinforce its Civil Protection Unit. He disclosed too that efforts were made to train many health relief workers. President Martelly, who was elected President in 2011, assumed the chairmanship of Caricom in January last. His tenure as Chairman will continue until June 2013. He disclosed that since the catastrophic earthquake, which reportedly had a 7.0 magnitude with an estimated
52 aftershocks measuring 4.5 or greater, numerous measures have been put in place. More than 200,000 were reportedly killed and numerous buildings including residences and commercial buildings collapsed. “I would say right after the earthquake the world focused on Haiti’s situation and because it was a major catastrophe nothing was organised. As Haitians we were not ready for such a catastrophe...we never lived it before.” In fact he disclosed that the territory’s construction code, or the lack thereof, did not help the situation in any way. However, President Martelly is currently on a mission to ensure that his country has a deeper involvement in Caricom, but he has however warned against the expectations of things happening quickly. “It’s not like you push a
button and something happens,” he said, adding that the relationship is being built through discussions, getting to know people and nurturing ties. He pointed to his belief that Haiti was once “present but absent”, but pointed out that it is today “more present, more involved” in the Community. “There is a lot that we are doing at the Regional level that can be supportive of our Member States. We must tell our people and officials about this so they can appreciate our Caricom more, not only the good work being done by the Caricom Secretariat, but also by our Institutions and Agencies,” President Martelly stressed. As part of a concentrated programme to help Haiti participate more fully in the integration movement, a team from the Caricom Secretariat, headed by Secretary General Irwin LaRocque is set to visit Haiti for a full and comprehensive briefing on the activities of Caricom, and how this important work can directly assist Haiti.
Friday March 29, 2013
Kaieteur News
Abdulah: Jack must step down Trinidad Express - This is the view of leader of the Movement for Social Justice, (MSJ) David Abdulah, who said that Warner had placed the country in, an embarrassing position, given the reports linking him to a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) corruption football probe, Speaking during a press conference called this morning at the MSJ’s headquarters in San Fernando, Abdulah said we have yet another major crisis of which the allegations and an apparent investigation into a senior government minister is taking place. These investigations are talking place in the United States of America”. Noting that there have been rumours about these issues for quite some time, Abdulah said. We want to again congratulate the media for doing investigative work and bringing these matters to public attention. We are now in a very embarrassing situation as a nation as having the minister responsible for national security allegedly being investigated by the State agencies of another country and this will obviously have very significant implications for Trinidad and Tobago. Abdulah, whose party pulled out of the People’s Partnership coalition in June
...country being embarrassed 2012, said the MSJ had called for removal of Warner since his supervision of the demolition of the protest camp set up by the Highway ReRoute Movement in Debe last year.He said that since that time “it has gone from bad to worse and we have yet another reason for the Prime Minister to take action. She must investigate this matter thoroughly and take action urgently and immediately”. The Reuters News Agency published a news exclusive Wednesday stating that Daryan Warner, the son of National Security Minister Jack Warner was a cooperating witness for the FBI and Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Daryan Warner was reported to be assisting in an investigation into corruption in football’s governing body FIFA. The article stated, that among the issues being probed are allegations involving Jack Warner, a former FIFA Vice President, who resigned the position June 2011 amid allegations of bribery. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar issued a statement in response to the Reuters article headlined FBI has cooperating witness for soccer fraud probe sources. She stated: “I will not rely on published reports in the
Wiretapping legislation coming
Dr Keith Mitchell ST GEORGE’S, Grenada - CMC – Prime Minister, Dr Keith Mitchell has sought to assure Grenadians that plans are in the making to have wiretapping legislation in place within a few months to assist with the fight against crime. “The legislation will provide for wire tapping to only be done to assist in crimes related to drug trafficking, terrorism and other forms of criminal activities, it will never be for
the use of monitoring people’s private life,” said Mitchell who is also the Minister of National Security. While in opposition, Mitchell said there was evidence of wire tapping during the tenure of the Tilman Thomas led National Democratic Congress. “The intention is not to get the police responsible for wiretapping anybody at their judgment, only a Judge will make that determination after the police would have presented a case on behalf of the state,” he said. On Wednesday Governor General Sir Carlyle Glean indicated that some persons are still engaging in illegal wiretapping. “In particular, my Government will not encourage or support any attempt to record private conversations and use them against citizens except for cases of criminality. Persons who engage in such practices as wiretapping will face and feel the full force of the law,” Sir Carlyle said when he delivered the Throne Speech at the opening of Parliament.
media, but will again seek to get official corroboration of the information now in the public domain before making any determination or pronouncement.” Abdulah questioned why Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar had not acted and removed Warner from his ministerial post. He said the Prime Minister had investigated other ministers and axed them. Abdulah said Warner should do the right thing and step down.
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Phillips says no major increase coming; JLP warns Govt. Jamaica Observer Finance Minister Dr Peter Phillips Wednesday insisted that Jamaicans do not have to brace for any ‘major tax increases’ when the budget for the next financial year is read, next month. However, he did not immediately rule out additional taxes, noting instead that if there was any, it would be minor. “If there is anything, there may be tidying up measures, but we have no plans for any major increases in taxes,” he said, adding: “The word there may be
major; there may be none, (or) there may be minor tidying up issues to correct certain imbalances.” When pressed further as to whether Jamaicans should brace for more or significant tax increases, Phillips repeated that “there is no need for Jamaicans to fear the budget”. “There is no need to brace on account of the budget that is forthcoming... who has ears to hear let them hear,” he told journalists at the weekly Jamaica House Press Briefing held at the Office of the Prime
Minister in Kingston. But apparently unimpressed, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Wednesday warned against the imposition of any new taxes in the upcoming budget which will be presented to Parliament on April 4 and debated on April 18. Chairman of the JLP Robert Montague said news reaching the party was that there were discussions about a possible new round of tax increases to be tabled in the new budget.
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Friday March 29, 2013
T&T Prime Minister remains mum on FIFA soccer probe PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CMC – Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar says she will not be rushed into making any public statement on international reports that her National Security Minister Austin “Jack” Warner may be implicated in a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) probe involving soccer’s global governing body. “I will not rely on published reports in the media, but will again seek to get official corroboration of the information now in the public domain before making any determination or pronouncement,” Persad Bissessar said in a statement late Wednesday. Opposition Leader Dr. Keith Rowley, has in the past consistently called on Prime Minister Persad Bissessar to dismiss Warner from the Cabinet over the International Football Federation (FIFA) scandal. He has so far made no comment on the latest disclosure. Reuters News Service in
Austin “Jack” Warner an exclusive report Wednesday said that an FBI probe into alleged corruption in international soccer has recently intensified after investigators persuaded a key party to be a cooperating witness, U.S. law enforcement sources said.Reuters quoted the sources as saying that Daryan Warner, the son of the National Security Minister and former FIFA vicepresident is assisting the probe, but could not say who
might be charged, or when. “While the exact scope of the investigation is not clear, among the matters under scrutiny are two previously reported allegations involving Jack Warner, who is currently national security minister in his native Trinidad and Tobago. “The deepening of the probe indicates that a succession of corruption scandals involving FIFA and other international soccer bodies in the past few years may continue to cast a cloud over the sport for some time,” Reuters reported. The international news agency said that Warner has not been charged with any wrongdoing and that since 2011, the FBI has been examining more than US$500,000 in payments made by the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) over the past 20 years to an offshore company headed by top U.S. soccer official Chuck Blazer. It said that was a period during which Warner was also head of the CFU, a
position he held from the early 1980s until 2011 and that the precise reasons for many of those payments is unclear. In 2011, Blazer said that the payments were meant to be repayments to him by Warner of “a significant amount of money” which Blazer said he loaned to Warner in 2004. Warner later said that the payments were above board. This is not the first time that Prime Minister Persad Bissessar has sought to tread carefully in international football matters involving Warner, the former head of the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF). In 2011, she stood by her embattled senior cabinet minister, when he was temporarily suspended by FIFA, while allegations of bribery against him were being investigated. She said then that it is a fundamental tenet of the rule of law that a man is innocent until proven guilty.
CARICOM reiterates call for Arms Trade Treaty UNITED NATIONS CMC – The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has reiterated its call for an agreement on an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) that establishes commonly agreed international standards in regulating the trade in conventional weapons. These weapons include small arms and light ones, their ammunition, and parts and components. “Our heads of state and government are convinced that ATT is an essential part of the global effort to prevent the diversion of weapons from the legal trade to the illicit market” said Eden Charles, CARICOM’s lead negotiator in addressing the final United Nations conference on the arms trade treaty. Charles, who is also the deputy permanent representative of Trinidad and Tobago to the United Nations, urged that the ATT should adhere to the rules of treatymaking accepted by members of the international community and codified in the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties. He said if the international community is to reap the full benefits of an ATT, emphasis
must be placed on international cooperation and assistance mechanism. In addition, Charles called for “robust provisions on transparency, verification and an independent secretariat.” The 10-day conference seeks to finalise what could become the first global treaty to regulate the world’s US$70 billion trade for all conventional weapons – from naval ships, tanks and attack helicopters to handguns and assault rifles. The conference brings together representatives of many states, including major manufactures, exporters and importers of conventional weapons as well as other states impacted by the global trade in conventional arms. CARICOM said the outcome of the conference is “of vital importance” to member states. At the last Intersessional Meeting of Heads of Government inHaitiinFebruary,leadersexpressed hope that “the international community adopts tangible and effective measures to regulate the trade in conventional weapons” at this UN Conference.
Friday March 29, 2013
Kaieteur News
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Multi-nationals to invest US$3 billion in dry docks Trinidad Guardian - Two multi-national companies plan to invest US$3 billion over the next three years in construction of two dry dock facilities to boost T&T’s maritime sector. Trade Minister Vasant Bharath, who made the announcement Wednesday, said the facilities are to be located at Sea Lots and La Brea respectively, but he could not divulge further details on the companies involved. “I can’t tell you specifically who they are, but it relates to two maritime companies with international connections who are looking to put down dry docking facilities in T&T for ship repairs and ship maintenance,” he said “There is no government investment involved. This is private sector completely. We are just going to facilitate with the approvals, which is the biggest issue we will have. “I am due to sign an MOU with one of the organisation’s very shortly, in fact we are working on the MOUs for both, whereby Government will commit to a certain time frame and those organisations will commit to certain time frames for the investment. Government’s side of it will be to facilitate, through the natural process, their approvals on time, because that’s a bug-bear...when you have to get EMA, Town and Country and WASA approvals. If these things get stuck in the system, it creates problems for investment dollars to flow to T&T,” the minister said. Bharath spoke to the media yesterday at an RBC Royal Bank Client Breakfast
at the President’s Box, Queen’s Park Oval in Port-ofSpain. He said taxpayers are losing out on more than $300 million spent in overtime at Portof-Spain over the last decade and this could not be allowed to continue. “The cause is really the system we have operated over the last 20 years as far as customs and excise is concerned,” Bharath said. “A lot of officers are paid overtime because of the fact that cargo is cleared after hours. “That is the current system, because of the inefficiencies within the system. The Comptroller of Customs has been working very hard to try and minimise the amount of overtime that has been granted, because it’s a significant drain on the treasury and its cost that is passed on to the consumer.” Bharath added: “The importer is not going to bear the cost, so the cost is actually going to be borne out in the product which makes it more expensive; and at a time when we are looking to reduce (the) cost of food items and the cost of consumerables, it’s a cost that we can do without. “If you can clear a container in three days, rather than the 19 days you will see automatically how much time you will cut down as far as the importer is concerned with regards to rent and overtime.” While Government wrestles with the issue of making the Port of Port-Spain more efficient, Cabinet will also be considering its relocation and ultimately the privatisation of its operations, the minister said. “We don’t believe that in a developed country a port ought to be in the middle of a
Court of Appeal to decide on whether St. Lucia should join CCJ CASTRIES, St. Lucia – CMC - The OECS Court of Appeal is to determine whether St Lucia should continue with appeals to the Privy Council or move towards the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). The Court of Appeal during its sitting here on Wednesday, heard reference from Attorney General Phillip La Corbiniere on the proper and correct construction of provisions of the Constitution which govern the right of appeal to Her Majesty in Council, popularly known as the Privy Council. La Corbiniere who is also the Minister for Legal Affairs
told the Court that unlike the Constitutions of St. Kitts and Nevis and Dominica, there exists in the Constitution of St Lucia, either doubt in the construction of or an obvious mistake in section 41 (7) (a) of the Constitution, and as a result, the doubt or error ought to be corrected by judicial interpretation in accordance with the law. “If the Court agrees with this position, the path to determining whether St Lucia should continue with appeals to the Privy Council or move towards the Caribbean Court of Justice, will be made clear,” he said.
city. When the Port-of-Spain Port was originally conceptualised and developed Port-of-Spain was not as busy as it is today. “We’ve got to re-think the traffic congestion, the delays involved on getting containers in and out of the port and we are in discussion with the unions with regard to moving that port,” he said.
Trade Minister Vasant Bharath, centre, talks with Amer Haidar, left, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Patrick Kelly, market head, business banking, RBC Royal Bank, at the bank’s breakfast meeting at the President’s Box, Queen’s Park Cricket Club, Port-of-Spain, Wednesday. PHOTO: SEAN NERO
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Mortar kills 15 at Damascus University, Syria says (Reuters) - Fifteen Syrian students were killed when rebel mortar bombs hit a Damascus University canteen yesterday, state-run news agency SANA said, as attacks intensified in the centre of the capital. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition monitoring group, said a mortar killed 13 people at the university, without saying who fired the bombs. Other activists confirmed the attack but no opposition group has denied or claimed responsibility. Insurgents trying to end four decades of rule by the family of President Bashar alAssad have formed a semicircle around the capital and intensified attacks from positions on the outskirts this week. A bastion for Assad’s forces, the capital city is a crucial prize in a two-year-old uprising that has developed into a war in which more than 70,000 people have been killed. Another 1.2 million Syrians have also fled to
neighbouring countries and North Africa, where they have registered as refugees or are awaiting processing, according to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Highlighting the strain the conflict is placing on neighbouring states, Turkey, host to about 260,000 of the refugees, denied on Thursday it had rounded up and deported hundreds of Syrians following unrest at a refugee camp. SANA said mortar rounds landed in a canteen at the College of Architecture in Baramkeh, a central district near several government buildings, including the Defence Ministry, the headquarters for state media and Assad’s official residence. Pro-government AlIkhbariya TV showed images of doctors trying to resuscitate at least two young men and blood on the floor of what appeared to be an outdoor canteen. A young woman was shown walking in a hospital, her face bleeding
heavily. SANA quoted the president of Damascus University as saying the death toll, initially put at 12, had risen to 15 in what state and pro-government media called a terrorist attack. Last weekend rebel groups sent out warnings on the Internet that they planned to intensify strikes on government and military sites in the city and warned residents they should leave to avoid what they called “Operation Shaking the Fort”. The United Nations said on Monday it would withdraw about half of its international staff from Damascus after a mortar bomb landed near their hotel. The Syrian military has responded to rebel attacks with artillery shelling and air strikes on suburbs where rebels are entrenched among thousands of civilians trapped in crossfire. Yesterday, opposition activists said rebels had taken the main bus station in northeastern Damascus. They provided footage of fighters walking around a deserted area and stamping on a framed picture
A view shows debris and blood after mortar bombs landed on the canteen of Damascus University’s College of Architecture yesterday. REUTERS/SANA/Handout of Assad. (link.reuters.com/ peg96t) Government reporting restrictions make it difficult to verify such accounts independently. The foreign ministry in Turkey denied on Thursday any Syrians had been expelled following unrest at the Suleymansah refugees camp, near the Turkish town of Akcakale A group of 130 people, identified with the help of camera footage as being “involved in the
provocations”, decided to cross back into Syria voluntarily, either because they did not want to face judicial proceedings or because of repercussions from other refugees, the ministry said in a statement. Witnesses said hundreds of Syrians were bused to the border after Wednesday’s clashes in which refugees threw rocks at military police, who fired tear gas and water cannon. “There has been a big deportation operation here, they got rid of lots of people. They
kicked out two of my boys and three of my brother’s sons. They came for my boys last night and told them to get their bags,” one refugee at the camp told Reuters by telephone, giving her name as Saher. Camp residents said young men started the protest against living conditions after faulty electrics set a tent on fire, injuring three brothers aged seven, 18 and 19, one of whom later died in hospital, according to Turkish media reports.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — In a show of force following weeks of North Korean bluster, the U.S. yesterday took the unprecedented step of announcing that two of its nuclear-capable B-2 bombers joined joint military drills with South Korea, dropping dummy munitions on an island range. The announcement is likely to further enrage Pyongyang, which has already issued a flood of ominous statements to highlight displeasure over the drills and U.N. sanctions over its nuclear test last month. But there were signs yesterday that it is willing to go only so far. A North Korean industrial plant operated with South Korean know-how was running normally, despite the North’s shutdown a day earlier of communication lines ordinarily used to move workers and goods across the border. At least for the moment, Pyongyang was choosing the factory’s infusion of hard currency over yet another provocation. U.S. Forces Korea said in a statement that the B-2 stealth bombers flew from a
U.S. air base in Missouri and dropped dummy munitions on the South Korean island range before returning home. It was unclear whether America’s stealth bombers were used in past annual drills with South Korea, but this is the first time the military has announced their use. The statement follows an earlier U.S. announcement that nuclear-capable B-52 bombers participated in the joint military drills. The announcement will likely draw a strong response from Pyongyang. North Korea sees the military drills as part of a U.S. plot to invade and becomes particularly upset about U.S. nuclear activities in the region. Washington and Seoul say the drills are routine and defensive.
North Korea has already threatened nuclear strikes on Washington and Seoul in recent weeks. It said Wednesday there was no need for communication in a situation “where a war may break out at any moment.” Earlier this month, it announced that it considers void the armistice that ended the Korean War in 1953. But Pyongyang would have gone beyond words, possibly damaging its own weak finances, if it had blocked South Koreans from getting in and out of the Kaesong industrial plant, which produced $470 million worth of goods last year. South Korean managers at the plant reported no signs of trouble yesterday.
US sends B-2s to South Korea for military drills
U.N. approves creation of special combat force for Congo UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The U.N. Security Council yesterday approved the creation of a special combat force that is to carry out “targeted offensive operations” to neutralize armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The 15-member Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution establishing the so-called intervention brigade within the existing 20,000-strong U.N. peacekeeping force in Congo, known as MONUSCO.
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Putin flexes Russia’s military Attempt to end Italy crisis fails, muscle in Black Sea exercises president mulls next move MOSCOW (Reuters) President Vladimir Putin ordered the launch of largescale military exercises in the Black Sea yesterday, projecting Russian power towards Europe and the Middle East in a move that may vex its neighbors. Officials suggested the surprise drills were designed to test the reaction speed and combat readiness of Russian forces, but Putin’s order also seemed aimed at sending a signal to the West that Russia is an important presence in the region. Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Putin triggered the maneuvers as he flew back overnight from South Africa after a summit of the BRICS emerging economies. Peskov said 36 warships and an unspecified number of warplanes would take part, but did not say how long the exercises would last. Putin has stressed the importance of a strong and agile military since returning to the presidency last May. In 13 years in power, he has often cited external threats when talking of the need for reliable armed forces and Russian political unity. Late last month, Putin ordered military leaders to make urgent improvements to the armed forces in the next few years, saying Russia must thwart Western attempts to
tip the balance of power. He said maneuvers must be held with less advance warning, to keep soldiers on their toes. Putin, 60, has also used his role as commander-in-chief and calls for military might to cast himself as a strong leader for whom the country’s security is foremost. State media emphasized that he had given the order for the exercises from an airplane in the dead of night. Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, whose main base is in the Ukrainian port of Sevastopol, was instrumental in a war with ex-Soviet neighbor Georgia in 2008 over the Russian-backed breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
(Reuters) - Britain replaced outspoken junior energy minister John Hayes yesterday after only six months in the job as government efforts to overhaul the electricity sector and cut carbon emissions reach a critical juncture. During his brief tenure the Conservative Hayes clashed over policy with his boss, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Ed Davey, a member of the Liberal Democrats. The two parties form Britain’s ruling coalition. Their difference included topics such as whether Britain should finance new windfarms and stick to carbon-reduction targets. Hayes vowed earlier this year to put “coal back into the coalition” and guarantee a major role for the highlypolluting fossil fuel in Britain’s energy mix. Yet Britain’s energy bill, currently under scrutiny by parliament, effectively rules out new coal-fired stations that lack carbon capture and
storage technology. Conservative Michael Fallon will become Energy Minister, replacing Hayes who will become Minister without Portfolio (Minister of State), DECC said. Fallon is also a Minister of State at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. A cold spring has boosted Britain’s imported wholesale gas prices, depleting its stores of gas and sparking fears of fatter energy bills for already cash-strapped consumers. F a l l o n ’s previous support for renewable energy is in contrast to many of his Conservative colleagues, particularly those elected in rural areas where wind turbines are opposed by local campaigners. “Michael Fallon has a real opportunity to clean up our power sector, capitalise on clean, home-grown energy and properly open Britain for green business,” Greenpeace said.
Vladimir Putin
Britain drops pro-coal energy minister after just six months
In addition to Georgia and Ukraine, Russia shares the Black Sea with Turkey, Bulgaria and Romania. But Russian foreign affairs analyst Fyodor Lukyanov said the exercises were “more likely part of a wider attempt to reconfirm that Russia’s navy and military forces in the south are still able to play a political and geopolitical role.” “It is flexing muscles and may have more to do with what is happening in the Mediterranean, around Syria, than in the Black Sea,” said Lukyanov, editor of the journal Russia in Global affairs. Russia’s modest naval maintenance and supply facility in Syria is its only military base outside the former Soviet Union, and the Defence Ministry recently announced plans to deploy a naval unit in the Mediterranean on a permanent basis. Russia has clashed diplomatically with the West throughout a two-year conflict that has killed more than 70,000 people in Syria, using its U.N. Security Council veto to block Western efforts to push President Bashar al-Assad from power. Moscow-based military analyst Alexander Golts said unannounced exercises are a good thing for Russia’s military, but that the location could raise questions among Russia’s neighbors about its intentions.
(Reuters) - Centre-left leader Pier Luigi Bersani has failed in his attempt to find a way out of Italy’s intractable political crisis and President Giorgio Napolitano will now try to find another solution, the president’s palace said yesterday. Bersani reported back to Napolitano yesterday night after being given a mandate almost a week ago to see if there was a way to form a government after an inconclusive election in February which plunged Italy into deadlock. A statement from Napolitano’s office said Bersani had told him his talks with other parties “did not have a successful result.” The president would personally examine other possible solutions without delay, the statement said. Officials said Napolitano would start a new round of consultations with political parties this morning. Bersani said he had told Napolitano, 87, of the problems he had faced in the negotiations, in which he failed to reach any agreement with either of the other two main forces in parliament Silvio Berlusconi’s centreright and Beppe Grillo’s populist 5-Star Movement. A spokesman for Bersani’s Democratic Party (PD) said he had not given up of forming a government but the centre-right People of Freedom (PDL) party poured scorn on the centre-left leader and said he had wasted a
Giorgio Napolitano month in a fruitless search for support. The centre-left fell short of the majority Bersani would need to govern after last month’s election and made no headway in five days of talks with the rival parties aimed at winning sufficient support for a vote of confidence. Napolitano has said he opposes a snap new election to end the impasse but his options are severely limited. They include naming an outsider to head a technocrat government like that of outgoing Prime Minister Mario Monti or a crossparty political coalition. The stalemate in the euro zone’s third-largest economy has been watched with growing alarm across Europe as the crisis in Cyprus increased concern about the renewal of market turmoil that would threaten the stability of the currency bloc.
Yesterday, the main indicator of market confidence, the spread between Italian 10-year bonds and their safer German counterparts widened to 350 basis points, some 30 points higher than the level seen before the February 24-25 election. Bersani had expressed optimism up to the last minute that he could overcome the difficulties but appeared to have run into a wall, particularly in his overtures to Grillo, whose movement says it will not support a vote of confidence in a government led by either the centre-right or centre-left. Bersani has in turn rebuffed demands by Berlusconi that he form a broad left-right coalition, saying the scandal-plagued media magnate was too discredited to deal with. Mindful of the risk of instability, Napolitano had insisted Bersani obtain firm guarantees of support from the other parties for a vote of confidence in parliament before he would agree to give him a government-forming mandate. Bersani had tried to win support for an agreed list of major reforms but was never able to win guaranteed backing from a sufficient number of members of parliament. Prospects that Monti may be asked to remain in office have faded since Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi quit this week in a shock move that showed the tensions in the caretaker government.
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Kenyatta apologises for judges gaffe before Kenya poll ruling (Reuters) - Kenya’s president-elect, whose victory is being challenged in the Supreme Court, apologised on Thursday for seeming to dismiss the judges as “some six people” who will “decide something or other”. Uhuru Kenyatta, who also faces trial at the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity over postelection violence five years ago, made the remarks - which went viral on social media while consulting allies at a resort. The gaffe emerged after the chief justice told politicians last week to stop speaking publicly about the petition against the March 4 election result, to try to ease any tensions over a case seen as a major test of the democratic system. “It was not my intention to sound casual in reference to our Supreme Court judges,” Kenyatta said. “For that reason, I offer my sincere apologies. My informality may be interpreted as disrespect for the court and that is not the case.” Kenyatta’s long-time rival, Prime Minister Raila
Odinga, alleges “rampant illegality” in the vote that handed the son of Kenya’s founding president a firstround victory. Kenyatta says the voting was fair. A ruling is expected on Saturday. The Supreme Court said it would meet for a final, brief session on Friday to review the results of a recount from 22 out of 33,400 polling stations. The recounts were ordered on Monday. It will then adjourn to consider a ruling. A recording of Kenyatta’s remarks on Wednesday, at a Rift Valley resort where he met allies who won seats in parliament and other politicians, spread on Twitter under the hashtag #somesixpeople and Facebook. here “I look forward, sincerely, to working with you once some six people decide something or other. We’re ready anyway, we’re ready once they decide and rule ... I hope you are also ready,” Kenyatta told the gathering of his political coalition. The speed at which the comments spread on social media showed the intense
public scrutiny of the vote. The authorities have throughout the campaign warned against any reporting or commentary on social media that could fuel tensions. Chief Justice Willy Mutunga did not comment on the remarks or apology when the court resumed hearings on Thursday. But he summoned the Law Society of Kenya’s chairman Eric Mutua for making comments about the case as he announced that the Society would investigate what he called the mass failure of electronic systems used during the vote. A swift and transparent resolution of the dispute is seen as critical to restoring the reputation of east Africa’s biggest economy as a stable
democracy, after it was dented by weeks of fighting in 2008. Peaceful voting went a long way to helping its reputation but the real test will
come with Saturday’s ruling, which both Kenyatta and Odinga have said they will accept. Many Kenyans insist there will be no repeat of the bloodshed following the late 2007 election and cost more than 1,200 lives. This time the candidates have pursued differences through the newly reformed judiciary rather than on the streets. The Kenyan shilling firmed on Thursday, but the ruling could weaken the currency if Kenyatta’s victory is overturned, traders said. Stocks gained as some investors bet Kenyatta’s win would be upheld, which would put an end to political uncertainty. On Wednesday, lawyers challenging Kenyatta’s
victory said a new technology meant to counter fraud had broken down, leading to a manipulated vote count. The electoral commission has rejected claims of fraud and declared the vote free and fair. On Thursday, Mohammed Nyaoga, a lawyer for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, rejected what he called Odinga’s “speculative” allegations. Kenyatta, who could possibly be sworn in a week after the ruling if it goes in his favour, won 50.07 percent of the vote, well ahead of Odinga’s 43.28 percent but only just above the 50 percent level needed to avoid a runoff.
bonds, setting it at odds with the Muslim Brotherhood which drove the legislation through parliament last week. It marks the first time AlAzhar, a thousand-year-old seat of Islamic learning, has said its Senior Scholars Authority should be consulted on issues pertaining to Islamic law as set out in Egypt’s new, Islamisttinged constitution. Al-Azhar’s intervention could set a precedent for clerical oversight of other affairs of state. The Salafi Nour Party has said Al-Azhar must also approve an agreement Egypt is seeking with the International Monetary Fund because it includes a loan upon which Egypt will pay interest. The Islamic bond, or sukuk law, will allow Egypt to issue debt compliant with Islamic principles, allowing the state to tap a new area of finance as President Mohamed Mursi’s administration grapples with an unaffordable budget deficit.
The sukuk law has been a source of friction between the Brotherhood, whose Freedom and Justice Party leads the upper house of parliament, and more hardline Islamists who say it should first have been approved by Al-Azhar. At a meeting on Thursday, Al-Azhar’s Islamic Research Institute chaired by Grand Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb said it shared the view that the law should have been referred to the Senior Scholars Authority, in line with the new constitution. “The Institute is of the opinion that the draft should have been referred to the Senior Scholars Authority for discussion and so it could give its legal opinion, in line with its duty,” it said in a statement. It criticized the law approved by parliament last week, saying it empowered the prime minister to form the body entrusted with issuing the Islamic bonds. It said this “disregarded the Senior Scholars Authority of the noble Azhar”.
The Nour Party, a hardline Salafi group, had demanded the upper house of parliament refer the law to AlAzhar before MPs voted on it. But the FJP used its majority to pass the law despite a fierce row with Nour Party members during the session. The law must now be ratified by Mursi. Abdullah Badran, head of the Nour Party’s parliamentary bloc, said in a phone interview the group was now urging Mursi not to ratify the law without first presenting it to the Senior Scholars Authority for review. The Nour Party believes Al-Azhar must sign off on a deal Egypt is seeking with the IMF because it includes a $4.8 billion loan on which Egypt will pay interest. The payment of interest is deemed as impermissible in Islam. Al-Azhar’s role in affairs of state is embedded in article four of the new constitution. It says the Senior Scholars Authority must be consulted on all matters pertaining to sharia.
Uhuru Kenyatta
Egypt’s Islamic authority asserts role, clashes with Brotherhood
CAIRO (Reuters) Egypt’s leading Islamic authority Al-Azhar said yesterday its clerics must be consulted on a law allowing the state to issue Islamic
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Friday March 29, 2013 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19): You may be confused by your desires and would be smart to use some discretion when communicating with others. You feel as if you’re in power since your emotions are so intense today, and you just want to express what’s in your heart. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20): You demand respect today and will likely receive it. However, you can unintentionally mislead yourself by inflating your importance. GEMINI (May 21–June 20): You are eager to be with friends or hang out with your family today, leaving your chores behind. CANCER (June 21–July 22): You are quite energized today and feel as if you have a million things to say before the day slips away. However, your drive to share what’s on your mind clashes with your sensitivity to what others need. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22): You’re performing the lead role in your own personal drama now and are ready to play it for all it’s worth. You are a hit, but it would be wise to end the show before it turns stale. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22): You can convince nearly anyone that you are right today, but you can’t do it with words alone.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22): Relationships are often on your mind and today is no exception. But there is something else going on now because you’re not interested in simply pleasing others. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21): You are receiving support from intense Pluto today, giving you the resources needed to complete a major project. Although everything seems to be going your way, there is more happening than meets the eye. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21): You have the determination today to manifest your vision. Although you realize that your long-term goals won’t be achieved all at once, your current actions have a major impact on your future. CAPRICORN(Dec.22–Jan.19): You hear two internal voices of guidance today and they both make convincing arguments. You know that you are in it for the long haul, so you’re willing to play your cards strategically. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18): There’s no one to blame but yourself if your day is way too busy; you simply tried to pack too much into your schedule. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20): Normally, you don’t like direct confrontation and may try to avoid conflict at any cost.
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Mark Webber & Sebastian Vettel: “Blade Runner” Pistorius gets Red Bull say row is settled passport back
Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel Red Bull boss Helmut Marko says the row between Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel has been “settled”. Marko said the two drivers shook hands after a post-race discussion following the Malaysian Grand Prix. Triple world champion Vettel upset Red Bull teammate Webber by ignoring team orders and passing the Australian to win Sunday’s race at Sepang. Marko said Vettel had been “distressed” by the situation, adding: “I don’t think he will do that again.” Marko continued: “In the debrief afterwards, there was the relevant discussions about the race and then there
was a handshake between the two drivers. “For us, now, the issue is settled. “They don’t have to be completely on the same page but it must be a solid working partnership.” Marko, who is the right-hand man of Red Bull boss Dietrich Mateschitz and a champion of Vettel within the team, said he believed the German had learned an important lesson. “Sebastian apologised in the press conference,” said Marko. “That’s the first correct step to take. “He doesn’t have to change as a whole, but I think Sebastian was distressed. He was surprised by his radical
way of tackling it and I don’t think he will do that again.” Marko also insisted the team had been helpless to intervene during the race to stop Vettel disobeying the order to stay behind Webber. “We told Sebastian to hold his position because we didn’t know what the tyre situation was and both drivers need to bring home a good finish for the team,” Marko said. “But then came the attack against that strategy and it got out of control. You couldn’t control it over radio or anything like that. Sebastian the racer came out and took the lead.” Team principal Christian Horner revealed Vettel apologised to the whole Red Bull factory this week. “He’s said he can’t turn back the clock but he’s accepted what he did was wrong,” Horner said. “He’s apologised to the team and to every single member of staff for his actions, because he recognises the team is vitally important and being part of the team is a crucial aspect to being able to challenge for those championships.” (BBC Sport)
(Reuters) - “Blade Runner” Oscar Pistorius was granted permission to travel abroad on Thursday when a South African judge relaxed bail conditions imposed after the Paralympic and Olympic track star was charged with murdering his girlfriend. Judge Bert Bam said the 26-year-old, a double amputee who won worldwide fame last year when he reached the semi-finals of the 400m in the London Olympics, could have his passport back and no longer needed to report to a probation officer. The relaxation of initially tough bail conditions for Pistorius opens up the possibility that he could return to competition this year, including the IAAF World Championships in August. His agent, Peet van Zyl, said, however, it was too early to say whether Pistorius was in the right shape physically and mentally to return to the track after being charged with murder for shooting dead his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp, on Valentine’s Day. “We’re not just going to jump now and grab any opportunity to run,” van Zyl said in an interview. “It’s Oscar’s choice. He has got to be up for it. It will be his decision alone.” After his arrest, Pistorius canceled scheduled appearances in March, April and May in Australia, Brazil, the United States and Britain.
Oscar Pistorius Steenkamp’s murder stunned South Africa and the millions around the world who held Pistorius up as hero who triumphed over adversity to compete with able-bodied athletes at the highest levels of sport. Prosecutors said he committed premeditated murder when he fired four shots into a locked toilet door, hitting 29-year-old Steenkamp as she cowered on the other side. She suffered gunshot wounds to her head, hip and arm. Pistorius has said the killing was a tragic mistake and that he had mistaken Steenkamp for an intruder and opened fire in a blind panic.
Pepsi stun Ravens, assume No. 2 spot in GABA League
- Pacesetters remain undefeated
Jason Squires Pepsi Sonics stunned Ravens Tuesday night on the Burnham Basketball Court in the Division I category of the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) League to assume the No. 2 spot thus far in the ongoing competition.
Pepsi Sonics, after dropping their only game to Pacesetters, steadily improved their record to 4-1 to assume the second spot in ranking behind the unbeaten Pacesetters following their 5947 win against Ravens that had a terrible offensive meltdown. Guard, Jason Squires continued his leadership of the Pepsi team with 13 points with Earl O’ Neil scoring 12 points and Trevor Smith 11 points. Pepsi Sonics now sit behind Pacesetters (4-0) and ahead Ravens (3-1), Nets (32) and Colts (2-2) in the latest standing. Ryan Stephney scored 15
points for Ravens while Rodwell Fortune had 10 points. Ravens have been one of the top teams in Georgetown since leading the last League. The loss will set them in an uphill climb to regain the number one status in the City. Meanwhile in the first game of the night, a Division III contest, TGH Pacesetters defeated Colts 65-55 to remain unbeaten. Rayon Cummings scored 14 points, Joslyn Crawford and Tariq Cave had 11 each while Jude Weekes scored 10 point for Pacesetters. Evans Johnson led all scoring in game with 20 points for Colts.
RHTY&SC hosts 60th Annual... From page 34 Shawn Pereira, Loyydel Lewis, Arif Chan, Shailendra Shameer, Phaffiana Millington, Romario Shepherd and Shimron Hetmyer.
Foster urged the young players to be the pillars of good morals, discipline and commitment and must always strive for excellence. Butcher in brief remarks
stated that he was highly impressed with the state of cricket in his home County and was more than pleased to make contributions to the development of new and existing talents. He pledged his commitment to continue the Trust Fund while urging the awardees to pay keen attention to the importance of an educational background. Each of the 2013 awardees received a batting pad, a bat and a collection of educational materials.
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ST. LUCIA PM PAYS TRIBUTE TO DR HUNTE CASTRIES, St. Lucia - St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Dr. Kennedy Anthony has paid glowing tribute to former President of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Dr. Julian Hunte for his 33 years of unbroken service to cricket in the region. Prime Minister Anthony says as well that Dr. Hunte’s six year tenure has transformed the regional game and will guarantee its success. He noted that with decisive and visionary leadership Hunte instituted and implemented the measures and programmes necessary to first bring an end to the spiraling decline then lay the foundations for the future success of the game. ”The Region has already
begun to see tangible results and progress of the foundational work done under his leadership,” Dr. Anthony said in a statement released on Thursday. “His tenure will be recorded in history as the one which transformed the Regional game and ensured its future success consistent with the desires and expectations of our cricket loving public”. Hunte lost his bid to be WICB President for a fourth successive two year term, losing a two way fight to Jamaican Dave Cameron in general election in Barbados Wednesday. Cameron, who served as vice-president to Hunte, won 7-5 while his running mate Emmanuel Nanthan, the
::: Letter to the Sports Editor :::
Guyana’s football 2013 and beyond DEAR EDITOR,
Over the years Guyana Football Federation has been known for its Autocratic Management Style. Particular reference is made to the decision making process, in most cases decisions have been made by personnel who disregard the realities of the sport and to a large extent the players. As a player I can categorically state in my seventeen years of playing football with the National Team, I have experienced challenges. However, when Mr. Aubrey “Shanghai” Major came on board in 2003 as the Oganizing Secretary of the GFF he came with a lot of inevitable changes. Mr. Major paid attention to the players’ welfare; he took the time no one took before to listen to the cries of the players. More importantly, he used this information to make drastic changes to assist players in that regard. Finding the right management style is critical for any organization’s success and Mr. Major has proven himself, time and time again that he can find the balance to make decisions that will benefit both the organizations and the players. As I reflect a bit to 1998, Randolph Jerome, Collie
Hercules, Jermaine Scott and I were given the opportunity to enter into the realm of professional football. Mr. Major was instrumental in making sure this opportunity for us to become professional players formalize, and for that along with the above mentioned, I Charles “Lilly” Pollard support Aubrey “Shanghai” Major for President. His love of football has been demonstrated again and again through his intense level of interest in the National Team’s Program. He has diligently continued to work towards establishing the team as a competitive body not just in the region but further afield. Therefore, based on his notable work ethic, drive and most of all his passion and love for the sport, I am confident that the Presidency of the Guyana Football Federation is an ideal role for him and can only be seen as a natural progression. Guyana Football Federation at this time cannot ask for a better leader who will work religiously for the betterment of the sport in our country. Best Wishes for the good of the game Yours Truly Charles “Lilly” Pollard
Rio Olympics stadium... From page 34 that basis, I immediately decided to close the stadium until we had more details.” He said the situation was “simply not acceptable” for a stadium which opened such a short time ago, and warned that those responsible would be held to account. The stadium opened late and over budget in 2007. It has since been leased to local football club Botafogo.
Windward Islands Cricket Board chief, also defeated Barbados Cricket Association president Joel Garner, 8-4 to become VicePresident. “We salute him for his achievements and accomplishments and fearless representation of our beloved West Indies cricket on the international front and in the sometimes, hostile regional environment,” the St. Lucian Prime Minister said. “To have become the first President originating from a
small Island was a statement of his strength and to have survived six (6) years is telling of his character”. Dr. Anthony said Dr. Hunte’s selfless service to cricket in St Lucia, Windward Islands and what was then the Combined Islands is also deserving of the highest commendations and acclaim. He said Hunte served West Indies cricket, for which he has an unyielding passion and love and represented St Lucia with the utmost dignity, class and honour.
Hunte, a St. Lucian, has been credited with introducing measures to pull West Indies cricket out of a dark era. “His tenure will be recorded in history as ‘the’ one which transformed the Regional game and ensured its future success consistent with the desires and expectations of our cricket loving public,” Dr. Anthony said. “His record will be remain unmatched for a very long time.”
Dr. Kennedy Anthony
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RHTY&SC hosts 60th Annual Basil BCB honours RHTY&SC Secretary/ Butcher Development Trust Fund CEO for Outstanding Service
Cricketers receive cricket gears from Basil Butcher Cricket Development Trust Fund The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club on Saturday last hosted the 6th edition of the Basil Butcher’s Cricket Development Trust Fund. Four young cricketers drawn from the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Blairmont Community Centre Cricket Club and Tucber Park Cricket Club received $160,000 worth of cricket gear and educational material from the Trust Fund. Those receiving were Rameshwar Somwaru of Blairmont, Abdool Jaffar of Tucber Park and Denzil Sinclair and Jason Anderson of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club. Secretary/CEO of the Rose Hall Town
Youth & Sports Club Hilbert Foster at the presentation stated that the Basil Butcher Cricket Development Trust Fund was established by the former Guyana and West Indies batting star as part of his contribution to the development of the game in the Ancient County. Cricket, Foster stated had played a major role in the life of Basil Butcher and the veteran of 44 test matches was determined to assist others to fulfill their cricketing ambitions. Over the years, Butcher has invested over a million dollars to assist young players and among those benefitting were national youth players (Continued on page 32)
The Berbice Cricket Board in a surprise presentation at its Sixth Annual Awards Ceremony on Saturday last honoured Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club/CEO Hilbert Foster for outstanding service to Berbice cricket in his capacity as Chairman of the Special Events Committee. The Board presented Foster with a plaque recognising his contribution to Berbice cricket over the five years. First Vice President Anil Beharry stated that since 2008 Foster has single handily spearheaded the efforts of the BCB and under his leadership of the Special Events Committee, the Board has successfully transformed itself from being a mere cricketing organisation into a dynamic Non Governmental Organisation. Since 2008 the Special Events Committee has completed over 500 off the field programmes/activities including a record breaking 175 in 2012. The Special Events Committee has introduced a series of historic programmes including the Annual Magazine, Annual Cricket Academy, Awards Ceremony, Elite Training Programme, Hall of Fame, All Time Cricket Teams and Tribute to Heroes among
BCB Special Events Chairman Hilbert Foster receives plaque from BCB Secretary dozens of others. The Committee has also raise over $15M in sponsorship for the Board over the years in both cash and kind. In an invited comment, Foster stated that he was honoured to be recognised by the BCB but noted that his service to Berbice cricket is based on his love for the game and a strong desire to assist youths. He praised the work and support he receives from his elder brother Keith who is the President of the Berbice Cricket Board, First Vice
President Anil Beharry, Secretary Angela Haniff and veteran cricket administrator Carl Moore who he describes as his mentor in cricket administration. Foster also expressed thanks to his wife Sylvia and his daughter Marissa for their support of his work. The veteran cricket Administrator at the BCB Awards Ceremony announced that he will be stepping down from the Board at the end of the current term next December to concentrate on his duties at the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club.
Rio Olympics stadium closed due to roof problems
A stadium in Brazil that was due to host athletics at the 2016 Olympics has been closed indefinitely because of structural problems with its roof. The Joao Havelange stadium in Rio de Janeiro was built only six years ago. It was also being used as the main football venue in Rio, while the city’s Maracana stadium is being renovated for next year’s World Cup. It
is an embarrassment for Brazil as it prepares for its two huge sporting events, say correspondents. The authorities have also acknowledged delays in work on the Maracana and a funding problem at another stadium, which is set to host the opening match at the World Cup. ‘Not acceptable’ Rio Mayor Eduardo Paes
told a news conference on Tuesday that he had been told about the structural problems at the stadium locally referred to as the Engenhao - earlier the same day. “I asked if this represented a risk for spectators and they told me it did, depending on the wind speed and temperature. “On (Continued on page 33)
Friday March 29, 2013
Kaieteur News
All systems in place as preparation continue for GFF election of office bearers As preparations for the elections of office bearers of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), scheduled for April 12, gathers momentum, the Electoral Committee comprising of Attorneys-at law, Emily Dodson (Chairperson), Mark Waldron (Vice-Chair) and Stephen Lewis yesterday afternoon confirmed the list of candidates that will be contesting for the various positions. The revelation came minutes after an in house meeting with those candidates, the Electoral Committee and General Secretary of the GFF, Noel Adonis, at the Dadanawa Street, Section K Campbellville office of the ruling football body. Some of the positions are for two year terms while others would be for four years. The Presidential aspirants are Aubrey Major, Christopher Matthias, Ivan Persaud and Alfred King while those seeking Vice President posts (2 year term) are Jermaine Figueria, Arron Fraser, Charles Greaves, Keith O’Jeer and Ivan Persaud. Five persons are
contesting the post for Executive Committee membership for a two year term including Vanessa Dickenson, Jermaine Figueria, Eton Moses, Keith O’Jeer and Mark Phillips while eight are contesting the position of Vice President for 4 years terms including Rawle Adams, Jermaine Figueria, Collie Hercules Raulston Adams, Dwayne Lovell, Keith O’Jeer, Akram Sabree and Jevon Rodrigues. Aspirants for the position of Executive Committee members for a 4 years term are Troy Cadogan, Jermaine Figueria, Eton Moses and Keith O’Jeer. Meanwhile, Ms. Dodson revealed that eligibility issues between the Berbice Football Association and the Women’s Football Association (WFA) has been resolved. She said that both bodies have until the day prior to the Congress to meet the stipulations. Once they satisfy the outlined prerequisites they will be eligible to cast their votes. Otherwise they may only be permitted to attend the congress but would be debarred from voting.
Miami Heat beaten by Chicago Bulls to miss NBA winning record LeBron James
Miami Heat have fallen six short of the NBA record 33game winning streak after losing to the Chicago Bulls. Miami’s 27-game streak ended, missing the record held by the 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers. Heat’s LeBron James, the NBA’s most valuable player, said there was no shame in falling short of the record. The 28-year-old said Miami’s streak was “one of the best this league has ever seen”. The 2012 Olympic gold medallist scored 32 points in the game, but could do little to stop Heat’s 101-97 loss in Chicago. Miami player Chris Bosh, 29, insisted the record was “more important to everybody else than it was to us”. Miami’s last loss was on February 1st against the Indiana Pacers. Briton Luol Deng scored 28 points for the Bulls. (BBC Sport)
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Alpha United President suggests power sharing format on verge of GFF elections
Odinga Lumumba When the football fraternity convenes for the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and election of office bearers on April 12 next, though only one individual could ascend to the prestigious Presidential seat, four aspirants, all with grandiose plans and objectives, would be optimistic that the electorate would peruse their respective manifestoes and subsequently bequeath them with the requisite mandate to take the sport to another (positive) level. Those four individuals are Christopher Matthias, Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major, Alfred King and Ivan Persaud and each of them would have qualified after being nominated and then seconded by affiliated clubs. It means that regardless of who clinches the top spot, the administrative input of the others can still be an asset to future developmental plans. President of the Alpha Football Club, Odinga Lumumba, shares this view and said that unless there is a genuine, concerted and unified effort by all the aspirants to foster
developmental changes, football will continue to wallow in mediocrity irrespective of who clinches the Presidential seat. The Alpha United President analyzed the current situation during an exclusive interview with Kaieteur Sport and attempted a forensic analysis of the impending elections and the concomitant results. He said that the incoming President must be prepared to assess the situation and accept the cold hard fact that of all the other football nations, Guyana ranks among the worst in terms of organization and administration of the sport and have a poor track record at international competitions. The Alpha boss also feels that all four aspirants possess traits that, once applied, could rectify this anomaly and aid in the advancement of the sport and change the fortunes of local ball weavers. Lumumba also examined the individual prospects and their possible inputs and said that while King’s integrity is impeccable, he lacks the requisite leadership abilities. In contrast to this view, King has been at the helm of the Referee’s Association and his leadership skills have influenced another term when that group hosted elections recently. “I am aware of that,” said Lumumba, “However, leadership of a small group pales in comparison to what is needed at the level of the GFF,” he asserts. Furthermore, Lumumba is adamant that the new President must be able
to attract the type of corporate support to facilitate a majestic international take off of the sport and he is not certain King has that ability. Lumumba also extends the view that Mathias stands a great chance of clinching the post. “He has football development in his heart and has demonstrated great leadership skills,” affirmed Lumumba. However, amidst such glowing traits, Lumumba feels that Matthias can be intolerant of contrasting perspectives and differing views. Lumumba touted Major as a great organizer with remarkable fund raising ability. He feels that such skill could be an asset to the top office considering the challenges experienced by the sport. “His biggest challenge will be to relinquish all associations with the Kashif and Shanghai football organization so that he could function impartially,” opined Lumumba. Earlier, Mr. Major had conformed to such principles after admitting that there will be overtures of conflict of interest. “Major must strive to resolve the bothering issues between the K&S organization and the Georgetown Football Association (GFA),” said Lumumba. He said that Persaud is a decent individual with unquestionable integrity. The Alpha boss also lauded Persaud’s vast knowledge of the sport while pointing out that he rises above his competitors in this department. He however, admits that such traits might be inadequate to secure the
presidency. “Yes, he has a tremendous résumé and has had a lot of exposure to the game both nationally and internationally but I am not certain whether he has been able to convince the electorate that he is the man for the job,” posits Lumumba. Lumumba further said that while he cannot vouch for Persaud’s ability to foster unity in the football fraternity nor can he support the view that this aspirant has shrewd fund raising ability, his elevation would be regarded as a breath of fresh air. Notwithstanding, his evaluations, Lumumba is adamant that the answer to the leadership issue rests in the aspirants’ ability to come together as a unit for the good of the game. “To my mind, despite their individual expertise, none of the aspirants possess all of the necessary traits and skills to foster the kind of development necessary for the advancement of the sport,” posits Lumumba. He admits that the statutes are not conducive to a shared governance model but said that all four aspirants could convene, arrive at a general consensus on a division of labour structure that enables all to have an input in the progression of the sport. “These are four good men, all with football development deep in their hearts; fundamentally, none is stronger than the other but a unified force could facilitate a smooth transition process, eliminate controversy and restore the integrity of the game,” explains Lumumba.
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Kaieteur News
Friday March 29, 2013
Friday March 29, 2013
Kaieteur News
Page 37
Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition - Batson’s hat-trick leads Classic Six past Blue Berry Hill Mano Batson lashed in a hat-trick of goals to lead Classic Six to an impressive 3-0 win over Blue Berry Hill on the second night of action as the Linden segment of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition continued on Wednesday evening, at the Amelia’s Ward Hardcourt. By virtue of his outstanding performance, Batson is now the leading scorer in the competition to date. In the night’s opener, $100 Cars edged Alikyu 1-0 thanks to a solitary strike off the boots of Eze Percival in the 11th minute. The next encounter saw Constab Fullham and the Amazings play to a 1-1 stalemate with Steffon Pearson (15th) and Floyd Headley (8th) the respective scorers. The third game of the night was the Batson show as he fired in his treble in the 1st, 2nd and 18th minute in a one-man demolition of Blue Berry Hill. Ryan Noel’s 3rd minute effort was the lone goal scored in the contest between Retrieve Unknowns and Ripping Bullets which the former won. One Mile / Half Mile then squeezed past Scheme 3-2 in a thrilling encounter. They were led to victory through goals from Shaun Henry, who netted a brace in the 13th and 18th minute, while Andray Chester added the other in the 16th. Andrew Breedy (7th) and Marlon James (17th) were the players on target for Scheme. In the final game of the evening, TLS Shipping eased past Rough & Rugged 2-0 thanks to strikes from Shaun Daniels (12th) and Carlos Grant (14th). The tournament continues tomorrow with eight more matches at the Wisroc / Amelia’s Ward Bus Park. In the fixtures: Exodus takes on Constab; Pokerburg clashes with Blue Berry Hill; High Stars engages Street Vybz; Wisroc tackles Scheme; Team 25 go up against Rippng Bullets; Top Class do battle with Eldorado; TLC Russians square off against South Stars and HardKnocks and Trainline Warriors bring down the curtains for the night. Starting time is 18:00 hrs.
Part of the action in the Linden segment of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition.
Andy Murray through to Sony Maria Sharapova beats Jelena Open semi-final in Miami Jankovic to reach Sony Open final
Andy Murray Andy Murray advanced to the semi-finals of the Sony Open in Miami with a straightsets victory over Marin Cilic. Murray, 25, lost his opening service game to the Croat but fought back to take the opening set 6-4 before impressively winning the second 6-3. The Scot, who is the highest seed left in the tournament, Tommy Haas will take on David Ferrer in the other semi-final. Murray, who won the Miami title in 2009 and lost to Novak Djokovic in last year’s final,
will overtake Roger Federer to go second in the world rankings if he is victorious at the Florida tournament. The US Open champion was far from clinical, though, taking only six of the 18 break points he created. But he had enough to see off an opponent who made 37 unforced errors (compared to Murray’s 20) in an encounter that lasted one hour and 42 minutes. The Scot allowed four break points to slip away in the opening game before his 24-yearold opponent finally held serve. Cilic stepped it up in the second game to break and lead 2-0 before Murray hit back immediately. Both players continued to struggle on their own serve and two more breaks followed, leaving the set effectively on serve at 3-2 to Cilic. At 4-4, Murray broke decisively and managed to serve out the set before again getting the better of Cilic’s serve in the opening game of the second. The British number one had to battle for more than 15 minutes as he held for a 3-1 lead and the pair traded breaks to reach 5-3, with Cilic serving to stay in the match. As in the first game 90 minutes previously, Murray squandered a 0-40 lead as his opponent forced his way back to deuce. Three more match points came and went before Murray finally got over the line.
RHTY&SC dedicates BCB Club of the Year Award to its Patron and official sponsors On Saturday last during a gala and impressive Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) 6th Annual Awards Ceremony, Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) received for the fifth time, the prestigious Club of the Year Award. The Club received the award in recognition of its continued domination of Berbice at all levels, its ongoing cricket development programmes and its unmatched list of activities.
Secretary/CEO, Hilbert Foster expressed delight at copping the Club of the Year Award and has dedicated the award to the club’s Patron Ms. Beverly Harper and the official sponsors of the club. The success of the RHTY&SC over the years, Foster noted has been due to the support of it’s official sponsors; GT&T, Bakewell, Metro, Farfan and Mendes Ltd., DDL/Pepsi, Gizmos and Gadget and Food for the Poor.
Maria Sharapova reached the final of the Sony Open with a 6-2 6-1 win over Serbia’s Jelena Jankovic in Miami. The Russian, ranked second in the world, has never won the tournament despite reaching the final four times. “It would mean so much. I absolutely love this city. It is the first city I landed in when I came to the United States as a little girl,” she said. Sharapova, 25, will play either Serena Williams or defending champion Agnieszka Radwanska in the final. Sharapova, who won at Indian Wells earlier this month, broke 22nd seed Jankovic’s serve six times and made only 10 unforced errors. It was a fine response after struggling to a 7-5 7-5 win over Italy’s Sara Errani in the quarter-finals. “I just really thought I needed to step it up from my last match and play a little better,” said the four-time Grand Slam champion. “I was really happy with the way I focused.”
Maria Sharapova
t r o Sp
Chelsea Edghill (centre) symbolically receives her sponsorship cheque from Corporate Secretary at Continental Group, Percival Boyce Jr.,while GTTA President Godfrey Munroe (left) and other stakeholders share the moment. By Edison Jefford and hopes that the arrangement will be Leadership remains by example, which is mutually fulfilling for all stakeholders. what Continental Group of Companies President of the Guyana Table Tennis showed when it fully endorsed the prowess of Association (GTTA), Godfrey Munroe, who table tennis phenom, Chelsea Edghill has had to get the association up and running yesterday at its Ruimveldt location in a from scratch, indicated that they are enthused welcomed long-term deal. with the interest of Continental Group in one Corporate Secretary of the Group, of the sport’s elite athletes in the region. Percival Boyce Jr., announced the company’s “Chelsea represents one of those athletes pleasure to have Edghill as one of its brand who are good for the sport. We have had a ambassadors. The long-term sponsorship relationship with Continental before and we arrangement was facilitated under Continental are happy to see it rekindled in this way. We’re Foods Inc., distributers of Sunburst juices. especially happy with the long-term “We are pleased to work with Edghill arrangement,” Munroe noted. initially to get her to Trinidad, and we are The GTTA head thanked the Group for looking forward to continue to work with Ms. their corporate leadership, adding that more Edghill through 2014 as she prepares for the companies ought to follow their lead. In Olympics. response, Edghill, who is a fourth form We will be giving Edghill all the support student at the Bishops High School and a she needs to ensure her success,” Boyce said. product of Malteenoes Club where Idi Lewis The Continental Group of Companies under is Coach, also thanked the company for the Sunburst brand is known for its local expressing interest in her career. support for sport, especially motor racing “I am very grateful that there is a major where it had endorsed former superbike sponsor interested in my well-being,” Chelsea champion, Canadian Kevin Graham and said in a brief comment. Chelsea has been a Guyana and Caribbean superbike champion, consistent international performer for Guyana Stephen Vieira. in table tennis at several tournaments Edghill is the latest addition to the internationally, including the ultra tough Latin company’s profile of exceptional athletes to American Circuit. She will be looking to benefit from its corporate benevolence. Boyce continue her dominance next week at the reminded all that they are very proud to do so, Caribbean Championships in Trinidad. Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210