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Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 2426 guyanatimesgy.com

March 8, 2015

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Since demitting office 3 years ago...

Jagdeo focused on global challenges By Janelle Persaud

“I spent the last three years trying to renew myself, refresh a lot of my ideas and try to get new ideas, and to engage in a few areas I thought were critical in the evolution of a better world, that I feel I could make an input in and that may be critical for Guyana, as we chart our way forward,” he said. See full story on page three.

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Porter P7 dies after falling out of tractor tray P9 Police wives host outreach at Pouderoyen

International Women’s Day…

Jagdeo says Caricom P11 not doing enough to fight climate change

Survivors of domestic violence to be honoured today

... missing opportunities to tap into funding

Albouystown man found with gun, ammo P15

Some representatives of the Caribbean American Domestic Violence Awareness Inc (CADVA) following their announcement that 100 Guyanese women who were victims of domestic violence would be honoured today

“Vote like a Boss” Cancer victim passes funded, pushed by USAID-IRI on after final ...GNYC a bogus organisation wish granted – Youth Ministry Page 7

Page 7

Repairs to Vreed-enHoop Stelling an “imminent activity” P15

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

NEWS

sunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Sunday, March 8 – 05:30h-07:00h Monday, March 9 – 05:00h-06:30h

Jagdeo focused on global challenges

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Sunday, March 8 – 05:45h-07:15h Monday, March 9 – 06:10h-07:40h

By Janelle Persaud

FERRY SCHEDULE Parika and Supenaam departure 06:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY

Heavy rain showers can be expected in the morning and into the late afternoon, with clear skies in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius. Winds: East North-easterly between 4.47 metres and 5.36 metres per second. High Tide: 05:57h and 18:16h reaching maximum heights of 2.71 metres and 2.70 metres respectively. Low Tide: 11:50h reaching a minimum height of 0.48 metre.

saturday, MARCH 7, 2015

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ormer President of Guyana Bharrat Jagdeo has dismissed accusations he has had a controlling hand in the affairs of the state since leaving office in 2011, saying he has instead been focused on global challenges facing developing countries, like Guyana. “I spent the last three years trying to renew myself, refresh a lot of my ideas and try to get new ideas, and to engage in a few areas I thought were critical in the evolution of a better world, that I feel I could make an input in and that may be critical for Guyana, as we chart our way forward,” he said. In 2011, Jagdeo was one of several Heads of State and other leaders from the world’s rainforest countries who were asked him to be Roving Ambassadors for the Three Basins Amazon, Congo Basin and South East Asia. He explained that while this initiative was aimed at, among other things, ensuring climate friendly growth, it did not yield the desired outcome, and leaders continue to work to come up with solutions. Jagdeo was the first President of the Assembly of the Korea-based Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), an international organization dedicated to supporting and promoting strong, inclusive and sustainable economic growth in developing countries and emerging economies. Established in 2012, at the Rio+20 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, GGGI is accelerating the transition toward a new model of economic growth – green growth – founded on principles of social inclusivity and environmental sustainability. “Much of the work I have done there has been in countries advocating Governments to think through their issues, because in many countries

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

they have not done that, they treat this as an exogenous thing, that its outside of their control, and it doesn’t affect them, and in fact it is the biggest development challenge,” he said. Unlike conventional development models that rely on the unsustainable depletion and destruction of natural resources, green growth is a coordinated advancement of economic growth, environmental sustainability, poverty reduction and social inclusion driven by the sustainable development and use of global resources – much like Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), for which Jagdeo was the architect. Similar work to ensure policies are tailor-made for developing countries was undertaken by him with the world’s largest and oldest environmental organisation, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This built capacity for countries in their negotiations with donors at international

fora. In June 2013, Jagdeo led a high-level team of experts to identify solutions for unlocking resources to enable small, poor and climatevulnerable Commonwealth countries to combat climate change. He was joined by eight others to create a set of recommendations for the international community to help identify practical solutions for those countries most vulnerable to climate change. Jagdeo presented the report to the 53 Heads of Government and other leaders of the Commonwealth, representing about a fifth of the world’s population. During his final term as President, Jagdeo became an international advocate for climate change, which was the bedrock of his work in green growth and sustainable development. For him, this process was self replenishing. Since demitting office, Jagdeo said he "did stay involved as a member of the PPP/C [People's Progressive Party/Civic] conceptually, offering support”. Speaking to Guyana Times in his first local interview after demitting office, he said he has been no "puppet master". “The feeling has been that somehow I’ve been pulling people’s strings behind the scenes and that is far from the truth,” he noted, while explaining that his role was more of an advisory one. Jagdeo, who has been relatively silent, said the position was a deliberate one, thereby allowing the new Government and President Donald Ramotar the space

to create their own vision and policies. According to him, the idea was to avoid duality in the press. Jagdeo, however, assured that he made contributions behind the scenes when necessary. “I’m still a member of the PPP/C, its leadership - so I did share my views on many topical issues in Guyana over the past three years and, from time to time, when the President asked me to, I would. "I have been involved in very discreet ways on specific issues, like if there is a project that needs moving or advice, I made myself available,” he explained. The former President also played a role in budget discussions when needed. “I wondered myself many times in the past whether I could have stayed quiet,” he admitted. “I did in spite of some of the vilest criticisms of me which I saw, but did not respond to, and a lot of mischaracterization of my Government and its policies, its orientation and my vision, many of the projects I initiated and again I stayed quiet on those issues.” With all the work he has been doing, Jagdeo, who was one of the world’s youngest Presidents, said he is not yet able to enjoy his supposed "freedom". “I said I wanted to spend time for myself, to get a lot of time and not do much; unfortunately that hasn’t happened as yet. "So I’m still waiting… I’m still to go in to full retirement in the future,” added Jagdeo.

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SunDAY, march 8, 2015

Views

Sunday Editor: Michael Younge Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Agenda for women T

wenty years ago, 189 countries of the world, met in Beijing under the auspices of the United Nations (UN) and crafted a most comprehensive analytical and normative report on women. Dubbed the "Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action", it forms the centrepiece around which International Women's Day 2015 will be commemorated. It is only fair that we consider what progress has been made, since history has shown us that all too often in confronting challenges to the status quo, those in positions of power all too frequently form commissions, issue reports and calls for action and that is where the matter ends. There were 12 areas identified for specific actions: Women and Poverty; Education and Training of Women; Women and Health; Violence against Women; Women and Armed Conflict; Women and the Economy; Women in Power and Decisionmaking; Institutional Mechanism for the Advancement of Women; Human Rights of Women;Women and the Media; Women and the Environment; and The Girl-child. We would all agree that this is a very exhaustive list. Receiving reports of action taken since 1995 from 166 countries including Guyana, the UN concluded today: "Twenty years on from the commitments made in Beijing, no country has achieved gender equality. The analysis of these reports shows that progress has been unacceptably slow, with stagnation and even regression in some cases. Progress has been particularly slow for women and girls who experience multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination." The finding that "violence against women and girls persists in all countries and in many forms" would certainly resonate in Guyana. Here, violence against women and girls has not only "persisted" but going by both anecdotal and investigative evidence, has actually increased. While there has been heightened publicity on the issue, creating enhanced awareness of the challenges, it is clear that violence against females emanates from deeply ingrained structural factors rooted in our historically patriarchal society. Change will only come when the last vestiges of viewing females as the "property" of males is extirpated from our society. The elimination of violence against women, then, is not only a matter of passing laws - it demands changing economic and other structures that "keep women in their place". The UN evaluation report agrees: "There is a need to change discriminatory social norms, stereotypes and practices that are holding back progress. This requires an investment in long term interventions and campaigns to change attitudes and behaviours, including on male responsibility for unpaid care work and for challenging discrimination and violence." Changing societal views on the value of "care work" in and out of the home, which is usually performed by women, may be helped by men taking more responsibility for it, but ultimately will depend on women achieving equality in the work place. "Care work" should come down to being a matter of "opportunity costs" - when the female or male may or may not decide to forego the lesser salary to perform it. Women then, must be empowered by the state, which should insist on not only equal access to training and education but equal pay for equal work. This goal in turn will depend on the overall economy growing and being structured to accommodate this necessary influx of women. The UN programme for action advises: "Macroeconomic policy should be reoriented to increase State investments in infrastructure, social services and social protection measures to ensure that women and girls can live a life with dignity. Macroeconomic policies should also support the generation of decent work for women and men and ensure women can enjoy their full range of rights at work." Much of what is needed to create a society where women are equal to men depends of the growth of the economy. In Guyana, the PPP/C Government has produced continuous growth from the last decade. This rising tide has lifted the ships of women and abatement must not be risked.

(Top) President Donald Ramotar and Education Minister Priya Manickchand greet patrons and (bottom) Housing Minister Irfaan Ali and People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper assist with packing bags at the massive barbecue and family funday held on Saturday at the Everest Cricket Club, attended by thousands of patrons (Carl Croker photo)

Guyana is now an economy where multinational companies invest Dear Editor, Over the past years, we have seen an influx of high profile investors, coming to Guyana, and along with local investors, make significant investments in our country. This is representative of the growing confidence in Guyana, as an investment environment, something that simply was not there 23 years ago. It is part of the PPP/Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream to make Guyana a more marketable and suitable environment for foreign investors. I would like to highlight some of the works that the PPP/C did, so as to produce this very comfortable environment for investors. One of the conditions that have to be in place, in order to attract investors, is a climate of political stability and peace. Guyana, over the years, made significant strides in achieving political stability and peace. Years ago opposition supporters, led by leaders of the opposition, would protest in the streets of Georgetown, uprooting, looting, blocking roadways and intimidating onlookers and investors. Over the years, Guyana has become

a more tolerant society and this created a hospitable climate for investors. There are now various pieces of legislations that support legal protection and procedures for doing business in Guyana. This has definitely aided in the attraction of investors into our country. The fact that investors are legally protected boosts their confidence. Over the last 23 years, Guyana has seen a massive improvement in social infrastructure. There are better roads, bridges, access to potable water and much more reliable electricity. The social infrastructure of the country has seen massive improvement. Paved roads now open up vast areas of lands. Access to communities is at its peak in Guyana. Gone are the days when blackouts used to last for days. Better access, electricity and water mean that investors are better able to get their goods and services to the markets. The infrastructure needed for investment simply was not there 23 years ago. Government also offers generous tax holidays to in-

vestors. Duty free concessions are given to investors, and these significantly reduce overhead costs. Lower overhead costs mean an overall lower cost of production. This makes the prices of locally produced goods competitive with those produced overseas. Competitive prices make the products available to more buyers; hence the investors are more confident of their product competing. The economic performance of Guyana, especially over the past nine years, has sent positive signs as well. The country has seen nine years of continuous growth and is currently the fastest growing country in the Caribbean. Inflation rates have also been kept to single digits. Guyana has achieved this amid a global financial collapse and is expected to grow further in the coming years. Guyana is on its way to universal secondary education. Guyanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workforce has matured and this has made it easier for companies to come and invest. An educated workforce means that skills are available lo-

cally, and investors will not have to import talent from overseas. This is especially true for the numerous call centers that we have seen popping up over the years. Qualfon and Clear Connect employ thousands of young Guyanese. They have both given positive reviews of their Guyanese staff. Guyana has shown continuous upward momentum under the PPP/C. We have made this possible through better education, better infrastructure, better legislations, more hospitable social and political climate and better tax holidays. With projects like a deep water harbour, CJIA expansion, highway expansions and hydropower, Guyana can only climb further up. Over the past 23 years, we have seen tremendous growth and positive change. Guyana is now an economy where multinational companies, like ExxonMobil and Marriot, invest. What can we expect next? Google? Samsung? Davendra Kissoon

NEWS

sunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Rigged elections – Part 3 (1980 and 1985)

Terror was unleashed in the land, homes burnt with people inside

NC’S rigging of the 1968 elections was described by Randolph Cheeks, a Minister in the PNC – UF coalition Government of 1964 -1968 as follows: “Fraud is a mild word to describe the motions which Guyana went through on December 16 1968. The scandal of the overseas votes, the prodigious list of electors at home who will never be found but who voted by proxy, the host of bona fide voters who were denied ballot boxes on the grounds that they were already voted, the insertion of spurious ballot papers into the ballot boxes, the denial of ballot papers to overseas voters known to be opponents of the ruling PNC party, the placing of party activist in control of every aspect of registration and election…these are only part of the irregularities imposed on this country in what is wrongly called an election” ‘The Army Intervention in the 1973 Elections in Guyana’ by Janet Jagan chronicled the rigging of this election. “In 1968, the PNC used extensive fraud to remain in office. In 1973 when the people understood and were prepared to block fraud, the PNC used force.” The Catholic Standard commented on elections under the headline ‘Fairy Tale

Elections’ said the “July 16th elections result to say the least put a severe strain on one’s credibility. No one believes it.” The three opposition parties The People’s Progressive

evidence of massive irregularities including the seizure, impounding and tampering of ballot boxes, all of which were calculated to ensure that elections were neither fair nor free.” The 1980 elections were classified ‘Elections crooked as barbed wire’ in a memorandum of the Patriotic Coalition Democracy (PCD). Lord Avebury of the 1980 International Observer Team wrote of the 1980 elections as follows: * They were a clumsily managed and a blatant fraud designed to perpetuate the rule of the People’s National Congress * Like voracious caiman the People’s National Congress has crushed the institutions of democracy in Guyana * PNC thugs attacked those attending the opposition meetings, sometimes with the Police standing by doing nothing * The charged room in Brickdam Police Station in Central Georgetown had 17 PNC posters in it at one stage in the campaign

The fighting spirit was not diminished

Party, The Liberator Party and The People’s Democratic Party, in a joint statement on July 21st, 1973 that they “categorically reject the results of the elections held on July 06th. What has been witnessed was not a General Election but intervention by the army and police to enable the PNC to usurp power by fraud. There is the clearest

* Copies of the Official Gazette containing vital elections information were as rare as snow in Trinidad * The PNC distributed a Niagara of literature, the cost of which must have vastly exceeded the legal limit

conducted military maneuvers, stopped and harassed pedestrians and motorist during the last few days of the campaign * We received considerable evidence that voters in many instances have been intimi-

nel who prevented accredited officials of the opposition sometimes by force or threat of force from accompanying or following the boxes. Military personnel refused accredited representative of opposition parties access to the count at

People were concerned about the rise in the price of certain essential goods. The retail price of rice, for example, rose by 224 percent in the first two months after devaluation and that of cooking gas rose by 244 per cent.

* The Guyana Defense Force occupied police stations,

dated and physically prevented from voting for opposition parties * The forcible expulsion of opposition agents from all places where ballot boxes were held and the long delay in announcing the count undermine the credibility of the counting process * We found polling stations in the private residences of PNC activists and in one case of a PNC candidate, others were in a Police Station at least one with an armed guard and a locked gate The Avebury Commission reports that “the military presence in some areas was intimidating. The boxes were collected by military person-

gun point in some cases.” The PNC in the December 15th, 1980 election repeated the fraud that it had perpetuated in the July 16th, 1973 election. There was a massive disenfranchisement of 111,500 voters from the preliminary list of voters. These were voters that were mainly from PPP strongholds. As in 1973 the army was called out to be part of this massive rigging of yet again another election, thus the ruling party once again resorted to the use of the army to take over the ballot boxes. The PPP General Secretary, Dr. CheddiJagan described the December 15th, 1980 elections as a virtual army coup.

SunDAY, march 8, 2015

Page

Foundation International Women’s Day “Whatever women do they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult” ― Charlotte Whitton

Anu Dev

oday, March 8, is International Women’s Day, commemorated under the theme, “Make it happen”. And though respect for women has come a long way from the days when women were confined to only domestic duties, it’s still proof that we still have a long way to go if there still needs to be a massive global event to remind the world of the achievements of the women in society. Not to mention the need to treat them equally. Twenty years after its adoption by the UN at the end of the Fourth World Conference on Women on September 15, 1995, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action remains the most comprehensive international blueprint for advancing women’s human rights. The Platform for Action is an agenda for women's empowerment. As part of the 20th an-

guyanatimesgy.com

niversary of the Beijing Platform for Action, UN Women undertook a global review and appraisal of implementation. Twenty years on from the commitments made in Beijing, no country has achieved gender equality. Queen’s College, the premier Secondary School in Guyana, has a population of mostly girls. We out-performed the boys at Common Entrance, or NGSA, to earn places at QC. And then went on to excel there. But even after all of that, when we’re done with school and ready to have jobs, we’ll be working in a ‘man’s world’ - a world where women are still not paid equally to that of their male counterparts. A world where women have to work doubly hard: first do their job, and simultaneously work to prove to the doubters that they’re good enough to deserve to be where they are. We’ve come a long way, yes. Women can vote now. Women attend college. There are female doctors, astrophysicists, astronauts. But we still have a ways to go. The feminists of the 1960s and 1970s era made great strides towards shifting society’s attitude in the direction of women’s equal-

ity. But unfortunately, now, years later, when many of the big battles have already been won by the feminists of old, younger women take some of the rights that they have now for granted.

They truly believe that they owe nothing to feminism and they don't have to continue the struggle. And we’ve begun to backslide. On TV, in movies, on social networking sites, there’s just so much exposure, so many females dressing ‘provocatively’. I mean sure, you can wear whatever you like, that’s the point, equal rights and all of that. But why do they choose those particular pieces of clothes? Mostly to appeal to males? So the "male gaze" still dictates what females wear, or in most cases, not wear. And what we strive to

be.

Women might have the right to vote. They might be elected President. But how many are? Why? They might make brilliant discoveries, like Marie Curie, the only double winner in the Nobel Prizes. But what women really need, and what all the battles have essentially been all about, is respect. Women need to be respected. They deserve to be respected. But first, they need to start respecting themselves. Dress however you like, you have that freedom, but always think about your reasons for dressing the way you do. Because in the long run, respect is worth a whole lot more than a couple of opportunities to wear skimpy clothes. We have to be seen as more than ‘meat’. This is not trivial because it defines much of our orientation in other aspects of life. So until women are accepted for the great things that they do every day, until they are respected every day, until they participate equally in the economy we need to march in the streets for International Women’s Day. Women deserve more than one day of the year to be appreciated, so let’s remind the world every other day of the year.

Presidents Ramotar, Obama recognise women who fought for democracy

resident Donald Ramotar in his message to the nation on International Women’s Day recognised and saluted those women who vigorously contributed to the development of Guyana. “Few countries in the world can boast of a former female President, Vice President, Chief Justice and a Chancellor of the Judiciary, and first female Judge at the Caribbean Court of Justice. ?Our nation has a rich history of strong women, who have helped shape Guyana,”

President Barack Obama

Ramotar said. He reflected on the tragic killing of Kowsilla (Alice), who met her demise while struggling for better wages. “We remember the struggle for Universal Adult Suffrage, and the women who led the fight.” He acknowledged the former President Janet Jagan, who fought for the development and empowerment of women in Guyana. “We proudly recognise the contributions of tens of thousands of Guyanese women, who are our caregivers, who make our villages safer and our families stronger.” Further, Ramotar expressed pride in his Administration’s efforts and his determined commitment in the fight for gender equality for all women in Guyana. “Asking Ambassador Elisabeth Harper to run with me and serve as Prime Minister is a testament to my continued commitment and the PPP/C’s commitment to further our efforts, at addressing issues impacting Guyana’s women.” He pointed out that the laws regarding equality for women and protection for women against violence and discrimination have been internationally recognised. The President also noted

President Donald Ramotar

that single mothers can now thrive in small businesses through the micro credit programme WOW (Women of Worth). Additionally, Ramotar said he is pleased that legal aid services are now expanded where woman all across the country can have access to justice. Moving on to education, he highlighted that women have attained gender parity in the school systems and consequently, achieved equity in their professional lives. On the topic of genderbased violence, Ramotar pledged his commitment to ensure this scourge is eradicated from society. “Under the PPP/C Government, there are strong domestic and sexual abuse laws to protect women and girls. One of the reasons that I chose Lis Harper to be my Prime Ministerial Candidate is that I believe that we need to redouble our efforts in tackling this scourge on our society.” Harper, being a victim of domestic abuse, Ramotar hopes she will be able to encourage women to speak out against domestic violence by detailing her abuse and sharing her story. In conclusion, the President said International Women’s Day is a day for celebration throughout Guyana, and a day to recognise all that women have done, to create a stronger, safer and stable Guyana. “The path to equality for all never ends, and we have travelled far up the path, but I promise, that we as a nation will never stop moving forward on that path. I am proud to celebrate International Women’s Day 2015 and the many accomplishments of the women of Guyana,” Ramotar expressed. CONTINUED on page 11

NEWS

“Vote like a Boss” funded, pushed by USAID-IRI

... GNYC a bogus organisation – Youth Ministry By Devina Samaroo

he Guyana National Youth Council (GNYC) has admitted that its projects, including the "Vote like a Boss" initiative, are being funded by USAID through its Leadership and Democracy Project (LEAD) which is executed by the International Republican Institute (IRI). The IRI is affiliated with the conservative Republican Party of the US and has been closely connected with executing programmes resulting in regime change both hemispheres. It has boasted on its web site of having helped Opposition groups in Venezuela and in Honduras, as well as North Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. Its representatives were ejected from Egypt because the Government complained of its partisan connections. Chairperson of the GNYC Board of Trustees Tiffany Daniels said in a statement that “there are some aspects of our project that USAID through its LEAD Project has agreed to fund”. This admission comes after the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) and the ruling Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had objected to the move by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to only partner with the GNYC to develop elections messages to encourage youth participation on elections day. Both of these entities have accused the GNYC of having a hidden agenda given the fact that its operations were being largely funded by the IRI-led USAID LEAD Project. The PYO in particular had noted that the GNYC could not and does not speak or operate on its behalf while questioning the credentials

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, GNYC Tiffany Daniels

of the organisation and its legitimacy. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sport will soon issue a statement highlighting its concerns about the GNYC's activities. An official, who attended a recent meeting where the matter was discussed, said the Ministry is gravely concerned about what appears to be the GNYC attempting to impersonate the National Youth Policy Steering Committee, which is a body set up by Government to oversee the formation of a youth policy for Guyana. In this regard, the GNYC was described as a "bogus" and "imposter" organisation. Despite these concerns, the GNYC and GECOM have announced that they are moving ahead with their partnership, even though Daniels has conceded that the organisation, formed only late last year does not have a properly constituted Board of Directors or a full executive structure. Moves are afoot to have the “Vote like a Boss” campaign officially launched some time this month. The stated aim of the campaign is to help propel youths to the upcoming polls and encourage them to be significantly involved in local politics.

The launch will be in the form of a training activity where young people will be given the opportunity to understand how to analyse each political party’s manifestos in order to better comprehend policy positions. It was not made clear what would be the analytic tool to be used to "analyse" the manifestos, even though this is crucial for forming the judgements that would ensue. For instance, if one were to accept the tenets of "liberalism" completely different judgements would be formed from others who accept "socialist" premises. Social science accepts that no analysis can be value neutral since all are derived from particular perspectives. Some of the other mechanisms the GNYC will be using to get their message across are advertising campaigns, photo/essay competitions, training events and elections fairs in various hubs across Guyana. They also plan to organise a National Youth Forum on the elections where leaders from all contesting parties will be invited to engage young people and answer questions they may have about each party’s policy positions. All of these activities are obviously costly and it is left to be seen as to what the total costs would be and how much of it would be covered by the USAID-IRI initiative. But a senior PYO official told this newspaper on Saturday that the fact that GNYC will be involved in those sort of activities without involving legitimate youth bodies gives credence to the its arguments and concerns. The official reiterated its condemnation of GECOM’s unilateral decision as he noted that the PYO will be monitoring the situation closely.

Cancer victim passes on after final wish granted

S-based Guyanese Christopher Robinson, who was battling cancer, took his last breath on Friday evening at a hospital in New York but not before having his last wish made a reality. Robinson had the opportunity to see his sister after some 26 years. Robinson, who was fighting a rare form of cancer had managed to live past the few months doctors had given him. The young Guyanese man after falling ill got married to his long time love on his death bed, where he begged for his last wish to be granted. His sister, Michelle Robinson was initially denied a visa to the United States of America (USA) but after an intervention by US politicians and Guyanese social activists, it was granted to her and family. Without hesitation, Fly Jamaica chipped in with the return tickets for the family so that the woman could actually visit her brother before he passed. She immediately travelled up to the US, where she was reunited with her brother whom she had not seen since childhood.

Christopher Robinson

While in the US, she spent most of her days at his bedside, praying and asking God to spare his life. Robinson fought the dreaded disease until the very end.

Porter dies after falling out of tractor tray

porter is now dead after he reportedly fell off a tractor tray as the vehicle was climbing a hill in the vicinity of Wauna Village, North West District on Friday afternoon. Devon Joseph popularly known as “Sadie”, 20, of Barabina Hill, North West District was reportedly seated in the back of the tray when he fell and hit his head. According to reports received, the vehicle had just left the Wauna Village and was heading for Coomaka when the accident oc-

curred. The vehicle, according to reports was climbing a slope around a turn, when the man reportedly slipped off the tray. From all indications, he might have suffered a broken neck and would have died on the spot. Nevertheless, he was taken to the Mabaruma Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The driver of the vehicle is in police custody assisting with investigations. The man’s mother Laurna Joseph told

Guyana Times that she was at home at about 2:30h when she received a telephone call informing her about the accident. The aggrieved mother stated that when she arrived at the hospital, she saw her son’s body covered with a white sheet drenched with blood. Joseph stated that she last saw her son on Friday morning when he left for work and was devastated when she received the news of his death. The young man leaves to mourn his parents and four siblings.

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Eyew tness Lean and hungry...

...Ramjattan

hakespeare's enduring popularity is due more to his deep understanding of human nature than anything else. In "Julius Caesar", he has the great man point out to his friend Mark Anthony, "Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look, He thinks too much; such men are dangerous." Cassius had the look of a man who'd spend too many a sleepless plotting how to seize power and what he would do with those that "stood in his way". In our present political milieu, no one comes closer to Cassius than Khemraj Ramjattan. And like Cassius he's a dangerous man. In the normal course of things, there's nothing wrong with ambition: but ambition must be tempered with concern for the greater good, no? Be afraid, as Caesar was, of men who would pull down the entire societal edifice just to satisfy their ambitions, hatreds and prejudices. A recurring motif of Ramjattan's rhetoric has been what he would do to the members of the PPP/C who he left in the Government when he jumped ship in 2005. Horrible things!! All because he was thwarted in his ambitions! He accepted the lure of US dollars and the "Big Dick" poll that predicted he and Raphael Trotman would win the 2006 elections. A fella who fell for that line proved Barnum's dictum "A sucker is born every minute". And there is no greater sucker than an ambitious sucker! In the eight years since, looking across the benches at fellas who were his "juniors" when he was in the PPP/C - but now we're big Ministers, his innate rage became uncontrollable. Former President Jagdeo was his bĂŞte noir ...who was this youngster to vault over him when he'd sucked up so long to the Jagans?? Hell hath no fury like an ambitious wanker frustrated. Like Alice's Queen of Heats, "Off with their heads!!" became his cry. Realising recently he'd become yesterday's news and "dead meat" (eeeeuu!!), he confessed his last resort was to hitch up with the PNC/APNU - something he'd sworn on his mother's grave not to do, only the month before. And he immediately started mouthing off again about the PPP/C - "he'll hang 'em high" when he becomes a Vice President. Problem is, he signed his death warrant when he swallowed not his pride (he has none) but his balls to play second fiddle to the man who says the PNC never rigged elections. Or that shooting the two Corentyne ballot box martyrs was perfectly in order. Ramjattan should worry about serving time for his own constitutional violations! Serving Badal and Fedders.

...youths

We're reminded that Jagan and Burnham were "youths" when they entered politics and shook up the old political order in the struggle for independence. But the youths in the Guyana National Youth Council (GNYC) should remember the fate of Burnham - the one who betrayed his country for 30 pieces of silver from the US and their CIA fronts. He died an international pariah - scorned by progressive forces across the world. It wasn't the PPP/C that torpedoed his chances of being honoured by South Africa. In that continent, his name is mud. This Eyewitness has no problem with USAID using the IRI to push their country's interest. The US is pretty upfront that their "aid" has to first and foremost aid the US. And the IRI's the softer, gentler CIA. Maybe these callow youths in the GNYC can't appreciate the implications of getting funding from an organisation that's pushed "regime change" in so many other countries - using "youths for democracy". But he's surprised and disappointed in GECOM's chair. E tu, Steve?

...debt reducers

So Greenidge is the point man on debt reduction for the AFC-PNC Coalition. The theory must be "he who knows it feels it". Greenidge presided over the creation of the PNC's US$2.1 billion bankrupting debt. He knows to create debt But reduce it?? Ha!!

NEWS

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Police wives host outreach at Pouderoyen a very good service to the community and I think it should be on a regular basis and all across the country. Someone’s health is their wealth.” The activity was coordinated by Superintendent of Police Maxine Graham who was happy at the success the Police Outreach

outreach in Albouystown as she disclosed plans to take this service to Berbice and throughout “C” Division. The Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), National Aids Programme Secretariat (NAPS), Vector Control and the Ministry

Princess donates TV sets to Police Force

The GRPA educating persons on healthy sexual practices

he Guyana Police Force Women’s A s s o c i a t i o n launched its first Police Outreach for the year with plans to advance this service in order to develop the communities and build better police-public relationships. The medical outreach was done in Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara and saw residents benefitting from the variety of services being offered. These included tests for diabetes, Body Mass

Index, cholesterol and eye testing as well as dentistry services. “First of all, it’s free. And people often think that it’s more for the older people but we have so many young people here, parents who bring out their children. I brought out my son. It’s a great help. The government is really helping by doing this,” Ann Mars, one of the beneficiaries told Guyana Times. Lalta Persaud, another beneficiary opined that “the medical outreach is

“Time to go forward, not backwards,” says PPP/C

he People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has stated it is time that Guyana and its people move forward and not dwell in the past as it relates to national development. According to a release from the ruling party, “It is time for us to not go backwards but it is time for us to go forward”. The party noted that this might be the only thing that it can agree with Opposition Leader, David Granger on. However the party is of the opinion that Granger needs to step out of the 1980’s and the failed politics and policies of APNU, which they referred to as they “repackaged PNC”. The PPP/C further stated that it is time also for the Opposition leader to stop holding Guyana back for his own political gain. “The PPP/C wishes to remind that instead of putting aside his own personal ambition and rolling up his sleeves to work for a better Guyana, he has virtually starved the Government; he has created an environment where drug dealers and career criminals believe they can operate with impunity and has stopped legislation that would have allowed for greater economic prosperity in the country including the Anti-Money Laundering Bill,” the ruling party highlighted. According to the PPP/C, Granger wants to take back the country to the 1980’s, a period that many remember as the “darkest period in our nation’s history”. The party

pointed out that it has spent decades removing that stain from the country’s past, noting that the Opposition Leader’s comments are his attempts to bring that stain and that darkness back to Guyana and it’s people. “We must not let that stain return. We must not let that darkness return. We must move the clock forward and not rewind it to the time when Guyana was at the bottom of every measure of human decency. He is part of a political party that engaged in extravagance through which many officials illegally enriched themselves,” the party expressed. The ruling PPP/C party went onto say it is time that “personal greed and ambitions” of the Opposition Party is no longer tolerated. The PPP/C said that every Guyanese deserve and demand that the clock, that time, continues forward not backwards. It added that this forward movement should continue under the PPP/C regime since the progress begun by the ruling party. Furthermore, the PPP/C said that it will continue moving towards the future. The party outlined that Guyana has seen the longest period of uninterrupted growth in its economy under the PPP/C leadership since this Government is focused on expanding and growing new businesses, ensuring that Guyanese are getting good and better paying jobs, paying less personal income tax, and owning their own homes for the first time in a generation.

P A doctor speaking with some of the beneficiaries about living a healthy and active lifestyle

programme has received. Graham reflected on the

of Health were some of the participating agencies.

rincess Hotel is undergoing a major transformation and is modernising as such the Luxury Hotel donated some 130 television sets to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Wednesday. General Manager of Princess Hotel, Ugur Turetgen, handed over the television sets to acting Commission of Police Seelall Persaud, who stated that they will aid the police in several projects particularly with the upcoming General and Regional Elections. He noted that the television sets will be placed in the Barrack rooms at all the Police Stations across the country.

SunDAY, march 8, 2015

guyanatimesgy.com

News

International Women’s Day:

Survivors of domestic violence to be honoured today BY VAHNU MANIKCHAND

s women are being celebrated around the world, Caribbean American Domestic Violence Awareness (CADVA) Inc in association with One Billion Rising Revolution, will be recognizing several Guyanese women who would have survived abusive relationships and also those who have been working to promote women’s empowerment. The two agencies have organized several activities to celebrate International Women’s Day, which is being observed today under the theme “Make It Happen”. These activities include a “Sister to Sister Luncheon” on Sunday at the Pegasus Hotel and a cultural event at the National Cultural Centre on Monday. At a press conference on Saturday, Programme Director of CADVA and Regional representative of the One Billion Rising Revolution organisation, Dianne Madray, disclosed that some 100 women would be honoured on Sunday at the luncheon. These women will receive a token in the form of a butterfly, which represents the metamorphosis process, that is, the transition from being a

Some of the CADVA representatives

victim to a survivor. Madray noted that these women who would be honoured are those that are the “everyday normal women” and not the accomplished ones. “We are looking at the women who are the housewife, the mother, the grandmother,” she said while adding that these have no idea that they have been nominated and will be awarded. The Programme Director further stated that along with honouring “everyday women”, CADVA will also be recognising some of the ad-

vocates of the organisation for their sterling work. Madray stated that “we as women need to create our own coalition, we need to rise higher and stronger because laws need to changed and new laws need to be enforced so that we prevent our women from dying and suffering.” While the luncheon is already fully booked for today, founder and Director of CADVA, Sukree Boodram, said through these events, they are hoping to strengthen local women.

CADVA will be conducting supportive outreaches countrywide as the organisation seeks to encourage victims of Domestic Violence to speak out. Boodram said her organisation will be conducting outreaches across Guyana to support other women who may be embarrassed to talk about their abuses. According to Boodram, a lot of focus is being placed on the community-level activities. “We will give courage hopefully to those who will be there… they can say ‘well if these people can talk about and share their stories then maybe I could’ and then they can so to their communities and encourage others,” she stated while adding that “unloading that burden of shame of being beaten, being raped, being financially abused and abused is not an easy thing”. These outreaches will commence during the course of this week in Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara). During the “Sister to Sister Circle luncheon” today, victims and survivors of domestic violence will get the opportunity to share their stories with each other. While International Women’s Day represents an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women, calls are being made internationally for greater equality for women and this year’s theme seeks to encourage an effective action for advancing and recognising women.

A humble bride

atiricus was all teary-eyed as he looked at the political marriage being consummated at the Peg. He was happy that unlike regular marriages, the two parties hadn't rented a hotel room and jumped right into bed to "get it on". GrainJa had rented a hotel room, but this one was big enough for all the invited guests to see his bride, Nagga Man. There was even a ring boy - Rum Jhaat - who was on the sidelines. But the man of the moment in Satiricus' estimation was Nagga Man. He didn't let the occasion go to his head. Even though he was dressed in his Sunday best, he still looked like a fisherman from Whim - GrainJa knew it and he knew it. His opening words when he was allowed to speak was: "This occasion humbles me." Of course he was humbled! "He has so much to be humble about," thought Satiricus. "Including his drinking problem!" Nagga Man then talked about his "grandchildren" and the future. Again Nagga Man was showing he was willing to face his problems. His grandson hadn't spoken to him since he had boasted to the entire Parliament - transmitted to the entire country on TV - that he'd screamed at the kid - "Shut yuh suh and suh mouth!!!!" The poor tot had become so traumatised he'd dropped out of school. But with Nagga Man talking about his "future" maybe he's secured some "menial wuk" for him, which only demanded he only be a "cuss bud". Nagga Man then spoke about the "split" of 1955 which destroyed "our Guyana civilisation". But Satiricus admired how Nagga Man didn't look at his soul mate GrainJa when he said this and didn't mention that it was GrainJa's mentor Burnt Ham who had created the split. "Nagga Man knows that in a marriage you have to forget some things!" thought Satiricus. Nagga Man also didn't look at GrainJa when he talked about "the restoration of electoral democracy in 1992". He coyly looked downwards like all blushing brides when remembering sensitive moments. Satiricus knew that "electoral" matters before 1992 was a sore point between GrainJa and Nagga Man. But Satiricus knew that like a good, old old fashioned bride, Nagga Man would keep his mouth shut. He so wanted to move up in the world, and remove the mud from under his nails.

news

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Jagdeo says Caricom not doing enough to fight climate change ... missing opportunities to tap into funding

ormer President Bharrat Jagdeo has described as tragic, the seeming lack of interest by the Caribbean Community (Caricom) on climate issues, noting that the Secretariat needs to be more aggressive to encourage member states. Speaking on the issue of global climate finance during an interview with Guyana Times, Jagdeo said the Region is distracted by miniscule grants and loans and have failed to grasp the bigger picture. “I find Caricom’s lack of interest on climate issues so fascinatingly tragic that we will run after small sums of money, $5 million here and there and sign up for a loan from the IMF [International Monetary Fund] or the World Bank for $10 million, and jump through 100 hoops to get to that money, and we are missing big opportunities here to raise hundreds of millions of dollars for the Caribbean for climate finance. "The Global Climate Fund just raised $10 billion do, there is a lot of bilateral resources, we are not even prepared mentally, much less physically, or through feasibility studies or national strategies. "It doesn’t even find place on the agenda for many of these countries, Jagdeo said, while pointing to the work Guyana has done to craft a Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and garner financ-

ing through a deal with Norway for US$250 million. "On the Caricom agenda, climate change is treated as a step child and the Caricom Secretariat needs

I’m no longer President, I carry a Guyana and Caricom perspective to try to keep at least the Region in the limelight and to highlight our concerns,” he said.

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo during the interview

to push the issue more because there is a large pool of money,” he noted Asked whether he would be willing to provide assistance to Caricom in this regard, Jagdeo stated, “They have my time at their disposal, anything that will be good for this Region and good for Guyana, I will dedicate my time to working on.” According to him, this commitment was made before and even without being asked, he has attempted to represent the Region’s concerns. “When I go to those international fora, although

But with the lack of political will, Jagdeo, who has held several posts with international organisations in recent years, said such representation is “becoming increasingly difficult”. “It’s not rocket science; it doesn’t call for any particular brain or lots of science. "It just requires the commitment to do so and putting in place the systems,” Jagdeo said, when asked about other challenges countries may have. He noted that once efforts have been initiated and a strategy developed, the Region can work togeth-

er to source financing. Caricom officially opened a Climate Change Centre in August 2005, to coordinate the Region’s response to the issue. The Centre is the key node for information on climate change issues and on the Region’s response to managing and adapting to climate change in the Caribbean. It is the official repository and clearing house for regional climate change data, providing climate changerelated policy advice and guidelines to the Caricom Member States through the Caricom Secretariat. In this role, the Centre is recognised by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and other international agencies as the focal point for climate change issues in the Caribbean. It has also been recognised by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) as a Centre of Excellence, one of an elite few. This reputation is a major honour for the Centre, and it should be a great source of pride for the people of the Caribbean as well. Jagdeo also noted that the Caribbean is highly susceptible to the dangers of climate change and could in extreme circumstances have its entire existence wiped out.

Presidents Ramotar, Obama recognise women... from page 6

Similarly, President of the United States of America Barrack Obama also recognised those women who helped broaden their nation’s democracy’s reach. “Through protest and activism, generations of women have appealed to the values at the heart of our nation and fought to give meaning to the idea that we are all created equal. As today’s women and girls reach for new heights, they stand on the shoulders of all those who have come before and carry forward their legacy of proud achievement.” As he called on his nation to appropriately celebrate those pioneering women, Obama encouraged them to continue to build a society where the next generations of women have the same possibilities as the men. Obama also recognised the struggles women had to endure during that fight with grit and resolve to overcome discrimination, noting that their efforts were definitely not in vain. “After decades of slow, steady, and determined progress, they have widened the circle of opportunity for women and girls across our country.” He pointed out that more women are now “their family’s main breadwinner”, half of their nation’s workers and that they are increasingly becoming among the most skilled people in the world. “More than 60 per cent of women with children under the age of five participate in the labour force. This increasing participation of

women in our workforce has bolstered our economy and strengthened our families, and it has demonstrated that the policies that benefit women and working families benefit all of us.” Obama, like Ramotar, also pledged his commitment in continuing to make his nation a better place for women to live. “I am committed to tearing down the barriers to full and equal participation in our economy and society that still exist for too many women. All women deserve equal pay for equal work and a living wage; the Congress needs to raise the minimum wage and pass a law that ensures a woman is paid the same as a man for doing the same work. I continue to call for increased workplace flexibility and access to paid leave including paid sick leave so that hardworking Americans do not have to choose between being productive employees and responsible family members.” He added that the strength of America’s economy rests on every citizen’s ability to contribute to the growth and prosperity of the country. “As a nation, we must join our voices with the chorus of history and push forward with unyielding faith to forge a more equal society for all our daughters and granddaughters, one where a woman’s potential is limited only by the size of her dreams and the power of her imagination.”

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

news

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Younge’s Take

Women

oday, Guyana joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Women’s Day under the themes, “Make It Happen” and “Empowering Women – Empowering Humanity: Picture It!” These themes are significant because of the struggles that Guyanese women have endured to have their voices heard, to be respected and to play an integral role in the overall development of our society. Guyanese women over the past three decades have also taken major steps towards removing the perception, in certain masculine quarters, that women are weak and designed to be the “help meat” only. They are continuing the fight for equality and nondiscrimination in the religious and employment spheres on the basis of their gender. In this respect, Guyana continues to lead its Caricom and South American neighours maintaining its reputation for having a large number of women involved in politics and the governance structures of our society. Coincidentally, this year another woman has decided that she will run for the Office of Prime Minister following the example set by Janet Jagan when she challenged the existing sterotypes before becoming Guyana’s first female Prime Minister and President. That aside, Guyanese women have much to celebrate as the Government continues to invest heavily in the education of girls with the aim of ensuring that they are employable and able to existing socio-economic challenges here. The Government has invested heavily in the establishment of the necessary framework to make loans and other forms of financing accessible to women, thereby giving them the requisite tools to develop their own private enterprises. The current Administration should also be commended for the empowerment campaign that it is rolling out across the country educating women about their rights and providing them with measures to handle the challenges of poverty, single parenting, disability and other social ills. Non-governmental organisations must also be commended for the quality of work that they are doing especially the Caribbean Anti-Domestic Violence Association (CADVA) and its One Billion Rising Initiative. On a damper note, much more has to be done to bring an end to the continued abuse, assault and disrespect shown to our women. Despite the launch of two robust campaigns by Government, aimed at breaking the silence of women who are abused and stamping out domestic violence and other forms of sexual assault, progress is slow. The numbers of women who are slain and die at the hands of men are increasing and reaching worrying proportions. In instances where the perpetrators of the crimes are caught and prosecuted, justice is slow and they are managing to escape through various lacunas in the existing anti-domestic violence and sexual offences legislation, especially where rape is concerned. Government is still facing an uphill challenge in developing and implementing modern strategies that would prevent the wanton killing of women folk. There is still not enough being done to re-educate men about their gender roles and to drive home the reality that this it is not a man’s world anymore. Instead, the focus appears to be in demonizing men and putting them down as opposed to rebranding and redefining what it means to be a “real man” in the 21st century. Sadly, a new trend is also developing where women are being disrespected because they choose to speak out about their rights. They are being chastised and assaulted verbally by their peers whenever they decide to make independent decisions. That aside, a long year is ahead and women must organize and reenergize themselves to ‘man-up’ to the challenges that come with time. They must end the idle chatter and add credence to the position taken by Margaret Thatcher who said: “If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.”

Local Govt Ministry hands over tractors, metal bins to Region Two By Indrawattie Natram

he Local Government and Regional Development Ministry on Wednesday handed over four new John Deere 5076 tractors and trailers, along with 200 metal bins to the Anna Regina Town Council and various Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) in Region Two, in an effort to maintain a clean environment. Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker handed over the tractors and bins in the compound of the Anna Regina Town Council. Minister Whittaker said that the equipment cost at total of $500 million and was funded under the “Clean-Up My Country” initiative. The tractors and trailers were handed over to the Good Hope/Pomona, Aberdeen/Zorg-en-Vlygt, Annadale/ Riverstown and Charity/Urasara NDCs. Minister Whittaker said that the tractors, trailers as well as the metal bins will be used to maintain a healthy and clean environment. “Residents need to see the “Clean-Up My Country” programme as an influence, what we are doing is a push to assist in the process,” he noted. Speaking on the clean-up campaign, Whittaker said that the 10th

Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker handing over a tractor to the Chairman of Pomona/Good Hope NDC Showkat Ally

Parliament had approved $1 billion to clean up Guyana. He explained that the campaign was designed to have local authorities help in the process while partnering with residents to clean the country. The Minister called on the Anna Regina Town Council to use the additional resources to assist in the clean-up process. He also called on the NDCs and local authority to safeguard the equipment. The Charity/Urasara and the

Paradise/Evergreen NDCs are expected to use the tractors and trailers together. Meanwhile, each NDC was given 25 bins while the Anna Regina Town Council was given 100. Present at the handing over ceremony was coordinator of the “Clean-Up My Country” programme, Brahmanand Singh. Singh said the tractors and trailers will assist in the transporting of solid waste, and explained that at no time will the tractors be used to fetch materials for road construction.

14 NEWS Essequibo millers export 30% rice to high priced market – Singh SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

– price should be between $3000 and $3500 per bag By Indrawattie Natram

uyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) General Manager Jagnarine Singh said the price for a bag of Grade A paddy should range between $3000 and $3500. Singh was at the time speaking during a live call-in television programme aired on a local channel on Wednesday night. He was accompanied by General Secretary of the Rice Producers Association Dharamkumar Seeraj and Anna Regina Branch Supervisor, Deoram Prahalad. The General Manager told viewers that harvesting is in full swing in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and as such, every farmer is anticipating a “fair” price, one that can offset their ex-

GRDB General Manager Jagnarine Singh

penses and simultaneously give them a profit. Singh disclosed that a team, inclusive of Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy and

GRDB Deputy Manager Ricky Ramraj, will be visiting Venezuela over the weekend to finalise a contract for the sale of paddy and white rice. He further noted that millers in Essequibo have been beneficiaries of “high price markets. “Essequibo millers export 30 per cent of their rice to high priced markets,” he said. Speaking on the issue of export, Singh said that in January, some 51,000 tonnes of rice were exported. It was explained by Singh that the 200 tonnes exported to the Venezuelan market has not increased; adding that the high price market is a small part of the export, while the low price market forms a large part. He said, however, that Ghana, Panama and Belize have all shown interest in

per cent is still outstanding. “The paddy value of the crop was some $3.4 billion and just over $173 million is outstanding to farmers”, Singh further explained. He noted that the issue of timely payments will be addressed during this crop, noting that the board is hoping that full payment could

several protests by farmers due to non-payments, the Government had intervened, loaning huge sums of money to millers to assist the situation. Seeraj said that farmers need to be realistic when it comes to the Rice Industry, noting that there are marketing strategies. “Some

RPA General Secretary Dharamkumar Seeraj

Guyana’s rice. It was noted by the General Manager that more than 94 per cent of the payments were made to farmers for the last crop while six The present stage of the rice crop in Region Two

be made to farmers within 42 days of sale. It was explained that in every crop, there is a need for some $22 billion to pay farmers but the commercial banks are unable to meet the demands. He however noted that, the Government stepped in after the last crop to assist in the payments, noting that cheques were written directly to farmers.

Payments

Seeraj echoed similar sentiments, adding that the responsibility to pay farmers lies with the millers. However, he said farmers are often of the opinion that it is the responsibility of the Government to issue payments; hence the State is often blamed when payments are late. He added that while the Agriculture Ministry and major rice stakeholders often intervene, they should not be burdened with the task of paying farmers. He said that following

farmers are saying that rice farming is not paying them, I know of one farmer who recently bought eight acres of rice land for $16 million. If rice is not paying then why the investment,” Seeraj questioned.

Cultivation

It was noted that production in the rice sector has been increasing due to high yields. He added that the increase in production came about due to the new varieties developed by the GRDB/RPA’s agronomic practices, efficient drainage and irrigation services, technical advises and the farmers field school training. “Last year the production was some 501,000 tonnes rice, production gone up, but the market is also catching up,” Seeraj said. In Region Two, the acreage under cultivation has increased from 32,500 to more than 37,000.

news

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Karawab community in Man stabbed to death need of telephone service at Konawaruk – residents feel outdated

Miguel added that the tree is in the cemetery and the only place where residents get proper signal. In the evenings, the tree is filled with lovers making their “special calls.” She said it’s the most tedious task for elders to climb the ladder on the tree just to make a call.

Cell towers needed

The wooden platform built 20 feet high in the tree so that residents can make their phone calls in Karawab By Indrawattie Natram

hile the rest of the world is capitalising on the technological age, it appears as though residents of the Amerindian Village of Karawab are being left behind. Located 75 miles from Charity in the Upper Pomeroon River, in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), residents of Karawab have

no other choice but to climb a tree to make cellphone calls. According to one of the village Councillors, Shirley Miguel, villagers have the “devil’s job” of climbing up a 20 foot tree to make phone calls. She said in an effort to source proper signal, they nailed several pieces of board on top of a tree in the village, so that they can make calls when necessary.

The Councillor added that teachers, health workers, students, housewives, farmers, Councillors and

even pregnant women climb the tree daily to make phone calls. Residents are now calling on Digicel (Guyana) and the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) to establish towers within their range. The village has a growing population of 762 persons and residents are calling on the cellphone giants to make a change in their village by bringing them on par with the rest of Guyana and world at large.

A resident climbing the tree to make a phone call

ing and unstable. Additionally, there are no security rails for passengers to use when boarding vessels. Vice President of the Speedboat Association Lancelot Moseley claimed that countless reports were made to T&HD’s Traffic Manager and Harbour Master but to no avail. “They keep telling me they will look into it but I’m not seeing any progress,” he said. The Vice President also disclosed that he hangs around the stelling most of

ublic Works Minister Robeson Benn is reassuring commuters of the Vreed-en-Hoop Ferry Stelling that the Transport and Harbour Department (T&HD) will repair the stelling which is on the verge of collapsing. During an interview with Guyana Times on Saturday, Minister Benn disclosed that a meeting was held with the T&HD Manager Marclene Merchant on Thursday about the issue. He said during that meeting, he was assured that a team would soon be deployed to fix the stelling. “Repairing the stelling is an imminent activity for them,” Benn reassured. When asked how soon the team would be dispatched to the area, Benn said he is not in a position to say. However, he said one of

the reasons the stelling is deteriorating at a rapid pace is because of the manner in which the speedboat operators anchor their vessels.

Poor practices

“The boat would be running into the stelling, the impact the boats hit the landing would destroy it,” Minister Benn explained. He pointed out that the railing was destroyed as a result of that practice. Therefore, the Minister is urging those responsible, to use the area with care in an effort to preserve the stelling. Persons using the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling have been complaining about its deplorable condition, noting that its present state poses a serious threat for travellers. The landing, being used to embark the boats, is lean-

shop when an argument broke out. During the argument, tempers flared and it quickly turned into a scuffle. The suspect allegedly picked up a bottle, broke it and stabbed Isaacs several times before escaping. The injured man was picked up and rushed to the Mahdia Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The police have since launched a manhunt for the suspect.

Albouystown man found with gun, ammo

Repairs to Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling imminent – Public Works Minister

The current state of the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling

miner was fatally stabbed during an argument with another man at Konawaruk Landing, Potaro River, Region Eight on Friday evening. Clement Isaac of Micobe Village, Region Eight was reportedly stabbed several times to the body by the suspect who is now evading police. According to information received, the now dead man and a group of men were celebrating Phagwah at a popular

the day and often shudders at the ordeal before him. “People, women especially, are falling down when they try to get onto the vessels, almost all passengers are complaining about this,” he said. Moseley explained that passengers would complain bitterly to him about their troubles but he lacks the ability to give them any reassurance. “The passengers would complain and what can I tell them? I don’t even know what’s going on,” he stated.

ne man is now in police custody after he was found with an unlicensed .32 pistol and 11 rounds of ammunition in his possession during a routine search by the police on Friday evening in Albouystown, Georgetown. Police stated that at about 19:10h on the day in question, ranks of a police mobile patrol conducted a search on the man at James and Curtis Streets,

Albouystown when the weapon and ammunition were discovered. He was cautioned and arrested and is likely to be charged soon.

16 news

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

Voters expect close contest between Alliance and PPP/C – NACTA

n opinion poll conducted by the North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA) in mid-February showed a close outcome for the May 11 general elections. Voters give the ruing People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) a slight edge over the A Partnership for National Unity-Alliance For Change (APNU-AFC) coalition to win the elections. Overall, voters feel the formation of the APNU-AFC alliance has enhanced the PPP/C’s chances of retaining power, as some half of those who had planned to vote for the AFC have abandoned ship opposing any alliance with APNU, of which the People's National Congress (PNC) is a key member. Without the alliance, the AFC would have made in-roads in PPP/C strong-

holds in Essequibo, East Bank Demerara and West Coast Demerara, although it had lost support on the Corentyne and West Berbice. The poll found that had the alliance put either Ralph Ramkarran or

Ralph Ramakarran

Moses Nagamootoo (the coalition's Prime Ministerial candidate), as Presidential

Candidate, it would have probably swept the elections. Disgruntled PPP/C and AFC supporters fear the return of the PNC (even as part of an alliance) to power, placing greater trust in Ramkarran and Nagamootoo, than in PNC Leader David Granger, to lead the alliance. A majority of voters also express fear of the return of certain PNC individuals to power who were tied to abuses in the past and of the return to power of the PNC itself. A majority fears a repeat of what took place between the PNC and the United Force (UF) during the 1960s. Asked which party they think will win the election, voters are almost equally divided among the PPP/C, the alliance, and “too close to call”, giving the PPP/C a slight advantage. The close-

ness of the contest in terms of voters’ expectation of the outcome suggest a very tight race. However, more voters did say they have been better off under the PPP/C Administration than under the former PNC regime that governed between 1964 and 1992. Asked if they are/were better off under the PPP/C Administration or under the PNC Government, 51 per cent said PPP/C, with 25 per cent saying PNC (especially under Desmond Hoyte’s tenure), and 24 per cent not offering a response. Many respondents, supporters of the PNC or APNU, laughed when asked the question. Some commented that the PNC did not have access to the kind of resources the PPP/C Administration has had since 1992 to transform the nation, and as such it

Many expressed the view that times and the world at large have changed, and they don’t think the PNC would repeat its past abuses and dictatorial rule if it recaptures power. Those concerned about a potential return of PNC to power are primarily supporters of PPP/C and AFC, whereas those not concerned are traditional PNC supporters. The findings of the poll are obtained from interviews with 620 voters (42 per cent Indians, 31 per cent Moses Nagamootoo Africans, 17 per cent Mixed, nine per cent Amerindians, perience PNC rule, but they and one per cent other races) said they were informed by of the population. The poll was conducttheir seniors of the difficulty of life during that era and ed in face-to-face interviews do not wish a repeat of that and was coordinated by New York-based pollster Dr kind of governance. Asked if they have any Vishnu Bisram. The results concern or issue with the of the poll were analyzed at PNC returning to office, 56 a 95 per cent significance per cent said yes, with 39 per level with a statistical samcent saying no, and five per pling error of plus or minus cent not offering a response. four percentage points. would be unfair to compare the two periods of governance. The younger voters pointed out that they did not ex-

Dharmic Sabha’s Phagwah Mela attracts thousands

The CV Nunes Primary performing at the Mela at Anna Regina By Indrawattie Natram

housands converged at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) to celebrate the festival of colours as the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha Essequibo Praant staged its annual Phagwah Mela. The explosion of colours emerging from the mixed crowd transformed the environs into a kaleidoscope of colours. The rich cultural programme commenced at 13:00h and featured traditional folk dances from the Sarawatie Dance Academy and the Khandaiya Dance Troupe. There were also chowtal singing and religious talks. The dancers were supported by Sanjeet Rhythm Band. The dance troupes classical dances and creative designer costumes caught the crowd’s attention with their. The traditional dances certainly had the crowd lively. President of Sabha’s Essequibo Praant Kaydar Persaud said it was a joyous occasion for the Praant. Persaud, during his welcome speech, thanked persons for participating in the event despite the rain. Persaud addressed the

audience on the significance of Holi, and reminded them to apply the colours of peace, happiness and prosperity during the festival. He reminded them that the festival fosters unity and absolute equality among everyone. The sponsor, Permaul Singh said he is always excited to come to Guyana to celebrate Phagwah. He disclosed that this is his 15th year, noting that it is always a pleasure to serve the people of Essequibo. Persons from the different ethnic groups used the event to socialise. Celebrants were seen smearing each other with sweet smelling abrack and abeer. Persons were also seen dancing and having a jolly time smearing and drenching each other with coloured water. Seven curry as well as sweet meats were served to the audience free of cost. There were also coloured powder and abeer readily available to the attendees free of cost. The festival of Phagwah which is celebrated in the Hindu month of “Phalgun,” was celebrated by the Hindu community on March 6. The burning of Holika Dhan was done on the eve of Phagwah. The festival signifies good over evil.

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

18 NEWS

SunDAY, march 8, 2015 | guyanatimesGY.com

EU acknowledge PPP/C to blaze campaign PPP/C, progress made by women trail from today I T he ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) will today officially get into full campaign mode in the lead up to the May 11 General and Regional Election, following the staging of its annual Cheddi Jagan Memorial Ceremony which is slated for Babu Jahn, Berbice. At the event, former President Bharrat Jagdeo is expected to mount the platform much to the delight of thousands of PPP/C supporters following his three-year hiatus from direct involvement in domestic politics in Guyana. Jagdeo is scheduled to speak ahead of PPP/’s Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper and Presidential Candidate Donald Ramotar at the event. Guyana Times also understands the party’s General Secretary Clement

Rohee will also hint at the scope and form that the PPP/C campaign will take this time around, as the party seeks to regain control of both the Executive and Legislature arms of the State. Additionally, several key members of the PPP/ C’s slate will deliver maiden addresses to the crowd at the memorial event as they reflect on the life and contributions of Cheddi Jagan to the country’s overall development. From Monday, the party has planned to have meetings every single day until elections with a series of encounters slated for Georgetown, Linden, and varying East Coast area communities. Over the coming weeks, the PPP/C is expected to officially launch its 2015 reelection bid with a robust of measures included in its

hallmark manifesto. The party’s youth arm, the Progressive Youth Organsiation (PYO) which appeared to be fully reenergised will be also working behind the scenes to attract more electoral support through various youth related projects. At Berbice specifically where the AFC is trying to extend its influence and is constantly spreading anti-PPP/C sentiments, the PPP/C will host meetings with its Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates scheduled to make several trips for meetings and rallies. The party is also working feverishly in the hinterland and Amerindian communities through a network of supporters to mobilise and encourage Guyanese there to play an integral role in the electoral and democratic process.

Inclusivity can safeguard children from abusive relationships By Vahnu Manichand

s the world observes International Women’s Day today and their many achievements, women are being encouraged to say no to domestic violence, especially when children are involved. Many times in abusive relationships, children are often caught in the “cross fire,” and are neglected. As a result, several organisations have renewed calls for an end to abuse, saying women and children should be protected from the hands of abusers. Of recent, there has been widespread public attention on the Neesa Gopaul murder trial, which culminated on Thursday with the teenager’s mother and her mother’s former lover being found guilty of her murder back in 2010. Bibi Sharima Gopaul was sentenced to 106 years imprisonment while her coaccused Jarvis Small called “Barry” was jailed for 96 years. The 16-year-old former Queens College student, who was reportedly sexually abused by Small, had reported the matter several times to the Police but was made to withdraw the complaints. The end result of the case was a triumph for many who flocked the High Court during the five-week trial and on the day of the verdict. While awaiting the decision of the court, several organisations took the opportunity to highlight these serious issues, calling for society to play a bigger role in

ensuring the safety of the nation’s children. Programme Director of ChildLink, Omattie Madray, opined that this incident shows how violent and neglectful the society can be. She said the case sends a strong message, noting that there will be no tolerance for violence against children. Meanwhile, Public Relations Officer of Help and Shelter Danuta Radzik highlighted that the teen was murdered by her family members; persons who were suppose to care and protect her. Radzik stated that this case is a rude awakening for society, that enough is not being done to protect the most vulnerable members of society – children. “As mothers, as fathers, family members and friends, we have to look out for each other and we need to report any form of abuse, including sexual abuse that is occurring and we need to hold the authorities and service providers responsible for giving these survivors and victims the necessary protection and justice that they deserve,” she stated. The Help and Shelter member said no other child in Guyana should suffer such a fate. “What kind of a society we have in Guyana or are we creating, that children can be exposed and abused in such a terrible way,” she said while adding that every Guyanese woman must understand abuse and protect themselves and their children against it. Radzik added that agencies that provide services in the interest of children must

be functioning at all times, so that affected persons can get protection. On the other hand, representative of the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), Renuka Anandjit, highlighted the gaps in the system. She said accessing justice in Guyana is a major challenge, especially for young people. Anandjit said that the teenager was abused and even reported it but yet the system failed her. “We would like to avoid that! There are so many other young women and men that the system is failing but I hope that by raising awareness and with the success of the (Neesa Gopaul) case, it can create an avenue for other young people who are in similar situations to get out and be afforded the justice and services available,” she underscored. Anandjit further mentioned that with the high rates of sexual violence and abuse, there are avenues and support mechanisms in place, however everybody, both State and non-State, must work together to protect children. In addition, Joy Marcus, of the Red Thread organisation, adamantly outlined that violence against children and women will not be tolerated. She pointed out that parents have an obligation towards their children. “You have an obligation to protect your children at all cost and therefore nobody should come between you and your children,” Marcus stated.

n celebrating International Women’s Day, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the European Union (EU) both delivered powerful messages, reflecting on the progress made by women in society. The PPP/C said women have made tremendous advancement in Guyana, noting that more and more women are attaining high levels of respect and appreciation in areas that were traditionally dominated by men, including engineering, medicine, law, teaching and nursing. Today, the teaching and nursing professions are dominated by women. The PPP/C also point-

ed out that females now outnumber men at the University of Guyana and other tertiary institutions, indicating the advancement of opportunities for women. At the legislative level, the PPP/C said much progress has been made in addressing the issues of domestic violence and sexual harassment in Guyana.

Gaps still exist

On the other hand, while recognising that much progress has been made in the area of gender equality, the EU disclosed that many gaps still exist. “Women earn less and own less than men, and they are still underrepresented

politically and in the business world. Every day, thousands of women and girls are victims of gender-based violence, including sexual abuse, trafficking, female genital mutilation and early and forced marriage,” the EU said in a statement. Nonetheless, the EU vowed to continue to work towards a better world for women. “Women should have the same chances as men to study, to choose the careers and family lives they want, and to live free from the threat of violence. This is about the world we are raising our sons and daughters in and we want to create a world they can all thrive in,” the EU added.

NA residents call for streets to be cleared of mentally-ill men

esidents of New Amsterdam, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) are calling on the relevant authorities to remove persons of unsound mind from the streets of the town. The call comes in the wake of a security guard being as-

The man who allegedly injured James Ramlochan

saulted while on duty at a location in Pitt Street, New Amsterdam, on February 22. The guard, 29-year-old James Ramlochan, called “Bruk Up”, of East Canje, Berbice, suffered 29 fractures to his face, and has lost the use of his right eye. Surgery is still to be performed on his eye but doctors are waiting on the other parts of his body to be healed before referring him to an Ophthalmologist. Residents of New Amsterdam are not sensitive to the presence of persons of unsound mind walking around, since the county’s only Psychiatric Hospital is situated there. One resident, Sydney Rutherford, said that mentally-ill persons who often linger along the main thoroughfares, are endangering the lives of residents. He recalled that on one occasion, he was forced to repair his windscreen after it was broken by a patient of the Fort Canje National Psychiatric Hospital. “I noticed vehicles stopping in front of me like if the Police on the road stopping everybody, and then I noticed

this man in front of me with a brick and he pelt it straight on the car… and he had another brick in his hand. I had to drive away. Nobody compensated me for that,” he explained. Another resident explained that she was not only assaulted but had a bag of food dragged out of her hand by a man of unsound mind. “One morning going to work, I see a set of school children running and bricks coming towards me. Is a mad man, and one of the children get hit. Is some men go and rescue some other children hiding behind a tree,” the woman said as she recalled another incident. Recently two nurses were chased down the Canje Bridge by a mentally-ill man called Carlton Bolt. The two nurses were attempting to cross the Canje Bridge when they were confronted by Bolt, who was carrying what appeared to be a long blade. “You see how I stay, I lil fat and she take off and leff be behind. I say eh eh not now. "When we pass TI (Technical Institute) gate was me and she together,” one of the nurses told Guyana Times. Bolt, who is a patient at the Psychiatric Hospital, has also put fear in many vehicle operators. Recently, he was the cause of a huge traffic jam in New Amsterdam. On that occasion, the man held a large stone in his right hand above his shoulder as he walked in the middle of Main Street and as he passed vehicles he aimed at their windscreens. “They should get this man off the road,” one vehicle operator lamented. Meanwhile, even as this issue continues to be a “sour” one, officials at the National Psychiatric Hospital are saying they do not have the authority to remove persons of unsound mind from the streets. According to them, the Guyana Police Force must first give clearance. A senior officer, attached to Central Police Station,

Carlton Bolt, one of the many men in New Amsterdam who would often linger in the streets

said the Police would only intervene if a report is filed. “Legally we should not be taking persons to the mental hospital, it is the court that has to send them there,” the officer explained. Meanwhile, a man appeared in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court to answer a charge of assault. It was alleged that he assaulted James Ramlochan on February 22. Magistrate Sherdell Issacs-Marcus referred the man to the National Psychiatric Hospital for an evaluation based on his response to the charge when it was read.

Man chopped to death found in Hogg Island trench

he Guyana Defence Force has said in a release that investigations are being conducted into the circumstances surrounding the death of Neildeo Hansram, 42 years, of Parika, East Bank Essequibo, Region Three (Essequibo IsalndsWest Demerara). The release said Hansram’s body was found on Saturday morning at about 09:15h in a trench at Eastern Hogg Island, Essequibo River. The deceased had what Police suspect to be a chop wound to the neck. Investigations are continuing.

SunDAY, march 8, 2015

Greaves wins second CIDI feature race By Avenash Ramzan

oraima Bikers Club marquee rider, Alanzo Greaves, made a timely return to form

the line, the winning time read one hour, 14 minutes, 28 seconds. Orville Hinds of Team Evolution rode in third, followed by Team Coco’s

The category winners with officials of CIDI at the National Park (Photos: Avenash Ramzan)

Alanzo Greaves exults after crossing the finish line ahead of Hamzah Eastman

with victory in the main event of the second annual Caribbean International Distributors Inc. (CIDI) 11race cycling programme at the inner circuit of the National Park. The victory was Greaves’ season of the 2015 season and it came a day before the riders journey to Berbice for the second leg of the annual Cheddi Jagan memorial road race, one of the showpiece event on the local cycling calendar. The talented national cyclist played to his strength, outsprinting a group of five riders who bunched togeth-

Raynauth Jeffrey, who was making his first outing for the season after spending the last few months overseas. Jeffrey’s teammate Christopher Holder occupied fifth, with Robin Persaud rounding off the top six. Other winners included Alexander Leung (BMX 6-9), Jonathan Jagdeo (BMX 9-12 and 12-14), Junior Niles (Veterans Under-50), Linden Blackman (Veterans Over50), Wilfred Thom (Veterans Over-60), Marica Dick (BMX Boys and Girls 12-14), Jamal John (Juveniles) and Sean Budhan (Mountain Bike).

Winner Alanzo Greaves receives his trophy from Sales and Marketing Manager of CIDI Alisia Katideen-Singh

er during the dying stages of the race to initiate a heated sprint finish. Greaves, well known for his sprinting prowess at the back-end, again rose to the occasion, pipping last year’s winner Hamzah Eastman of Team Coco’s in a well calculated attack on the final turn. When race official Joseph Britton stopped the clock with Greaves’ front tyre on

At the presentation ceremony which followed, national coach and organiser of the day’s activities, Hassan Mohamed, expressed gratitude to the management of CIDI for once again investing in the sport. Sales and Marketing Manager of the company, Alisia Katideen- Singh, congratulated the winners and noted that CIDI will continue to sponsor the activity.

sundAY, march 8, 2015

guyanatimesGY.com

Smith leads trio of run-getters Brilliant Warrican as Volcanoes dominate stuns Leewards

alf-centuries from Test batsman Devon Smith, along with Miles Bascombe and Romel Currency, helped Windward Islands Volcanoes dominate the opening day of their eighth round WICB PCL clash against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force here Friday. Opting to bat first at the National Cricket Centre, the Windwards finished the day on 304 for six, with Smith carving out an attractive 70, Bascombe 65 and Currency, an unbeaten 52. Opener Tyrone Theophile chipped in with 39 and Dalton Polius, 31. Leg-spinner Imran Khan was the best bowler with four for 104. Smith and Theophile gave the visitors a great start by putting on 99 for the first wicket, a partnership that carried the side to 91 without loss at the lunch

interval. The left-handed Smith faced 115 balls in 257 minutes and counted eight fours while Theophile hit five fours and a six off 91 balls before he unnecessarily holed out to long-off to give Imran Khan his first wicket. Smith perished at 128 for two, lbw to pacer Marlon Richards at the start of a new spell but Bascombe and Craig Emmanuel (20) put on a further 58 for the third wicket to keep the Windwards on top. Bascombe struck six fours and three sixes off 96 balls in an innings lasting just under two hours. Both batsmen fell within 17 runs of each other paving the way for Currency to anchor a 51-run, fifth wicket partnership with Polius. Currency has so far consumed 93 balls and hit three fours and a six in nearly two hours at the crease. (CMC)

SCOREBOARD

WINDWARDS 1st Innings D Smith lbw b Richards 70 *T Theophile c Hosein b Imran Khan 39 M Bascombe lbw b Imran Khan 65 C Emmanuel c Pollard b Imran Khan 20 D Polius c wkp Katwaroo b Cariah 31 R Currency not out 52 +D Smith lbw b Imran Khan 16 S Shillingford not out 2 Extras (b3, lb5, w1) 9 TOTAL (6 wkts, 90 overs) 304 To bat: D Johnson, K Peters, M Matthew. Fall of wickets: 1-99, 2-128, 3-187, 4-204, 5-255, 6-294. Bowling: Richards 17-3-561, Emrit 15-4-33-0, St Clair 5-1-15-0, Imran Khan 27-1104-3, Pollard 2-1-4-0, Jason Mohammed 5-1-22-0, Hosein 11-0-37-0, Cariah 8-1-25-1

Pakistan roar back through bowlers

his was the game this World Cup needed. This is the team this World Cup needed. It was getting pretty bland out here without the Pakistan bowlers. Defending only 231 in 47 overs at the small Eden Park, their left-arm quicks turned it on like only those from that part of the world can. Under pressure of the chase South Africa crumbled yet again - except for one man, captain AB de Villiers, who scored 77 off 58 and threatened to singlehandedly steal the game, but once he became the ninth man to get out with 32 to get, Pakistan were assured of a win. The win gave Pakistan clearer passage to the quarter-final. They now have two

bites at the cherry: they can go through directly with a win over Ireland or, if they lose, they are a good shot to sneak through on net run rate. In true Pakistan fashion, they tested our patience and tested our patience and then tested it some more until almost everyone had given up. Everybody knew Sarfraz Ahmed needed to play ahead of somebody. Anybody. Umar Akmal, part-time wicketkeeper, had been dropping at least a catch every match. Pakistan’s team management was the only one that didn’t see it. Until this game. Sarfraz came in, knocked off a runa-ball 49 to give them the previously missing purpose and impetus at the start of

SCOREBOARD Pakistan innings Sarfraz Ahmed† run out (Miller/†de Kock) 49 Ahmed Shehzad c Steyn b Abbott 18 Younis Khan c Rossouw b de Villiers 37 Misbah-ul-Haq* c Morkel b Steyn 56 Sohaib Maqsood c Rossouw b Abbott 8 Umar Akmal c de Villiers b Morkel 13 Shahid Afridi c Duminy b Steyn 22 Wahab Riaz lbw b Imran Tahir 0 Sohail Khan c Duminy b Morkel 3 Rahat Ali c Imran Tahir b Steyn 1 Mohammad Irfan not out 1 Extras: (lb 7, w 6, nb 1) 14 Total: (all out; 46.4 overs) 222 Fall of wickets: 1-30, 2-92, 3-132, 4-156, 5-175, 6-212, 7-212, 8-218, 9-221, 10-222. South Africa Bowling: DW Steyn 10-3-30-3, KJ Abbott 9-0-45-2, M Morkel 9.4-025-2, Imran Tahir 9-1-381, AB de Villiers 6-0-431, JP Duminy 3-0-34-0

South Africa innings (target: 232 runs from 47 overs) Q de Kock† c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Mohammad Irfan 0 HM Amla c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Wahab Riaz 38 F du Plessis c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Rahat Ali 27 RR Rossouw c Sohail Khan b Wahab Riaz 6 AB de Villiers* c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Sohail Khan 77 DA Miller lbw b Rahat Ali 0 JP Duminy c Wahab Riaz b Mohammad Irfan 12 DW Steyn c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Mohammad Irfan 16 KJ Abbott c Younis Khan b Rahat Ali 12 M Morkel not out 6 Imran Tahir c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Wahab Riaz 0 Extras: (lb 1, w 7) 8 Total: (all out; 33.3 overs) 202 Fall of wickets 1-0, 2-67, 3-67, 4-74, 5-77, 6-102, 7-138, 8-172, 9-200, 10-202. Pakistan Bowling: Mohammad Irfan 8-0-52-3, Sohail Khan 5-0-36-1, Rahat Ali 8-1-403, Shahid Afridi 5-0-28-0, Wahab Riaz 7.3-20-45-3.

an innings and followed it up with six catches, including the diving one-handed beauty to send back Hashim Amla after the batsman had successfully taken on every bowler until then. In the company of de Villiers, JP Duminy tried to mount a counterattack. Three consecutive fours were hit over the 16th and 17th overs. Things were slipping again. This game was refusing to slow down. Misbah-ul-Haq, infamous for not taking the game head on with bat in hand, went against the instinct. He called back Irfan. This uprising needing to be squashed. Fourth ball into Irfan’s spell, Duminy topedged a hook to make it 102 for 6 in the 20th over. The low score was mainly down to a disappointing batting performance - from 92 for 1 in the 17th over and 175 for 4 in the 37th - but Pakistan are doing it a step at a time. They still have time to sort their batting approach out. (Cricinfo)

eft-arm spinner Jomel Warrican conjured up a careerbest eight-wicket haul to stun Leeward Islands on the opening day of their eighth round WICB PCL contest at Warner Park here Friday. The 22-year-old finished with eight for 88 as the Leewards, opting to bat first, were dismissed for 215 in their first innings. Lyndel Richardson top scored with 51 while Rahkeem Cornwall got 48 and tail-ender Gavin Tonge, 20. In the 13 overs available before the close, Barbados strolled to 27 without loss, with captain and Test opener Kraigg Brathwaite on 14 and Kyle Corbin unbeaten on 13. The visitors require a further 188 to overtake the Leewards. Lying bottom of the table in what has been an abysmal season, the Leewards would have been encouraged by their start, with Richardson and Montcin Hodge (19) putting on 60 for the first wicket. Richardson faced 82 balls in 98 minutes and counted seven fours and a six while Hodge occupied the crease for 1-1/2 hours and faced 63 deliveries, striking three fours.

The burly Cornwall faced 71 balls in 87 minutes and struck nine fours, as he gave the Hurricanes impetus, and pushed them to tea at 167 for five. He added just four to his tea time score before holing out to cover trying to hit off-spinner Nurse over the infield. His dismissal at 171 for six triggered a collapse that

SCOREBOARD LEEWARDS 1st Innings M Hodge c Nurse b Warrican 19 L Richardson c Nurse b Warrican 51 *D Thomas b Cummins 14 S Liburd lbw b Warrican 12 +Jamilton c Nurse b Warrican 15 R Cornwall c K Brathwaite b Nurse 48 J Louis c & b Warrican 14 H Walsh Jr b Warrican 4 G Tonge c wkp Dowrich b Warrican 20 A Martin c Cummins b Warrican 7 Q Boatswain not out 1 Extras (b4, lb1, nb 5) 10

Cornwall, however, then partnered with Jeremiah Louis, who made 14, to stitch up the innings in a 45-run, sixth wicket partnership.

TOTAL (all out, 80.3 overs) 215 Fall of wickets: 1-60, 2-71, 3-94, 4-104, 5-126, 6-171, 7-183, 8-186, 9-198, 10-215. Bowling: Best 8-1-230, Cummins 12-22-23-1, Warrican 35.3-6-88-8, Stoute 8-2-29-0, Nurse 17-2-47-1. BARBADOS 1st Innings *K Brathwaite not out 14 K Corbin not out 13 TOTAL (without loss, 13 overs) 27 To bat: K Edwards, S Hope, R Chase, +S Dowrich, K Stoute, A Nurse, T Best, J Warrican, M Cummins. Bowling: Tonge 5-1-14-0, Louis 4-1-6-0, Martin 2-12-0, Cornwall 2-1-5-0.

saw the last five Leewards wickets tumble for 44 runs, with Warrican wreaking havoc among the tail taking every wicket to fall. (CMC)

Ireland clinch last-over thriller

reland hung on like they would for dear life, beating Zimbabwe by five runs in one of the most thrilling finishes in this World Cup. After 657 runs and 17 wickets, a game of fluctuating fortunes came to an end when Ireland’s captain William Porterfield ran hard from long-on to take the final catch of Tawanda Mupariwa, who had almost clinched it for Zimbabwe with two fours and a six in the penultimate over. Zimbabwe, whose campaign is now effectively over, hung their heads low as they walked off, but they would be proud of themselves for almost pulling off only their second 300-plus chase. As for Ireland, they are now fourth in Group B with

Afghanistan bat, both teams unchanged

SCOREBOARD *Scorecard as of press time Afghanistan innings (50 overs maximum) Javed Ahmadi lbw b Boult 1 Usman Ghani b Vettori 0 Nawroz Mangal b Vettori 27 Asghar Stanikzai c Guptill b Boult 9 Samiullah Shenwari c Taylor b Anderson 54 Mohammad Nabi* c Taylor b Vettori 6 Afsar Zazai† lbw b Vettori 0 Najibullah Zadran c Vettori b Milne 56

Warrican got the breakthrough, having Hodge taken at slip by Ashley Nurse and Richardson followed ten balls later when he too edged to Nurse off Warrican, at 72 for two. The Hurricanes crawled to lunch at 82 for two but afterward, lost Steve Liburd (12), Devon Thomas (14) and Jahmar Hamilton (15) to slump to 126 for five.

Dawlat Zadran c †Ronchi b Boult 1 Hamid Hassan c Milne b Anderson 16 Shapoor Zadran not out 2 Extras: (lb 5, w 9) 14 Total: (all out; 47.4 overs) 186 Fall of wickets 1-5, 2-6, 3-24, 4-49, 5-59, 6-59, 7-145, 8-151, 9-166, 10-186. New Zealand Bowling: TG Southee 10-0-43-0, TA Boult 102-34-3, DL Vettori 10-4-18-4, AF Milne 10-0-38-1, CJ Anderson 6.4-0-38-2, GD Elliott 1-0-10-0

six points, behind Pakistan on net run-rate, but they would be especially glad that they have found one bowler other than George Dockrell to help out their one-dimensional attack. Bellerive Oval’s first match at the World Cup was a predictable bat-off, but Alex Cusack held his own, taking four wickets and giving away just 32 runs at 3.36 per over. The match was lit by a pair of lively innings from either side. Ed Joyce’s 112 earned him the Man-of-the-Match

award, and Andy Balbirnie’s 97 ultimately overpowered Brendan Taylor’s 121 and a heroic 96 from Sean Williams. Set a steep 332 for victory, Zimbabwe looked to be down and out when Taylor exited in the 38th over, but Williams brilliantly orchestrated the chase with Regis Chakabva. He never let the run-rate rise above the nine per over, but once he was dismissed in the 47th over, Ireland once again got one foot on the door. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

Ireland innings (50 overs maximum) WTS Porterfield* c Masakadza b Williams 29 PR Stirling c Williams b Panyangara 10 EC Joyce c Ervine b Chatara 112 A Balbirnie run out (Chakabva/†Taylor) 97 KJ O'Brien c Chakabva b Chatara 24 GC Wilson† c Chakabva b Williams 25 JF Mooney b Williams 10 NJ O'Brien c Panyangara b Chatara 2 GH Dockrell not out 5 AR Cusack not out 2 Extras: (lb 4, w 8, nb 3) 15 Total: (8 wickets; 50 overs) 331 Did not bat: AR McBrine Fall of wickets 1-16, 2-79, 3-217, 4-276, 5-308, 6-319, 7-322, 8-326. Zimbabwe Bowling: T Panyangara 9-0-69-1, TL Chatara 10-0-61-3, T Mupariwa 10-0-56-0, Sikandar Raza 9-051-0, SC Williams 9-0-72-3, H Masakadza 3-0-18-0. Zimbabwe innings (target: 332

runs from 50 overs) CJ Chibhabha c Porterfield b Cusack 18 Sikandar Raza c Stirling b Mooney 12 SF Mire c Cusack b Dockrell 11 H Masakadza c †Wilson b KJ O'Brien 5 BRM Taylor*† c KJ O'Brien b Cusack 121 SC Williams c Mooney b KJ O'Brien 96 CR Ervine c NJ O'Brien b McBrine 11 RW Chakabva b Cusack 17 T Panyangara c Porterfield b Mooney 5 T Mupariwa c Porterfield b Cusack 18 TL Chatara not out 1 Extras: (lb 8, w 2, nb 1) 11 Total: (all out; 49.3 overs) 326 Fall of wickets: 1-32, 2-32, 3-41, 4-74, 5-223, 6-259, 7-300, 8-305, 9-325, 10-326. Ireland Bowling: AR Cusack 9.3-2-32-4, JF Mooney 10-058-2, KJ O'Brien 10-0-90-2, GH Dockrell 10-0-56-1, AR McBrine 8-0-56-1, PR Stirling 2-0-26-0.

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Cheddi Jagan Cycling race to attract large field today

sunday, march 8, 2015

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By Avenash Ramzan

resh off winning the feature event at the CIDI 11-race programme on Saturday, Alanzo Greaves will look to capture a unique weekend double today when the second and penultimate leg of the Cheddi Jagan memorial road race is staged in the Ancient County of Berbice. Incidentally, Greaves is the defending champion of today’s race, having won last year’s event in a time of two hours, 17 minutes, 08 seconds (02h: 17m: 08s), pipping Paul

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DeNobrega in a photo finish. As has been the case over the years, the race will commence in New Amsterdam at 09:00h, proceed to Number 63 Village and return to Jagan’s resting place at Babu John, Port Mourant, for the finish. Another large contingent is expected to descend on the Berbice roadways, as according to national coach and organiser of the race, Hassan Mohamed, there is much hype and interest among the riders. “What I can tell you is that we can expect close to about 50 riders set to take the

starting line,” Mohamed said on the eve of the race. The third and final stage is set for March 22 in Essequibo, where villagers usually line the roadways to catch a glimpse of the country’s cyclists locked in fierce battle. Seasoned campaigner Godfrey Pollydore was the top rider on that leg last year, copping the top podium spot in a time of two hours, 10 minutes, 24.41 seconds (02h: 10m: 24.41s). The race will ride off at Supenaam, head to Charity and return to Anna Regina for the finish.

Georgetown Rotaract to stage health run today

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he Rotaract Club of Georgetown will stage a 5K Health Run and Mini Health Fair today, starting at the Seawalls on Camp Streets at 06:30h. Ronnel Lord, Director of Community Service of the Club, said the event has been organised to highlight the importance of running, which significantly reduces Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). “Cardiovascular Diseases, Hypertension and Diabetes are just a few of the NCD’s that running helps to reduce,” Lord said.

The route will be along the Seawall Road, along Carifesta Avenue, turn at Sheriff Street Junction, onto the Kitty Public Road and concludes at Camp Road on the Seawalls. The organisations expected to participate in the Rotary and Rotaract clubs, Ministry of Health and several commercial banks. The Rotaract Club of Georgetown is urging the general public to come out with their White t-shirt and join the run. At the end of the run there will be a Mini Health Fair. Meanwhile, Banks DIH

Limited made a presentation of Rain Forest Water to the organisers of the event at Thirst Park on Friday. Errol Nelson, Brand Manager, said Banks DIH is delighted to be part of Sunday’s activities as the Rotaract Club pursues its health and wellness programme. “We are encouraging the general public to participate in this event as we promote a healthy lifestyle,” he added. Rotaractor Fonda King, who received the donation on behalf of the Club, expressed gratitude to Banks DIH for the timely contribution.

guyanatimesGY.com

sundAY, march 8, 2015

WICB PCL 4-day cricket tournament…

Guyana collapse to hand Jamaica upper hand before wicket off David Bernard Jn, and was one of two wickets to fell during that session. The other was Narsingh Deonarine, who was dismissed for 23. But Johnson, who was joined by fellow left-hander, Shivnarine Chanderpaul remained steady, carving out

By Rajiv Bisnauth

osts Guyana Jaguars succumbed to legspinner Damion Jacobs in the final session to give the Jamaicans the upper hand at the end of day two of the West Indies Board’s Professional Cricket League (PCL) Regional Four-Day Competition at the Guyana National Stadium. Jacobs grabbed 5-67, as the hosts' batting failed to inspire confidence, slumping from 188-3 to 236 all out. Despite commanding half-centuries from opener Rajendra Chandrika and skipper Leon Johnson, the hosts were bowled out shortly before the close, falling short of the Jamaicans first innings total of 256 by 22 runs. When bails were lifted, Jamaica were 22-1, an overall lead of 44. John Campbell was unbeaten on 10, while Jermaine Blackwood on eight. Shacaya Thomas was leg before to Christopher Barnwell without scoring. Earlier overnight bats-

Damion Jacobs grabbed 5-67 for Jamaica

men Rajendra Chandrika and Assad Fudadin looked largely unperturbed against the Jamaican bowlers after resuming on 35 without loss. The pair continued to frustrate the bowlers by contributing a further 38 runs to the total before the lefthanded, Fudadin was gleefully caught by Thomas off Odean Brown for 29. Skipper Leon Johnson joined Chandrika, and the pair made steady progress up to the interval. The duo maintained a firm run-rate

by comfortably rotating the strike, and in the process, Chandrika crossed his halfcentury, consuming 119 balls, with seven boundaries. The right hander played some deft shots, collecting runs on either side of the wicket and by the interval; Chandrika was on 64 and Johnson on 26 with the Jaguars 121-1. After the interval, Chankrika showed a lack of resolve to be dismissed for 69. He was trapped leg

Rajendra Chandrika drives during his knock

Leon Johnson

his half-century, facing 132 balls and striking six boundaries.

The pair took the hosts to the interval at 188-3. However, the Jaguars then collapsed losing their last six wickets for 48 runs, including Johnson for a top scored of 78, with Jacobs being the main destructive force. Johnson innings spanned 248 minutes, 177 balls, inclusive of 10 fours.

Chanderpaul (13), Vishual Singh (5), Christopher Barnwell (0) Anthony Bramble (8), Veerasammy Permaul (2) and Devendra Bishoo (0), all fell cheaply. Play resumes at 10:00h today and admission is free. Editors Note: Scorecard unavailable.

BBCI renews commitment to Berbice cricket available, it will continue to invest in the game in the Ancient County. She added that they were pleased with the media coverage given last year and the way in which the competition was conducted. Ally said that the Company is interested in the development of sports and cricket in particular is such an important part of

the lives of all Guyanese. Speaking on behalf of the board, Secretary Angela Haniff thanked the company for their continued faith in the board and promised that the competition will be well run. The BCB President, Anil Beharry, executive member Rabindranauth Saywack and Chairman of the Competitions Committee,

Carl Moore, all expressed their gratitude to the company for their continued support. Beharry also took the opportunity to thank other stakeholders for helping the board fulfill its mandate with special mention of the support of the print and electronic media.

Guyana rout Barbados to start NACRA 15’s title defence Bibi Faneza Ally hands over sponsorship cheque to Angel Haniff, Secretary of the Berbice Cricket Board in the presence of board executive Rabindranauth Saywack

n a demonstration of its commitment towards sport development, the Berbice Bridge Company Incorporated (BBCI) recently renewed its sponsorship of the Berbice Cricket Board’s (BCB) 50-over cricket first division competition, set to bowl off shortly.

The competition is in its third year, would be played on a knockout basis by 14 first-division teams. Speaking on behalf of the Bridge Company, Administrative Assistant, Bibi Faneza Ally, said that her company is happy to renew this relationship with

Cameron back...

Following his victory on Saturday, Cameron said the India debacle would present opportunities for West Indies cricket to be stronger. “Every time there is a challenge, there is an opportunity and we’ve used that situation in India as an opportunity and the opportunity we see coming out of this is that we’re going to make West Indies cricket better,” he contended. He said he intended to address the “continued governance challenges” and had already

the board. She spoke of the entity’s commitment to not just sport development, but the uplifting of society in general. Ally said the BBCI has always been supportive of cricket in Berbice, and promised that once the funds are

Some of the action during the game FROM BACK PAGE

scheduled a meeting with chairman of CARICOM’s Prime Ministerial sub-committee on cricket, Grenada’s Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell, to discuss such issues. Cameron also said they were a number of other points of business to address. “I am scheduled to visit with Prime Minister Mitchell next week and we’re going to sit down and talk about the continued governance challenges,” he said.

“But very, very first out of the box, is to start putting out the information and even some of the reports that were tabled here [during the meeting]. From today, we really need to start communicating more to our public.” Two years ago, Cameron beat out Julian Hunte to become one of the youngest ever WICB presidents at age 42. Garner challenged for the vice-president’s post then and also lost to Nanthan.

(CMC)

he Guyana national ruggers probably had added motivation with President Donald Ramotar as their lead supporter for their opening game in the North American Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 15’s tournament as they handed Barbados a 48-22 drubbing at the National Park rugby field. Avery Corbin opened the scoring for Guyana in the 15th minute before Raj Edwards found his way in the end zone five minutes later for the equalizer. However, Guyana con-

tinued to score try after try as the Guyanese ended with a comfortable halftime lead of 17-5. The second half was much of the same story as the scoring outburst by the “Green Machine” had the huge crowd in a frenzy. Even fresh legs in the second half did not slow the momentum of the Guyanese ruggers as they kept pushing the pace of the game, out muscling and out hustling their Bajan visitors. The game ended with two tries each by Blaise Bailey and Jamal Angus, four conversions by Captain

Ryan Gonsalves and a try apiece by Avery Corbin, Claudius Butts, Theo Henry and Richard Staglon.. Raj Edwards (two tries), Stephen Millar (one try), Jerren Clarice (one try) and Mykyle Walcott (one conversion) were the scorers for the visitors Barbados. Guyana will face Trinidad and Tobago in their next encounter on April 11 in the twin island republic. Victory against Trinidad will allow Guyana to play the winner of the North Zonce championships for the 15’s title. (Treiston Joseph)

sunDAY, march 8, 2014 | guyanatimesGY.com

sundAY, march 8, 2015

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

guyanatimesgy.com

Cameron Guyana rout Barbados to start NACRA 15’s title defence back as WICB boss! Page 22

amaican Dave Cameron has been reelected president of the West Indies Cricket Board, after comfortably defeating challenger Joel Garner in elections during the Annual General Meeting in Jamaica on Saturday. In voting that followed anticipated trends, Cameron emerged with an 8-4 victory over the legendary former West Indies fast bowler and current Barbados Cricket Association head. Cameron’s vice-presidential running mate Emmanuel Nanthan was also returned to power by an 8-4 margin, defeating Garner’s ally Baldath Mahabir, of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board. “I am particularly humbled at this point that the members, the shareholders have decided to re-elect me,” Cameron said afterward. “It has been a very difficult couple of months. Prior to that I think we were sailing smoothly … and it would have been an extremely good year and term in office.” Cameron had come under fire in recent months for his handling of the abandoned tour of India which saw the West Indies team abruptly quitting the five-match One-Day International series last October, in anger over terms and conditions of the newly agreed Collective Bargaining Agreement. The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) subsequently put the blame for the cancellation on the WICB and has made a claim of US$42 million in damages.

The successful Guyanese team

Dave Cameron

They have threatened legal action to reclaim the monies if the WICB does not pay up. Cameron was widely criticized for his handling of the affair, with St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves describing his leadership as “poor” and “embarrassing”, and suggesting he should resign or be fired. In recent weeks, Cameron also drew heavy criticism when he re-tweeted a fan comment critical of West Indies opener Chris Gayle, and was forced to apologise. Despite this, however, Cameron received widespread support from the territorial boards, with Guyana, Leeward Islands, Windward Islands and Jamaica all indicating they would support Cameron. Each board has two votes in the election.

Bright jumps way to Carifta Games, Caesar qualifies as well – top athletes perform exceptionally

By Treiston Joseph

uring a day of exceptional performances on the track, Chantoba Bright out of the mining town of Linden was the lone qualifier to date when the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) held day one of their Carifta Games trials on Saturday at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ground, Camp Ayanganna. Bright in the girls under-18 long jump was at the top of her game jumping away with the event with a distance of 5.53 metres to

with the athlete’s performance highlighting that Bright could have possibly done better if not for the bleak weather and damp field. Meanwhile on the track, up and coming talent Kenisha Phillips fell short of the Carifta qualifying mark but had an outstanding outing winning the girl’s under-18 100 metres in 12.1s just off the qualifying mark of 11.9s while finishing second in the under-18 girl’s 400 metres in a time of 58.0s. Running Brave’s Natricia Hooper won the

Today: 33rd Match, Pool A- England v Bangladesh, 23:30h Monday: 34th Match, Pool B- India v Ireland, 21:00h Tuesday: 35th Match, Pool A- Scotland v Sri Lanka, 23:30h

of 10.5s. Junior middle distance star, Ornesto Thomas also looked in good form, run-

Jason Yaw runs away with the male under-18 400 metres (Treiston Joseph photos)

turn to page 22

Upcoming World Cup matches (with Guyana time)

Samuels was third in the event with a time of 58.6s. South American Youth gold medalist, Jason Yaw

Chantoba Bright jumps away with the female under-18 long jump

better the AAG set qualifying standard of 5.40 metres. Coach Johnny Greavesande was pleased

girls under-18 400 metres in a time of 57.7s, narrowly missing the qualifying mark of 57s flat. Avon

was in top form clocking 49.4s to win the male under-18 400 metres while triple Carifta gold medalist Cassey George while suffering from cramps still had a good outing, winning the girl’s under-18 1500 metres in 4:53.8s. Speedster, Compton Caesar equaled the AGG set standard of 10.7s to win the boy’s under-18 100 metres. Junior sprint king, Tevin Garraway, looked smooth in his 100 metres under-20 final to win the event comfortably in 10.7s just short of the qualifying standard

ning away with the male under-20 1500 metres final in 4:15.3s while Matthew McKenzie was in ripping form winning the under-18 equivalent in 4:18.1s. Deja Smartt won the female under-20 100 metres in 12.2s while Merisha Carter won the female under-20 400 metres in 1:01.2s. With all the top athletes performing exceptional, the best is yet to come when the sprinters collide in the 200 metres today (Day two) at the GDF ground from 11:00h.

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