Caribbean Times International, August 28, 2014 by Gytimes

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ISSUE NO. 115

CANADA EDITION

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WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Canada-based GHTK commissions two more neonatal units in Guyana

See story on page 13

(from left) President of Guyana Help The Kids (GHTK) charity Dr Narendra Singh and NICU Nursing Programme Director Dr Leif Nelin, at the commissioning of the Suddie Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Essequibo, Guyana (GHTK photo)

CaribbeanTales Film Festival...

Powerful Caribbean voices to take centre stage

Page 21

‘Thunder in Guyana’ to be featured at festival

PM Kamla says she’s ready to risk “political suicide” for Runoff Bill

Page 7 Page14

Canada aiding community development in Jamaica Officials of Jamaica’s Local Government Ministry and the Canadian High Commission break ground for community development works in Mandeville (Jamaica Observer photo)

2 NEWS Jamaica issues stern Ebola warning to entertainers, others K www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Entertainers and other Jamaicans have been warned against travelling to the Ebola-affected areas of Liberia, Nigeria, Guinea and Sierra Leone in West Africa. The warning came from Health Minister Dr Fenton Ferguson, who said people should avoid travel to the affected areas "unless it is absolutely necessary to limit the spread" of the deadly disease. "Entertainers and others who plan to travel to the affected areas of West Africa should reconsider as they would potentially be putting themselves at risk of contracting the Ebola virus and

Liberian Health workers are handed personal protective gear by a team leader (right) before collecting the bodies of the deceased from streets in Monrovia, Liberia (PHOTO: AP)

spreading it to other persons on their return to Jamaica. The ministry continues to warn

against non-essential travel to reduce the risk to their health and the health of their fami-

lies," Dr Ferguson said. "Persons who have to travel to these areas are advised not to han-

dle dead animals and not to have any direct contact with persons who may be infected or could have been in a contact with an infected person," he added. The World Health Organisation (WHO) on August 8 declared Ebola a public health emergency of international concern. Ebola is a severe, often fatal illness with a death rate of up to 90 percent. It is transmitted through direct contact with blood (for example, through broken skin), other bodily fluids or secretion such as stool, saliva, urine and semen of infected persons. Infection can also occur if broken skin comes in contact with environments that

have become contaminated with an Ebola patient's infectious fluids such as soiled clothing, bed linen or used needles. The Ebola virus remains in the semen of men who were infected for up to seven weeks after recovery. According to the health ministry, symptoms of Ebola include sudden onset of fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat. This may be followed by vomiting, diarrhoea, rash, impaired kidney and liver function and in some cases both internal and external bleeding. The incubation period for the virus is anywhere from two to 21 days. (Jamaica Observer)

Guyana gov’t condemns attacks on foreign investors

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Guyana government has once again raised its voice against the continuous attacks on foreign investors, as it underscored the importance of having such investments to develop the country’s economy. At the launching of JAGS Aviation on Monday, Transport Minister Robeson Benn expressed his dissatisfaction at what he described as the xenophobia adopted by some local newspapers, particularly their attacks on the Chinese investors in Guyana. He condemned these actions, stating that foreign investors are imperative to sustain development in the country. Benn recalled that similar attacks were previously launched on the Brazilian investors, as he questioned who they

will next assail. The minister went on to say that with all of the allegations made against these investors, no substantial evidence has been proffered to support the claims. He noted that such attacks are “deplorable” and will only result in the reversal of government’s efforts to develop the country. “We want to develop this country for future generations of Guyanese. We want those future generations of Guyanese to have a better life that we ourselves never had. And we cannot do it alone; we have to rely on foreign partners. We have to rely on Guyanese business partners to join with those people to learn from their experiences, so we can have a safe and sustainable development pact,” he stated. President Donald

Chinese investors have been facing harsh criticisms for logging operations in Guyana

Ramotar also added his voice against the attacks on the Chinese investors.

He said government has created special economic regimes to attract both

local and foreign investors to develop the potential of the country and

such attacks will have a negative impact on its efforts. (Guyana Times)

Grenada launches soft loan scheme for housing S

T GEORGE’S, GRENADA: The Grenada government says it has established a soft loan scheme to assist lowincome earners construct their own homes. E c o n o m i c Development Minister Oliver Joseph said the soft loan scheme is part of a wider initiative by the Keith Mitchell administration to tackle the major problem of housing on the island. “People have approached us for soft

loans to build their houses, so Cabinet decided to establish a soft loan with the sum of two million EC dollars allocated for that purpose. Low income earners who wish to construct a house can access this small loan,” Joseph explained. “As you know it is very difficult if you do not have adequate security to get a loan from the commercial institutions. So, a lot of people cannot go to the banks or credit unions

to obtain a loan and we see it as part of our responsibility to assist them.” Joseph estimates that eight out of every 10 people who visit his constituency office seeking help have been requesting housing assistance. “It is a major problem with respect to housing. Over the next four years we really plan to make a big dent on the problem of housing in Grenada. We feel the decision to put two

million dollars in this scheme will go a long way in assisting the needy,” Joseph indicated. “It will be a revolving loan, they will have to pay on a monthly basis. So, as the payments start we can extend the facility to other people.” The Grenada government has also said that it is be building low income houses under a scheme being financed by China. (Caribbean News)

Grenada’s Economic Development Minister Oliver Joseph

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EDITORIAL

Matching talk with money

mong the highlights of the just concluded Caricom-Japan Summit which was recently held in Trinidad and Tobago is an initiative which entails a US$15 million grant to boost the Region’s capacity to overcome the impacts of natural disasters. This project will enable countries in the Caribbean, including Guyana, Suriname and Belize, to enhance their adaptive capacity to climate change and natural disasters. Caribbean countries share common vulnerabilities, ranging from debt and excessive dependence on international trade to climate change and rising sea levels. For example, most of Jamaica was left without electricity, and public infrastructure suffered damage valued at hundreds of millions of dollars following the passage of Hurricane Sandy in 2012. In Grenada, Hurricane Ivan left damage worth 203 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and St. Lucia lost 365 percent of its GDP following Hurricane Gilbert in 1988. Those in Guyana would also recall the massive floods in 2005 which resulted in severe damage to agricultural crops and livestock. In addition to significant damage to property, several Guyanese lost their lives. The Caribbean needs help in fighting climate change. Most of the economies of the Region are small and national governments are occupied trying to find jobs and creating more opportunities for their citizens. They do not have the necessary resources which amount to millions of U.S. dollars to make the kind of investments in mitigation and adaptation projects. We therefore welcome this new Japan-Caribbean-UNDP Partnership as it will boost national policies and plans to cope with climate change-related adversity, among them, being aiming to reduce dependency on fossil fuel imports, setting the Region on a low-emission path and improving access to sustainable energy. There has been much talk by the big players such as the European Union and the U.S. While they have all expressed how concerned they are, they are not matching their talk with the massive level of investments needed to help poorer countries put systems in place to adequately deal with the impacts of climate change. Countries which are the biggest producers of carbon emissions are some of the slowest when it comes to implementing meaningful measures against climate change. The Caribbean countries are perhaps among the lowest polluters in the world, yet they are the ones who are facing (and will continue to face) the brunt of the impact of climate change. The world has committed to finalising a legally binding climate agreement by 2015 and that is now only a few months away. Former President of Guyana Bharrat Jagdeo who has been a global advocate on climate change issues had said that if we are to have a chance at winning this battle, urgent and necessary action will need to be taken at the highest level of world governments and international bodies. Jagdeo had also warned that there are practical interventions which could be taken now to minimise the effects of climate change, these include: building hurricane-proof hospitals and schools; making agriculture and other economic activities more resilient to climate events; and creating new financial mechanisms that make clean energy more attractive. These are practical solutions that can be delivered today. Jagdeo had argued: “Not only do they make moral and economic sense, but they are indispensable to building trust within the international community that the world is serious about addressing climate change.” Climate change and rising sea levels no doubt pose severe threats to countries such as Guyana considering it is below sea level and much of the people live on the coastland and depend on agriculture for a living. The big question is how do we move forward. There is general agreement that industrialised countries have a moral obligation to do more in terms of helping poorer countries avert the catastrophic effects of the climate change phenomenon. Japan and Norway are among the countries that have matched their talk with money, others should follow suit.

TT’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar enjoys a dance with these youngsters during an Independence Day cocktail reception she hosted at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s, last Thursday, ahead of the twinisland republic’s 52nd Independence anniversary on Sunday (FB photo)

Caribbean Tourism conference to address intraregional travel hurdles

aribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) General Secretary Hugh Riley said the upcoming State of The Industry Conference (SOTIC) billed for the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) on September 17-19 will include discussions on the barriers to travel within the Caribbean. Riley, during an interview with Caribbean reporters last Thursday, shared plans for the upcoming conference. He said while there are many barriers to travel for persons coming into the Caribbean, the hurdles faced by citizens of Caribbean nations are dumbfounding. And this, the conference hopes to address. “The barriers are many,” he said, adding: “There are barriers to travel specifically within the Caribbean that we are going to deal with. This obsession with checking and re-checking our own people at the airport is worrying.” Discussions on intra-regional travel hurdles will focus on taxes and costs, regulatory matters, security issues, economic conditions and cost of regional travel, among others. Representatives of the International Air Transport, Caribbean Airlines and the International Civil Aviation Organisation will address the conference on the very engaging issue. Under the theme: “Realising the Vision: Positioning Caribbean Tourism for Major Change”, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) will this year host its annual State of the Industry Conference (SOTIC) in the USVI.

Arrivals

He said the Caribbean continues to see an increase in arrivals to the Caribbean; and this could be a result of the conference, he posited, saying that the Caribbean has hit the

CTO General Secretary Hugh Riley

25-million mark. Riley stated that the annual event is the leading Tourism Conference in the Caribbean and will see the participation of international speakers addressing some of the major challenges faced by countries in the tourism sector. The Secretary General added that the conference, since its inception in 1989, has seen tremendous success in changing the tourism industry in the Caribbean. He noted too that while challenges continue to form part of the daily activities of the organisation, the conference seeks to bring together persons who understand these challenges and can provide solutions to them. “One thing is for sure, some of the challenges we have are going to be with us maybe forever, there’s always going to be the need to look at new technology and to find what new best practices are,” he indicated.

Tourism planning

SOTIC is the Caribbean’s leading tourism conference

where Caribbean tourism practitioners, policy-makers and strategic partners from the public and private sectors, academics and travel professionals, at the highest levels, gather to discuss issues, identify solutions and generally develop courses of action that will benefit the tourism industry in the Caribbean. There are 250-350 registrants. Speakers of international and regional acclaim will provide best- case practices and winning strategies on a wide range of topics that are critical to the growth of Caribbean tourism, all with a view to the development of a sustainable tourism industry that will position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year- round, warm weather destination. Youth from several CTO member countries will also make their contributions to the discussions at a Youth Congress, one of the various vehicles through which the CTO encourages the best and brightest to consider tourism as a career.

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News

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Canadian educators wrap up mission in Guyana

anadian Gerald Logan, a retired Hillside Community school principal, is no stranger to bringing his teaching expertise to other countries. According to a report in the Alberta Daily Herald Tribune, Logan recently returned from his fifth trip with Project Overseas, a collaboration between the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) and its member organisations across Canada. This year the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) sponsored 10 of their teachers to work with teachers and school leaders overseas by providing professional development workshops. With a team of four other teachers, Logan, who was in charge of school administration, spent two weeks in Guyana providing training on teaching strategies, which includes bringing current teaching practices from North America. Logan was quoted in the article as saying: “One of the primary things I did was called the jigsaw learning activity where the goal was to have them teach each other. In the jigsaw, this group learns some information and then we go to the home groups and we teach the other people in our group and they teach us…By getting them to do the actual teaching, we make sure we cement it.” He stated that the 152 teachers who participated were either untrained or under-trained. The school where Logan and his team worked was in the village

The Canadian educators and officials of the Guyana Teachers' Union enjoy an evening out while in Guyana

Mabaruma, near the Venezuelan border and within the tidal zone. He has previously volunteered in Guyana just five years ago, in the village of Moruca, also in the northern part of the country. Besides Guyana, Logan has also volunteered in Sierra Leone, Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines “I like just the whole idea of helping teachers because I’m lucky, I was raised in Alberta, and in Canada an education is relatively easy to get. I’ve been blessed with I think seven years of university,” said Logan. “And these people to get into university, a teacher training programme,

they have to have a job as a teacher first so they have to go in as untrained teacher and then get accepted,” he added. For now, the school system in Guyana is very lecture-oriented but Logan hopes the teachers take what they learn and bring it into their schools. Although there is no possible way of Project Overseas monitoring the teachers who participated, there can be local follow ups made, and many of Logan’s pupils said they would take the strategies back to the schools and even teach their colleagues, as many teachers had to be turned away due to large numbers.

U.S. Navy Secretary holds security talks with TT officials

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The man at the helm of the most powerful naval defence operations in the world, United States (U.S.) Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus, was in Port-of-Spain over the weekend on an extremely tightly guarded visit for talks with Trinidad and Tobago national security officials, including Minister Gary Griffith. In addition to Griffith, Mabus met with Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Kenrick Maharaj, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Dookeran and President Anthony Carmona. Also participating in the meetings were Chargé d’Affaires, Keith Gilges, Chief of the Security Cooperation Office Commander Kevin Austin, both of the U.S. Embassy in Port-of-Spain, as well as the Secretary’s travelling staff. Mabus’ trip to Port-of-Spain also followed a visit by a 22-man team from Trinidad and Tobago (TT) including Griffith and Maharaj, representatives of the Office of the Prime Minister and the TT military leadership to the home base of the future amphibious assault ship, he USS America in San Diego. The visit’s main focus, according to a news story from the U.S. navy, in July, was to engage in a round table discussion with key American naval personnel on such areas as the importance of humanitarian assistance and disaster preparedness and the capabilities all countries bring to the effort. No full details about the Mabus visit were given by either TT personnel or the U.S. Embassy in Port- of-Spain except for a statement from the Embassy which quoted Mabus as saying that part of the purpose of his visit was “to explore ways we can expand our military-to-military partnership, whether it is through training or participation in joint exercises so we can increase our interoperability.” The release said he came to meet with government officials about military, maritime and security issues. (TT Newsday)

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Jamaica resumes beef imports from Canada K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: After closing its borders to Canadian beef over a decade ago Jamaica has given the green light for the country resume importation of the product. According to Canada media reports, Canada’s Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz made the announcement on Monday that Jamaica had approved all imports of beef

Canada's Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz

and beef products from Canada after a closure of the market in 2003 due to Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) popularly known as Mad Cow Disease. “Our government continues to work with industry to open new markets to increase exports of our top-class beef,” the Canadian minister is reported as saying. “This new access

gives Canadian producers another vibrant market for their product, increasing their competitiveness and growing our overall economy,” he added. Meanwhile, Chief veterinary officer, in the Veterinary Division of Jamaica’s Ministry of Agriculture Dr Osbil Watson did not confirm nor deny the reports when contacted by Jamaican media.

Jamaica is Canada's second largest market for agricultural exports within the Caribbean Region, after Cuba, with 2013 agricultural exports to Jamaica totalling Cdn$54 million. The Jamaican market for Canadian beef is worth approximately Cdn$4.5 million, or 1.5 million pounds of beef annually, according to data from a Canadian source. (Jamaica Observer)

PM Kamla says she’s ready to risk “political suicide” for Runoff Bill

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: TT’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar Tuesday said she was willing to risk “political suicide” over the question of the Constitutional (Amendment) Bill 2014, as she told Senators it will be for the people to judge the current government on the issue at a coming general election. In a rare appearance in the Senate, the Prime Minister piloted the Bill, acknowledging that aspects of it had triggered “disquiet” and “concern”. She said specific details of the mechanisms of implementation of the proposals could be negotiated, but was silent on calls for the Bill to be referred to a Senate committee. Instead, she strongly suggested the

issue was likely to forge ahead and be left to the electorate at the next election, saying reform has been in the air for 50 years and now was the time to “walk the walk”. The Prime Minister stated: “I say again for those who are of the view that I am committing political suicide, I say I am prepared to take that risk because I am convinced that we cannot continue to do business as usual. We cannot expect change by the same ole same ole way of doing things. We promised change.” She further added: “I am mindful, as I enter the political battlefield, that this may be political suicide. However, I am not daunted by the risks of my own political survival because I be-

lieve that is trumped by our desire to keep our promises to enhance our democracy. As a politician; as Prime Minister, my interest is not for my political survival, but my interest must be what is in the best interest, and if we cannot get the best interest of the people, what is in the better interest of the people of Trinidad and Tobago.” In the first hint that the Constitution reform is set to be a general election issue possibly before 2015, the Prime Minister said, “Come next year– or whenever within the constitutional framework for the calling of an election–the liberty of the people will determine whether we were right or whether we were wrong in bringing this legislation today…If this thing

TT’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar greets her supporters outside of the Parliament building at Wrightson Road, Portof-Spain, on Tuesday (TT Guardian photo)

Army was derelict concerning Gregory Smith’s file By Alexis Rodney

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Head of the Guyana Defence Force’s Intelligence (G2 Unit), Lieutenant Colonel Sydney James on Tuesday told the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry in Guyana that the missing personnel file of the historian’s suspected murderer William “Gregory” Smith was considered confidential and should have been kept under lock and key. But instead, the document, which could have assisted Commissioners investigating the death of Dr Rodney, in determining if his alleged assassin was indeed employed by the military, has mysteriously disappeared. The now deceased Smith, who was implicated in the explosion that killed the historian and political activist some 34 years ago, was said to be a serving

Lieutenant Colonel Sydney James going through documents at the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry

Sergeant and electronics expert attached to the Army during that time, although his service was denied by the then Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Norman Mc Lean. Mc Lean had told the Commission that Smith was not an active member of the Force and when a photocopied form with regimental number 4141 was present-

ed to him by Counsel for the Commission, Glen Hanoman, the retired Brigadier concluded it was a cut-and-paste document. But now, James, who is responsible for carrying out searches for the missing files of Army officers, said the investigation into the disappearance of Smith’s file is currently ongoing. So far, nothing has been uncovered. Standing before the Commission, James told the Tribunal that Smith’s file was considered confidential and should have been kept safe and secured in the Personnel Department. Asked what the procedure is if the Army were to deliberately destroy Smith’s file, James said there is no policy in the Army for the destruction of any personnel files. He said too that in order for any official to receive the personnel file of any member, he must go through the regular process of making a re-

quest and having that request seen and signed by the GPD. James was responding to queries

is so bad what will happen? They will vote us out in 2015. The electorate will have the final say.” On the claim of a lack of consultation on the proposals, the Prime Minister said, “Some are saying delay the Bill. But delay the Bill for how long? We have been talking Constitution reform for nearly 50 years. The time has come not just to talk the talk but walk that walk.” And outside of Parliament, riot police assumed a dominant position and had to physically remove People’s National Movement (PNM) supporters from protesting directly in front of the Parliament building at Wrightson Road, Port-of-Spain, Tuesday. (TT Newsday)

- Walter Rodney COI in Guyana hears by the lead Attorney for the Commission, Glen Hanoman, on whether it was possible for

the Chief-of-Staff to order the removal of that particular file. (Guyana Times)

News

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New programme to boost Guyana’s air traffic surveillance

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The aviation sector in Guyana is now better positioned to manage its airspace and the safety of air traffic as the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) last Thursday launched the Automatic Dependence Surveillance Broadcast Project. The project is part of the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) global plan for the seamless transition of flights through the world’s airspace. At the launch, Transport Minister Robeson Benn said the project is indeed a significant achievement for the transport sector, more so the aviation sector, as the demands have been growing over the years. The minister pointed out that this project now provides a more advanced means of air surveillance and air safety. Currently, the avia-

Guyana’s Transport Minister Robeson Benn (Guyana Times file photo)

tion sector manages the air space while depending mainly on procedural activities, and heavily on the engagement training of air traffic controllers on radio sets. Against this backdrop, Minister Benn said this new monitoring system represents a great leap forward to a new level on how the

aviation sector manages its air space and traffic. “We know it has been implemented in other countries, and it affords seamless interface between other countries as it will allow for efficient, safe and comprehensive operation and a better overall management of the air-safety control.” Benn also welcomed the initiative against the

backdrop that over the years, there has been a significant increase in domestic flights in local airspace, as well as an increase in international air traffic. ADS-B is a nextgeneration surveillance technology incorporating both air and ground aspects that provide a more accurate picture of the three-dimensional position of the aircraft. The system is a cooperative surveillance technology in which the aircraft avionics determines position via satellite navigation and periodically broadcasts it, enabling it to be tracked. The system will be operated by the Air Traffic Control Tower in Timehri. GCAA Director General Zulficar Mohamed said the new technology is in keeping with its modernisation drive, noting that it is a step in the right direction.

New submarine company invests millions in Ocho Rios’ tourist attraction

CHO RIOS, JAMAICA: The Jamaica Submarine Company (JSC) has invested US$4.2 million (Ja$475M) in the island's first submarine, which is docked in Ocho Rios. The company hopes to change the tourism landscape with its 40foot, battery-operated underwater vessel. It is expected to make its first departure in October. "Going underwater is like going to a whole new world," managing director of the Jamaica Submarine Company, Douglas Oxborrow, stated. "You get to go down and see the World War II shipwreck, look at the bottom of a 100-foot cliff, see the aquatic life and the wonderful things

Douglas Oxborrow

that you're not used to seeing." Oxborrow is optimistic that both locals and international tourists will be drawn to the submarine because of its untapped recreational space as well as its creation of diversity in the eco-tourism market.

What's more, the submarine is capable of operating on its own for up to three days without breaking to surface from its battery and remotecontrolled operations. Engineers specifically designed the vessel to operate without a combustion engine, burning

The investors are optimistic that both locals and international tourists will be drawn to the submarine (Jamaica Observer photos)

no petroleum products to protect the fragile undersea environment. The two-hour tour includes a ferry ride which will provide a view of the Ocho Rios Bay and a onehour underwater excursion to depths of approximately 100 feet. The submarine can accommodate up to 24 persons and departs from the Ocho Rios Cruise Ship terminal to a dive site near Sans Souci, a mile from the terminal. The tour rate currently stands at US$129 for international guests and US$85 for locals, not inclusive of government consumption tax (GCT). As a result, the company stands to generate up to US$7.8 million (Ja$890 million) in revenue from its planned seven tours per day, seven days a week. JSC has already employed 16 of the 30 local individuals needed to run operations and will employ customer service representatives, gift shop employees, mechanical engineers, submarine pilots, narrators and sailors by the end of the year. Jamaica was chosen as the location for the submarine because of its clear waters and established tourism industry, among others, according to Oxborrow. (Jamaica Observer)

Man charged for brutal murder of toddler in Jamaica DEAD: Jayheim Cooper

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Detectives in Jamaica’s northern parish of St. Ann have charged the man who was held for the brutal killing of a two-year-old boy in the community of Lewis near St. Ann's Bay last week. Devon Jarrett, 42, was charged Monday night with murder and wounding with intent. He is scheduled to appear in Court on Friday. Jarrett is accused of slashing the throat of Jayheim Cooper and injuring another man in the community last Thursday. A post mortem is to be conducted on the

murdered child later this week. It was reported that Jarrett had an altercation with a relative at a house, following which he left and went to a nearby property where he stabbed a man. He then went to another premise and attacked Jayheim. Reports are that the baby was in his yard playing when the man entered, grabbed him and slashed his throat. This happened shortly after the supposed same mentally-ill man allegedly attacked and cut the throat of Logan Simpson with a knife in another section of the community.

Trinidad gov’t investigates Office of the President email account hacking

The Office of the President in TT said that it view the matter with great concern

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: The Office of the President in Trinidad and Tobago is investigating an incident in which the email account of a high level member of staff has been hacked. This has resulted in e-mails being sent to several people, including State officials on the staff member’s contact list. A statement from the Office of the President last Saturday noted the sent e-mails contained the following message: “I sent you an e-mail earlier but I notice the failure delivery, so I sent it using a secured line, view here to read the message.” People who may have received the message were advised not to access the hyperlink to avoid the possible spread

of the e-mail and the subsequent compromising of their own e-mail accounts. The Office of the President said that it view the matter with great concern and considers it to be an insidious attempt to compromise the integrity and confidentiality of communications both within and outside of the Office of the President. “The matter is being pursued assiduously with the assistance of the relevant specialist agencies and authorities to establish the source of the e-mail and to determine if there was any breach of the laws of Trinidad and Tobago and, if such a breach did occur, whether or not those responsible fall within the prosecutorial remit of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions,” the release added.

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Barbados’ Consul General in Canada says red tape hurting island

RIDGETOWN, B A R B A D O S : Barbados’ Consul General in Canada Haynesley Benn says bureaucratic red tape continues to be a major deterrent to foreign direct investment in the country. Delivering a report on his tenure since taking up the post a year ago, Benn told a meeting of the Democratic Labour Party’s St Peter branch Monday night that the problem exists both in the private and public sectors, though it is worse in the government service. He said there must be a shift in attitude or the country will continue to lose valu-

able business. “This is bad for the country and all I can say is, I wish that our people here would act with the same degree of urgency and treat matters with the same degree of importance as business persons in Canada treat matters. If we do that, I can guarantee you that there would be a lot more businesses being set up here in the country,” he indicated. To drive home his point, the diplomat noted he had sent a shipment containing about 16 boxes of toys and clothing to Barbados on behalf of McMaster University in Canada since February.

To date, he said, the items earmarked for less fortunate Barbadians have not been cleared in the absence of a letter from Minster of Finance Chris Sinckler granting a waiver on the port charges. “I find that to be so distressing and so unfortunate,” Benn expressed. “I promised the organisation that when I come to Barbados I would seek to have the storage charges waived. If I can get the Customs to waive it, I would pay from my pocket the other duties that the Customs would have charged. They shouldn’t have been charged anything except a nominal fee.

“I wouldn’t want that next year McMaster University and other people have things to send down and I have to tell them they went but they weren’t used,” he added. Meantime, Benn is due to meet with representatives of the Barbados Investment and Development Corporation later this week to discuss access to the Canada market for Barbadian manufacturers of condiments. He said there is a “tremendous market” in the North American country, given the large number of Barbadians residing there. The Consul General, who attended the 3rd Diaspora

Barbados’ Consul General in Canada Haynesley Benn (Barbados Today photo)

Conference held in Barbados earlier this month, is due to return to Canada at the end of this month. (Barbados Today)

BK Group promises to promote Guyana’s tourism …with launch of airline By Vahnu Manikchand

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The BK International Group of Companies officially launched its JAGS Aviation airline in Guyana on Monday afternoon at the Ogle International Airport (OIA), promising to help promote the country’s tourism. At a simple ceremony at the Wings Aviation Hangar, the airline was launched before a host of

dignitaries. The airline will be providing domestic services to interior locations with a brand new aircraft recently added to its fleet. The Cessna Grand Caravan 208B EX, valued some US$3 million, has a seating capacity of 13, excluding the pilot. It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and is fully air conditioned. The BK Group is no stranger to the transportation sector with a history in the minibus

and marine sub-sectors. However, its entry into the aviation industry is the vision of the younger Tiwari generation, who will be leading the airline. One of the Directors, Briony Tiwari, told the gathering that they saw the potential of Guyana’s tourism product and wanted to invest; hence, the acquisition of JAGS Aviation. She disclosed that the BK Group had acquired JAGS three months ago and began

BK Group of Companies Chairman Brian Tiwari and U.S. Embassy Charge d’Affaires Bryan Hunte being told about the Cessna Grand Caravan

Guyana's President Donald Ramotar, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Transport Minister Robeson Benn along with Director of JAGS Aviation, Briony Tiwari inside the new Cessna Grand Caravan

immediately investing in the company with a fleet expansion programme. This, according to the Director, saw staff receiving training overseas and the recruitment of new personnel. Tiwari pointed out that the new Cessna Grand Caravan is outfitted to provide the highest standard of comfort for passengers. The Director assured that her company will be continuing its efforts to improve the aviation sector by investing in new air-

Cocaine war looms in Caribbean P

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The Caribbean Region, including Trinidad and Tobago, must now brace itself for a likely return to the dreaded “Cocaine Cowboy” days— a virtual war among drug traffickers—Francis Forbes, the executive director of Caricom’s Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (Impacs) warned Monday. Forbes warned that trafficking in drugs, guns and ammunition–accompanied by money-laundering–are set to get worse unless effective control measures are implemented.

In a speech at the opening of a trainers’ workshop, held at the new offices of Impacs at Keate Street, Port-ofSpain, Forbes called on communities to take steps to deal with crime and to say, “enough is enough”. Speaking with reporters after the event, Forbes also warned that the human trafficking problem remains “significant”, while Impacs officials classed Trinidad and Tobago as a country with a relatively higher level of activity in that regard. “Unless effective control measures are vigorously implemented

Francis Forbes, executive director of Caricom’s Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

by all, things will only get worse,” Forbes said in his speech. He noted that Colombia, Mexico and the United States

(U.S.) have been successful–through the Merida Initiative–in bringing about a decline in arms crimes, including ho-

craft and higher standards of operations and customer care. In addition, she pledged her commitment to investing in promoting the country’s tourism sector. “You will also see substantial investment in the promotion of Guyana as a destination for international and domestic tourism…we want to encourage everyone in the tourism and transportation sectors to work together to quickly bring Guyana’s tour-

ism infrastructure to the place where we are hosting a substantial amount of tourists each year,” she stated. In delivering his feature address, President Donald Ramotar pointed out that for too long Guyana has been the best kept secret, but it is now putting its tourism products out there. He highlighted the importance of air transportation for the various sectors, particularly mining. (Guyana Times)

- top regional security official warns micides. However, this now poses a threat to Caricom. “Even as those countries bask in their success, Caricom must now shift into high gear in view of warnings from senior U.S. official sources that we should again brace ourselves for the likely return of the dreaded "Cocaine Cowboy" days,” Forbes said. “As it was in those days the pattern remains the same; trafficking in drugs, guns and ammunition accompanied by money laundering are inseparable commodities for organised crime. And the effects are, as usual,

very devastating.” Forbes noted that the period known as the days of the “Cocaine Cowboys” saw Colombia appearing to be at war with itself as the Cali Cartel and the Medellin Cartel battled each other for supremacy of the drug trade, resulting in significant loss of innocent lives in that country. Members of law enforcement, judges and prosecutors were specifically targeted for brutal assassination almost on a monthly basis, he observed. To local communities, Forbes said security must be the business of all. (TT Newsday)

10 News PPP/C seeks ‘national front alliance’ in Guyana G www.caribbeantimesinternational.com |

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) said it is moving to establish a broad national democratic front, ahead of the next General Elections in Guyana. The outcome of the 2011 General and Regional Elections had left the ruling party with a slim one-seat minority government for the first time. The PPP/C garnered 32 seats in the National Assembly while its opponents, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC) collectively acquired 33 seats. Speaking at Freedom House on Monday, the General Secretary Clement Rohee disclosed that the Party is on a path of establishing a broad national democratic front.

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Heartened

Though declining to reveal greater details, Rohee said PPP/C is “heartened” by the overwhelming interest shown by “a large number” of civic and political stakeholders in the establishment of such an alliance. Of recent, the ruling Party has had several discussions with stakeholders and interest groups on the country’s political climate. Those present were assured that Guyanese will benefit significantly from higher levels of transparency and accountability through shared governance. “The party is satisfied that its ideology, political principles and track record have managed to attract so many stakeholders who are interested in this national democratic platform to build and further develop Guyana,” Rohee told re-

Antigua seeks China's help to transform Secondary School to University College

Antigua’s Prime Minister Browne was met on arrival in China by Deputy Foreign Minister Mr. Liu Zhenmin (A&B gov’t photo)

T JOHN’S, ANTIGUA: Antigua and Barbuda is hoping that China will provide US$18 million towards the expansion of the Five Islands Secondary School to the University College Antigua. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who is on an official visit to Beijing, has officially informed the principals of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) of the intention of his government regarding the facility, according to a government statement issued Tuesday. It said that prior to leaving Antigua, Prime Minister Browne toured the facilities at Five Islands with Chinese Ambassador Ren Gongping and noted that the new proposal will include student dorms, an expanded library, expanded ICT facility, Olympic size swimming pool and tennis courts. Prime Minister Browne said he has already started talks with the University of the West Indies (UWI) on establishing the local university and that the government will be appointing a National Committee with a corresponding committee from the UWI to produce a proposal for collaboration and a timeframe for implementation. The statement said that Prime Minister Browne is expected to finalise the agreement for US$18 million towards the expansion of the facility at Five Islands. “Prime Minister Browne said that CCECC is very important to strengthening the business relations between China and Antigua and Barbuda and he is confident that after his visit, cooperation and trade will be heightened. He said that his government’s desire to strengthened relations is demonstrated in its recent decision to abolish the requirement for visas for Chinese nationals to visit Antigua and Barbuda,” the statement added. Prime Minister Browne has also indicated that his government is prepared to enter into a public private partnership arrangement with CCECC for the construction of an additional hotel and shops in the area. (Caribbean News)

PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee

porters. Contrary to some reports, he said “more and more stakeholders” are condemning the

actions by the Opposition to stymie development and cripple country’s progress. “The party’s engagement in a wide range of stakeholders has revealed that resentment is growing increasingly as a result of the Opposition’s misuse of parliamentary power and the abuse of their one seat majority,” he added. The APNU led by David Granger had endorsed the notion of shared governance but said there were genuine concerns. Rohee said it is the Opposition that is doing all in its power to create strife and diminish the hopes of having shared governance.

Realities

Rohee noted that the party maintains the view that any proposal for shared governance has to be based on the social, political and cultural realities

in Guyana and not be used to score cheap political points. Shared governance has been a long debated subject in Guyana’s political realm dating back to 1957 when the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) under the leadership of the late Dr Cheddi Jagan attempted to form a broad united front to contest the General Elections; a move which would have seen a government of national unity. At the time, Forbes Burnham had rejected the notion of “shared governance”. But approximately 54 years after, APNU has reintroduced the concept, calling for a government of national unity. APNU is a coalition which is dominated by the People’s National Congress (PNC), a party formed following the 1957 General Elections by Burnham. (Guyana Times)

Pan Carib to generate electricity from bagasse in Jamaica

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Chinese-owned Pan Caribbean Sugar Company Limited is powering up its generators in order to use bagasse to produce energy to slash its electricity cost and ease the burden on Jamaica’s national grid, the company's principals have disclosed. Dr Huaixiang (Harry) Wu, chief executive officer (CEO) of Pan Caribbean, said Monday that the sugar company was moving, over the next three years, to convert into energy, bagasse, the pulp that remains after the extraction of juice from sugar cane. Delroy Armstrong, senior assistant to the CEO of Pan Caribbean, said that the upgrade will allow the company to become self-sufficient. "We will have excess energy that we will be able to sell to the national grid," he asserted. Added Armstrong: "We are in discussions with the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) and the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) regarding a licence and a powerpurchase agreement." Bagasse is the fibrous matter that remains after sugar cane is crushed to extract juice and is

Dr Huaixiang (Harry) Wu, CEO of Pan Caribbean (Jamaica Gleaner photo)

considered to be a biofuel. It is also frequently used as a primary fuel source for sugar mills. When burned in quantity, it produces sufficient heat energy to supply all the needs of a typical sugar mill, with energy to spare. Armstrong said that the bagasse will be taken from all its sugar cane locations to be converted into energy. "That is going to be one revenue stream which was not there before," he said. In endorsing Armstrong's pronouncements, Wu said he has

been working with different government departments to ensure there is a proper policy that will support the use of bagasse for this purpose. He disclosed that he was pushing for at least five percent of offseason bagasse-based energy to be passed on to the national grid. Wu said Pan Caribbean has two generators that produce 10 and five megawatts, respectively. "After the sugar crop, we use the smaller one," he disclosed. He projected that making use of the process after the sugar season, the 10-megawatt generator could be used to develop bagasse into fuel within the next three years. Wu suggested that if all sugar factories changed out their boilers, they will save about 10 percent in electricity costs. To this end, he said, the Chinese team was holding dialogue with Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining Phillip Paulwell. "If the old factories change out the turbines and boilers, the country will probably import 10 percent less of petroleum," said Wu. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Cocaine valued at Ja$145 million seized at Kingston Wharves

INGSTON, JAMAICA: J a m a i c a ’ s T r a n s n a t i o n a l Crime and Narcotics Division (TCND) and the Contraband Enforcement Team on Sunday seized 267 pounds of cocaine at Kingston Wharves, the police's Corporate Communications Unit reported Monday. According to the police, during a routine operation about 9:45 am, the team searched a container which arrived from Suriname, en route

to China. The container, which contained lumber, was opened and four black bags wrapped in transparent plastic were found. An examination of these bags revealed the cocaine, said the police. No one was arrested in relation to the seizure of the drug, valued at Ja$145 million. The police Monday asked that anyone with information that can assist in their investigation should contact the TCND at 923-5729, 119 or the nearest police station. (Jamaica Observer)

The cocaine was found in a container which arrived from Suriname, en route to China (Jamaica Observer photo)

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

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More incentives for Guyanese gold miners

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Investors within Guyana’s mining sector would soon benefit from additional duty-free concessions, President Donald Ramotar disclosed on Monday as he declared open Mining Week 2014. The duty-free concessions would be given for a “particular type of vehicle”, the President said, but explained that key requirements would have to be met. “We will grant these, but we would want to tie that to gold declaration and we would want to tie it to payment of taxes,” he further explained. Since August 2013, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) had called for the government to assent to tax waivers on the importation of 4x4s and four-door open-back vehicles. It was noted that these vehicles are still being deemed luxury vehicles and attract heavy import duties,

projections for 2014. He also complained about the issues surrounding recovery and the deplorable road networks.

Awards

Guyana's President Ramotar and Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud flanked by the awardees and officials within the mining sector

although they are necessary for safe travel. These vehicles are often used to transport rations, spares and personnel to and from mining operations. It was also an occasion where President Ramotar poured cold water on the notion that the mining industry, particularly the gold sector, was in “crisis” given the drop in gold prices on the international market. According to www. goldrate24.com, one

ounce of gold is currently being sold at US$1277.56 or Gy$263,113.18. But Ramotar said every sector has its challenges. According to him, many investors within the gold sector entered the industry at a time when the price of gold was below US$1000, but nevertheless benefited significantly when the prices surpassed US$1800. As Guyana feels the impact, local miners, the President stressed, must

be able to improve their efficiency.

Crisis

“This should challenge us, we should not despair and talk about crisis, this should challenge us to do things in an even better way,” he urged the miners. They were also encouraged to aid in the process of diversification by investing within sectors and infrastructural projects. The President had spoken minutes af-

ter GGDMA President Patrick Harding had painted the gold industry black, contending that it was in a “crisis”. “This industry is in crisis. Small and medium scale miners need help,” he told the gathering. Drawing a comparison, he pointed out that in 2013, the gold sector created history when it recorded the highest gold declaration of 458,105 ounces of gold, but, to date, it has been unable to reach its

Meanwhile, Raymond Khan was awarded for his outstanding performance in responsible (environmental) mining while the Best Licensed Gold Dealer Award went to Mohamed and El Dorado Trading. BK International and Toolsie Persaud received awards for their outstanding performance in the production of stone, while Lennox John and Cecil Persaud were presented with awards for their accomplishment in the area of sand production. The top awards were presented by President d Ramotar and went to MB&D Persaud Mining, the 2014 top producer in terms of diamond while the top gold producers were Chunnilall Babulall and Ryan and Julio Pereira. (Guyana Times)

Jamaican cop allegedly kills brother-in-law

INGSTON, JAMAICA: A Jamaican policeman has been held for killing his brother-in-law

during a domestic dispute late Saturday. The cop, whose name has not been released, was held in the western

parish of Westmoreland after he reportedly shot and killed Christopher Thompson, 41. The police report that

Thompson, a farmer, was told that the policeman–his brother in law, had hit his daughter. Residents say an argument developed during which the policeman shot Thompson several times. Thompson was rushed to hospital where he died.

Residents say an argument developed during which the policeman shot his relative several times

The cop was taken into custody. The Independent Commission of

Investigations (INDECOM) will probe the matter. (Jamaica Observer)

TT$25,000 bail for Trinidad cop in hit-and-run

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: The Trinidadian police officer charged with knocking down a pensioner and leaving him for dead along the Priority Bus Route, St Joseph, two weeks ago appeared in court Monday but was not charged with causing the man’s death. Constable Marvin Burke, 38, who has 20 years of service, pleaded not guilty to charges of failing to render assistance following an accident and failing to report an accident. The accident claimed the life of 65-year-old Ralph Abraham. Police say they are awaiting instructions from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions before he is charged with causing the man’s death. Around 8 pm on August 17, Abraham was returning

Trinidad Police Constable Marvin Burke, left, accompanied by his attorney Denyse Gouveia, leaves the Tunapuna Magistrates Court Monday (TT Guardian photo)

to his home at Agostini Street, St Joseph, when he was struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the Priority Bus Route. He died instantly. An autopsy done by pathologist Dr Valery Alexandrov revealed he suffered a fractured rib cage, punctured lung and liver, a ruptured heart and three spinal fractures. He was struck from behind and his body was flung several feet into the air upon impact. His

legs were also fractured. Burke, who was assigned to the Santa Cruz Police Station, appeared before magistrate Siumungal Ramsaran on Monday. The officer, who was represented by attorney Denyse Gouveia, was granted TT$25,000 bail at the St Joseph Police Station last Saturday after spending five days in custody. He was allowed to leave after depositing TT$15,000. (TT Guardian)

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Canada-based GHTK commissions two more neonatal units in Guyana

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The Canada-based Guyana Help The Kids (GHTK) organisation continues to invest in Guyana’s neonatal facilities, and has recently commissioned another Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), this time at the West Demerara Regional Hospital. In Guyana, neonatal deaths account for approximately 50 percent of the under-five mortality. However, with the establishment of NICUs–which provide specialised care for prematurely born babies (neonates) who are not fully developed and are unable to survive on their own without the assistance of monitoring equipment, incubators, and breathing apparatus, the figure can be reduced significantly. GHTK, headed by Dr Narendra Singh, has been working closely with Guyana’s Health Ministry

GHTK President Dr Narendra Singh; Guyana’s Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran; NICU Nursing Programme Director Dr Leif Nelin and Dhaman Kissoon at the commissioning of the West Demerara Regional Hospital NICU in Guyana earlier this month (Guyana Times photo)

to build the health sector’s capacity to cater to the needs of neonates. Dr Singh, who is the Chief of Paediatrics at Humber River Hospital in Toronto, said in addition to the operationalisation of NICUs, a Paediatric Residency Programme and a Neonatal Nurses Programme have been established. Already the Paediatric Residency Programme has produced two paediatricians and 10 others are being trained.

Training

Eleven nurses have graduated from the Neonatal Nurses

Programme with a batch of 17 set to graduate in November. “We are also training them to be trainers. So at some point in time they will assume ownership of the training programmes,” Dr Singh highlighted. By 2017, GHTK is hoping to have a well-developed neonatal network that could be handed over to the Health Ministry. Recently, another NICU was commissioned at the Suddie Public Hospital in Essequibo. These goals will be achieved with the support of the Kissoon Family of

Canada who are key financial supporters. Dhaman Kissoon represented his siblings and mother, who are all Canada-based Guyanese who have been offering financial support since 2000. In addition to GHTK, the Rotary Club, Three Rivers Foundation and an orphanage in India are beneficiaries. GHTK has been making significant strides in the local health sector, as it seeks to reduce neonatal and infant mortality rates in Guyana by 50 percent. Already, the organisation has assisted in a 50 percent reduction in

NICU Nursing Programme Director Dr Leif Nelin explaining the uses of the incubator and its supporting elements

the neonatal death rate at the Georgetown Public Hospital–some 83 babies were saved.

Paediatric post-graduate

The GHTK collaborated with the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s Institute of Health Science Education, the University of Guyana, the McMasters University and the Humber River Regional Hospital in Toronto to introduce a paediatric post-graduate residency programme in 2011. In addition to the paediatric post-graduate res-

idency programme, the GHTK and Georgetown Public Hospital in March 2012 reconstructed a 24bed NICU. The facility was brought up to standard with the installation of procure monitors, IV pumps, pump monitors and incubators procured from funds (Cdn$100,000) raised by the GHTK. Prior to the commissioning, the unit was in dire need of incubators, which support the breathing of premature infants while they are still hospitalised, so they have a better chance of survival. (Guyana Times)

Another Canadian appointed at CAL

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Another Canadian national has been added to the executive team at State owned Caribbean Airlines (CAL). New Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael Di Lollo, also a Canadian citizen, took up office last May. George Reeleder, took up the position of Vice President, Commercial Operations on Monday, TT media have reported. Unofficial sources told TT media that Reeleder has a solid aviation background. The position of VicePresident, Commercial

has been vacant since former holder Robert Corbie was made acting Chief Executive Officer in November 2011. Corbie resigned suddenly last October. Over the past two weeks, CAL has published advertisements seeking persons to fill the positions of Vice President Strategic Management and Manager, Corporate Communications. Clint Williams, who served as the airline’s corporate communications manager for the past two years left the company a month

ago. Meanwhile the airline’s board seems to be paying greater attention to the operation of the domestic airbridge service. Sources disclosed that for the second time in a few months board members took time to survey and monitor the way passengers were being handled at the check-in counters all the way to the boarding activity. Last week, four board members spent hours observing what happens at the domestic counters in two “shifts”, two “on duty” in the morning and two more

in the afternoon. The airbridge has come under much scrutiny recently, when Chief Secretary

of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Orville London accused CAL of not treating with the airbridge

operations as it should and called for a separate airline to operate the domestic services. (TT Newsday)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Canada aiding community Jamaicans protest bus fare development in Jamaica increase in Half-Way-Tree

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Redevelopment work has commenced on the Cecil Charlton Park in Mandeville, Manchester, Jamaica, to construct 10 kiosks for use by micro, small and mediumsized entrepreneurs in the town. The kiosks are being built at a cost of approximately Ja$11.2 million (US$100,000). The project, being spearheaded by the Manchester Parish Council, is the first of seven pilots approved by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development for implementation in six municipalities under the Ja$2-billion (Can$20 million) government of Canada-funded Caribbean Local Economic Development Project. The redevelopment project aims to stimulate economic growth and assist in the park's overall transformation into an inclusive and accessible space, accommodating diverse users. Construction

Protesters gather for the peaceful demonstration in Jamaica against government’s bus fare increase in Half-Way-Tree square on Monday (Photo: Karl McLarty/Jamaica Observer) The bust of National Hero Norman Washington Manley unveiled in the Cecil Charlton Park in Mandeville (Jamaica Observer photo)

of the kiosks is scheduled for completion in October. Ground was formally broken for the project during a ceremony at the facility last Thursday. At the ceremony, Minister of Local Government and Community Development Noel Arscott said the initiative represents an "important step in

the development process (in Manchester) by the Manchester Parish Council". "It is expected that the park will be a catalyst to promote further development in Mandeville, and to become a focal point for the hosting of events and other social interactions," he added. (Jamaica Observer)

Nine-year-old boy dies in Guyana after stung by Africanised bees

SSEQUIBO, GUYANA: Nineyear-old Romesh Samaroo called “Krish” of Lima Village on the Essequibo Coast in Guyana last Saturday succumbed to an attack from African bees on Tuesday at the Georgetown Public Hospital. He was a student of Sparta Primary School. According to relatives, Samaroo last Tuesday was riding his bicycle through a street at La Belle Alliance when he was attacked by the bees. According to relatives, a few boys from the village were playing cricket when the ball went into a bushy area and disturbed the bees. The relatives say the other boys were also attacked, but they jumped into a nearby trench. Residents say the vacant lot close to

Dead: Romesh Samaroo

the street has a lot of bushes which are harbouring the bees and despite complaints to regional officials, nothing has been done.

Woman fined TT$840 in Trinidad for biting cop

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: A woman who bit a police officer when he attempted to arrest her last Saturday morning at Gulf City, La Romaine in Trinidad was Monday fined TT$840 by a magistrate. Kadijah Wilson, 23, a waitress at Carnival City, pleaded guilty to assaulting two police officers and using obscene language. She was arrested at about 4.30 am while standing outside Gulf City Shopping Complex. Monday, Wilson was taken in handcuffs before Deputy Chief Magistrate Mark Wellington in the San Fernando Magistrates’ court. She pleaded guilty to all three charges. The court police prosecutor PC Cleyon Seedan, said that Special Reserve Police officers Sasha Ariendel and Percel Vialva, of the Rapid Response Unit, were on mobile patrol when in the vicinity of the Gulf City Shopping Complex, they saw Wilson behaving in an

erratic manner. The officers approached her, the prosecutor said, but when told about her behaviour, she shouted, “I eh ...care about no police.” Seedan told Wellington that when Vialva attempted to arrest Wilson, she bit him on the right wrist. And when Ariendel intervened, the court heard, she slapped him. Wilson was arrested and taken to the San Fernando Police Station. Monday, she appeared unrepresented by an attorney and pleaded guilty to the charges. Wellington asked Wilson why she bit the police officer and she said, “I can’t remember. I was highly intoxicated. From what I heard from the other people...yes, but cannot remember much.” Wellington fined her TT$400 for biting the policeman, TT$275 for slapping Ariendel and TT$175 for obscene language. She was granted 21 days to pay. (TT Newsday)

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OAS team examines Jamaica’s PATH programme

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Representatives from the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (Caricom) have ended a visit to Jamaica where they examined the government-run Programme of Advancement through Health and Education (PATH). PATH is a Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme that provides benefits to over 370,000 Jamaicans in approximately 13,000 families. The Portia Simpson Miller government says it is the largest social protection support system in the English speaking Caribbean. The six-member delegation held talks with various stakeholders including Labour and Social Security Minister Derrick Kellier, who said that the visit highlighted the importance of the programme "as a credible strategy for reducing poverty". He said that PATH should be viewed as a "hand up" and not a "hand out," and that 1,000 families in the programme were "participating in a phased implementation of a welfare-towork programme, which is expected to cost approximately Ja$600 million over the next two years". The OAS/Caricom team visited various sites and a government statement said that it is the intention of members of the delegation to help implement similar social protection programmes in their home countries. The Caricom team included representatives from Antigua, The Bahamas, Barbados, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Dominica. (Caribbean News)

Australia-based firm investing in US$87 million gold mine in Guyana

Guyana's Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Natural Resources and the Environment Minister Robert Persaud, pose with officials of Troy Resources at the handing over of the new equipment

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Troy Resources is looking at starting up its mining operations in Guyana mid -next year even as it made a Gy$1.1 billion purchase of equipment from a local firm. Last Saturday, the Australia-based mining company received over Gy$1.1 billion of equipment for the Karouni Project, Cuyuni, Region Seven (Cuyuni Mazaruni) project. This purchase represents the single largest purchase ever of Doosan equipment in Latin America or the Caribbean, the gold-mining firm said in a statement. The equipment purchased from local company, Farm Supplies Limited, is in keeping with Troy Resources commitment to purchase equipment, services and supplies, when available locally. This, the company noted, is to ensure that, beyond its commitment to develop a world-class mine and invest in Guyana, the spin-off from its investment is multiplied through additional local purchases. In addition to delivery of the equipment, Farm Supplies Limited will also provide training for its Guyanese operators and technicians, in the use and maintenance of the new equipment.

The Karouni Project is into intense preparations for the construction phase with works to be carried out for the installation of the ball mill, mine operations, employees’ housing and other critical infrastructural works. CEO of Troy Resources, Ken Nilsson, explained that the Karouni Project must also be seen as an investment in Guyana, not only via taxes and royalties, but in terms of contributing to employment, purchases and infrastructural development. The company, he explained, wants to ensure that both their shareholders and local interests are satisfied, thereby ensuring a win-win situation. Troy Resources Guyana Inc. is expected to complete the construction of its US$87 million mine in the West Omai region before the middle of 2015. Once completed, the Mine will employ approximately 300 persons including contractors.

Opportunities

The Australian exploration and mining company will be developing an area west of Omai with the anticipation of raking in an annual production of 90,000 ounces of gold over a seven-year period. Production, however, in the first 12 months is project-

ed at 102,000 ounces of gold, with production commencing between December 2014 to February 2015. “The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission had said previously that this project augurs well for the country in terms of foreign exchange earnings, our GDP, our employment- generation capabilities,” said an optimistic Clinton Williams. Troy Resources Limited has been in operation since 1987. However, it was during the period 1998-2004 that it operated the Conishman Gold Mine in Australia and the Bulchina Gold Mine (1999-2004). In 2006, it expanded operations to South America, operating gold mines in Brazil and Argentina. After acquiring Azimuth Resources (West Omai Project) in 2013, it moved to purchase the ball mill for the Karouni Project in November 2013. The Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) and the Scoping Study on the Karouni Project was released in January 2014 before the release of the PEA Technical Report in March. The scoping study had revealed that a total of 633,000 ounces of gold can be recovered from three of its holdings at West Omai over a sevenyear mine life. (Guyana Times)

News

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Trinidad prisoners St. Lucia claims success in stage hunger strike arbitration with U.S. oil company

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: More than 160 prisoners at the Maximum Security Prison in Arouca, Trinidad Monday staged day one of a hunger strike aimed at getting the authorities to address concerns about the “poor treatment” they receive from prisons officers and delays in the hearings of their court cases. Even as the prisoners refused meals, there are reports that their relatives staged a peaceful protest outside the prisons in support of their hunger strike. Prison sources said the suicide of prisoner Akeem Gill last Wednesday prompted the action. A source named a prisons officer as someone who has made “life difficult” for prisoners yet despite several meetings with those in authority the guard has not been reprimanded. The source said Gill, who was serving five years, had complained bitterly about being targeted by the prisons officer and yet nothing was done. “That is why Gill took his life. He was so frustrated he preferred death

TT Prisons Commissioner Conrad Barrow (TT Newsday photo)

than to continue to be humiliated and denied small privileges and we fear that if the situation continues other prisoners might also contemplate taking their lives in frustration,” the source said. Prisoners Monday said they have complained about how badly prisons officers treat them but this has not been dealt with by prison officials. They claimed that some prisons officers refuse to take them outside for airing citing security reasons and a staff shortage Additionally, the prisoners alleged that when they miss court dates their matters are set for later dates and this has added to their frustration.

The prisoners said they will continue their action until Prisons Commissioner Conrad Barrow intervenes. However, prisons officers said the prisoners who were on a hunger strike have been making unreasonable demands and while some tension exists between officers and prisoners, the situation was not what prisoners described. Assistant general secretary of the Prisons Officers Association, Dion Joseph, said the prisoners’ main complaint was about judicial delays and assured prisons officers have been treating inmates with compassion. “About 160 inmates are refusing their diet due to their concerns about the tardiness of the judicial system because we have problems with them going to court,” Joseph indicated. “We are here to do our jobs without fear or favour, with a high level of compassion for inmates because they are human beings, however there are many inmates who have been there for five and ten years and there is no closure to their matter,” he added. (TT Newsday)

ASTRIES, ST. LUCIA: The St. Lucia government says it has won the latest round of ongoing arbitration with the U.S.-based oil and gas exploration and production company, RSM Production Corporation. A statement Monday from the office of Prime Minister Kenny Anthony stated that on August 13 the Arbitral Tribunal ordered RSM to post a guarantee of US$750,000 to ensure that it will pay St. Lucia's legal costs if it is ordered to do so at the end of the case. "This is St. Lucia's second major success following the tribunal's order on December 12, 2013, for RSM to pay all of the advances towards the administrative costs of the arbitration, which in all previous known cases have been paid 50 percent by each party. "Both of these orders are the first of their kinds in the history of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), which is administering the arbitration. The three arbitrators are independent of ICSID but are deciding the case under the

St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony

ICSID Arbitration Rules, which are designed for disputes between host states and foreign investors. The government is pleased to have achieved these unique successes," the statement from the Office of the Prime Minister added. The Coloradobased RSM Production Corporation, owned by U.S.-based oil magnate, Jack Grynberg, had initiated the arbitration for breach of a multi-million dollar contract. The company took the action against the St. Lucia government in respect of the exploration licence which it was granted several years ago to undertake exploration for oil over a spec-

ified area of water offshore of the coast of St. Lucia. The main opposition United Workers Party (UWP) claimed that the government had announced in May 2012 that Grynberg had filed a US$500 million claim against St. Lucia. The statement from the Office of the Prime Minister noted that RSM must now post security because of the concern that, if the tribunal later orders RSM to reimburse St. Lucia, RSM will fail to do so. RSM also claimed that former prime minister Stephenson King signed a three-year extension to the contract but then retrieved the document before it could be delivered to RSM. RSM claimed that the extension is valid, even though RSM never received it. RSM has asked the tribunal to declare that the exploration contract is still in full force and effect. In reply, St. Lucia maintained that the agreement "has expired or is at least not enforceable and therefore St. Lucia has no obligation (to RSM)". (Caribbean News)

17 Severe drought in Jamaica could continue until next May K News

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Despite the unstable weather now affecting Jamaica, the Meteorological (Met) Service of Jamaica says that the prolonged drought that the island has been experiencing could continue into the January to April dry season of 2015. Director of the Met Service, Jeffrey Spooner says statistics for January to June 2014 this year, show that the island received 33 percent of its normal rainfall and it is possible that the country may not have any significant rainfall until May 2015. “The southern parishes of St Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon, St Catherine, Kingston and St Andrew, and the North eastern parishes of Portland and St Mary were the hardest hit,” Spooner said. Based on data from

One of the once lush grazing fields in Flagaman, St Elizabeth, is now parched (Jamaica Observer photo)

June and July, Spooner projected that “the figures will be extreme to severe drought, especially for southern parishes and in particular St Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon, St Catherine, and St Thomas”. Additionally, he said rainfall from August

through to October 2014 is expected to be below normal. “What we need to bear in mind is October/November is normally our major rainfall producing season. If this projection for below normal rainfall should (obtain) we, especially in southern St Elizabeth,

need to start looking at contingencies,” he said. Spooner said that globally, temperatures in May were the hottest since 1880.

firmed the scare noting that surveillance is in place at Piarco in Trinidad and at ANR International Airport in Tobago. The two male passengers were of Nigerian nationality who arrived ill in the country. They had not visited Nigeria in years. The ministry is in the process, Khan told TT media over the weekend, of developing the

quarantine approach to the management of the Ebola virus at Caura Hospital and the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope. Earlier in the week at the prize-giving ceremony of the National Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Programme in Port-of-Spain, Khan said health workers who are scared to deal with

patients infected with the virus should not be health workers. “The reason they are health workers,” he said, “is to manage health problems. If you don’t want to manage them, then get out of the system.” Training and protective clothing to safeguard health workers from the Ebola virus, he said are on the way, and once health workers are

New strategies

The prolonged dry spell has affected a number of institutions and now the country is mov-

Ebola scares at Trinidad airport

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: There were two scares at the Piarco International Airport in Trinidad over the past two weeks after surveillance intercepted two passengers who were feared infected with the deadly Ebola virus, but were not. Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan con-

ing to adopt new measures to ensure that students returning to school next week for the new academic term are not severely hampered by the lack of water. “I want to give every assurance that the National Water Commission, in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government, will be doing their utmost to supply water to the affected areas, so that the new school term will commence as smoothly as possible,” said Minister of Water, Land, Environment and Climate Change, Robert Pickersgill. He related that the NWC has been assisting some schools in the Corporate Area that are experiencing challenges with their supply, and are without storage capacity, by providing a number of tanks to these institutions. “However, I am en-

couraging all schools to establish additional facilities for storage, so that in the absence of regular supplies water may be supplied to them and stored. After all, we are all aware that “water is life,” he stated. He highlighted that Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has “instructed that a meeting be held among the Ministries of Water, Land, Environment and Climate Change; Education Health Local Government, and Agriculture, after which a more comprehensive statement on the situation will be issued early next week.” Last month, hundreds of acres of farmland in the southern parish of St Elizabeth– known as the “bread basket” parish–were destroyed by fire as the country grapples with the drought conditions. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Piarco International Airport, Trinidad (TT Guardian file photo)

properly equipped he expects them to do their job. “The health workers

at risk are the ones,” he said, “we have to make sure they are protected.” (TT Newsday)

Ex-soldier accused of torching house, attempted murder in Guyana

What remains of the house owned by Rawle Glasgow

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Rawle Glasgow, a former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Sergeant who allegedly set his house on fire with his wife and two children inside was last Friday charged with arson and attempting to commit murder. The father of two made his first court appearance at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Zorina Ali and the charges were read to him. He pleaded not guilty after the Administration of

Justice Act was applied. The security guard was subsequently remanded to prison and will make his next court appearance on September 12. The father of two went berserk two Sundays ago and set his Enterprise, East Coast Demerara (ECD) home on fire after threatening to kill his wife during an argument. He committed the act while his wife, son and daughter were in the house. The arsonist was subsequently taken into police custody as he turned

up at the Georgetown Public Hospital seeking medical attention after he allegedly consumed a poisonous substance. He was under close arrest until last Friday when he was slapped with the two charges. As result of his action, his wife Dianne Nestor sustained lacerations to the body while his daughter Shaneze Nestor and son “Rawlo” also received bodily injuries. According to information gathered, the man armed himself with a knife and cutlass and threatened to kill his wife after accusing her of being unfaithful. A scuffle ensued between the man and his son. Instead of leaving the home, Glasgow reportedly went to a nearby table, collected the flammable substance and set the house on fire, resulting in his wife and two children scampering to safety. He subsequently escaped to his sister’s home

in Enmore, East Coast Demerara and while there, he drank the poisonous substance.

He was taken to the Enmore Health Centre but was subsequently transferred to

the Georgetown Public Hospital. It was there he was arrested. (Guyana Times)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com |

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Patrick Manning Guyana, UNDP ink major biodiversity agreement declines TT’s national award

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Former TT Prime Minister Patrick Manning has publicly declined the recommendation of his successor— Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar—that he receive the country’s highest honour, the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, at this year’s National Awards Ceremony at Queen’s Hall, Port-ofSpain on Independence Day. During an Independence Day cocktail reception which she hosted at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s last Thursday night, PersadBissessar announced she had recommended to President Anthony Carmona that former prime ministers Manning and Basdeo Panday receive the Order of the Republic. While not indicating whether Manning, the San Fernando East MP, or Panday were consulted about or had accepted this award, PersadBissessar declared, “They are worthy of awards. I thought it fitting that we pay tribute to those who came before us.” Manning, in a statement issued by his constituency office, not only refused the award but hit out at Persad-Bissessar and her People’s

Patrick Manning

Partnership (PP) government, saying she had led attacks against him in the 2010 general election campaign in which she defeated his People’s National Movement (PNM) administration which she did not withdraw in last Thursday’s announcement. Manning said, “I wish to respectfully decline the publicly announced nomination by the Honourable Prime Minister to have me receive the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, this nation’s highest award.” He explained, “The primary reason is rooted firmly in my principled stance to not accept any Trinidad and Tobago awards while serving as an MP.” Manning added, “It is important to note what is appropriate and what is not, regarding the

Basdeo Panday (TT Newsday file photos)

announcement of such awards.” Explaining that the Order of the Republic is given to a national of TT who “has rendered distinguished and outstanding service to Trinidad and Tobago,” Manning said, “I was made aware of this nomination through persons who saw it reported on the social media, Facebook.” He noted: “I was neither consulted, nor advised prior to this announcement. I consider this approach a gross discourtesy.” Manning, who served as Prime Minister from December 17, 1991 to November 9, 1995 and December 24, 2007 to May 26, 2010, also explained there was a wellestablished process for the selection of persons to be recipients of national awards. (TT Newsday)

Minister underscores diapora’s contributions to Jamaica

Jamaica’s Health Minister Dr Fenton Ferguson (Jamaica Observer photo)

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Health Minister Dr Fenton Ferguson says the Jamaican diaspora has been of major help to the Health Ministry in its efforts to improve Jamaica’s health sector. According to Ferguson the diasporas has helped to close the gap in ministry spending as it faces se-

vere challenges especially with the ongoing International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreement. Speaking at the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Monday Exchange, the Health Minister said the ministry is in several partnerships with members of the diaspora. “I have put in place a think-thank and advisory body looking at the

diaspora, because the diaspora is a wide open area and we have some of the best known doctors and other administrators in the diaspora and we believe in establishing that relationship,” said Dr Ferguson. He noted that as the first step, he has established a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a major medical centre (Sunnybrook), a well known establishment in Canada. Ferguson said out of that MOU, they are working with the ministry in setting up a Cancer Programme in the form of a centre of excellence for cancer care. He reported that the ministry and Sunnybrook are in the final stages of procurement after which they will go into construction. (Jamaica Observer)

Guyana's Natural Resources and Environment Ministry Permanent Secretary Joslyn Mackenzie and UNDP Resident Representative Khadija Musa exchange copies of the signed agreement on biodiversity practices. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud looks on

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: A project document between the Guyana government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was signed last Friday, aimed at mainstreaming biodiversity practices in Guyana’s gold-mining sector. The document was signed by Natural Resources and Environment Ministry Permanent Secretary Joslyn Mackenzie and Guyana’s UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative Khadija Musa. Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud, who witnessed the signing, pointed out that the agreement reiterated the country’s commitment towards biodiversity regulations. He explained that among the expectations is to integrate biodiversity in the mining school programme to help miners understand the regulatory framework and what is required of them

in their day-to-day activities. The minister stated that government continues to be concerned about the impact of mining on biodiversity and has taken note and has been acting accordingly to minimise the harm posed. He pointed out also that while government seeks to protect the country’s biodiversity, it must also ensure that mining activities are not reduced in the process, recognising that mining remains one of the drivers of deforestation. The US$803,653 agreement is a threeyear project funded by the Global Environment Facility and collaborates with Guyana’s work towards the formulation of a similar project for the mining and forestry sectors. It will receive parallel funding from other agencies, including the Natural Resources Ministry; the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); the World Wildlife Fund

(WWF) and the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC). The agreement will enable the monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations and codes of practice. It will also enhance the capacity of mining and miners so that activities will be favourable to biodiversity, while at the same time, strengthen the EPA’s role in oversight of mining practices and increased satellite tracking, among others. It will as well, help to ensure that Guyana honours its international commitments. Musa said it was important that not only Guyana, but all other countries where there are mining activities, ensure that biodiversity is not destroyed in the process. She expressed the hope that Guyana would take advantage of the new technology which exists and says work will continue to ensure that biodiversity is protected. (Guyana Times)

Jamaican man ordered to compensate woman after inflicting wound on her buttocks

INGSTON, JAMAICA: A man who admitted to using a knife to inflict a wound to a woman’s buttocks had his bail extended and ordered to compensate the complainant when he appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s court in Jamaica recently. Geoffrey McKoy, who was charged with wounding with intent and larceny, told the court that he was owed Ja$2,500 by the complainant. According to McKoy, he saw the woman with a bag containing money

and in an attempt to retrieve his money he used the knife to cut her bag, but it instead stabbed her on her bottom. "She sell cash pot, me advance to her to get me money," the accused man explained. "You transferred the malice from her bag to her bottom,” said Senior Resident Magistrate Judith Pusey. “You are charged for stealing Ja$6,500." The accused pleaded guilty to the charge wounding with intent but not-guilty to larceny. In an attempt to settle the matter, Pusey

questioned the man's intention to compensate the complainant. "Stand her medical bills and something more," the senior Magistrate suggested. "How much you would offer her," Pusey quizzed. The man told the court that he was unemployed and could only pay Ja$20,000. However the complainant had requested Ja$50,000. A date was fixed for the accused to return to court on September 17, with the cash. (Jamaica Observer)

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WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Government press officer shot and killed in Bahamas

A S S A U , BAHAMAS: The Bahamas government has paid tribute to Latore Mackey, the former Deputy Director of the Bahamas Information Service (BIS), who was shot and killed on Monday. Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said he was “saddened” by the murder, adding that Mackey, on joining the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) worked “like a fish in water”.

DEAD: Latore Mackey

“He carried out excellent work at the

Bahamas Information Services and in the Office of the Prime Minister and was the future of our party; now we have lost him all too soon,” Mitchell said in a statement. Media reports said that Mackey was shot “multiple times in his government registered vehicle”. Police are working on the theory that an argument inside a nearby club may have led to his death. (Caribbean News)

PNP's Haughton resigns as Lucea mayor in Jamaica

A N O V E R , JAMAICA: Embattled Mayor of Lucea Shernet Haughton has confirmed her resignation as chairman of the Hanover Parish Council in Jamaica. "I handed in my resignation letter (last Wednesday), which will take effect on the 28th of August, and I will not be taking it back," Haughton told Jamaican media last week. Haughton, who is also the People's National Party's (PNP) councillor for the Green Island Division, stressed however, that she will remain councillor for the division. "The people voted for me and I have to put their interest at heart, so I want to focus on the area," she argued. For several months, Haughton, her councillors and Member of Parliament for Western Hanover Ian Hayles have been at loggerheads over the leadership of the PNP-dominated local au-

Shernet Haughton confirmed her resignation as Mayor of Lucea (Jamaica Observer photo)

thority. In March, the PNP councillors wrote a letter to Mayor Haughton expressing their lack of confidence in her leadership of the local authority. That same month, the regular monthly meeting of the Hanover Parish Council was cancelled due to a lack of quorum as the four other PNP councillors, as well as the Independent, boycotted the sitting in protest over Mayor Haughton's handling of the affairs of the local body.

A month later, the embattled mayor survived a no-confidence motion. Last Thursday, Haughton told the media that she decided to step down because she was not getting the support from the councillors and other stakeholders. "I really decided that I wanted to take this decision because I think that I am not getting enough support as it relates to working in the town of Lucea as the mayor, so I will just remain as a councillor and concentrate on doing the work of the Green Island Division," she explained. Meanwhile, councillor for the Chester Castle Division, Wynter McIntosh, is expected to replace Haughton. He will have as his deputy, Neville Claire, the sitting councillor for the Lucea Division. Both are expected to be sworn in at a ceremony planned for the Hanover Parish Council Municipal Building Thursday. (Jamaica Observer)

TT to host important Americas Competitiveness Forum

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Trinidad and Tobago will host the VIII Americas Competitiveness Forum (ACF) from October 8 to the 10. The details for the forum were announced last Thursday at a media launch held at Sterling Building on Sackville Street, Port-of-Spain. The theme of forum is: “The human imagination at work driving competitiveness, powering innovation.” This is the first time an English speaking Caribbean country would host the ACF. Minister of Planning Dr Bhoe Tewarie, who is also the Chair Pro Tempore of the VIIACF, said the theme was chosen to transform the current thinking on competitiveness and innovation in the country. “TT is really emerging in the world as a nation of substance and being regarded as a country that can offer significant leadership in a number of spheres. There is no doubt in my mind that TT occupies a

type of psychological space of expectation from the rest of the world as being the country in this hemisphere that can next rise to the promise of greatness,” Tewarie emphasised. ACF is a three day conference that brings together more than 40 international and highly successful speakers representing business, academia and government. There would be discussions, workshops and networking opportunities. High-level government officials, business executives, academics and civil society groups in the Caribbean, Latin America and the U.S. would gather at the ACF to discuss issues surrounding advancing competitiveness, innovation and trade. The aims of the forum include changing the conversation on innovation and competitiveness in the Americas and contribute to the cultivation of an innovative society. (TT Newsday)

Guyana police intensify efforts to regain public confidence

Guyana's Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud interacts with Albouystown residents during one of their exercises

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Guyana’s acting Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud says the community projects being executed by the Guyana Police Force are proving beneficial as the crime rates in those areas are on the decline. Speaking with the media, Persaud noted that while it is too early to evaluate and assess the overall projects, it is now clear that those who were previously idle and liming are now channelling their energies towards these projects. He pointed out that the Impact Albouystown Project has seen a reduction of crime in neighbouring communities. Persaud said that the rate of serious crimes last year had increased from 2012 and for this year, there was an increase in serious crimes up to the month of March. The Police Commissioner proudly stated that as of current,

the serious-crimes rate has decreased by nine percent when compared to last year. Additionally, Persaud mentioned that there are a lot of positives coming out of these engagements. “In Albouystown, for example, there were cosmetology courses, people have been trained and are now operating beauty salons; there was training in cooking as well. I think all those persons are now certified now by Carnegie and they are working to supply restaurants and snackettes”. He added that “there are persons who were limers and are now involved in block making. We have provided markets and provided some materials for them so they are actually earning by conventional means”. The Commissioner said the Force is also working on the youth by building facilities for them so that they can direct their energies to constructive activities such

as sports. He noted that the with Albouystown Project, they are currently working on improving the playfield on Independence Boulevard and have plans in store to develop the playfield in St Steven’s Street. According to Persaud on West Demerara, the commander there, ‘D’ Division Commander Ian Amsterdam, has a different strategy in place to boost community development. “He is pulling on board all the people that were doing youth work, whether religious or otherwise, and they meet monthly and try to boost what individually they are doing,” Persaud noted. Over the past few months, the Police Force has been engaged in a number of activities as they seek to regain the confidence of the public while at the same time strengthening their relationship with citizens. (Guyana Times)

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EORGETOWN, GUYANA: The 14th Edition of Hits and Jams Jamzone

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Summer Break in Guyana ended on a high note on Sunday evening when the Beach Jam

was hosted at the Water Park, Providence, East Bank Demerara which saw thousands in atten-

dance. Although, the beach and its facilities were not completed, the ven-

Bunji Garlin and Fay Ann Lyons

Section of the massive crowd at the Beach Jam on Sunday

ue was filled with activities ranging from games for children, various competitions for adults and even a deejay sound clash. Earlier in the day, patrons trickled into the newly built facility but at sunset, they came in their droves to be part of the late night affair. During the day, close to Gy$400,000 were won by patrons as they played several games. The event provided a balance of activities for both children and adults. When the event was advertised to be held at the Water Park, there were mixed reactions from the public but after witnessing the turn out on Sunday evening, without a doubt it was the perfect venue. On this note, Kashif Mohammed who attended the event praised the Hits and Jams team, especially directors, for a job well done.

Ideal location

He too admitted that the venue was an excellent choice for the hosting of the event, noting that patrons did not have to travel the long distance to the Spashminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fun Park and Resort to partake in the fun. He further added that the venue is strategically placed to cater for persons on the West Coast, East Coast and event people from the Soesdyke area. With the new plans for the park which include water slides, a manmade beach, pool, restaurant and bar, he feels that it will be the ideal family oriented facility. Three young ladies who were having a blast stated that the decision to bring the event closer to Georgetown was an excellent one, adding that patrons will no longer have to travel far

distances after partying. More so, with the new venue being strategically placed at Providence, they have more time to get their groves on. An elated Rawle Ferguson, a Director of the Hits and Jams Entertainment, said that he was amazed at the amount of support they have received since the announcement of the new venue.

Success

He said that while certain amenities were not ready for the event on Sunday evening, he promised that all will be in place for the 2015 event which he said will be â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;off the hookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Ferguson added that his staff worked around the clock to host the event and from all indications, he reiterated that it was indeed a success. His business partner, Kerwin Bollers, said he was blown away by the amount of people who stormed the newly built venue. He said that while they expected the support, it was indeed overwhelming taking into considerations it was a new venue and more so, a new experience. He thanked all the supporters while apologising for the incomplete state of the park but promised that the 2015 Jamzone Summer Break will be an unforgettable one. He reiterated that the park will consist of all modern amenities that will cater for the entire family. Just the evening before, Jamaican dancehall singer Alkaline and Trinidadian soca sensations, Bunji Garlin and Fay Ann Lyons, lit up the regional concert held at the Providence Stadium as part of the Jamzone Summer Break events. (Guyana Times)

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WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

CaribbeanTales Film Festival...

Derek Walcott is also included in the showcase

O R O N T O , C A N A D A : The annual CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (CTFF2014) returns to Toronto beginning September 3. The showcase features Caribbean films from 15 selected countries around the Region with public, community and online screenings. This includes 11-feature length and 20 short films, seven of which are in competition for the CTFF Audience Prize to be announced on Closing Night, September 13. Festival screenings run from September 8, 10, 12 and 13 at The Royal Cinema, 608 College Street. The fest kicks off with a delicious Caribbean reception on Wednesday September 3, in association with the Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in Toronto at the Royal Cinema. The evening will include the World Premiere of ‘The Glamour Boyz Again! Sparrow and Superior on the Hilton Rooftop’ (Geoffrey Dunn, Trinidad and Tobago, 2014, English, PG). The feature-length documentary reveals a remarkable acoustic performance by two of Calypsos most venerated figures, the Mighty Sparrow and Lord Superior. The film includes reminiscences by both Sparrow and Superior, whose friendship dates back more than 55 years, to the mid-1950s. Sparrows execution at the Hilton is

arguably his best-rendered acoustic performance ever recorded. Slinger Francisco, better known as The Mighty Sparrow, affectionately dubbed The Birdie is the unrivaled Calypso King of the World, with a career that spans over 40 years. This artist par excellence has earned his rightful place as “King of the Calypso World”, defeating every other pretender to his throne.

‘Thunder in Guyana,’ a Suzanne Wasserman film will be featured. The tale of Janet Rosenberg is almost too fantastic to be believed. It’s the love story of two idealistic young radicals, the Chicagoborn Rosenberg and Cheddi Jagan, a native of Guyana on South America’s northern coast, who fell in love, married and set off for the British colony to start a socialist revolution. Though Jagan and Rosenberg became the most important political figures in Guyana, they also faced arrest, repression and the active oppression and intervention of world figures such as Winston Churchill and John F.

‘Yurumein’ puts spotlight on the indigenous Caribbean

stage later in the evening with ‘Poetry is an Island’–Derek Walcott (Co-Presentation and In Association with the St.

We discover the anger and frustration that the poet holds against the downtime of the arts as he talks to us about

Indigenous Caribbean

On Monday, the spotlight shifts to indigenous Caribbean with ‘Yurumein’ (CoPresentation with MUSKRAT Magazine). The 50 min Andrea L. Leland 2014 production out of St.Vincent is an important untold story of Carib/Garifuna resistance against slavery that deserves its place in the annals of the African diaspora. The film recounts the painful past of the Caribs on St. Vincent and the extermination of scores of their ancestors at the hands of the British, while building an intimate portrait of Garifuna culture intransition today. We are given firsthand accounts from both Carib descendants who remain on the island of St. Vincent and voices of returning descendants whose ancestors were exiled to Central America; where Garifuna traditional culture was able to survive and flourish

Political people

On the same day,

‘Thunder in Guyana’ to feature as part of the political people segment

Kennedy. At one point, the British press even dubbed Rosenberg the “Second Eva Peron.” After years of tireless work, free and fair elections were finally instituted in Guyana in the early 1990′s, and Janet Rosenberg-Jagan was elected the first foreignborn, female president of the country in 1997. Combining biographical portrait with social and political history, ‘Thunder in Guyana’ illuminates an overlooked corner of recent history in a story packed with real drama.

Caribbean literature

Caribbean literature will take centre

Slinger Francisco, better known as The Mighty Sparrow

Lucian Tourist Board). ‘Poetry is an island’ is a feature documentary film about Nobel laureate, poet, playwright, and visual artist, Derek Walcott. The film depicts an intimate portrait of the poet, as we visit his art studio, his childhood home, and his current residence in St. Lucia.

the meaning of poetry to him personally, and about the significance of art for humanity. Family members reveal some of the poet’s life challenges, and people who have worked with him speak frankly about their experiences with Walcott. ‘Poetry is an island’ is an intimate portrait of the

man, the poet, and son of the Caribbean: Derek Walcott.

Caribbean journey back home

W e d n e s d a y , September 10, Mariette Monpierre’s ‘Elza’ out of Guadeloupe will be featured. Bernadette, a single mother in Paris, tries to provide her daughters with everything. She is thrilled when her eldest daughter, Elza, is the first in the family to graduate from college earning a master’s degree summa cum laude. But Elza breaks her mother’s heart by running away to their native Guadeloupe in search of a distant childhood memory: the father she barely remembers. This feature debut by writer/director Mariette Monpierre offers an unusual insider’s view of lush island culture as she captures the passion and contradictions of this family.

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WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

terials with which the guards are cut seem to be “bone” of the tapir or tortoise carapace as with the Machusi, Patamona, Wapisiana and in some cases they are made from two pieces of calabash. The base of the shank (the portion below the guard) is then rolled with the palm of the open right hand sharply down the thigh. The degree of coarseness or fineness with which the cotton is spun into twine will depend partly on the use of which it is intended. The two extremes being met with the rough string forming the basis of the cotton hammocks and the delicate twine, ornamenting the butt end of the Arawak arrow. Cording is practiced by the Warau, the left thumb and four fingers replacing the two arms. They also practice a more compliAn Amerindian woman demonstrating cated form of cording by using three traditional cotton spinning strands. All three strings of the necEORGETOWN, GUYANA: essary lengths are tied together at the The traditional cotton weaving techniques are still used by extremity. Crochet is done by the Carib, many Amerindian groups in Guyana Machusi and other women using a sinto produce beautiful hammocks and gle hook needle to manufacture armclothing. lets and anklets, working them on the Cotton twines and cords are made from picked and sun-dried cotton. After limb itself or around a wooden cylinthe cotton is dried for about two days, der of about the same circumference as it is stored in a quake or openwork bas- the ankle or arm, however, the Warau ketry. When ready to be used, all for- women also produce crochet work but eign obstacles are removed from the with two-hook needles. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine) cotton and a very important process called “the teasing process” begins. The cotton is patted in small balls of four to four and a half inches in circumference. A large number of such balls are placed on each other forming a pile of 6 to 7 inches high. The pile is then pressed alternately and gradually stretched; the cotton is then folded in its length and stretched again to about 2 feet long. The pad of “teased” cotton is next twisted into a spiral. After stretching the cotton is attached by its proximal extremity to the spindle, through the nick or hook at the top of the shank. The spindle employed in the manufacture of cotton twine consists of a tapering wooden shank through a circular guard, its distal extremity being either a nick Demonstrating traditional or a small hook. The ordinary maWapisiana hammock weaving

Cording technique

Kardinal was born Jason Harrow in Ontario to Jamaican parents

ORONTO, CANADA: Canadian rapper Kardinal Offishall says ‘Suit of Black’, his upcoming album, has a lot in store for reggae/dancehall fans. Among its tracks are collaborations with Stephen Marley (‘One Dream Away’) and Agent Sasco (‘Lion’). The 16-track set also features a re-

mix of soca singer Bunji Garlin's big hit, ‘Truck on Di Road’. ‘Suit of Black’, Kardinal Offishal's sixth album, is slated for a December 1 release. Kardinal was born Jason Harrow in Ontario to Jamaican parents. He says he maintains ties to his roots with regular visits to Jamaica. “My father wanted me to know where I came from so I grew up surrounded by reggae music. My father was a sound (system) selector so I grew up listening to a lot of reggae and dancehall music,” he stated. In 2008, Kardinal Offishall joined forces with neo-soul singer Akon and his Kon Live Music company which had a distribution deal with the major Interscope Records. Their collaboration produced the Billboard singles ‘Dangerous’ and ‘Number One’ (done with Keri Hilson). Kardinal Offishall's previous album, ‘Allow Me to Re-introduce Myself’, was released in 2012. He and singer Jrdn's song, ‘Can't Choose’, won a 2014 Juno Award (Canada's Grammy) for R&B Soul Recording of the Year. (Jamaica Observer)

Two become Caribbean’s first certified cardiovascular technicians

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Jamaicans in need of urgent pacemaker-related heart interventions will soon be able to benefit from the services of Jamaicanbased certified pacemaker technologists instead of having to rely on overseas-based technologists. Isaac Sapio and Shelleta Gordon, two cardiovascular technicians at the Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC), have been sponsored by the institution to complete advanced training in Pacemaker Technology. The two departed for the St Jude Medical Training Centre in Austin, Texas, USA on August 17, for a twoweek intensive training to complete the practical modules. Upon completion of the training, Sapio and Gordon will be the first certified pacemak-

Shelleta Gordon

er/ICD technicians in the English-speaking Caribbean. The announcement was made by Professor Ernest Madu, chairman and CEO of HIC on August 12. The two have been sponsored to undergo training in Cardiac Rhythm Management (CRM), which will focus on pacemaker and Implantable C a r d i o v e r t e r -

Isaac Sapio

Defibrillator (ICD) implantation and technology. Sapio and Gordon completed the rigorous online, didactic module prior to their departure. According to Professor Madu, this most recent investment in staff training is an essential part of HIC's mission to build internal capacity within the Caribbean and particularly Jamaica, to improve access and timeliness to treatment of patients with various cardiovascular conditions. "This investment will allow the Heart Institute of the Caribbean to implant pacemakers 'on demand'. As there are currently no trained or certified pacemaker technicians in Jamaica, consistent with international best practices, HIC has to normally await the arrival of trained and certified technicians from overseas which means that all such procedures must be pre-scheduled," Professor Madu said. (Jamaica Observer)

feature

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

By Petamber Persaud

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: In August 2014, The Caribbean Press (TCP) celebrated its sixth anniversary with the release of a barrage of new titles. TCP is a remarkable story for any small press in any part of the world but more so in a developing country. Within six years of operation, the Press has published a mindboggling 75 books, beginning with the reprinting of titles from the earliest

Bissundyal. Five collections of poetry namely: “Heads and Tails” by Pearl Lewis; “The Hinterlands” by Stanley Niamatali; “Twentyfive Poems by Guyanese Children” Volume I edited Rev. Gideon Cecil; “Collected Poems - 19371989, A.J. Seymour” edited by Ian McDonald and Jacqueline deWeever; and “Anthology of Contemporary Guyanese Verse” edited by Petamber Persaud. The non-fiction titles released included: “Linden Forbes

tributors, editors and authors, bringing literature alive. Guyanese literature, still in its formative years, is in a relatively healthy state. This will be further enhanced with the continued production of this publishing house. The idea of The Caribbean Press surfaced during Guyana’s hosting of the highly successful Carifesta X in 2008. The idea was later fleshed out by former President Bharrat Jagdeo and Professor David Dabydeen. Within

A few of the books from the Guyana Classics Library and the Caribbean Press

time and moving swiftly to present day, exposing contemporary and emerging writers, many of whom are glorying in their first publication. The books of imaginative literature released on 15 August 2014 included three novels namely: “My Father’s Wish” by Andrew D O Hutson; “Bitter” by Portia Dodson; “The Dumb and the Brave” by Churaumanie

Sampson Burnham O.E., S.C., National Assembly Speeches, Volumes II & III”; “The Idyll and the Warrior” (Recollections of Edgar Mittelholzer) by Jacqueline Mittelholzer; “Beacons of Excellence: The Edgar Mittelholzer, Memorial Lectures Volumes I, II & III”. The launch of the above books was accompanied by awesome readings from the various texts by con-

months, the idea was manifested with the printing of the first 12 titles of The Guyana Classics Library, which included “The Discovery of Guiana” by Sir Walter Raleigh - first published in 1596; “The Coolie - His Right and Wrongs” by John Edward Jenkins; “Canoe and Camp Life in British Guiana” by Charles Barrington Brown; “The Chinese in British Guiana” by

Sir Cecil Clementi; and “Guianese Poetry: covering the hundred years’ period, 1831-1931” by N E Cameron. Each title carried its own scholarly introduction and a series preface. The series preface written by the then President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo, is instructive and informative. This preface declared, “The Guyana Classics Library will republish out-of-print poetry, novels and travelogues so as to remind us of our literary heritage, and it will also remind us of our reputation for scholarship in the fields of history, anthropology, sociology and politics, through the reprinting of seminal works in these subjects. The Series builds upon previous Guyanese endeavours, like the institution of CARIFESTA, and the Guyana Prize. I am delighted that my government has originated the project…so that all Guyanese can appreciate our monumental achievement in moving from Exploitation to Expression…” The Caribbean Press continues in virtual leaps and bounds to preserve the literary heritage of Guyana on two fronts - reproducing rare and out-of-print books on Guyana and to publish contemporary writings on Guyana. Within first two years of existence, this press had already produced 26 of a projected target of 36 titles in the series labelled

Andrew Hutson displays his book, 'My Father's Wish'

the ‘Guyana Classics Library’. In July 2012, The Caribbean Press launched another six titles in the Guyana Classics Library. Those books launched included two books dealing with particular fragments of the Guyana’s history, three collections of poetry, and one collection of short stories. This rich mixture of books offers two perspectives on Guyana – a historical perspective and an imaginative creative perspective. The two history books were: “The New Slavery, an account of the Indian and Chinese Immigrant in British Guiana” by Joseph Beaumont and “British Policy Towards the Amerindians in

British Guiana, 18031873” by Mary N Menezes. The short story collection is titled “The Short Stories of Cyril Dabydeen” by Cyril Dabydeen. The three collections of poetry are “Unclosed Entrances – Selected Poems” by Sasenarine Persaud; “Selected Poetry” by Maggie Harris; “Selected Poems” by Elly Niland. All of the above indicating various phases of the project. Although the activities of the Press are public knowledge, it is a great feeling to get hold of the physical product – the book. And there are already many more titles lined up to be rolled off the press into the public domain. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Middle Eastern films make TT Film Festival debut

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Thirty films from contemporary world cinema will be screened at the 2014 TT Film Festival (TTFF/14). This announcement of the Panorama section of films rounds out the TTFF/14 lineup. It completes an already impressive roster of films, which comprises three other sections: Feature-length Caribbean films, short and medium length films, and the New Media section of experimental films, video art and interactive works. In all almost 150 films will be screened at the TTFF/14, which runs from September 16-30. The Panorama section is made up of narrative films and documentaries from around the world, including TT’s “heritage” countries and regions, which include India and countries in Africa. There will also be films from Latin America, the UK, Canada, USA, France, and—for the first time—the Middle

East. A release from the TTFF said many of these films had their premiere at such prestigious film festivals as Cannes, Sundance and the Toronto International Film Festival. Some are also films chosen by their respective countries to vie for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards. One of the films to be screened in the Panorama section is the much-anticipated British drama ‘Belle’, directed by Amma Asante. Based on true events, it tells the story of an 18th-century noblewoman, Dido Belle Lindsay, who was born to a white father and black enslaved mother. Other films in this section include ‘Omar’, directed by Hany Abu-Assad, an acclaimed thriller from Palestine; ‘The Liberator’, directed by Venezuela’s Alberto Arvelo, a sweeping biographical portrait of the freedom fighter Simón Bolívar; and, out of India,

Ritesh Batra’s ‘The Lunchbox’, a romantic drama starring Irrfan Khan ('Slumdog Millionaire', 'Life of Pi') that has had great global success. “While the Festival’s focus is on films from TT and the Caribbean, it has always made room for films from world cinema in its lineup,” said TTFF creative director Emilie Upczak. “The purpose of this is two-fold. One, we like to present our audiences with as much of a variety of films as possible. But we also want to give local filmmakers exposure to the kinds of films their peers from around the world—who are working in an independent context as well—are making.” The full schedule of TTFF/14 screening dates, times and venues will be released soon. To see the full selection of Panorama films showing at the TTFF/14, visit ttfilmfestival.com/panorama. (TT Guardian)

‘Omar,’ an acclaimed thriller from Palestine directed by Hany Abu-Assad, will debut at the TT Film Festival

feature

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

- reflections on the Canadian input

BHS continues to expand as a new wing was added earlier this year

n 1916, a group of Canadian missionary teachers made a decision to establish a top rate education institution for students in Berbice. It was owned by the Canadian Presbyterian Church. The school’s manual states that the institution’s aim was to prepare boys and girls for the important tasks in life, to seek after truth and righteousness and to build a character worthy of emulation. On 5 September 1916, the Berbice High School for boys was established on the bottom floor of Reverend J A Scrimgeour’s residence. Mr C A Pugsley was the head teacher for the nine students. Due to a growing population and the generosity of the public and government, in 1920, the boys’ building was erected. As a direct result to this, the Canadian Mission Council of the Presbyterian Church made the move to set up a school for girls. This was housed on the lower flat of the missionary’s residence under the charge of the Minister’s wife, Mrs McLeod. The manual further states that the Berbice High School

for Girls and the Berbice High School for Boys continued until 1924 when the students of the fourth and fifth form were placed together for the first time to work for their Cambridge Junior and Senior School Certificate Examination. By 1941, the manual mentions, the student population had reached 190 and a complete amalgamation was effected. It was then the name ‘Berbice High School’ came into being. In order to adequately accommodate the growing number of students on role, the Canadian Presbyterian Church, in Canada, decided to send a representative to British Guiana to assess the situation and examine whether any assistance could come from the government. According to the document, Dr E H Johnson, Secretary for the Board of Overseas Missions, was able to influence the government to throw in 50% of the cost for the construction of the building in the master plan. In April 1919, the government made their first financial contribution towards salaries of

teachers. The rate was $100 per month. Names such as the Honourable Joseph Eleazer, Honourable E A Luckhoo, Honourable Peer Bacchus and the Honourable T T Thompson played a fundamental part in bending the government’s arm to release more assistance to the school. According to the document, “In 1951, Honourable W O R Kendall convinced government of the need to increase its grant to the Berbice High School from $8,000 to $13,000. In 1955, government was again approached for an increase in the grant and as there was a consciousness of the value of education among the ranks of the government, the annual block grant was increased to $27,500.” After 50 years of producing some of the finest students in the country, the school on 16 January 1967 was passed over to the government of Guyana and no tuition fees were charged. The Minister of Education, who was then Winifred Gaskin, announced that the school would hold status similar to that of Queen’s College and Bishops High School. Another page in the school’s history was written in 1919 when J I Ramphal became known as the first candidate to pass the Cambridge Senior Examination. “Mr. Simon Mook Sang obtained the medical degree at Edinburgh after gaining university standing from the Berbice High School in 1926.” The document notes that in 1954 the Oxford examination was introduced to the school and later the G.C.E.

A sixth form was established at the institution in 1954 but due to poor response the idea was abandoned. It was subsequently re-introduced and lasted a few years. In 1971, the Berbice High School was twinned with the

The auditorium in 1972 (Photo courtesy of Berbice High School Alumni Association)

Students going to the old 'Science Building' in 1972 (Photo courtesy of Berbice High School Alumni Association)

St. Rose’s High School, however, according to the manual, no known visits were made since 1976. The school is situated at the intersection of North Road and Princess Elizabeth Road in New Amsterdam. The population comes from several sections of East and West Berbice. Berbice High School has produced notable individuals such as Sir Edward Luckhoo,

he average Caribbean hotel enjoyed an 18.6 percent increase in net operating income (NOI) during 2013, according to the newly released 2014 edition of 'Caribbean Trends in the Hotel Industry' published by PKF Consulting USA (PKFC). This is the third year in a row that Caribbean hotels have experienced a doubledigit increase in NOI and the highest annual growth in profits achieved since 2008. “Caribbean hotels have unique operating challenges that result in relatively higher expenses,” said Scott Smith, MAI, Vice President in the Atlanta office of PKFC. “Fortunately, recent increases in visitation to the Region have resulted in topline revenue growth that has overcome the high costs and resulted in strong growth in bottom-line profits.”

Amenities

The Caribbean hotel industry is made up of a large number of resort properties, which creates the opportunity to earn

Lionel Luckhoo and Sir Shridath Ramphal. The Berbice High School certainly has an outstanding record behind it and may well be proud of its achievement. It has lived up to the ideals of its founder by providing the

training that has fitted many of its sons and daughters to hold prominent positions in the government, judiciary, civil service, in the legal and medical professions, in teaching, in business, trade and industry. The school continues to excel as one of the country’s highranking educational institutions. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

properties in the survey sample enjoyed a 3.4 percent decline in utility costs.

Profits

Princess Hotel, Guyana (Princess photo)

profits from a variety of services and amenities. Rooms revenue (56.8 percent) remains the largest source of revenue for the properties in the Caribbean Trends sample, but significant contributions come from food and beverage sales (28.8 percent), as well retail and recreation outlets (12.7 percent). “From 2012 to 2013, we ob-

served healthy increases in both rooms and food and beverage revenue. On the other hand, we noticed a slight decline in other operated department revenues. Visitors to the Caribbean are not spending as much money on extra amenities, such as golf courses, casinos and spas, as they used to,” Smith stated.

In aggregate, total revenues for the survey sample increased by 4.4 percent in 2013. In 2013, total operating costs for hotels in the Caribbean increased by 1.9 percent. Due to the 1.6 percent increase in occupied rooms, the greatest increase in expenses was observed in the rooms department. Conversely, the

With revenues growing greater than expenses, Caribbean hotel profits were able to increase by 18.6 percent in 2013. However, a comparison to comparable properties in the U.S. found that the higher costs of goods, services and utilities in the Caribbean does result in relatively lower profit margins. In 2013, Caribbean resorts achieved a 16.3 percent profit margin compared to a 21.4 percent margin for comparable U.S. resorts. With profits growing, the Caribbean Region is attracting the attention of developers from all around the world. As reported in STR, Inc’s June 2014 Construction Pipeline Report, there are 27,690 rooms either under construction or planned for development in the Region. In addition, several hotels are undergoing major renovations and improvements. (Caribbean News)

Bollywood

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Alia Bhatt prefers KJo over dad for advice

oung and vivacious Alia Bhatt prefers to consult Karan Johar, the director of her debut film 'Student Of The Year', rather than her father and filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, when she needs advice. On a recent appearance on Zee Cafe's 'Look Who's Talking with Niranjan' with Niranjan Iyengar, the 21-year-old confessed that she shares her concerns about career, life and love with KJo, said a source. "I prefer calling Karan (Johar) over my father for advice on my films. I even go to him for concerns related to relationships as my father thinks no man will ever be good enough for me," Alia said on the show. She also spoke about her fear of plants, as well as about her reported link-ups with Arjun Kapoor and Varun Dhawan. (TOI)

start a family, only time will tell. Right now I am focused on my career but I know that I will continue to work after I have a baby,” the actress added. (TOI)

Priyanka Chopra not interested in ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

e is regarded as one of the most handsome actors in Hindi cinema but yesteryear star Dharmendra says he gets shy when his co-stars or fans compliment him for his good looks. The 78-year-old actor credits his healthy lifestyle and being content with his life behind his charming looks. "I am a shy person and I actually get embarrassed when people compliment me for my looks. But when I think about it later, I feel good. I don't have any regrets in my life. I am happy with whatever God has given me be it personally or professionally. I get up early

Govinda: I’ve no objections to daughter doing intimate scenes

in the morning and do yoga to stay fit. I don't go to gym and all," Dharmendra said in a recent interview. (TOI)

Salman Khan's hit-and-run case: Missing documents found

umbai police have heaved a sigh of relief with the missing documents pertaining to the

2002 hit-and-run case against actor Salman Khan being found at Bandra police station. The documents were found Tuesday at Bandra police station, Mumbai Police Commissioner Rakesh Maria said Wednesday. "We have initiated an inquiry as to how the papers went missing. Action will be taken against policemen because of whom the documents had gone missing for a few days," he said. The documents contain important information relating to the case, the case diary and statements of witnesses, police said. Somebody might have shifted the documents from the record room during the renovation of the police station after which they were not traceable, sources said. (TOI)

ollywood actress Anushka Sharma has denied getting married to cricketer Virat Kohli. After it was reported that Virat and Anushka are getting married soon, there were reports of the couple’s impending wedding. Anushka’s representative has denied the speculated wedding of the couple. "There are several stories online about Anushka Sharma's impending wedding. However, I would like to set the record straight that there is absolutely no truth to these rumours and I would like to request you to refrain from conjecturing about the same," her representative said. Anushka was allowed to stay with Virat Kohli in the recently held England series and it cemented the report that the duo are seeing each oth-

er and contemplating wedding. In various occasions, the couple was spotted together. Virat was also clicked several times outside Anushka's residence. (TOI)

ctress Priyanka Chopra has been nominated by many to take up the ALS ice bucket challenge, but she doesn't seem to be interested. The challenge involves dumping buckets of ice water over one's head to spread awareness for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig's disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Apart from Hollywood stars like Tom Cruise, Robert Pattinson and Nicole Kidman accepting it, Bollywood stars like Akshay Kumar, Bipasha Basu and Abhishek Bachchan also took up the challenge. But Priyanka is not joining the league. (TOI)

ovinda's last visit to Jaipur was in June, and he recently took another trip to Pink City to attend a private function. The actor also took out time to address the local media and didn't shy away from answering questions centred around his daughter Narmada's Bollywood debut. Admitting that the glam world has its own rules and regulations, he said, "Romantic scenes are a part of Bollywood cinema and if the script demands some kind of intimacy, I have no issues with my daughter doing those scenes. To get into the skin of a character, an artiste has to do certain things. And I won't have any objections unless my daughter is uncomfortable doing them." (TOI)

tionally mentally to be always challenged and try do the best I can. The stunt (in ‘Happy New Year’) is difficult going down the building. But it's on a wire…It is safe but scary," he stated. (TOI)

‘I feel shy when people compliment me for my looks’ – Dharmendra

unny Leone has made a special place for herself in Bollywood. However, the journey for the former adult star was challenging and she is known for taking up challenges. The actress recently spoke to TOI about India, her fan craze with young children, her plans to start a family and her secret of a great body. “The reaction is the same when I visit small cities. They are excited that I am there. Thankfully with the grace of God I haven't had many major issues,” she said of her travels across India. “I am always amazed that young children know who I am and that their parents are excited for the kids to take pictures with me. I am not sure when my husband Daniel and I will plan to

uperstar Shah Rukh Khan, who will be seen performing stunts in his upcoming film 'Happy New Year', says he does all the heroic things on screen for his children Aryan and Suhana. "I have two children who tell me I should do more stunts so I listen to them more than I listen to her (wife Gauri). I like doing it. I have fun. I feel if I don't do something challenging then I am succumbing to that injury," Shah Rukh said in an interview Tuesday. The 48-year-old actor is also prone to injuries. "I have made myself stronger to overcome the shoulder, back injury. As an actor its important physically, emo-

M B

hollywood

www.caribbeantimesinternational.com |

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Pamela Anderson withdraws divorce plea

ctress Pamela Anderson, who had earlier filed for divorce from her husband Rick Salomon, has now sought a dismissal of the formal separation. In a court record, Anderson filed a petition Aug 21. requesting that her divorce filing be dismissed, reports people.com. Anderson filed for divorce from Salomon July 3, citing "irreconcilable differences" as the reason of their separation. The couple, who first separated in 2007, got remarried earlier this year before filing for divorce. (TOI)

I don't have time to think about George Clooney: Ex girlfriend

ollywood superstar George Clooney's former girlfriend Elisabetta Canalis says she has moved on from him and is now too busy preparing for her marriage. The 35-year-old Italian actressmodel will be tying knot with surgeon Brian Perri in the same month and place, Clooney would be getting married to lawyer-fiancĂŠe Amal Alammuddin, reported U.S. magazine. "I am happy for him, but I am thinking only of my happiness. It is the most important day of my life, I don't have time to think of anyone else," she

said, adding that she shared a real connection with Clooney, 53, and does not mind speaking about him. (TOI)

Justin Bieber shares photo of on-off girlfriend Selena Gomez

hey tried to keep their date discreet as they enjoyed a night out at a restaurant in Hollywood on Monday. But the following day, Justin Bieber couldn't help but show some love for his on-off girlfriend Selena Gomez, 22, as he shared a photo of the pretty brunette gazing close-up into the camera. The Canadian crooner didn't caption the image instead letting the sultry snap do the talking. It appears the 20-year-old took the image from the Disney star's own Instagram account as the actress shared it just moments prior with the caption: 'Thank you Jen for my pretty Jennifer Meyer S necklace #Itgottangledlikesixtimes #seventhtimesacharm #getit' While obviously the actress was giving a shout-out to her jewelry designer friend, Justin liked it enough to show it to his 20 million followers. (Daily Mail)

hinese Kungfu star Jackie Chan is so terrified of needles that he can't stand the sight of them. Best known for his action and martial arts roles on the big screen, he said that the "the sight of" a syringe is enough to make him pass out, reports femalefirst.co.uk. "Needles will always make me feel faint. Just the sight of one. If I break my finger, I just put it back in and keep filming," he indicated. "For 'Rumble in the Bronx' I broke my ankle in the morning and was filming again by the afternoon... I can fight two people at once. But if three or four

people attack me, I'll just run away," he added. (TOI)

Motherhood made Jessica Alba 'fearless' Britney Spears 'fed up of father's

ctress Jessica Alba says that she has become fearless and confident after becoming a mother. The 33 year-old and her husband, Cash Warren, 35, have two daughters--Honor, 6, and Haven, 3. "I don't have any-

thing to lose," the actress told People magazine. "I feel like I've done all the hard work. I really was married to my work for so long that I've kind of been there, done that. I was ready for a new phase in my life," she added. (TOI)

control' on her life

ritney Spears reportedly wants her father's conservatorship to end because she is fed-up and also wants to marry boyfriend David Lucado freely. Sources have revealed that the 'Piece of Me' star just doesn't understand why the care has lasted this long, as she can now manage on her own and she's sick of all the bodyguards, Radaronline.com

Demi Moore feels responsible for youngest daughter's woes

ctress Demi Moore is upset as she feels she has passed her own problems related to drug and alcohol to her youngest daughter Tallulah. She keeps "breaking down in tears" over her daughter's issues, reports femalefirst.co.uk. The 51-year-old had herself spent time in rehab in 2012 for anorexia and prescription drug abuse after she split from husband Ashton Kutcher. So, she feels her own problems have invaded the life of her 20-yearold daughter, who checked into The Meadows Center to seek help for alco-

James Franco indulges in self-mockery hol and drug abuse last month. "Talullah is making progress but Demi is in pieces. She's convinced she's passed her own problems with drugs and alcohol on to her daughter," a source told Britain's Grazia magazine. (TOI)

Separation from Mariah Carey was Nick Cannon's decision

t was actor-rapper Nick Cannon who decided to end his marriage with singer Mariah Carey -- for the sake of their children. The two, who married in 2008 and have twins, have been living separate-

reported. Her relationship with Lucado has never been stronger and she also wanted the conservatorship to end so that she could be free to marry him, the sources further added. However, despite the desire to be independent, Spears would likely remain under her father's care for the foreseeable future. (TOI)

ly for some months. Tmz.com reports that Cannon is concerned about Mariah's emotional state and ended the marriage because he believes the environment around Mariah is toxic. He fears for his children. Cannon believes his children have already shown signs of being emotionally upset for living in the company of Mariah. According to sources, he wants to give the kids a safe haven from the "chaos" at her home. Cannon is taking a "passive" role in the divorce and has asked his lawyers to end things as "peacefully" as possible. (TOI)

ctor James Franco is not bothered by criticism, and says his healthy perspective on life helps him to be able to make fun of himself. The actor is gearing up to complete his PhD. in English Literature, and he has been criticised for carving out other careers as a poet and painter. But he isn't worried, reports femalefirst.co.uk. "People might have the impression I'm trying to prove something, but I'm doing this for myself. I have a sense of humour about how people perceive what I'm doing as strange--I love being able to mock myself," said Franco. (TOI)

Daniel Radcliffe learning Japanese

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arry Potter' star Daniel Radcliffe has been learning Japanese. Radcliffe, 24, said he is finding it quite tough at the moment as he is only just started, reported Contactmusic. "I just started learning Japanese. It's super hard, but fascinating. My favourite word so far is tokidoki [which means sometimes]--it sounds like 'okeydokey'," he said. (TOI)

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

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| www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: Barbados is preparing to make history when it becomes the first English-speaking Caribbean country in 25 years to host a major tourism summit next month. The 22nd Organisation of American States’ InterAmerican Congress of Ministers and High Level Authorities of Tourism will be held from September 3 to 4, at the Hilton Barbados Resort, where over 200 delegates from 34 Latin American countries will gather to focus on tourism competitiveness. Speaking during a press conference to announce the hosting of the congress, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Senator Irene Sandiford-Garner, said Barbados welcomed the upcoming event which had the immediate benefit of foreign exchange. The Permanent Secretary also noted

Barbadian tourism officials announce hosting of the upcoming summit (Barbados Today)

that the event would be timely for the continued improvement of the island’s tourism sector as the country needed all the help and expertise being offered. “At this conference, we are looking to agree on the adoption of a Tourism Service Excellence Strategy

which is underpinned by the development, the adoption and the implementation of standards throughout the region,” Sandiford-Garner stated. “And research has shown that our particular industry, at 60 years old, is a mature one. Barbados’ tourism prod-

Flying high with Trinimade reggae

Cover art for Ras Pilot’s latest album ‘Keep the Faith’ (TT Guardian photo)

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Trinidadian reggae artiste Ras Pilot (Everard Sealy) recently released his third CD collection, which has picked up for him a distribution deal with the Heat of the Tropics Music Group label. This label was responsible for taking Marlon Asher’s song, ‘Ganja Farmer’, from being a local hit single to the pheno¬menal success it brought Asher on the global arena. Now Ras Pilot is set to achieve the same measure of success with this new 16-track collection, titled ‘Keep The Faith’.

The CD was produced, mixed and mastered in Holland by a well-known producer in Europe, simply referred to as Mr Speakah. Ras Pilot has also been signed to the Yard Booking agency which will, from November, embark upon an aggressive promotional campaign that will see the artiste performing in major music festivals and other events throughout Europe. Originally from Prizgar Lands, Laventille, Ras Pilot now lives in Central and has always loved to sing, actually beginning his performing career when he

was just seven years old. He appreciated all genres of music as a child, and especially loved calypso. “I listened to the Mighty Sparrow, but the Mighty Shadow was my favourite calypsonian. When reggae music really started to become popular and evolve in Trinidad, I took to Peter Tosh, Burning Spear, Culture and, of course, Bob Marley. I have always had a deep love for Bob’s song, ‘Jah Live’.” Ras Pilot got his monicker from his friends who began to call him by that name because he seemed to always be hopping on an airplane. As an entrepreneur who specialises in clothing, Ras Pilot travels to the U.S. and other places regularly to purchase stock for the two branches of his clothing store, Brands Galore, located in Chaguanas and San Fernando. Ras Pilot’s previous albums were titled '4 Corners' and 'Take Off'. This latest one took him about a year to complete and features, ‘Red’, ‘Badness Gone’, ‘Just A Little Hero’, ‘Three Pounds’, ‘Sweet Paradise’, ‘She Deserves Me’, ‘Smooth Road’, ‘Fire Bun’, ‘Mr Man’ and more. (TT Express)

uct life cycle is now at a mature stage so this is timely for us, in that this type of information is vitally needed if we want to continue to be a dynamic destination.” C o u n t r y Representative of the OAS, Francis McBarnette, said the Congress is expected

to address issues such as transportation, sustainability, the heritage product and crime. He added that renewed efforts would be placed on tourism as a top priority in the hemisphere, since “the industry is one of those issues that is cross cutting”. “Tourism is not about

hotels alone, it is about cultural heritage, patrimony, built heritage, and I think the Congress allows all these issues to come to the fore,” he indicate. The Congress has as its theme: 'Tourism Competitiveness: An Essential Element of Sustainability', and will discuss the following sub-themes during the plenaries: Measuring Competitiveness: Price versus NonPrice Factors in Tourism; Importance of Tourism Infrastructure Tourism and InterSectoral Linkages Sustainable Destination Management. The Congress serves as a platform for the exchange of experiences and best practices to strengthen communication between government agencies and the private sector and to consider technical cooperation proposals to support member states in their effort to develop the tourism sector. (Barbados Today)

Bridal event to position U.S. Virgin Islands as premier wedding destination

The symposium will position the territory as a premier wedding and honeymoon destination

ARLOTTE AMALIE, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS: The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism will host the second annual Bridal Educational Symposium November 18-19, 2014 at the Renaissance Carambola Resort on St. Croix. The two-day event, held this year on St. Croix, will attract leading journalists, experts, travel agents and local wedding industry professionals to network and learn best business practices and marketing strategies. The symposium will position the territory as a premier wedding and honeymoon destination, and is expected to increase bookings among this niche travel segment. “We are gearing up to host the popular bridal symposium, which will be held on St. Croix this year,” said Commissioner of Tourism NicholsonDoty. “Our robust line-up of speakers will position the Territory as a premier destination among leading weddings and honeymoon travel professionals.” The seminars will be moderated again this year by celebrity television host and lifestyle expert, Mar Jennings, who will speak to the growing industry that caters to affairs of the heart.

This year’s seminar speakers include internationally renowned wedding and party planner Colin Cowie on the topic of setting trends and raising the bar; Marley Majcher on business guides for entrepreneurs; Susan Black on digital marketing and e-commerce; Cynthia DeLeonardo on radio and partnerships; Brenda O’Neale on destination weddings; and Jacqueline Johnson on the power and profitability of the wedding and honeymoon industry. Some 100 delegates are expected to attend the event. Local vendors, including entertainers, venues, florists, wedding planners and caterers, will showcase their products and services to both local and visiting future brides. The Department of Tourism will offer a special package for 2015 bridesto-be, including three-night hotel accommodations, admission to the destination vendors trade show, symposium registration, airport transfers and ground transportation for site inspections. Brides who book their wedding within 30 days of departure will receive a US$500 wedding certificate eligible for any participating wedding planner. (Caribbean News)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com |

WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Clarendon takes Miss Jamaica Nation 2014 K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Poor production marred the inaugural staging of the Miss Jamaica Nation beauty pageant last Saturday night. The pageant, conceptualised by Ken Williams who has long been associated with the Miss Jamaica U.S. contest, came across as being amatuer and not a

national event. The one-hour delay at the start, the lack of a backdrop and decor on stage, as well as the uncoordinated manner in which the proceedings unfolded, made the nearly three-hour-long event a comedy of errors. Williams’ efforts to establish a pageant in which contestants are devoid of enhancements

The 13 finalists in Miss Jamaica Nation take to the stage in swimwear (Jamaica Observer photos)

Miss Jamaica Nation 2014 Kimberly McLeod (centre) is flanked by first runner-up Latoya Thompson (left) and Miss Hanover Geri Graham, who took the second runner-up spot

saw 13 young ladies vie for the title—each representing one of Jamaica’s parishes, with Kingston and St Andrew sending one girl. At the end of the night it was the charming and intelligent Miss Clarendon, Kimberly McLeod, who took the inaugural title. The popular Miss St James, Latoya Thompson took the first runner-up spot, while the bubbly Geri Graham from Hanover

was named second runner-up. McLeod certainly gained traction with her impressive pitch for the Vernam Field complex in her parish to become a major logistics hub. Her diction, ease of presentation and comfort with the English language was noteworthy. In the dreaded question and answer segement, she again acquitted herself with her response to: what she

appreciates most about Jamaican culture. Her response was matched by those from St James’ Thompson and Miss St Thomas Yohanna Kellyman. Katherine Foster from St Elizabeth took the most congenial sectional award; most aware went to Thompson from St James; St Thomas’ Kellyman was adjudged most photogenic; while the award for the best evening gown

design went to the creation by Hope Wade and worn by Miss Hanover. What some of the contestants lacked physically, they certainly made up for in intellect. Contestants in the more establsihed local beauty pageants could well take a page or the whole book, from some of these young ladies as it relates to speaking from the pageant stage. (Jamaica Observer)

Star of the Week

Paul Anthony Charles

nown for his artistic dancing talent, Paul Anthony Charles launched on to the modelling scene after signing up for the Mr Guyana International competition. The 28-yearold is a student at Global Technology, a dancer, teacher, and choreographer with Classique Dance Company. A strong, determined, spiritual and ambitious individual, Charles described himself as a “complicated individual at times, which also makes him rounded”. The prolific dancer represents Guyana locally, regionally and internationally through dance, becoming a force to reckon with on stage. Due to his talents, Charles is known as the “dare of dance and Mr Adorable” on the runway. He has competed in numerous modelling competitions in Guyana and was successful. His competitions include: Super Model Search 2005, Shabeau Face Off 2006, and Guyana Model Search 2008/2012. Notably, he placed first runner-up in the Mr Tourism Guyana United Nation International, which was held in Jamaica. Most recently, Charles is vying for the title of Mr Guyana International 2014/2015. Charles always “believe in living the life you love and love the life you live” as he strives personally “to do his best at whatever he is best at”. Over the years, the model and dancer has been awarded Best Male Dancer In Production; Best Male Dancer in Guyana; Super Model Search Top 6 Photo Shoot winner 2005, Shabeau Face Off 2006, placing first runner-up and awarded Best Photo Shoot winner; Guyana Model Search 2008 Top 4 and also awarded Best Photo Shoot winner; Guyana Model Search 2012, placing third runner-up and awarded Best Photo Shoot winner and Best Outreach Award on Domestic Violence. Focused and determined on copping the Mr Guyana International title, Charles aims to “open doors for more males in Guyana and be the voice for youths who have amazing talents and strength to be ambassadors for their country”.

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WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Trinidad’s Jason Ramoutar Winners net over Gy$25 crowned world amateur million in prizes at Guyana kickboxing champ Cup horse race meet - after beating Canada’s ‘Poetic Hitman’

Poonai Racing Stable receives the winning trophy from the Guyana Cup organisers

Newly crowned World Amateur Kick Boxing champion, Jason Ramoutar (centre), proudly displays his freshly won belt and "Best Fighter" trophy alongside other winners, Joel Ramoutar (left) and Cassious Chandree of Team Elite (TT Newsday photo)

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Trinidad and Tobago kickboxing ace, Jason Ramoutar was crowned world amateur champion at the Central Regional Indoor Sporting Arena, Chaguanas, last Saturday night, as he silently assassinated Canada’s “Poetic Hitman”, Theo Tony, in the feature match of Fine Line Fight Factory’s fifth annual International Kick Boxing Card, Fight Night. Ramoutar’s tight victory over Tony was delivered via unanimous decision from the judging panel, who upon the revelation of the local athlete’s win, sent the home supporters into a frenzy. The TT and Canadian fighters showed grit from as early as the opening round and equally traded swift body and head

shots. Ramoutar worked his right hand through Tony’s defence while the foreigner still managed to land some quick blows. Throughout the tightly contested clash, Ramoutar seemed to have some trouble with his head gear, forcing the referee to stop the fight on several occasions for him to readjust the straps. Tony still showed form with sleek footwork but was matched with counterkicks from the persistent local fighter. Into the seventh and final round however, Tony seemed to relax a bit more and show early forms of celebration by assuming the victory. But, the judges were not misled and produced the favoured result on the night, with Ramoutar bagging the coveted title and also holding on

to the crown for “Best Fighter”. One match prior, Sangre Grande-based Team Elite Karate’s Cassious Chandree, also emerged victorious by conquering Fine Line’s Juman Kissoon in another match of many blows. Chandree timed his attacks precisely and were on most occasions, able to land some good short combinations against the taller Kissoon. The Fine Line fighter also had his small bursts of dominance, but in the end, it was Chandree who grab the win, all courtesy quick footwork and an onslaught on incoming punches. Additionally, Ramoutar’s younger sibling Joel, was also in winning form on the night as he captured the National Quantum Weight title against Jonathan Ali. (TT Newsday)

Guyanese wins 400 metres B final at Youth Olympics

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Talented 400 metres Guyanese athlete Jason Yaw ran away with the boy’s 400 metres B final last Saturday evening at the Youth Olympics held in Nanjing, China. While Yaw can celebrate a win in the final after clocking a fast time of 47.47s to finish ahead of Australia’s Michael Mullet 47.84s and Kashief King of Trinidad and Tobago 47.94s, the 6’4” sprinter might be a bit upset that he did not produce such a time in

Jason Yaw

his heat that would have made the 400 metres A final. Yaw clocked a slow 49.41s in heat compared to his B final time of

47.47s which was vastly improved from his heat time. However, the vast improvement can possibly be attributed to the fact that Yaw was able to acclimatise to the conditions better by the time of his B final on Saturday evening which resulted in the faster time. The win also means that Yaw can at least salvage a rating as the ninth best youth 400 metres athlete in the world in spite of having a faster time than some of the A final sprinters. (Guyana Times)

E R B I C E , GUYANA: The aged horse ‘C.P. Got Even’ from the Poonai Racing Stable with Jockey Paul Delph mounted on the mare stormed passed a star studded field to cross the finish pole first and take the Guyana Cup 2014 feature event for horses classes C and lower on Sunday in Berbice, Guyana. With revenge in minds of jockeys, two time defending champion ‘Treacle’ was under pressure from the starting gates with Gy$4 million 1,800 meters away. ‘C.P. Got Even’ with every powerful stride went pass all the animals and neck to neck with the champion ‘Treacle’. And then it happened with the final fifty meters to go ‘C.P. Got Even took’ the lead, hushed sections of the crowd and crossed the

finish pole one and a half lengths ahead of ‘Treacle’ to take the Guyana Cup and Gy$4 million. With still big money up for grabs ‘Princess She Is Not’ made her last big strides to get home half a length ahead of ‘Ellieis Vision’. The second prize was worth Gy$2 million with Gy$1 million going to ‘Princess She Is Not’ from the Sheriff Racing stables while ‘Ellieis Vision’ from the Kris Jagdeo Stables carried away Gy$500,000. Jockey Paul Delph received the Pat ElCock Trophy for winning the feature race. Delph was also judged champion jockey at the end of the one day eight event meet. M e a n w h i l e , ‘Unsettled’ of the Ishan Bacchus Racing Stable won the three year old for West Indian and Guyana bread animals’ race

and received the Poonai Tickaram Memorial Trophy and Gy$2 million. The two year old for West Indian bread horses’ race was won by ‘Storm Bird’ of the Ishan Bacchus Racing Stable. The win was worth Gy$1.5 million. Other winners were ‘Right TO Rule’ in the E and lower class race, ‘I Will Get Another’ in the ‘I’ and lower class race, ‘Devil Woman’ in the two year old Guyana bread race, ‘Demasucs Dream’ in the G1 and lower and ‘Affinity’ which took the J and lower race. More than Gy$25 million in prize money was paid out to winners during the one day horse race meet. The event was sponsored by Jumbo Jet in collaboration with the Port Mourant Turf Club. (Guyana Times)

Jamaica end with four medals at Youth Olympics

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Jamaica ended the Second IOC Youth Olympic Games with a record four medals after failing to add to their tally on Monday’s final day of competition in track and field at the National Stadium Complex in Nanjing, China. Intermediate hurdler Shanice Cohen and men's triple jumper Jordan Scott failed to add to the medal tally as Jamaica slipped to sixth place on the medal table from the 32 countries that earned at least a medal. The four medals, three gold and a silver, easily beat the one medal won by Odean Skeen in the men's 100m four years ago in Malaysia. Led by Jaheel Hyde's World Youth Best 12.96 seconds in the men's 110m hurdles, Jamaica also won gold medals in the men's 400m with Martin Manley, as well as the women's 200m with Natalliah Whyte, plus a silver in the men's long jump from Obrien Wasome. Jamaica also missed medals after injury prevented gold medal favourite Raheem Chambers from taking his place in the men's 100m final, while Chad Walker was disqualified for a

Jaheel Hyde recorded a World Youth Best 12.96 seconds in the men's 110m hurdles (IAAF photo)

lane violation after he finished second in the men's 200m. Monday morning (Jamaica time), Cohen ran 1 minute 03.06 seconds for seventh place in the women's 400m hurdles final that was won by South Africa's Gezelle Magerman in a personal best 57.31 seconds. Scott was fifth in the triple jump final with a best mark of 15.20m coming in the first round. He had two jumps over 15.00m with his third round effort landing at 15.13m. Suriname's Carifta Games Under-18 champion Miguel Van Assen won with an impressive 16.15m. (Jamaica Observer)

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www.caribbeantimesinternational.com | WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014

Suriname win triple jump gold Guyanese youngsters excel at Pan Caribbean N Martial Arts championship

Professor and founder of the Best of the Best Martial Arts group, Quacuy Baveghems, is all smiles as his students proudly display their trophies (Photo: Avenash Ramzan)

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Guyanese youngsters from the Best of the Best Martial Arts group were in top form last weekend when the Pan Caribbean Martial Arts championship was held at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue. Professor and founder of the group, Quacuy Baveghems, said he was quite surprised by the

performance of his students, who gave their best display at the international tournament. Judah Ram and Romel Latchman copped first place in the Weapons category, while Miguel Hunte took second in Free Style Kata and Weapons and third in Sparring. Kimberley Baveghems got second in Traditional Kata, while Trenton Coates was runner-up in Weapons and

Free Style Kata. Gaberilla Kingston, Roshanna Christopher and Quacuy Baveghems Jnr took third in their respective categories. Kingston competed in Traditional Kata, Christopher participated in Weapons and Baveghems Jnr placed third in Traditional Kata. Quacuy Baveghems, who has been practicing martial arts for 27 years and is now an eighth degree black belt, said his group will not rest on their laurels, but will pursue bigger goals in the coming months. The group is preparing to attend martial arts tournaments in Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago and Baveghems said financial support for those ventures overseas has been forthcoming from the Sport Ministry. (Guyana Times)

A N J I N G , C H I N A : Suriname's Miquel van Assen claimed Olympic gold in the men's triple jump at the Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing, China, on Monday. He established himself as the favourite to cop the gold medal when he qualified for the final with a 16.29-metre jump. However, in Monday's final a 16.15-metre jump was enough to secure the gold and a place in Suriname's sports history. "I am so proud to win a gold medal for Suriname. It was not easy, but I got it," the 18-year-old athlete said. His closest rival,

Suriname's Miquel van Assen became the country's second athlete to ever win a gold medal at an Olympic tournament

Tobia Bocchi (Italy), ended with 16.01 metres to claim silver, while Nazim Babayev from Azerbaijan copped bronze. Miquel van Assen became the country's

second athlete to ever win a gold medal at an Olympic tournament after Anthony Nesty won gold at the men's 100-metre butterfly in 53.00 seconds at the 1988 Summer Olympic Games in Seoul, SouthKorea. "Today I don't care about the distance he covered," Lazaro Calderon, his Cuban coach and trainer told journalists. "The gold medal is more important." After winning the event Van Assen made a victory lap carrying a Surinamese flag. He is expected to receive a hero's welcome on his return to Suriname. (Caribbean News)

Jamaica ice hockey tryouts a big success in Toronto

Guyanese Krishna Arjune continues to delight with the bat in Canada

Krishna Arjune By Ravendra Madholall

O R O N T O , C A N A D A : Perhaps inspired by Harrienarine Chattergoon’s magnificent double-century, opener Krishna Arjune stroked an authoritative 169 for Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club (HACC) against the same team, Durham Sports Club on Sunday when action continued in the 2014 Scarborough Cricket Association Premier 50over competition. Two weeks ago, the diminutive right-handed batsman Chattergoon plundered 39 fours and 12 sixes in his unforgettable 268, also for Hawaiian Arctic. On this occasion, the former Guyana firstclass player Arjune, played with freedom too striking up his sec-

ond century for the club since making his debut in 2009. In their two limitedover scheduled matches, Hawaiian Arctic tallied up over 1000 runs against this innocuous bowling lineup. Arctic, seeking their fifth consecutive title this season, have so far carted off ten victories inclusive of a walkover. And Arjune is delighted with his performance. The right-hander, who smacked 13 fours and five sixes during his 87-ball occupation at the crease, wants to keep dominating the game. “I [am] happy with my rich form and I want to keep making runs here in Canada. I think we have a great team to win the championship again but we just have to keep focused game by game,” Arjune re-

lated from his home in Scarborough. Having represented Guyana in 40 regional four-day matches, he commenced plying his trade in North America in 2002. “Cricket is about enjoyment. I have been coming to Canada and playing professionally for over a decade now and still making a contribution for these teams is always a great pleasure,” the former Guyana under-19 cricketer commented. Also wearing Vikings Cricket Club’s colours, Arjune has featured in several matches at the Toronto and District Cricket Association’s first-division level. “Playing consistently is very important for me as a cricketer. The game is “wonderful” and especially playing among lots of seasoned players from both Canada and back in the Caribbean. It shows the competitiveness of these competitions,” Arjune expressed. Reflecting on the assignment on Sunday, Arjune felt the game started nicely for his team and they just capitalised on the opportunity to accumulate runs quickly. He in association with another exGuyana senior player, Azib Ally Haniff, batted purposely. Haniff supported with a tidy 44.

Members of the Jamaica Olympic Ice Hockey Federation’s first tryouts held on Sunday in Toronto, Canada (Jamaica Observer photos)

Prospective Jamaican Ice Hockey players at try-out on Sunday in Toronto, Canada

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Jamaica Olympic Ice Hockey Federation's (JOIHF) first tryouts held on Sunday in Toronto, Canada, was a big success with over 20 athletes turning out for coaching tips from Jamaican Graeme Townsend, Canadian Ice Hockey Hall of Famer, who has been appointed to coach. Hockey players came from several areas with-

in Toronto and the United States, and there was one athlete from Sweden, whose mother is Jamaican. That player was prepared to pay his own way to be apart of these try-outs. It is anticipated that this number will grow significantly over the next few months as news of the try-outs prompted calls from several other hockey players to be part of the programme. The try-outs continued

into Sunday and are part of the first steps towards identifying talent and building a Jamaican team that can compete in the Winter Olympics. Townsend, who is also a former skating coach with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the first Jamaican to play in the National Hockey League was impressed with the talent he saw. Townsend was quoted in the Toronto Star newspaper as saying, "if we can pull this off you are looking at an inspiring story and the idea that anything is achievable if you put your mind to it. If Jamaica can get a team in the World Championship or the Olympics that's something so outlandish I think it might actually work". He was joined in the training sessions Sunday by Teegan Moore, star forward with the Colorado Eagles hockey team, who helped with the routines. Moore also has Jamaican connections. (Jamaica Observer)

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WEEK ENDING August 28, 2014 | www.caribbeantimesinternational.com

Guyana’s Alisha Fortune makes clean sweep of sprint events at World Masters

Alisha Fortune

EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Former sprint queen of Guyana Alisha Fortune followed up on taking gold in the 400 metres to ensure a clean sweep of the sprint events by also capturing gold in the 100 metres and 200 metres events at the North, Central American and

Caribbean World Masters Athletic Championships (NCCWMA) in San Jose, Costa Rica at the weekend. Fortune ran 12.12 secs in the 3539 Women’s 100 metres last Saturday, beating into second place Silvia Zamora of Costa Rica who clocked 14. 97. Third was Mayra Valentina Carillo of Mexico. Returning to the track on Sunday, Fortune clocked 24.55 secs to easily win the 200 metres ahead of Cindy Hernandez of Costa Rica. Third was Mayra Valentina Carillo. Fortune had started her campaign at the World Masters on a successful note as she captured gold in the Women’s 25-39 400 metres last Friday. Fortune clocked 56.32 secs to easily win the final ahead of Alejandra Cedeno (01:03.79) of Venezuela and Heidy Segura Gonzalez (01:05.81) of Costa Rica who came second and third respectively. Fourth was Mayra Valentina Carrillo of Mexico and fifth Beatriz Araya Granados of Costa Rica. The sprinter’s trip is through the blessings of the Guyana Masters Athletics Association (GMAA).

Bolt to visit India to play cricket

EW DELHI, I N D I A : Jamaican sprint superstar Usain Bolt will make his first trip to India next week to play cricket against India's World Cup hero Yuvraj Singh, organisers said on Tuesday. The cricket face-off-titled 'Bolt and Yuvi-Battle of the Legends'-is being organised by sportswear giants Puma and will take place at the Chinnaswamy stadium in Bangalore on September 2. The format and details of the game have not been revealed. "Puma brings Usain Bolt down for a one-of-akind cricket face-off between two sporting leg-

Usain Bolt (AFP photo)

ends," the organisers said in a media release. "For the first time ever, watch the fastest man on earth challenge Yuvraj Singh to an exclusive cricket showdown." Bolt, 28, a six-time Olympic gold medallist and world record hold-

er in both the 100m and 200m, is an ardent cricket fan who in the past has expressed a desire to play in the Indian Premier League. Yuvraj, a left-handed all-rounder who is not part of the Indian team currently touring England, was man of the tournament when Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men won the World Cup in Mumbai in 2011. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) said it had no role in Bolt's brief visit to the country. "Both Bolt and Yuvraj are brand ambassadors of the sponsors, we are not involved in this programme," an AFI official said. (AFP)

Guyanese lands basketball scholarship

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Guyana’s national basketball player Ginelle Ifill has received a full scholarship from Odessa College in Texas valued US$42,500. The scholarship will last for 30 months and the 6’4” Centre will be able to hone her skills in a modernised environment that will go a far way in taking her game to a new level. Ifill is a lanky Centre and is adept at rebounding the basketball. She was noticed by scouts at the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championships in the British Virgin Islands in July. Ifill, who has already been accepted to the college and in receipt of her

Ginelle Ifill sends one shot in reverse

visa, also had to apologise to the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) for her participation in the unsanctioned Inter Guiana Games (IGG) basketball tournament that concluded earlier in August. In addition to Ifill’s

knack to rebound the ball, the Centre is also able to finish quite efficiently at the rim. However, Ifill’s worth ethic and urgency in the way she plays will be the main ingredients that might just get her into brighter lights at the college. (Guyana Times)

Four Windies players are co-owners in Canada T20 league

Dwayne Bravo (left) and Denesh Ramdin (Jamaica Gleaner photo)

O R O N T O , CANADA: Four of the biggest names from the West Indies cricket team have signed a deal making them co-owners in the new Canadian Premier League T20 set for next year. They are one-day captain Dwayne Bravo, Test Captain Denesh Ramdin, opening batsman Kieran Powell and former captain and veteran Shivnarine Chanderpaul. The deal arrives ahead of the countdown to the inaugural North American league tournament scheduled to commence on August 1 next year.

"I fully support the growth and development of international-calibre T20 cricket through the Canadian Premier League and the direction being taken by Roy Singh, the league's founder and CEO," said Ramdin, the recently appointed West Indies Test team captain. "Roy has the vision, determination and drive to make this League truly successful and sustainable and I am thrilled to be coming on board as part of such a pioneering venture for the North American market." The 10-team league will consist of professional cricketers from around Canada, along-

side global cricketing superstars from across the world, league officials have confirmed. The Canadian Premier League's management committee includes Singh, a successful Toronto-based entrepreneur who serves as CEO and chairman, Chanderpaul, a director of the company while Bravo, Ramdin and Powell will serve as coowners. Former Toronto Star reporter, Bob Mitchell, has been appointed president and Emma Everett, managing agent to Dwayne Bravo, Denesh Ramdin, Kieran Powell and Sir Richie Richardson, will serve as head of global player operations. "The Canadian Premier League is already creating waves of excitement within the international cricketing community," said Powell. "What makes the league stand out is Roy Singh's brilliance and initiative in carving out a niche market in this region and ensuring that the business model surrounding his league is based on longevity that centres around a real passion for growth and development of the game." (Caribbean News)

Dwayne Smith seals two-year deal

RIDGET OWN, BARBADOS: West Indies batsman Dwayne Smith has signed a two-year deal with Sydney Sixers for the upcoming Big Bash League in December. “I’m going to come and give it my best and hopefully we can see plenty of sixes when it is my turn to play for the Sixers,” Smith said. Smith will head into the tournament in sublime form in Twenty20 matches, having played several match-winning innings for two of his teams in recent months. Smith was the second highest run-scorer in the 2014 Indian Premier League, scoring 566 runs for Chennai Super Kings with five half-centuries. He carried that form over to Barbados Tridents in the Caribbean Premier League, making 353 runs with two hundreds and a fifty at an average of 44.12. Smith also topscored with an unbeat-

Dwayne Smith

en 59 in the rain-affected final against Guyana Amazon Warriors, as Tridents clinched the title with an eight-run victory according to the D/L method. “Dwayne is a power-

ful exciting stroke-maker at the top of the order,” Trevor Bayliss, the Sixers coach, said. “He also bowls some handy medium pace and his fielding is top class.” (cricinfo)

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

INTERNATIONAL WEEK ENDING AUGUST 28, 2014

Cricket fans continue to support Amazon Warriors’ challenge of CPL final G

EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Cricket fans worldwide are continuing to support the Guyana Amazon Warriors’ challenge of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final which was played against the Barbados Tridents in St. Kitts and Nevis on August 16. Immediately after the decision was announced, the Amazon Warriors had mounted a challenge to the outcome of the game, which was controversially awarded to the Tridents under the Duckworth-Lewis system. This renewed wave of support by fans seems to have come in the wake of a decision by CPL’s Cricket Tournament Committee (CTC), despite substantial evidence to the contrary, that there is no “good reason” to reverse the result or declare the final a nullity.

Dwayne Smith survives an LBW appeal that television replays showed should have been given out

However, both the CTC and the CPL said they do not object to the matter being referred to the International Cricket Council (ICC), the game’s world governing body, for a ruling that is “definitive,

transparent and expeditious”–words that appear to suggest the decision was arrived at with a great degree of doubt. A petition website has been launched in support of the Amazon Warriors’ challenge, cur-

rently with more than 2000 supporters and growing, and social media continues to be replete with rage at the way in which the game ended, while at the same time calling on the CPL management to overturn

the decision. A CPL statement issued Sunday said the CTC effectively ruled that the result of the rain-affected final stands, although there has been mounting pressure from a number of cricket fans worldwide, well respected analysts and commentators of the game, and a number of sport organisations. The statement said after receiving and considering the formal complaint made by the Amazon Warriors, it referred the Match Report to the CTC for a decision. The CTC claimed that the Match Referee properly applied the rules regarding the time allotted for the match, and alluded to paragraph 6.2 of Section 3A of the CPL Tournament Rules, which deals with match results. This “expressly precludes a team from objecting to the result of

a match on the ground of any decision made by any Umpire or the Match Referee”, the statement said. The Match Referee’s report indicated an enquiry by CPL Chief Executive Officer Damien O’Donohoe and Member of the CTC Charles Wilkin, QC, if the full match could be played without resort to the Duckworth-Lewis rules. “To this, the consent of both captains was required and that was not forthcoming. Hence, they were informed that, according to the Playing Conditions, they did not have the authority to make such a ruling,” the statement added. Chairman of the CTC is PJ Patterson, former Prime Minister of Jamaica. Other Committee members include Zorol Barthley, Walter H Scott and Conde Riley.

Trinidad defeat Jamaica to win Women’s Four Caribbean Football Union Champs Windies

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Hosts Trinidad and Tobago beat Jamaica 1-0 in a fiercely contested game at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Tuesday night to become the 2014 Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Women champions. Mariah Shade scored the winner in the eighth minute of a high-tempo game in relatively cool evening conditions. Despite the patchy playing surface, both teams thrilled at times with their close ball skills and good passing, but there were no further goals. The hosts, buoyed by the vibrant atmosphere provided by the few hundred spectators at the venue, dominated first half ball possession, outside of the very early lively burst from the Jamaicans. The Soca Princesses scored off their first real attack when Shade was left unmarked to the inside-left position of the Jamaican defence. She controlled an aerial pass she re-

TT’s Soca Princesses have been crowned the 2014 Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Women champions

ceived and rifled past goalkeeper Nicole McClure. Jamaica's leading goal scorer Shakira Duncan could have equalised soon after on a counter-attacking move. The nifty striker was played through on goal by Jodi-Ann McGregor's lofted pass in the 19th minute, but she was muscled off the ball by retreating defender Arin King.

In the 41st minute, Jamaica's Christina Murray shot wide of goal from 22 yards, though the Trinidad 'keeper Kimika Forbes was off her line. Two minutes later, the hosts should have stretched their lead when the speedy Kennya Cordner set up Janine Francois, however the latter headed tamely wide of the mark. The second half saw Jamaica

wresting more of the possession, and they came closest to equalising in the 51st minute when a TT defender's clearance ricocheted off Duncan's head and hit the upright. After striking the goal frame, the ball bounced harmlessly across the face of goal. Jamaica seriously threatened twice again through the enterprise of substitute Shaneka Gordon. In the 84th minute, Gordon's half-volleyed effort was deflected wide and two minutes later, she struck another left-footed shot that sneaked wide of Forbes' far post as the encounter ended in tense fashion. In the third-place play-off, Haiti, runners-up to Jamaica in Group A, drubbed fellow Frenchspeaking outfit Martinique 5-1. Martinique were second to TT in Group B. All four teams have sealed spots to the CONCACAF Championship to be held in the United States in October. (Jamaica Observer)

players are co-owners in Canada T20 league

Page 31 Shivnarine Chanderpaul

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