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Jagdeo is an asset to the PPP – Rohee Page 20

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

You can also read Guyana Times daily edition online at www.guyanatimesgy.com ISSUE NO. 228

week ending February 1, 2015

Guyanese to benefit from cheaper electricity rates soon See story on page 3

Final wish granted: US Embassy in Page 24 G/town grants visa to sister of dying man

Doctors in NY have given Christopher Robinson a few more days to live

Michelle Robinson can now visit her dying brother; she has now secured her US Visa

Guyana is very attractive for business - says Paris-based call centre Vice President

Page 7

The Government of Guyana, represented by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment Robert Persaud, joined several Caribbean leaders and other nations' representatives, including United States Vice President Joe Biden for the Energy Security Summit held in Washington DC. In photo: Vice President Joe Biden and Minister Robert Persaud took timeout to exchange pleasantries.

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TT Speaker sorry for big error

Guyanese to benefit from cheaper electricity rates soon

By Erica Williams

G House Speaker Wade Mark during last Friday’s sitting of the House of Representative at Tower D International Waterfront, Port of Spain

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ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: House Speaker Wade Mark on Monday came under further criticism after he admitted he made a mistake in the statements he made in last Friday’s Parliament session on Independent Liberal Party MP Jack Warner’s motion of censure against Finance Minister Larry Howai.

Mark was severely criticised by Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley and Martin Daly, SC, who both called on him to produce the letter that he acted on when he made his initial judgement last Friday, and the Independent Liberal Party, who wants him to step down.

Warner’s no-confidence motion against Howai collapsed after Warner was cautioned

by Mark about heading in the wrong direc-

tion and the full requirements for the motion were not completed after Warner walked out of the Parliament that day.

Before starting debate, Mark had told the Parliament it was not his intention to muzzle freedom of speech.

He noted, however, that he had received Warner’s motion on December 30, 2014 and approved it on January 5, 2015, and said he had only received “a few hours ago” (that day) notice from the High Court, dated January 16, 2015, on a matter concerning Howai and Azard Ali of Sunshine Publishing Company Ltd. The Speaker’s remark about the “High Court notice” was subsequently spotlighted when Daly issued a press release taking issue with the perceived “mixing of politics in judicial affairs.” (TT Guardian)

uyana Power and Light (GPL) has agreed to reduce its electricity tariffs, in response to a proposal made by President Donald Ramotar, who during negotiations alluded to the significant drop in fuel prices on the international market.

The price for fuel has been dropping around the world since last June, with the latest price of fuel in Venezuela being recorded at US$39.19 per barrel, the lowest in almost half a decade.

Head of the President Secretariat (HPS), Dr Roger Luncheon made this disclosure on Wednesday during his post Cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President.

“GPL… has practically undertaken to have electricity charges for consumers across the board adjusted downwards,” Dr Luncheon told reporters as he broke the news. But he said the power company has not disclosed the new tariff structure or the implementation date.

Citizens across Guyana have repeatedly complained about

the high cost of electricity. Due to the high electricity tariffs charged by GPL, some consumers have resorted to electricity theft.

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) General Secretary Joseph Harmon had also called on the Government to find ways to reduce electricity tariffs and “get off Guyanese backs.”

With decreased electricity tariffs, Guyanese will likely pay less than many Caribbean countries, especially those whose generation of power is based on petroleum products.

While the Government is pleased with the decision taken

by GPL, Dr Luncheon said Cabinet expressed its disappointment that the 30 per cent decrease in fuel prices is not adequately reflected at private fuel stations.

Earlier in the month, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh announced that gasoline will be sold at cost of Gy$695 per gallon at Guyoil pump stations from a high of Gy$995. Further, he had declared that diesel would be retailed at Gy$694 per gallon, from a high of Gy$985 per gallon.

On Wednesday, Dr Luncheon further disclosed that the cost of cooking gas has also been reduced by 13 per cent. This 13 per cent decrease would see consumers paying approximately Gy$3500 per 20 pound cylinder of gas as opposed to Gy$4000.

The 30 per cent reduction was done with the hope that the reduced fuel prices at Guyoil would have created competition and force private gas stations to effect similar changes, however, to date only Sol

Petroleum Guyana has followed in the footsteps of Guyoil.

Dr Luncheon also expressed disappointment that many public transportation owners are refusing to lower their fares, although they are benefiting from the reduced prices.

The HPS said while some persons have lowered their fares, “other categories of operators and owners have adamantly refused to make any change in fare structure.”

The HPS was adamant that the refusal to drop the fares by the public transportation sector is a betrayal of what was expected.

“When fuel prices go up, there is a demand for increased fares but when fuel prices go down, it is like pulling teeth, fares lowered.”

Even in the aviation sector, the drop in fuel prices on international market is not being reflected adequately, Dr Luncheon said. He explained that only Guyoil’s newly established fuel plant at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) has reflected the decrease.

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EDITORIAL

Election smokescreens

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uyana continues to prove time and time again, that it has a strange political culture that is never constant but always changing given the mood and agenda of its key political actors. Whether this change is good or bad depends on the outcome of the issues that are affected by our very dynamic political culture.

President Ramotar announced May 11 as the day when Guyanese would be given the opportunity to once again vote for a party of their choice after three years of political stalemate and a dysfunctional Parliament which was marred by deadlock.

The President considered the uneasiness that was taking place in the society following his prorogation of Parliament and repeated commitment to call elections in light of the campaign being waged by his political opponents.

Though not agreeing at all with the sentiments expressed by the Opposition political parties and the diplomatic corps, as well as civil society groups, he took note of their concerns before choosing to cut his term short by one and a half years.

One would have thought that the Opposition would have welcomed the President’s announcement and the fact that he kept his word. One would have thought that the Opposition parties would have celebrated the President’s announcement that he would be inviting local, regional and international observers for the elections. One would have expected the political Opposition parties to demonstrate maturity by urging Guyanese to exercise their franchise in a free and democratic manner in keeping with the spirit of the President’s announcement.

But none of these expectations were met and the political culture in Guyana saw the Alliance For Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) making a fresh wave of accusations against the President which seeks to undermine his word and integrity.

These would-be coalition partners are now trying to cast doubt in the minds of Guyanese that he will dissolve Parliament, even though they know that he has until February 11 constitutionally to do so.

They are now alleging that Ramotar’s Government is abusing State resources without establishing any evidence to this effect.

Were the AFC and APNU interested in reducing Government’s access to State resources before elections, they could have used their one-seat majority to pass legislation in the 10th Parliament.

The Opposition has started their campaign by throwing accusations at the President for the date chosen, which clashes with some Caribbean Advance Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations.

These parties have done so when they know that ample arrangements could be put in place by both GECOM and the Government to ensure that there are no disruptions in this process. But it would appear that now that the President has set a date, there is reluctance on the part of the local political Opposition to get on with the elections.

Both the APNU and AFC are reported in the media as saying that they are financially sound and ready to compete any elections to remove the PPP/C at a moment’s notice. Therefore they must not pay lip service to this stance, but must look to the wider issues like convincing voters that they can be trusted to continue the unprecedented progress started by the PPP/C. They must select their Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates soon so that the public can have enough time to vet them. They must look at their lists and present their plans to the country’s populace.

Creating smokescreens, diversions and manufactured redherrings will not convince the large amount of Guyanese who voted for the PPP/C to remain in office during the 2011 elections that they must rethink their position.

In fact, by announcing May 11 as the elections date, the President and his party can now work briskly to achieve their goal of securing another majority and continuing the uninterrupted progress Guyana has enjoyed since the PPP/C rose to power in 1992.

President Barack Obama (left) tries out ‘Namaste’ in the presence of President Pranab Mukherjee (centre) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a Rashtrapati Ceremony

Guyana again urged to abolish death penalty

By Svetlana Marshall

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uyana has been commended for the gigantic steps taken since its first Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in 2010 but it is being urged to institute the requisite mechanisms that would result in the abolition of the death penalty.

This call was renewed as the country’s human rights record was placed under the microscope on Wednesday by the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review Working Group. Leading the Guyanese delegation was Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn RodriguesBirkett who delivered a comprehensive report on the country’s progress before the recommendations were issued based on the assessment.

Ireland and Italy were among the 54 countries that advocated for Guyana to establish a legislative framework that would see the complete abolishment of the death penalty in keeping with the recommendations that were given during the first review.

Ireland’s Representative Breda Lee recalled that Guyana had committed to the holding of public consultations on the death penalty, noting that the country should make good on its promise. “We urge Guyana to commence this process and to introduce a moratorium on the death penalty with a view to abolish it.”

Minister Rodrigues-Birkett in delivering the nation’s report recalled that Guyana had voluntarily committed to consult on 28 of the 55 recommendations tabled, of which 14 were based on the death penalty.

It was explained that subsequent to the holding of General and Regional Elections in November 2011 and the commencement of the 10th Parliament, a decision was made to present the recommendations to the National Assembly, where a motion was tabled by the Government to have the recommendations sent to the Parliamentary Special Select Committee

(PSSC).

Approval was granted by the House on August 9, 2012, and a nine member parliamentary committee was subsequently appointed. Though the work of the Committee commenced in November 2012, deliberations at that level have not concluded to date.

“Although the Parliamentary Special Select Committee did not complete its mandate with regard to the recommendation on the abolition of the death penalty, I wish to report that the Criminal Law Offences Amendment Act of 2010 removed the mandatory death penalty for persons convicted of murders,” the Foreign Affairs Minister told the UN Human Rights Council’s UPR Working Group.

She further pointed out that the amended legislation has made provisions for life imprisonment and imprisonment with the possibility of patrol. “The death penalty was retained in limited cases such as murder of a Police Officer on duty, a judicial officer or treason,” Minister RodriguesBirkett further explained.

Other issues that were raised by the participating states related to discrimination against women; discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity; alleged Police abuses, including unlawful killings, torture, and ill-treatment; combating all acts of violence against women and girls and supporting victims; prohibiting corporal punishment; access to clean water and sanitation; reducing maternal and infant mortality rates; access by women and girls to reproductive and HIV health services; reducing school dropout rates among girls; improving literacy rates; and Amerindian land rights and mining activities in indigenous traditional territories.

Corporal punishment

In response, Minister Rodrigues-Birkett disclosed that the recommendations on the abolition of corporal punishment, the decriminalisation of consensual same sex adults’ sexual relations, discrimina-

tion against Lesbians, Gays, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) and the age of criminality were also submitted to the PSSC. “The Committee did not conclude its work at the time of reporting but had commenced by focusing firstly on the abolition of corporal punishment, public hearings were held and submissions were received from Government agencies, civil society and experts,” Minister Rodrigues-Birkett explained.

Based on the consultations done thus far, Minister Rodrigues-Birkett said it is evident that the abolition of corporal punishment in schools remains an issue on which sections of society are “staunchly and equally divided.”

She added, “There has been no general consensus in civil society or in the parliamentary committee on the way forward thus far.”

However, she urged the UN Human Rights Council’s UPR Working Group to be cognisant of the fact that the Guyanese Government had instituted the Juvenile Offenders Act of 2010 which abolished corporal punishment in juvenile correctional institutions. Additionally, the new Childcare Development and Services Act of 2011 prohibit corporal punishment in institutional residences. “We believe that these small yet significant steps have moved Guyana closer towards implementing these recommendations based on a democratic process,” the Minister further told the review group.

Guyana is among 14 states that are being reviewed by the UPR Working Group. The documents on which reviews are based on are the national report (information provided by the State under review), information contained in the reports of independent human rights experts and groups, known as the Special Procedures, human rights treaty bodies, and finally information provided by other stakeholders including national human rights institutions, regional organisations and civil society groups.

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Popular Trinidadian Fire Service opens Gy$139M journalist meets tragic end training complex at Leonora

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ORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD: One of the most colourful television and radio personalities in Trinidad and Tobago perished in a mysterious fire on Saturday morning.

Police say well known journalist Marcia Henville burnt to death in her government housing complex last Saturday. But neighbours, suspicious of her tragic end, say there was a dispute at Henville's house around 5:30 am on that day; they heard loud quarreling, noted one of the neighbours.

About 6:00 am, police discovered Henville's charred remains on her bed. The fire was, however, only confined to her bedroom.

A male relative also received first degree burns and was hospitalised.

His condition was said to be serious but stable.

Henville's two children, 20-yearold son Chioke, along with his sister, 16-year-old Nekiyah, were home at the time of the incident. They escaped unhurt.

Police said a male relative is assisting them with their investigations.

An autopsy on Monday found that she had been beaten on the head, stabbed about the body, and her throat cut.

Henville's former bosses at CCN TV6, where she hosted a weekly show "Point Blank", said they were shocked and saddened at her tragic end.

Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar said she too is shocked and saddened at the death of the well known media personality.

"I was shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Ms Henville in such tragic circumstances, and I offer my sincere condolences to her family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time," the prime minister

T

The late Marcia Henville

said. "Marcia was known for her fearless pursuit of the truth, and the nation has lost a talented and dedicated journalist."

Henville's close friend, Sheldon De Shong, insisted that Henville's death was no accident. He said she confided in him only the day before her killing and he would discuss the matter with the police at the earliest opportunity.

The larger than life media personality loved life but she also loved justice. Now the call is for justice to be served to bring closure to her untimely end.

Henville was born in the United Kingdom to Trinidad and Tobago parents. She moved to Trinidad and Tobago in her early 20s, and worked briefly as a reporter at Newsday and later the Trinidad Express (19952000). She reported on general topics, with a focus on crime and court reporting. She was also a features writer and in her later years a television producer. (Caribbean News )

he Guyana Fire Service’s (GFS) training complex, at Leonora will enhance the service’s ability to execute its mandate in facilitating training of ranks for the roles of Fire and Rescue Service operatives.

Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee declared open the Gy$139M training complex facility, located in the Leonora Fire Service compound on Monday. He said the facility is testimony to the Government’s commitment to modernise the GFS, to transform it to one that is a fully fledged Fire and Rescue Service, offering a variety of emergency services to the citizens of Guyana. He said, “It is very disappointing though that there are a few persons who have vested interest in stymieing the modernising process of this important disciplined service.”

However, he said that the Government cannot continue to deny the citizens access to better emergency services such as an ambulance service, rescue from vehicles involved in accidents, collapsed buildings and structures, and other services that the GFS undertakes. Since its ascension to office in 1992, Government has constructed nine new fire stations, eight living quarters, and

The new recruits during their drill exercise at the commissioning of the Guyana Fire Service training complex at Leonora

renovated other buildings.

Additionally, it has provided 46 fire tenders, 5 aircraft and rescue tenders, 1 hydraulic platform, 3 all terrain tenders, 2 trailer pumps, 4 water bowsers and 4 ambulances.

Over 168 ranks were also exposed to overseas training, and the strength of the service grew from 368 to 511 during that period. Minister Rohee explained that prior to 1992, the GFS was operating from two fire stations, one fire tender and a pick up vehicle in Georgetown, and three other operational stations at New Amsterdam, Timehri and Leonora.

Training was also done on an ad-hoc basis at fire stations because there was no established facility to undertake training.

Since then, the GFS has established work-

ing relationships with the Caribbean Fire Service, the French Guiana Fire Service and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, and the Severn Park Fire and Rescue Training Center, and has benefited from positive initiatives from these relationships in the form of training and exchange visits. “The Ministry and the Guyana Fire Service have realised that there is the need for a new approach to modernise the service and has just completed a new five-year strategic plan, to bring the service up to date with the modern methods of a fire and rescue service.

These are just a few highlights of the Government’s commitment to make our citizens safer,” the Minister emphasised. He urged the residents to assist the service in its quest to make the country safer.

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Faith Harding was a genuine confidant and counselor

Dear Editor, I’m completely devastated by the death of my dear friend, Dr Faith Azelia Harding. I served as Special Assistant to Faith during her tenure as Minister for the Public Service in Guyana.

Faith was not only a colleague; she was family – someone with whom I shared a deep and unshakable maternal bond.

She was a genuine confidant and counselor. Whether, she was serving as a Government Minister or a United Nations representative in Asia or Africa, Faith always took time out of her busy schedule to maintain constant contact with me. Whenever she visited New York, catching up with me was a must.

Faith was a woman of supreme intellect, incomparable skills and commitment as a public servant, elected official and politician. After earning a PhD in Education from Columbia University, she returned to Guyana in 1983 to serve her people and embark on an illustrious career in Government.

Her contribution to the development of Guyana is extraordinary and indelible. She served Guyana as an Assistant Chief Education Officer, Minister of Planning and Development, and Minister of the Public Service. As Public Service Minister, she spear-

headed the Public Service Reform Programme in 1991.

Faith performed admirably. She transformed and streamlined the entire public service and Government bureaucracy. Consequently, the number of Government Ministries was reduced from 17 to 11, and other governmental agencies and corporations were harmonized for optimum efficiency.

In every aspect of her tenure in Government in Guyana, her work was transformational. Faith’s incredible enthusiasm for, and dedication to, public service fueled her candidacy for her party nomination for President of Guyana in 2011.

She wanted to serve in a greater capacity to directly affect decision making. Although she was unsuccessful, she never really left the campaign trail; working tirelessly to empower the women of Guyana, for whom she was a trailblazer.

Dr Faith Harding has left an ineffaceable footprint in the political landscape of Guyana, the United Nations development system and all of the developing and undeveloped countries where she worked with the UN to help bring about development and a better quality of life for their peoples, especially women.

I will miss her immensely. I will miss her great mentorship, stimulating conversations, generous compliments, wise counsel, beaming smile and big laugh. She was a woman of distinction – an impressive academic, talented psychologist, competent administrator and astute politician.

Guyana has lost a bright light, great leader and indefatigable stalwart, who has transcended to a better place. Dr Faith Harding has surely earned a commemorable seat in our nation’s pantheon of trailblazers and heroes.

I extend sincere condolences to her husband Patrick, son Patrick Jnr, as well as to her siblings and other relatives. May she rest in peace!

Rickford Burke

APNU has awakened from slumber to cast aspersions

Dear Editor, It’s official that the silly season has commenced with the announcement of Elections – the latest was a call from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) Councilor Leslie Gonsalves to test the bauxite exported by RUSAL for gold and rare earth minerals.

Let us be logical. If there was indeed any traces of gold or rare earth minerals within the area where RUSAL is currently operating, the company would not have gotten an opportunity to even harvest it much less export it.

This is so due to the fact that a gang of min-

ers would have already showed up to that area and would have begun mining.

It is appalling that with the recent announcement of General and Regional Elections, all the silly persons are now awake after a long slumber to make fictitious allegations against the company which was brought by the Government to revitalize bauxite in Guyana.

RUSAL is one of the companies that have created employment for the people of Linden, but yet the APNU Member wants to cast aspersions on the operations and management of the company to create an impression that Guyana

is being robbed and the Government is in collusion.

This has been the trump card for APNU, casting aspersions of corruption and illegality without providing the evidence. I do hope the company will consider taking legal actions against APNU and its Member Mr Gonsalves.

In Guyana, we have a culture of casting aspersions without investigating or getting the facts right, but that is how some of the attention seekers, like Mr Gonsalves of APNU, operate and I call for an end of this unethical behavior.

Vivian Li

Attack ideas and issues, not people Dear Editor, It is so shocking and appalling to read about the intense level of personal attacks in so many of the writings (and even in some of the news items) in the daily newspapers in Guyana.

Why should we call people by so many foul, contemptuous, ill-mannered, highly offensive and disgusting, malicious and just downrightly nasty names because we do not approve of what they do, write or say?

And the people who often pen this willfully destructive language so proudly like to present themselves to the world as intellectuals decorated with so many degrees. And so they attack and the counter ― attack continues unabated that readers are forced to ask themselves: Is this all

these guys have to write about?

There is absolutely nothing to gain from tearing down other people. As Alfred Tennyson wrote, “No one ever got very high by pulling other people down.”

When a person viciously attacks another, it does not advance our knowledge of the issue, and more importantly, it doesn’t advance the effort towards a solution.

Our newspapers should not reflect the toxic, crude, malicious, distasteful and hate-filled writings that are so common on the Internet. It is time that we move on the higher ground and deal with the ideas and issues and stop these personal attacks.

It is so tempting to think that we got the upper hand over someone whom we have maligned

and denigrated. The reality is that we have just revealed by this action our own weakness and personal vindictiveness.

Writing in whatever form is a vital medium of communication, and in so many ways it reveals so much of our inner self and personality.

A pen (now the keyboard) in the wrong hands can provoke so much ill-will, and even violence and destruction. In the hands of an enlightened soul, it can inspire people, build bridges of hope and fulfilment, and remove superstitions, ignorance and fear.

In no other way do we reveal to the world so much of who we really are than in our writing.

Cecil Ramkirath Bayonne, New Jersey, USA

AFC trying to sell “coalition” as “alliance”

Dear Editor, The Alliance For Change (AFC) is trying its utmost to sell the “coalition” talks as an “alliance” talk to Berbicians.

On January 24, Daizal Samad did just that.

Firstly, he admitted that the coalition talks are of great concern even among the strongest supporters. But then he began to spin a yarn of deception in trying to tell Berbicians that there is a difference between a coalition and an alliance.

He told his viewers that a coalition is a union between political parties but an alliance is not a union. Being a professor in English Literature, I cannot say that he is ignorant of the meanings, but I can just conclude that this is deliberate deception coming from a man who wants to sell moral virtues to the Guyanese people.

It’s just semantics.

When political parties agreed to work together in a joint action it is a coalition. The word coalition has a nasty connotation in Guyanese politics, so the AFC is at pains to explain to its members and supporters that what they are proposing is not a coalition but an alliance.

Both words suggest a coming together of two or more political parties to support a common policy, and in this case, it is to get rid of the PPP/C Government and to install Nagamootoo as the President.

Secondly, he ad-

Moses Nagamootoo

mitted that in this alliance negotiation, the AFC is willing to accept the minimum position of leadership – we will have the Presidential candidate he adamantly concluded. He then pointed out that he is in receipt of a document from Moses Nagamootoo which clarifies that position.

Thirdly, he said that the proposed alliance will be between the AFC and the other parties and other groups. Now this is the most confusing part – if the AFC is interested to form an alliance with all political parties and organizations, why is it that it is only APNU which AFC is having this secret alliance talk with?

Why is the alliance talk shrouded in secrecy? According to the media, there is an ongoing negotiation between AFC and APNU and no other parties or groups, which is a clandestine move by the AFC to fool its members and supporters about the socalled pro-democracy al-

liance.

The AFC wants to use the PNC to give Nagamootoo the Presidency of Guyana.

They are not concerned about the social and economic development of this country.

Lastly, Samad sounded the death knell for hydro-electric power.

He said that hydro-power is finished, it is not cutting edge technology.

He told Berbicians that when the AFC is elected they will install underwater turbines in the Atlantic Ocean and will ask his friend, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, to open two car assembly factories in Guyana.

Again, he failed to tell Berbicians that this cutting-edge technology he is referring to is still a work-in-progress.

An article written in bionomic.com stated that “the benefits of utilizing hydro-electric energy are abundant and demand that further development take place throughout the world”.

The AFC is talking about job creation and that 60 per cent of youths are unemployed (according to Samad) and yet they and APNU are against the Amaila Hydro Electric Project, which has the capacity to lower electricity costs, encourage foreign and local investors and create jobs for those youths.

Carry on dreaming, Samad!

Haseef Yusuf AFC Councillor Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne)

NEWS 7

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Roopnaraine Guyana is very attractive for business - says Paris-based call centre VP to remain Granger’s No 2

By Gomatie Gangadin

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eneral Secretary of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Joseph Harmon on Wednesday said he is not aware the party would replace Dr Rupert Roopnaraine as its Prime Ministerial Candidate should the proposed coalition between itself and the Alliance For Change (AFC) fail to get off the ground.

Speaking to Guyana Times International on Wednesday, Harmon said that there are no plans to replace any of the party members from their respective posts. It was reported last November that the major Opposition party might be heading into General Elections without Roopnaraine being its Prime Ministerial Candidate. Noting that Roopnaraine has enjoyed the confidence of the coalition, Harmon said he will not be replaced.

Asked whether the APNU has any policy on choosing its Prime Ministerial Candidate based on ethnicity, Harmon answered in the negative, although since 1992, the People’s

APNU’s Prime Ministerial Candidate, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine

National Congress Reform has always campaigned with someone of East Indian ancestry at the polls.

The Member of Parliament also noted that the party has a special select committee that selects their candidate and whoever is being selected will then be placed on whatever post they are selected for. Harmon said that Roopnaraine has always maintained a high profile at the coalition’s activities. In Granger’s absence, for instance, he has always been the last speaker at public meetings.

espite investigating and refusing to enter the Guyanese market several years ago, citing infrastructure deficiencies, customer services giant, Teleperformance is now slated to open doors in early May, said Executive Vice President – Operations, Teleperformance USA, Mike Corrigan.

The call centre which has its parent company in Paris sought out Guyana as the location for the company’s newest branch based on the fact that it has prime factors which are undeniably attractive for businesses.

According to the Executive Vice President, the company recognises that Guyana was fast becoming a business hub, stating that “Guyana was chosen for our investments because for starters, it is the only native English speaking country in South America. Guyana also has a very high literacy rate and proficiency rate.”

He noted too that the geographical location of the country was also taken into consideration since it is a known fact that Guyana experiences

Teleperformance will be creating some 1500 job opportunities for young Guyanese

few or no natural disasters. “It’s ideal geographically speaking, outside the hurricane zone with no natural disasters.

Guyana’s time zone location and accessibility to services in the US market is also a major advantage,” the Executive Vice President said.

He noted that there has been significant political and economic growth with heavy Government input in investments and support of technology, communications and education. Corrigan adding that Guyana has a high US cultural affinity with neutral English accents and as such, will be able to promote the business’s services. He went

on to explain that from a transportation perspective, Georgetown is easily accessible via a direct flight from Miami or New York.

Jeff Balagna, Chief Executive Officer of the English-speaking and Asia-Pacific region related that the company was happy with its new investment in Guyana, noting that it was not an investment just for the company but for the people of Guyana as well, since the company will be here for a long time to come.

“With English as the official language of the country, Guyana offers an educated workforce, strong infrastructure and a stable

overall environment. We are definitely pleased to expand our operations in Georgetown, Guyana, not to just build a facility but also a great longlasting relationship with the local community. We are not only making an investment in capital, we are also investing in the people of Guyana,” Balagna expressed.

Questioned on the cost of the company’s investments in Guyana, Corrigan stated that it was a significant, multimillion-dollar investment.

“We are investing in building a six storey, 48,000 square foot facility with the most current technology and infrastructure available in modern multichannel contact centres. We are trying to create the kind of work place and work environment that we know people will enjoy coming to work every day and our clients will enjoy both visiting… we will also see tangible business performance results,” he said.

This investment which comes at a time when Guyana is battling to reduce its unemployment rate, will be creating some 1500 much needed jobs opportunities for young Guyanese.

8 NEWS

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Man held for Patricia Sanasie’s execution 27 children nabbed in - NY-based husband says he does not know anything truancy campaigns about his wife’s killing

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wo weeks after Patricia Sanasie, wife of popular city businessman Deokaran Ram Sanasie, was gunned down in front of her home in Atlantic Gardens, East Coast Demerara, the Police have arrested a man who matched the description given to them.

The suspect was picked up on Norton Street, Georgetown on Saturday. He is presently being grilled by investigators at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). He is expected to be placed on an identification parade at which the daughter of the dead woman who witnessed the shooting will have an opportunity to point out her mother’s killer.

A senior Police rank stated that the dead woman’s husband was also listed as a suspect in the matter and said once that was firmly established, all arrangements would be made for his extradition from the United States of America.

Deokaran Ram and Patricia Sanasie in happier times

However, in a recent interview with the Guyana Times International from his New York City home, the widower said that he did not know anything about his wife’s killing.

He stressed that he has been in the US since early December and knew nothing of the shooting.

In February 2014, Ram was shot three times about his body while outside his business place on Fourth and Light Streets, Alberttown, Georgetown.

The businessman had claimed that his wife and her younger brother were behind the failed attempt on his life, but this was denied by the two siblings.

Sanasie said that he and his wife have been separated since his shooting last year and he had ceased all contact with her. He said he left his wife alone so that she could figure out what she had to and find her way back to him. The couple had been together for the past 28 years and had

three daughters ages 25, 22, and 14. Sanasie also claimed that there had been room for a possible reconciliation.

On the night of the shooting, the now dead woman and one of her daughters, Romona, had returned home from church around 19:10h, when the 45-year-old exited the vehicle to open the gate so that her daughter could drive into the yard.

It was while doing so the lone gunman confronted her and pumped at least four bullets into the woman’s body. She reportedly fell to the ground and was quickly picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Relatives of the dead woman, including her daughters, thought that it was payback time following the attempted execution of her father by three men on bicycles.

They believe that the businessman might have paid a hefty sum to have her killed.

… lack of funds, transportation cited as main issues

By Indrawattie Natram

I

n the wake of calls for frequent truancy campaigns to be carried out in Pomeroon, the Department of Education has conducted several exercises during the past week.

According to Senior School Welfare Officer Haimraj Hamandeo, 27 children were nabbed during a series of truancy campaigns conducted in both Lower and Upper Pomeroon in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Hamandeo said that the objective of the campaigns were to increase school attendance at all levels. The School Welfare Officer noted that the areas targeted included as Malbourgh, Hackney, Kayamuri, and Kabakaburi. Hamandeo said officers from the Department of Education had talks with parents in the various riverine communities about the importance of an education and their children attending school.

Speaking about measures put in place to encourage children to attend school, the senior official said parents of the truants were issued warning letters. Parents were also warned about the consequences if they continued to neglect their parental duties.

Some of the reasons for children not attending school unearthed by the Department of Education were lack of transportation and financial difficulties.

Parents were advised to visit the Department of Education so that referral could be made to different agencies for assistance.

Very concerned

Hamandeo said the Department was very concerned about the large number of children who were not attending school. Nonetheless, he noted that the Region could boast of attaining universal primary education.

Weekly campaigns continued on page 9

New oil initiative for Caribbean countries T he United States Monday rolled out a new initiative for Caribbean countries to ensure energy security in a move widely seen as distancing the Caribbean from Venezuela for their oil needs.

United States Vice President Joe Biden, addressing the first ever Caribbean Energy Security Summit, told Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries that there are more options

at their disposal now for natural gas delivery than there have ever been.

A statement issued by the White House said that follow-up to the launch of the Caribbean Energy Security Initiative (CESI) in June 2014, Biden and Secretary of Energy Moniz, other senior Administration officials, Caribbean Heads of Government, multilateral development banks, and other international partners participated in

the Caribbean Energy Security Summit to work together in support of Caribbean energy security.

The statement said that the Summit highlighted ongoing efforts under the CESI, including support for improved governance, enhanced access to finance, and increased donor coordination. Caribbean leaders highlighted goals for their energy sectors and discussed how the United

States and other partners can better support the Caribbean in pursuit of alternative sources of energy. Caribbean leaders also agreed to pursue comprehensive energy diversification programmes, including actions to facilitate the introduction of cleaner forms of energy, the White House statement added.

Meanwhile, the statement said that the World Bank presented a propos-

US Vice President Joe Biden

al to create a Caribbean Energy Investment Network to improve coordination and communication among development partners and to empower Caribbean nations to direct and align external support with their own national goals.

Governments and multilateral development partners welcomed the proposal as an initial step to a build upon existing efforts to improve the effectiveness of donor-supported energy programs.

At the Summit, cohosted by the Department of State, the Council of the Americas, and the Atlantic Council, partner countries discussed comprehensive energy diversification strategies, such as the US-Grenada pilot programme that was launched in September, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries on August 27, 2014. This programme is based on

a model that was successfully implemented in the US Virgin Islands (USVI) and Hawaii and that seeks to identify tailored, comprehensive energy solutions for island jurisdictions.

Additionally, the statement noted that the United States’ Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) will intensify its focus on developing clean energy projects in the Caribbean. OPIC and the Department of State have identified a team with specific responsibility for identifying and arranging financing for Caribbean projects. OPIC announced it will disburse the first tranche of approximately US$43 million in financing for Blue Mountain Renewables’ 34 MW wind project in Jamaica. When construction begins in June, this project will be a tangible example of continued on page 11

NEWS 9

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Boodoo could be next Guyana poised for further PPP/C’s GECOM growth – BoG Governor Commissioner

T

Gocool Boodoo

he People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) is currently considering candidates to replace Dr Keshav “Bud” Mangal as one of its commissioners at the Guyana Elections Commission.

Dr Mangal had resigned from his post at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Monday citing illhealth. The 77-yearold has been serving as a Commissioner since 1990. He along with Mahmood Shaw and Athmaram Mangar were the PPP current members at the Commission.

Guyana Times International was told that the party might be courting former Chief Elections Officer, Gocool Boodoo, as a possible replacement for Mangal. When contacted, President Donald Ramotar told this newspaper that they are currently working on finding the best suitable person for the position. Asked whether they might be considering the former CEO, the President stated that they are looking at a number of persons “and Boodoo might be

one of them”. He however pointed out that they are yet to select anyone specifically.

Meanwhile, PPP/ C’s General Secretary, Clement Rohee, when contacted, also reiterated that the party is yet to “settle the matter”; adding that he is unable to say how soon this will be done. Questioned about Boodoo being the preferred choice for the party, the General Secretary opted not to comment.

Chairman of GECOM Dr Steve Surujbally explained to this publication that the PPP/C has made no indications to the Commission about whether they have selected anyone or when they intend to do so. The Chairman noted that while there is no timeframe for the new commissioner to be elected, he suspected that the party may want to do so at the earliest possible time given the fact that the country will be heading to the polls on May 11.

Dr Surujbally disclosed that he received the resignation letter from Dr. Mangal on Monday and shared it with the other commissioners the following day.

He noted that the long serving Commissioner had showed no indications that he was going to resign. According to the GECOM chairman, the resignation of Dr Mangal will not hinder the preparedness of the Commission for the upcoming elections if a quick replacement is made. Boodoo’s contract with GECOM, which ended in April 2013, was not renewed.

D

espite financial tribulations on the Global market, Guyana is poised to significantly improve its economic growth, stability and development in the coming years.

This is according to Governor General of the Bank of Guyana, Dr Gobind Ganga. Dr Ganga was at the time speaking at the launch of the Bank’s logo and celebratory ceremony to commemorate its Golden Jubilee or 50th anniversary on Wednesday.

According to the newly appointed Governor General, since it came into existence on October 16, 1965, the bank has been playing a major role in advancing the growth of the economy and will play an even greater role in the coming days. “Fifty years is a major milestone for any institution but more so, the Bank of Guyana given its historical significance and the important role it plays in guiding monetary policies, regulating and supervising the financial sector and maintaining monetary and economic stability. Since then, the Bank of Guyana has quietly discharged its duties, laying the foundation for financial development, price stability and economic growth”, he said.

He noted that this growth and development is due to the fact that the bank has advanced significantly in its functions and has moved from a position of being highly regulated to becoming one with a high level of independence.

“The bank evolved from one that provided traditional central func-

27 children nabbed in truancy...

from page 8

will be conducted throughout the Senior School Welfare Officer’s tenure to ensure that there were fewer schoolage children on the streets.

Only last week, Education Minister Priya Manickchand said the Ministry would strengthen its welfare programme in schools across the country.

Speaking at a press conference, Manickchand said more welfare officers would be trained by high-level officials from across the Caribbean, noting that a team of 13 supporting masters were currently in the country undergoing training.

Manickchand said since the initiative was the first of its kind, they may not be able to pull off everything on time

Senior School Welfare Officer Haimraj Hamandeo

as expected, but would work towards perfection when addressing welfare matters within the schools. “Again, we will not be able to provide all the services and respond to all the welfare cases as expected. We have to find other ways of having the country band to-

gether to address the issues of inter-personal violence, of stranger violence, of resolving issues violently, so we really need everybody on board – the Church, the Mandir, the Mosque, the NGOs, the schools and even the parents in the home,” she said.

tions such as the issuance of currency, Banker to Government and commercial bank as well as discharging monetary and exchange rate policies to one with the added responsibilities of maintaining monetary and financial stability that includes the commercial banking system, insurance and the pension schemes. The bank also evolved from one that was highly regulated to one with a high level of independence from the perspective of the legal, operational, management and in terms of its ability to conduct monetary and exchanger policy and the use of various tools”, Dr Ganga intoned.

He also disclosed that that the bank has recently concluded preparations on a strategic plan which is aimed at shuttling the economy’s growth in about three years’ time.

“The bank has prepared a strategic plan which explains how the Bank of Guyana intends to uphold its mandate with respect to continued development of sound, progressive and efficient financial sector, maintain price stability and economic growth over the next three years”, the

Governor General of the Bank of Guyana, Dr Gobind Ganga

Governor said.

According to him, the bank will be recommitting itself to preserving the integrity of the preeminent institution and will be working closer with other stakeholders especially in the licensed financial institutions, the Finance Ministry and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) so that the aim is not only achieved but its regulatory and supervisory framework of ensuring its financial safety and stability will be progressively and efficiently fostered.

Perseverance

Meanwhile, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh who gave brief remarks told the audience that the importance of the Bank of Guyana can never be underestimated since it would have played a role

in the country’s independence and has since persevered in serving the needs of the country’s financial sector.

He also noted that the bank has played the most integral role in the growth the country is currently experiencing and will continue to experience due to the fact that there are strong financial systems and regulations in place due to the legislation which the Government had passed.

He noted that while every other country is currently experiencing financial crisis, Guyana can boast of a good economy due to the establishment of the systems and preservation measures which the Bank of Guyana made sure were in place. He expressed his congratulations to the Board with the charge that it must continue to work to ensure that the country’s wellbeing is maintained.

Meanwhile, the Bank’s new logo has been described as a ‘true depiction” of what the Bank stands for. It was stated that the logo had several symbols, some of which included gears, an upward sloping chart, financial markets and a Sundance.

10 NEWS

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Robert Gates’ testimony comes under scrutiny

…after disclosing “new” evidence of PNC surveillance

T

he testimony of former Police Constable Allan Robert Gates came under intense scrutiny on Tuesday as Commissioners and Attorneys representing various interests at the Dr Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry sought to ascertain the truth.

Gates, whose birth name is Clive DeNobrega Gibbs and who is currently serving time in the Camp Street Prison for alleged embezzlement of funds, made a return trip to the stand of the investigation, which sought to ascertain who was responsible for the death of Dr Walter Rodney. Gates had told the Commission on Monday that he had returned, because there was pertinent information he had forgotten to pass on during his testimony in June last year.

But on day two of

the seventh round of the Inquiry, Gates added that he had also omitted some details of his testimony because of security reasons. He noted too that he was sure he would return to the Commission. He said upon his return to prison, he had become comfortable enough to send another witness statement to the Commission’s Secretariat.

Part of that omission included his implication of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of National Development, Emerson Simon, who he claimed might have also been seconded to that position, while serving as a member of the Guyana Police Force.

Gates told the Commission on Monday that Simon would usually meet with then Prime Minister Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham and other officials. It was Simon, he noted, who

Former Police Constable Allan Robert Gates

had related to him that the Prime Minister was “pleased” with his performance as an “undercover” agent in the Working People’s Alliance (WPA).

Fierce challenge

The fierce challenge of his testimony came from Attorneys representing the WPA,

Christopher Ram, and the People’s National Congress (PNC), Basil Williams.

Ram had challenged Gates’ testimony that the WPA was involved in trafficking in weapons, information he reiterated at Monday’s sitting. He, however, said

he could not say if Dr Roopnaraine was ever caught with any arms and ammunition. Gates, who said he had “capitalist ideologies”, related that he was also a qualified private investigator, having obtained several certificates from institutions in North America.

His “investigative skill” revealed to him that the WPA did not possess the military capacity to “achieve the presidency”, which he had earlier claimed was being sought by the hierarchy of the party. He noted that while the WPA might have infiltrated the Guyana Defence Force, it lacked the military intelligence to carry out logistics. He said too that the party could not achieve the presidency “by way of ballot” as elections then were not fair and free.

Williams, the current Chairman of the PNCR, dubbed Gates’ testimo-

ny to be “total fabrication”, pointing out that he had returned to implicate the Prime Minister.

Williams sought to establish that Gates, who had never before met the Head of State, was using information, which he had the opportunity to share before, to destroy the Prime Minister.

Evidence that the PM had also met with officers of the Disciplined Forces some three days before the death of Rodney was also challenged by the party’s lawyer.

Commissioners, during their questioning, were more interested in Gates’ credibility, particularly with a conviction hanging over his head.

The former Police officer turned investigator was charged with fraudulent conversion of funds, an allegation he has denied. He said while he was currently on bail, continued on apge 12

Guyanese generally abide by US visa regulations - Chargé d’Affaires

S

peaking to the Guyana Times International

last week during a telephone interview, United States Embassy

Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt said, generally, Guyanese on short-term

visas (tourist, business or student visas) do not usually overstay the time prescribed by the immigration officer upon entry into the US. He noted that they usually return to Guyana before that time was up or depart for another country. “In the main, most people (Guyanese) comply with the terms of their visas and depart by the time that they’re supposed to and stay within the category that they are operating in,” Hunt stated.

As it relates to the issuing of visas, the Chargé d’Affaires explained that the US Immigration Law provided a great deal of discretion to the Consul Officer at the window in the Embassy. He noted that US Immigration Law makes the presumption that everyone who comes through the doors of the Embassy to get a visa intends to immigrate to the United States unless persons can convince the officer otherwise.

“So the burden is really on the applicant to convince the officer who is interviewing them that, for whatever reasons the applicant can identify, he or she is going to leave the United States and return to Guyana. Generally, people do that by showing that they have family they are leaving behind in Guyana that they intend to return to, they have a very well paying job they intend to return to, that they have previous travels to other coun-

tries where they have left within the timeframe and a host of other intangible factors that one can bring to the window,” he pointed out.

Hunt posited that at the end of the day, it was a judgment call by the Embassy’s officers and was of the belief that they, more than often, made the correct judgment call. However, the Chargé d’Affaires mentioned that those persons who believed that their cases were not adjudicated correctly had the option to re-apply and be re-interviewed by a different officer. This way, he added, they would have a second opportunity to make their cases as to what their ties to Guyana were.

The US Embassy official underscored that persons have to be realistic when applying for a visa. He outlined that someone who just started a job, did not own a house in Guyana, was unmarried and had never travelled overseas may not have a good chance of getting a visa if they applied right now.

“You have to look at your individual circumstances and ask yourself honestly, is what I’m going to

present to a visa officer going to convince them that I’m really going to come back to Guyana,” Hunt added.

Petitions

On the issue of persons who have Permanent Visa petitions ongoing applying for Tourist Visas, he said success depended on the individual circumstances. Hunt noted that there were cases where people who have immigration petitions pending were still granted non-immigrant visas, particularly if they showed that they had no immediate intention of immigrating to the US and were up front with the officer that they had an immigration petition pending, but would not be moving any time soon.

The Embassy official stressed that the process had no “hard and fast rule” that made it impossible. “What I will say is that if you conceal from the visa officer that you have a pending visa petition, they will know that and that will undercut the credibility of your entire story if you conceal something like that. It’s always better to be honest and up front,” he noted.

NEWS 11

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

US deporting fewer criminals to Guyana

By Vahnu Manikchand

F

ewer convicted criminals have been deported to Guyana from the United States over the past five years –something which Caribbean leaders had fought Washington on since 2002.

Between 2008 and 2013, a total of 1035 persons were deported to Guyana, 803 of whom were non-criminals. On a much broader scale, the United States has deported thousands of convicted criminals to the Caribbean annually since 1996, when Congress mandated that every non-citizen sentenced to a year or more in prison must be kicked out of the country upon release.

In all, the US is responsible for about threequarters of the region’s returning criminal deportees, with the United Kingdom and Canada accounting for most of the other ex-cons arriving in the Caribbean. It is a phenomenon that also afflicts many parts of Central America, where street gangs that grew out of Los Angeles spread to the region through massive deportations. Brutal and powerful, one such gang, the “Maras” are blamed for rampant violent crime, extortion and, more recently, acting as enforc-

ers for drug cartels.

Some years ago, Caribbean Governments had said that deportees were exacerbating crime in nations with high levels of violence. The US in attempting to defuse tensions had introduced a programme to help reintegrate deportees, but the programme which was coordinated by the International Organisation for Migration recorded moderate success and was scrapped. Some Caribbean countries such as Guyana had also enacted laws, which gave lawmen the power to monitor criminal deportees.

Downward trend

Speaking to the Guyana Times International last week, United States Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt said that the number of Guyanese being deported from the US has been spiralling downwards over the past few years.

Hunt said that the numbers have always been tremendously small. “A vast majority of Guyanese who leave the United States end up doing so voluntarily and are not deported,” he noted.

According to the United States Department of Homeland Security, there has been a decreasing trend from 2008 to 2013 in the number of persons who were deported from the US back to Guyana. Statistics on the US agency’s website shows that in 2008 some 508 persons were sent back, while 492 were deported in 2009. The following year saw 428 Guyanese deported back to Guyana and 411 in 2011. Approximately 360 persons returned home in 2012 and another 292 the following year. The figure for the year 2014 was not yet available.

These persons were deported on a criminal/ non-criminal basis.

New oil initiative for...

from page 8

public and private sectors in both countries working in harmony – and nearly US$90 million of investment in Jamaica’s economy, which also will ease Jamaica’s dependence on fossil fuels.

Additional sources

According to the statement the US government continues to deepen its technical assistance and capacity building programmes to the Caribbean under the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas (ECPA) initiative and other mechanisms. It mentioned that The US Department of State is supporting technical assistance in Saint Kitts and Nevis to support development of their geothermal resources.

Work includes competitive procurement processes, electrical system analysis, environmental review, project management, and technical and commercial island interconnection studies. Under the Haiti Energy Policy and Utility Partnership Program,

funded by USAID, the US Energy Association is supporting power sector reform in El Salvador, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.

Through the Department of Statefunded Caribbean Sustainable Energy Capacity Building Project, the Organization of American States (OAS) is providing project development support to Caribbean governments and utilities for sustainable energy projects. The US Department of Interior, together with State, is working with Jamaica to facilitate commercial renewable energy on public lands. The US Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Improved Cooking Technology Project in Haiti resulted in more than 50,000 biomass and LPG stoves sold to reduce charcoal use and is encouraging the widespread adoption of this technology. The OAS, with Department of State funding, is assisting Trinidad and Tobago

in the Closed Loop Cycle Production project to promote cleaner production methods among small businesses.

Dr Faith Harding hailed as passionate activist on issues affecting national development

M

ore tributes continue to pour in for former People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member, the late Dr Faith Harding who passed away last Friday in Guyana.

Her party described her as a passionate activist who held strong views on matters facing the nation. She was a former Minister of Government in the Desmond Hoyte Administration and also a one-time contender for the Presidential Candidate slot of the PNCR. In a statement, the PNCR said Dr Harding was a long-serving member of the PNCR and served in its highest councils. “Dr Harding’s unwavering passion and commitment to national issues saw her working tirelessly towards addressing youth and women-related issues.”

Harding was born on October 5, 1947 to proud parents Egbert and Beryl Blackmore.

She was the sixth child of a very close-knit family and had three brothers and the same number of sisters.

From a very tender age, Harding displayed a love of academics and it was no surprise that she excelled academically. She attended St Ambrose and St Stephen’s Primary Schools and British Guiana Education Trust High School and was an enthusiastic learner who enjoyed English Language, English Literature, Religious Knowledge, History and reading Nancy Drew books.

Dr Faith Harding

Fascinated with the power of words and their meanings, at nine years old, she emphatically encouraged her friends to increase their vocabulary on a daily basis.

Further intrigued by one of her aunts who wrote poems, she gained a deep love and appreciation of poetry and even participated on a radio programme, “Ovaltine and the Teenagers Choice”.

That love of reading would greatly influence the rest of her life, Dr Harding’s personal motto was “readers are leaders’, the PNCR said.

Dr Harding’s introduction to politics also came at an early age through a close bond with her uncle, the late Andrew Jackson, who was the President of the Post Office Telecommunication Workers Union. Her uncle played a very pivotal role in her life after her father died when she was only nine years old.

His influence made her recognise from a tender age that she needed to ensure that she paid attention to the way she

lived and behaved if she was going to make something good of herself.

On her return to Guyana after studying overseas she joined the People’s National Congress (PNC) and quickly rose through the ranks during the Hoyte era. Appointed as Minister of Public Service from 1989 to 1992, Faith led the restructuring of the Guyana Public Service and achieved significant success in decreasing inefficiencies, lowering the incidence of redundancies, and elevating overall effectiveness of all Government programmes.

She implemented standard policies for a wide variety of matters relating to public service salaries, rules and regulations, Ministry management, Government scholarships and student loans. In this multifaceted role, she worked very closely with President Desmond Hoyte and headed the negotiations with the international financial and bilateral institutions to ensure adequate financing for major public service projects including the Public Service Reform, Human Resource Development, and Scholarship Grant Aid.

Parliament

Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman also expressed condolences on the passing of Dr Harding. “As Speaker of the National Assembly, and on behalf of the entire membership of the National Assembly, and Parliament Office staff, I express heartfelt condocontinued on page 13

12 NEWS

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

“We are going into elections on solid ground” - President Ramotar says after signing elections Proclamation

P

resident Donald Ramotar has signed the formal Proclamation declaring May 11, 2015 the date for General and Regional Elections in Guyana.

The Proclamation will be soon be gazetted as stipulated by the Constitution.

In an invited comment, the Head of State told the Government Information Agency that the date was chosen, based on the available dates that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) provided, on which it would be ready to conduct the polls, “and all the dates that they gave me fell within the exams period, so I chose one … unavoidably we have this (brouhaha over the date)”.

PPP/C supporters at a past elections campaign rally

Continuing his reference to the comments about the polling date clashing with CSEC and CAPE examinations, President Ramotar said

he was pleased with the preparations and alternative arrangements put in place by the Education Ministry. The Caribbean Secondary Education

Certificate (CSEC) exams and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) scheduled for May 11 and 16, 2015 have

been shifted to June 15 and 16 respectively. The new dates were set after consultations with the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and other stakeholders about what might be best for candidates.

“The main thing is that it will not put our students at a disadvantage, and in fact, I think it will give them some more time to study,” President Ramotar stated.

Meanwhile, the President emphasised that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), will base its campaign on its track record of development, “even though the last three years were very constrictive because of the fact that the joint Opposition got a one-seat majority in Parliament, I’m still very proud of what we were able to achieve in the circumstances”.

He added that he was also proud of the PPP/C’s record in office, particularly since the Party has transformed the country, “So I think I’m running on solid

ground”. With regard to the political Opposition, President Ramotar said he was not certain about what they wanted, “because sometimes they want elections, then when you call elections, they don’t want elections, but they have to face the music anyhow.

We all have to face it”.

The President will be leading his party’s campaign as it seeks another term in office in an effort to continue Guyana’s developmental progress.

Ramotar was on Monday confirmed as the Presidential Candidate for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for the May 11 polls. This was disclosed

by General Secretary of PPP/C Clement Rohee at the party’s weekly press conference held at Freedom House, Robb Street, Georgetown.

According to Rohee, Ramotar was selected and decided upon at a meeting which was convened last week. He noted that Ramotar was the only Presidential Candidate and there were no other competitors in the race for the position.

Robert Gates’ testimony comes... from page 10

he was unable to afford the exorbitant bail money. The Commissioners sought to draw from the witness the real issues behind his conviction which he sought to explain. He said he was cheated by a supplier in North America with whom he usually conducted transactions for his business in Guyana.

His business involved serving local customers in Guyana. However, when the incident occurred a few years ago and was reported to the Police, he said he was told that his case was more of a civil one between himself and his supplier. However, his failure to deliver to his customers was deemed a criminal act.

Gates was also probed on a letter he had written to the Guyana Chronicle News paper in 2013, where he recorded that “even though some key players have died, there are still others who are holding constitutional positions and are sitting in front row benches in Parliament”.

Gates had reportedly written the letter soon after President Donald Ramotar had announced that he was setting up

the Commission. Pressed on who exactly he was referring to, Gates told Commissioners that he would not say publicly, but would prefer to relay that information “in camera”.

Meanwhile, in a shocking twist of events on Tuesday, Gates told Commissioners that he suspected WPA sympathizer and businesswoman Jocelyn Dow might have been feeding information from the WPA to then GDF head, Major General Norman Mc Lean and other members of the Disciplined Forces.

He said that while Dow, who had also given evidence during the fifth round of the inquiry, appeared to be a sympathiser of the party, she had a very close relationship with Mc Lean and other top ranks within the GDF. Gates had also revealed, much to the amusement of the Commission that WPA Co-Leader Rupert Roopnaraine was the “godson” of Prime Minister Burnham whom he referred to as “Odo”. Asked how he came about this knowledge, Gates said “he told me so”.

NEWS 13

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Colonel Lee leads GDF promotions …Accountant General, Magistrate also elevated

G

uyana Defence Force Chief-ofStaff, Brigadier Mark Phillips has announced that Commander-in-Chief Donald Ramotar has approved the promotions of 83 officers and 436 ranks effective from January 1, 2015.

The Force has made history this year with the largest recorded number of officers being promoted to the rank of Colonel at the same time. Leading that list is Lieutenant Colonel Wilbert Lee, Base Commander of Base Camp Stephenson, who was promoted to the rank of Substantive Colonel. It is also the first time in the Force’s history that four female officers were promoted collectively in the senior officers’ bracket.

Lieutenant Colonels Jawahar Persaud, Cargill Kyte, Patrick West, Nazrul Hussain, Ann McLennan and Lieutenant Colonel Paul Arthur were promoted to the rank of Acting Colonel.

Commander Gary Beaton, who heads the Force’s Coast Guard, will now be Acting Captain Coast Guard, the equivalent of an Acting Colonel.

Acting Lieutenant Colonels Dwain Jervis, Trevor Bowman and Kenlloyd Roberts were confirmed in their rank while Majors Collin Henry, Mark Thomas,

Acting Sub Lieutenant.

436 ranks promoted

Meanwhile, 436 other ranks have been promoted. Of this number, 96 have been confirmed in their rank while 272 have been elevated in rank.

Heading this group are Warrant Officers Class Two Marlon Daniels and

COS Brigadier Mark Phillips decorates newly promoted Colonel Wilbert Lee with his new badge of rank

Courtney Byrne, Natasha Stanford and Lorraine Foster have been promoted to the rank of Acting Lieutenant Colonel.

Ten Majors have been confirmed in their rank, while Substantive Captains Tyrone Smith, Marvin Chichester, Lancelot Lynch, Christine BradfordPorter, Lloyd Glen, Clifton Sam and Nigel Langhorne have been promoted to Acting Major.

Nine Acting Captains, including one female, are now confirmed in their rank, while 14 Substantive Lieutenants have been promoted to the rank of Acting Captain with effect from January 1, 2015.

Eight Acting Lieutenants have been promoted to Substantive Lieutenants, while six Second Lieutenants have been promoted to Acting Lieutenants.

In the Coast Guard, Acting Commander (CG) Orin Porter, Acting Lieutenant Commander (CG) Roger Nurse, as well as Acting Lieutenant Paul Castello, have been confirmed in their rank while Substantive Sub Lieutenants Shennel Europe, Raul Williams, Quincy Agard and Andre Kwang have been promoted to Acting Lieutenants (CG).

Five Acting Sub Lieutenants have been confirmed in their rank and Midshipman Eweart Andrews is now an from page 11

Dr Faith Harding hailed as a... lences to the family and friends of former Member of Parliament and Minister of Government, the illustrious Dr Faith Azalea Harding.”

Trotman said Harding joined the National Assembly in 1985 firstly as a nonelected technocrat member following on her appointment as a Minister of State within the Ministry of Planning and Development.

Thereafter, she continued as an elected member in 1986 up until 2001, save and except for a short hiatus during the period July 1994-May 1996.

During her time in Government service, Dr Harding held several other ministerial portfolios, including Minister in the Office of the President. At one important period in time, from June 1987 to December 1988, Dr Harding served as Deputy Prime Minister in the Ministry of Planning and

Development.

Trotman said Dr Harding was a stalwart whose contribution to Guyana’s development was beyond question.

During her years of service, she established a sterling reputation for hard work, insightful thinking, and decisive decision-making, and in so doing, earned the admiration and respect of her colleagues and all Guyana. Dr Harding not only showed what women were capable of achieving in a male-dominated political sphere, she also managed to do so with a charm and grace that made her earn the title of being an outstanding Guyanese woman.

“She was well-known for her exquisite appreciation for fine things, keen sense of fashion; insistence on high standards of excellence, and an amiable personality that made the difficult things seem simple and enjoyable. She will be truly and forever missed,

and may her soul rest in eternal peace and bliss.”

Raul Rodney who have been promoted to Acting Warrant Officers Class One. Warrant Officers Class Two Marvin Pilgrim, Sekou Mitchell, Christopher Harmon, Bryan Ferdinand, Ray Herman, Andre Worrell, Wilfred Semple, and

Selwyn Douglas were confirmed in their appointment. The remaining 253 ranks were promoted through ranks ranging from Acting Warrant Officer Class Two to Acting Lance Corporal. Other promotions in the Coast continued on page 17

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Who will it be?

Several in running for PPP/C’s PM candidacy

O

ne day after announcing that President Donald Ramotar will lead the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) at the May 11 polls, Party General Secretary Clement Rohee said they were still discussing who would fill the Prime Ministerial Candidate slot, while acknowledging a number of persons were lining up.

Rohee, himself a onetime Presidential Candidate contender, said the Party’s Executive Committee was still meeting to settle on the issue.

“Those issues are being discussed at the leadership level.

Nothing is decided until everything is decided upon,” Rohee said.

Asked about the procedure used to select the Prime Ministerial Candidate, Rohee maintained that the Central and Executive Committees have always been involved in that process and that the tradition of the prime ministerial post being filled by a member of the Civic was likely to be maintained. “We believe in a PPP-Civic alliance. If the PPP/C has the Presidential Candidate, traditionally the Civic component has had the Prime Ministerial Candidate and I don’t believe that would change,” he said.

Meanwhile, questioned on whether Foreign Affairs

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds

Minister Carolyn RodriguesBirkett has been floated as a possible running mate for Ramotar, Rohee disclosed that as far as he was aware, this was not so, noting that there were several strong contenders for the position. “I do not know that that name is associated with that position. I know that it is a matter which is still being discussed. There are a lot of people who are working behind the scenes, they are working for the position,” the General Secretary added.

He was questioned too on whether he was a potential candidate for the position to which he replied, “Everything

Home Affairs Minister and PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee

is possible.” There is a possibility of Rodrigues-Birkett, who is of Amerindian heritage being the Prime Ministerial Candidate. The Guyana Times International understands that Junior Finance Minister Bishop Juan Edghill could also be in contention.

While this newspaper was unable to contact Edghill, Rodrigues-Birkett had earlier denied having any knowledge of herself being a Prime Ministerial Candidate contender. “I don’t know …. We haven’t gotten to that level, things happen on a daily basis, those kinds of decisions are not the ones you make by yourself,

Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett

Junior Finance Minister Bishop Juan Edghill

you have to think about a lot of things … right now I am having a good time running the Foreign Ministry and I must say I have a team of very good people working here, and it is a real pleasure representing this country called Guyana,” Rodrigues-Birkett had said.

She continued: “I have never sought anything else in all of my various portfolios.”

Prime Minister Hinds, who has held the position since the PPP/C came to power in 1992, is thought to have “called it a day” as Prime Minister, but there are strong sentiments that he should make one last run. He is widely respected as

a very decent, credible and incorruptible individual. He is still the strongest candidate and since it is widely expected that the PPP/C is facing a very strong challenge in the upcoming elections, it has been suggested that he be the candidate. He has been the longest serving Prime Minister within the Caribbean. It has been surmised that the PPP/C Prime Ministerial Candidate could come possibly from a wider cross-section of the Guyanese public, this publication understands, since the Civic is representative of any like-minded individual wanting to form an alliance with the PPP/C.

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Canadian Gov't supports disaster management in Jamaica

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Government of Canada is spending more than CA$95,000 to assist Jamaica in implementing disaster risk reduction projects.

The Canadian High Commission of Jamaica said in a release that CA$15,000 will be provided to the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation and the remaining CA$80,000 to Abacus for Communities.

Together, these projects are expected to reach over 20,000 beneficiaries. They will strengthen the capacity

The Canadian High Commission in Kingston

of communities across Jamaica to mitigate the effects of and better re-

spond to disaster events, the commission added.

The Portland Bight

Protected Area Disaster Risk Reduction Project, according to the high

commission, will be implemented by the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation and will help communities in southern Clarendon and St Catherine to reduce their vulnerability to storm surges.

The project will support the planting of 2,050 mangrove seedlings and train 10 community members and conservation officers on mangrove husbandry and protection.

Abacus for Communities will implement the Community Emergency Communications for Natural Disaster

and Climate Change Adaptation in Jamaica project. This initiative will establish a community emergency telecommunications system, and train and equip 360 volunteers to operate the system in disaster events, the high commission explained.

Abacus for Communities and the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation secured support for these projects through the Canada Caribbean Disaster Risk Management Fund, part of Canada’s CA$600million Caribbean Regional Programme.

(Jamaica Observer)

Sea-island cotton cultivation set for Jamaica

K

I N G S T O N , J A M A I C A : The Jamaica A g r i c u l t u r a l D e v e l o p m e n t Foundation (JADF) hopes to have an additional 700 acres of seaisland cotton under cultivation by the end of 2016.

Chief Executive Officer of JADF, Vitus Evans, stated that the foundation expects to increase the cotton cultivation acreage from the current 300 acres to 1000 acres, in anticipation of its vision to have 5000 acres of cotton under production by 2018.

What's more, the CEO stated that he hopes to create additional value for the seaisland cotton project through the implementation of cotton weaving

and spinning equipment here in Jamaica to start the production of cotton garments.

"This would be truly a Jamaican product, moving from our own cotton all the way to the final fabric and to the design model," he stated during the JADF and Embassy of Japan in Jamaica handing-over ceremony for the rejuvenation of the West Indian Sea Island Cotton Industry project on Tuesday.

Evans told the Jamaican media that the JADF is already in discussion with Caribbean Broilers for the production of 100 acres of cotton, along which the Jamaica Broilers who hopes to produce a further 150 acres.

"Caribbean Broilers planted an experimen-

tal plot of approximately two acres. They have now commenced harvesting and are extremely happy with the results," he added.

Last year, the Embassy of Japan in Jamaica donated Ja$11 million to the JADF in support of the development of the West Indian sea-island cotton industry, a product which the JADF says has the potential to earn the country Ja$85.6 billion annually. During the ceremony, Evans stated that the grant was used to purchase a high crop tractor, a boom sprayer and an inter-row cultivator which are currently in use on its farms.

An acre of cotton production usually supplies 1200 pounds of cotton, one-third of which

Vitus Evans, CEO of JADF (centre) shows Ambassador of Japan His Excellency Yasuo Takase (left) and the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Derrick Kellier the grant-funded equipment currently in use on the cotton farms.

is lint and two-thirds of which is seeds, according to Evans."The mar-

ket is strong and we are looking at the plant to be grown on marginal lands

of which there are plenty in Jamaica," he said.

(Jamaica Observer)

Sri Lankan president Raul Castro warns U.S. against meddling in Cuba’s affairs reinstates sacked chief justice C

S

ri Lanka’s president has reinstated a former Chief Justice who was sacked by defeated leader Mahinda Rajapaksa, saying the removal of Shirani Bandaranayake had been illegal, state media said on Wednesday.

Rajapaksa dismissed Bandaranayake, the first woman to head Sri Lanka’s judiciary, in 2013 after its parliament impeached her, disregarding rulings from the Supreme Court that the process was illegal and threatened judicial independence.

Later Rajapaksa appointed his ally Mohan Peiris as chief justice, despite strong opposition from the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, representing lawyers.

“President Maithripala Sirisena has reinstated the former Chief Justice Shirani Bandaranayake on a special cabinet approval,” state-run Independent Television Network said.

“Therefore the appointment of Chief

Shirani Bandaranayake

Justice Mohan Peiris will be cancelled and considered as an illegal appointment.”

The Presidential media division said both the removal of Bandaranayake and the appointment of Peiris were null and void because the Rajapaksa government had not followed the proper constitutional procedure. (Reuters)

uba will not accept any interference from the United States, President Raul Castro said on Wednesday, warning that meddling in its internal affairs would make rapprochement between the two countries “meaningless.”

His comments came after U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Roberta Jacobson, the highest-ranking U.S. government official to visit the island in nearly 40 years, last week met with dissidents a day after talks with Cuban government officials.

“Everything appears to indicate that the aim is to foment an artificial political opposition via economic, political and communicational means,” Castro told a summit in Costa Rica. “If these problems are not resolved, this diplomatic rapprochement between Cuba and the United States would be meaningless,” he said. However, Castro made it clear he was committed to the talks despite his concern that Washington might try to foment internal opposition within Cuba through greater telecommunications access and the internet.

Cuba's President Raul Castro

He also urged U.S. President Barack Obama to use executive powers to ease a decades-long embargo against Cuba, saying Washington could extend measures like those announced for telecoms to other areas of the economy.

Obama’s new policy specifically singled out telecoms in Cuba as an area that Washington is willing to allow U.S. companies to invest in, and for its part Havana has said it is ready to let that happen. (Reuters)

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APNU/AFC coalition talks: No firm decision yet on PM, Presidential candidates T he major Opposition political parties – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), will need another month to iron out details and arrive at a definitive position in relation to any pre-election coalition, to challenge the incumbent People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) at the May 11 General and Regional Elections.

Opposition Leader, Brigadier (rtd) David Granger, made the disclosure when pressed by this publication for a timeline for definitive results on the coalition talks with the AFC, taking into account the fact that the elections are just over three months away.

Granger told media operatives, during APNU’s weekly media engagement, that while the two Opposition

forces in the National Assembly had been collaborating on a number of issues over the past three years, it was only in early December at the AFC’s Executive Conference that a proposal was made by the party to form a coalition.

Granger said he is confident that the one month of talks between high-ranking officials of both parties will yield positive results.

“For the last three years, we have said it is our policy to establish a government of national unity and it was our policy to promote inclusionary democracy,” said Granger.

According to the APNU Leader, they have always been open to coalition talks, but this never occurred because the PPP/C and the AFC, up to the time of the conference in December last, “never showed interest.”

According to

AFC General Secretary David Patterson

Granger, subsequent to Ramjattan’s announcement, “we agreed to have talks.”

As a result, a seven-member committee has since been established and are being facilitated by way of the two General Secretaries, namely Joseph Harmon of APNU and David Patterson of the AFC. “The talks could not be started since there

APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon

was no one to speak with,” Granger said, adding that “the talks only started when the AFC made it clear they were interested and they actually sent a letter with dates inviting us (APNU) to discuss what they call the ProDemocracy Alliance.”

According to Granger, after the AFC’s position was made clear, the APNU Shadow Cabinet

appointed the sevenmember team.

Representing APNU on the seven-man committee established for the talks between the two Opposition forces are: Carl Greenidge, Basil Williams, Joseph Harmon, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, Dr George Norton, Sydney Allicock and Keith Scott.

According to Granger, the talks by the “Magnificent Seven” will be led by Greenidge.

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan is adamant that while his party is interested in a pro-democracy coalition, his party will have to ‘lead’ such a movement.

Granger’s reaction is that nothing has been finalised as yet, including the posts of presidential and prime ministerial candidates.

Whilst refusing to say whether APNU would be willing to cede leadership of the coalition to

the AFC, Granger told reporters: “APNU has empowered its negotiating team to explore all possibilities that could lead to a pre-election coalition.”

He said that it would be premature to speculate further.

According to Granger, “all the matters that seem to be ventilated in the media presumably will be laid before the negotiating team and only then would a determination be made.”

Pressed further to speculate on likely scenarios whereby the AFC would take over leadership of the coalition, Granger responded: “What I am saying is that the matter has not yet arisen, we have not been advised by our negotiators.”

According to Granger, whatever is proposed and discussed will be analysed by both sides after which a determination would be made.

Colonel Lee leads GDF promotions...

from page 13

Guard saw Acting Senior Petty Officer Wayne Nurse being elevated to Substantive Senior Petty Officer.

Three Acting Petty Officers were confirmed in their rank while seven Substantive Leading Ratings are now Acting Petty Officers. Four Acting Leading Ratings are now confirmed in their rank. Additionally, six Substantive Able Ratings have been promoted to Acting Leading Ratings while 11 Acting Able Ratings have been confirmed in their rank.

Ordinary Ratings Vinton

Blair, Denwin Adams and Quincy Burton have been promoted to Substantive Able Ratings and 10 other Ordinary Ratings have been elevated to the rank of Acting Able Rating.

At a simple Badging Ceremony held Tuesday afternoon, the newlypromoted senior officers were decorated with their new badges of rank by the Chief-of-Staff, who was assisted by Colonel Administration and Quartering, Captain Coast Guard John Flores. The officers were congratulated by the oth-

er senior officers present and the recently-promoted Majors were welcomed to the corps of senior officers.

In brief remarks, Brigadier Phillips pointed out that promotion recognises all officers and other ranks for their performance, professionalism and service within and outside of the GDF. To this end, he referred to Colonels Jawahar Persaud and Ann McLennan who hold other positions outside of the GDF, but continue in service to the country. Persaud is the cur-

rent Accountant General while McLennan is a sitting Magistrate. He alluded to the efforts being made by the officers

towards the development of the Force and called for continued professional service to the country.

The Commander-

in-Chief and Chief-ofStaff extended congratulations to all the newly-promoted officers and other ranks.

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Guyana stands on solid ground with regards to international relations

M

inister of Foreign Affairs C a r o l y n Rodrigues-Birkett, in apprising Guyanese on foreign policy matters, detailed that Guyana is looking at non-traditional partners, even while consolidating relationships with the traditional ones.

Appearing on “Political Scope” on the National Communications Network (NCN) Inc., on Friday, the Minister explained that Guyana was forging ahead, working with countries such as Turkey, recalling the CARICOM/Turkey meeting last year. In a more direct manner at the bilateral level, Guyana has had several visits from various teams from the Turkish Government; these are already bearing fruit as some small projects have been approved by Turkey, in some key areas such agriculture and health.

Minister RodriguesBirkett also mentioned that association with Chile will unfold as the Chileans will be establishing an embassy in Guyana, by the end of this year. She stated that was because of “our outreach down south

as well … we now have an embassy in Kuwait and so we are doing some work in that region as well … so yes we have been increasing our number of partners in the International Community.”

Pertaining to the effects of this kind of amalgamation, the Minister emphasised the importance of establishing relations, with so many countries, as almost natural, since “it is an interconnecting world … it’s becoming interconnected with the technology that we have today, and we also see that diversification of power as we have many emerging economies that are doing very well and certainly those countries are looking for new partners…”

Albeit, this kind of intermingling can be sought after and even be actualised, the Minister did not withhold her caution as “there will be times when we will not share the same position and there will be other times when we converge with respect to our positions … so it’s important for us to have relations with all the countries in the world.”

Minister RodriguesBirkett highlighted that

Minister of Foreign Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett

China is one of Guyana’s consistent partners.

She revised the fact that Guyana was one of the first countries in the English speaking Caribbean to establish diplomatic relations with China, and she “thinks that they hold that fact very dearly and we also have been working very closely with China in good times and in bad times.”

She noted that China is the second largest economy in the world,

with the largest foreign reserves, a major force with which to reckon.

The Minister also said that this power house and close ally of Guyana has been reaching out to the Caribbean and the Latin American countries, and so the China/ CELAC (The Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) must be lauded.

UNASUR

Continuing on the theme of integration, Minister Rodrigues-

Birkett referred to the recent visit to Guyana by the UNASUR (Union of South American Nations) Secretary General, former President of Columbia, Dr. Ernesto Samper.

He has been visiting all of the countries in UNASUR to discuss matters concerning the organisation but, the Minister zeroed in on Guyana’s priorities. She informed that a number of issues have been outlined, including interconnectiveness of South America.

“I’m speaking about physical interconnection and already he has identified seven projects within the UNASUR mechanism, two of them include Guyana specifically, which would be the linking of Guyana, Brazil, Suriname, and then among Venezuela, Guyana and Suriname.”

This, she said, leads directly to the Corentyne Bridge, involving Guyana and Suriname.

She added that due to the “amount of money China has earmarked with cooperation from CELAC, Suriname has taken advantage of that as well. There has been a submission for the Corentyne Bridge, which

would benefit the two countries.

No fears

The Minster clarified that comments about and concerns of neglect of partnerships with long term partners are totally unfounded. She said that the United States of America remains Guyana’s largest trading partner in the world and so it is very important for that relationship to be preserved and strengthened. Also she highlighted that Guyana has the largest Diaspora population in the US as well, “so we have worked very hard to maintain our relationship, we are also working closely together on security matters, and in fact “I would think that our security portfolio, in terms of projects, is the largest one within the US Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.”

The Minister added that Guyana is also working with them (the USA) on a number of other initiatives, such as the issue of Trafficking in Persons, and even though “we do not always agree on some of the pronouncements, we are working very closely on that matter with the United States.”

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India remains an important partner in int’l development - President Ramotar

P

resident Donald Ramotar congratulated the Indian Government on behalf of the Government and the people of Guyana as the Asian super power celebrated its 66th Republic anniversary.

Speaking at a simple ceremony held at the Georgetown Club on Monday evening, the president lauded the ties between the two countries, and noted that the Republic has been a good friend of Guyana since relations were established in 1966.

He recalled his recent state visit to that country and said he welcomed help and cooperation in several areas offered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The long-standing relationship has been of great mutual benefit to both sides. The recent approval of a line of credit for the construction of the East Bank road link to the East Coast, and assistance for the acquisition of an ocean going ferry will give momentum to Guyana’s infrastructural development.

He described India as one of the former colonies that has developed its science and technology, noting that “India is now

President Donald Ramotar addressing guests at the Georgetown Club at India’s 66th Republic Anniversary celebration.

reaching to the stars and their rockets are now investigating the solar system”.

He also praised the Indian Prime Minister for moving to establish a Center of Excellence for Information Technology in Guyana, saying that it will also be a tremendous boost for the country.

“As the world moves into an era of seamless connectivity through the internet and high speed global telecommunications, there is promising

potential for pooling our strength to ensure sustained economic development and progress in not only existing, but also new and innovative sectors”.

The role of business from both countries in boosting greater trade investments and people to people connections was further noted by the president. He also expressed his appreciation for the assistance in building Guyana’s human development via programmes

such as the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme in key sectors such as agriculture and health. Efforts by India to help modernise the local sugar industry were further acknowledged.

In conclusion, President Ramotar said India remains an important partner in an international environment that presents many challenges for developing countries. “We will collaborate with India in

various fora to address these challenges with a view of promoting solutions adopted by developing countries for acceptance by the international communities and the developed world in particular”.

Acting Indian High Commissioner, Madhumita Sengupta, highlighted that her native country was deemed a sovereign, secular and democratic state when it was declared a Republic some 66 years ago, on

January 26, the date on which the Constitution of India came into force in 1950 replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India. The Constitution was passed by the Constituent Assembly of India on November 26, 1949, but was adopted on January 26, 1950 with a democratic government system, completing the country's transition toward becoming an independent republic. The acting high commissioner noted that the newly elected government will continue to build on the gains achieved since the economy was liberalised in 2001.

She added that the country is playing an active role in international organisations such as the United Nations where it is contributing to the maintenance of peace and security.

Sengupta also announced the granting of visas automatically to Guyanese visiting the country as tourists. “Our warm and cordial relations with Guyana are based on historic and cultural links, shared values of freedom, equality and belief in unity and diversity”.

20 NEWS

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Jagdeo is an asset to the PPP – Rohee Q

uestions about the role of former President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo in the upcoming elections were posed to PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee who pointed out that the former President is a member of both the Central and Executive committees of the PPP. Rohee said the Guyanese people should not be surprised if Jagdeo is one of the many persons on the PPP/C campaign trail. “Mr. Jagdeo is an Executive and Central member of the Party. He is a member of the Party in good standing. (He is) a former president, and he has made useful contributions. I don’t think it would surprise anyone for him to be part of the campaign and for him to be on our list,” Rohee said.

He added that the former President is viewed

Former President Jagdeo speaking on the PPP/C campaign trail during the 2011 national elections

as an “asset” to the Party, despite the “attacks” launched against him in sections of the media. Rohee said, “We are not going to let go of him because of the attacks that have been launched against him over the years….he is an asset to us. He is one of us.”

Meanwhile, incumbent Head of State, President Donald Ramotar, is the presiden-

tial candidate for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) leadership ticket heading into the May 11 elections.

According to Rohee, there was no other nominee up for consideration when the decision on the presidential candidate was made by the party last week. “Donald Ramotar is the only presidential candidate; there

is no other presidential candidate,” Rohee declared.

Asked by a reporter about the chances of a change in the presidential candidate, Rohee said, “I doubt it.”

The General Secretary added that a decision on the Prime Ministerial candidate is still to be made, and, as per norm, the successful nominee is most likely to come from the Party’s Civic component. “We are still in discussions,” he informed.

President Ramotar had, at a press conference held in mid-November last, expressed confidence that he would be the presidential candidate for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic at the next general elections. He had also made it clear that he was not afraid of facing the electorate, since the Guyanese people are

perfectly capable of judging the accomplishments made relative to national development and their improved livelihoods.

The PPP/C has won every general election since 1992; however, at the last elections, the combined Opposition gained control of the National Assembly by a one-seat majority in a 33-32 split.

The Guyanese Head of State expressed confidence of regaining the parliamentary majority his party lost in the 2011 general and regional elections by one seat.

“This time I am going back for my majority, bigger than ever before,” President Ramotar had said.

The President credited his confidence in regaining the majority to the Government’s performance in moving the country forward for the benefit of the Guyanese

people, and to the experiences of the Guyanese people in the last three years.

General Secretary, Clement Rohee, also disclosed that the PPP/C List of Candidates has not as yet been finalised.

The List of Candidates fielded by the contesting political parties is headed by the presidential candidate. That list is submitted on Nomination Day, and is used to determine who represents a particular party in the National Assembly, based on the outcome of the General and Regional Elections.

“The list and the nominees (Presidential and Prime Ministerial candidates) do not go hand in hand; not necessarily,” Rohee said.

All considered, the PPP General Secretary maintained that the PPP/C is poised to face the electorate on May 11.

Rodney COI: Commissioners advised against sitting during election period

T

he three-member Commission probing the death of Dr Walter Rodney has been advised against hold-

ing any sessions of the Inquiry during the period of Guyana’s General and Regional Elections, its Chairman, Barbadian

Queen’s Counsel, Sir Richard Cheltenham has said.

Speaking to the Guyana Times

President Donald Ramotar and the Commissioners, Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam (left); Queen’s Counsel, Sir Richard Cheltenham and Queen’s Counsel Jacqueline Samuels-Brown

International on Tuesday, Cheltenham, who serves alongside Jamaican Queen’s Counsel Jacqueline SamuelsBrown and Trinidadbased Guyanese Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam, said his team would be heeding the advice of security personnel.

At the end of the sixth session, late last year, Cheltenham had indicated that the Commission had some reservations about operating during that period.

“The Commission itself may very well become a subject of comment on the platform,” Cheltenham said Tuesday, speaking about the political campaigns, which were already underway.

The main Opposition party, the People’s National Congress (PNC), has been making full legal representation at the Inquiry, which commenced April last year, seeking to clear its name of accusations that it was responsible for the death of Dr Rodney.

Commentators are of the

opinion that the Inquiry being conducted during the campaigns may be disadvantageous for the political party.

The party, through its lawyer and Chairman, Basil Williams, had already expressed disappointment that the Commission would be resuming during a period when political parties would be involved in their election campaigns.

Williams had told this publication that the PNC had expressed concern when it received a notice that the CoI would be commencing on January 26.

“Why would you want a Commission during this time?” he had questioned, noting that the threemember Commission had already expressed reservations about proceeding during the “political atmosphere “that will prevail”.

The Working People’s Alliance (WPA), which had also been pressing for the inquiry, is also part of the coalition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), along with the PNC.

President Donald Ramotar, who had announced May 11 this year as the date for General and Regional Elections, when asked about the concerns raised on the issue, had said “things don’t work like that”.

“We cannot stop things because of things like that,” Ramotar told this newspaper, continuing that the Commission was set up long before any major political issues had arisen.

M e a n w h i l e , Cheltenham told the publication that he will soon “determine precisely when we will have our final sitting before the elections”.

The Commission after its one-week run on January 30 will take a break before resuming on February 10. This publication was informed that the Commission will take another break before recommencing in March for another two weeks before going on break. That break will last until June later this year, when the Commission is expected to finally come to an end.

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HPS: Budget 2015 will be presented to 11th Parliament -preparations are ongoing

P

reparations on Budget 2015 are ongoing, but with May 11 announced as the date for General and Regional elections, its presentation will be made to the 11th Parliament.

“Ongoing preparations for the 2015 Budget continue…there is a budget and the budget is being prepared,” he stressed.

He acknowledged that President Donald Ramotar’s announcement about a definite move to the polls has elicited concerns about the National Budget and access to funding for budget agencies.

However, Dr. Luncheon underscored the fact that given the current state of affairs, the routine presentation of the National Budget is not expected to follow similar timelines as in previous years.

“There is not any significant reason why the Budget for 2015 would not be, as is usual- prepared. What is obviously different about Budget 2015 is its presentation (which will be done) to the 11th Parliament, subsequent to the conclusion of General and Regional Elections,” he said.

Constitutionally, a National Budget must be

approved by the National Assembly and signed off by the Head of State by April 30 in any given year.

However, with the May 11 elections announcement, Parliament is expected to be dissolved before that.

As such, spending is governed by Article 220 (3) of the Constitution.

Once Parliament is dissolved, the relative proclamation will activate the provisions of Article 220 paragraph 3, which states that if Parliament is dissolved before any actions are taken to authorise monies from public funds, “The minister responsible for finance may authorise the withdrawal of such sums from the Consolidated Fund.”

The minister must, however, prove that monies taken from the Consolidated Fund are used for the purpose “of meeting expenditure on the public services.”

The Consolidated Fund in normal circumstances could be accessed only by support from the National Assembly.

The procedure follows that after the new Parliament meets, a statement must be presented to the National Assembly by the Finance Minister or any other minister who was identified by the President.

“When the statement has been approved by the Assembly, that expenditure shall be included, under the appropriate heads, in the next Appropriation Bill,” the

legislation also reads.

Until Parliament is dissolved, it currently still stands under prorogation – following the November 10 proclamation by President Ramotar.

During this period, there are also laws that govern Government spending.

According to the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, a combination of Article 219 of the Constitution and the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, provides that in any financial year the Government is empowered to spend one twelfth of the Budget of the preceding year in continuing to provide the normal services of the Government of Guyana,

until an Appropriation Act is passed.

“This position obtains, whether Parliament is in session or not, or whether there will be Elections or no Elections. Indeed, if Parliament was in session, the National Assembly could not have prevented this constitutional and legal formula in relation to spending during this period (before the new Budget is passed) from being applied,” Nandlall said.

Until further action is taken, the Budget preparations are expected to continue.

Preparations started last year, and last September a budget call circular was issued to various Government ministries and agencies requesting the com-

mencement of compilation of their budget submissions.

As per norm, submissions received are reviewed through several rounds of meetings, after which analysis will be done and then they will be consolidated into the National Budget.

Submissions from ministries and agencies routinely include information on policy recommendations, detailed articulations of various programmes and projects the ministries would like to implement in 2009, and some articulation of the expected impacts and outcomes that would arise from the implementation of these programmes and projects.

Additionally, last year, there was a meeting between the Director of Budget and all Permanent Secretaries to facilitate discussion of requirements articulated in the budget circular.

The Ministry’s Budget Office facilitates the preparation of the country’s annual revenues and expenditure estimates, effective and efficient management and monitoring of resource allocation and utilisation combined with the formulation of constructive and effective economic policy.

Caricom, Austria strengthen diplomatic ties

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he Caribbean C o m m u n i t y (Caricom) on Tuesday strengthened almost 15 years of diplomatic cooperation with the Republic of Austria, when it accredited Gerhard Mayer as its new Plenipotentiary Representative to Caricom.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that emphasised cooperation in disaster management and sustainable energy was signed between Caricom and Austria in 2008. Caricom Deputy Secretary General, Ambassador Manorma Soeknandan, addressing Mayer as he presented his Letters of Introduction at the Caricom Secretariat, said it may be appropriate to revisit the MoU to better align it with Caricom’s priorities as set out in the strategic plan for the period 20152019.

She said Caricom was looking forward to Austria’s favourable recognition of the special circumstances of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) as the in-

The Plenipotentiary Representative of Austria to Caricom, Gerhard Mayer, presents his Letter of Credence to Caricom Deputy Secretary-General Ambassador Manorma Soeknandan, on Tuesday at the CARICOM Secretariat, Georgetown

ternational community negotiated the Post2015 Development Agenda. Caricom was hopeful, Ambassador Soeknandan added, for Austria’s leadership in advocating on the Community’s behalf in the European Union and G20, for the use of other criteria concerning the EU’s policy of grad-

uation of middle-income countries from access to development financing based solely on per capita income.

“The EU has followed this trend by introducing differentiation in its new development policy which will almost certainly result in diminishing resources being available to middle-

income countries such as ours at a time when these resources are most needed,” the Deputy Secretary General told the newly accredited Ambassador.

She expressed the Community’s appreciation for the benefits that have been derived from cooperation with Austria in disaster management

and capacity building, and scholarships in hotel and tourism management and Diplomatic Training from which the Caricom Secretariat has also benefited.

“Austria’s Development Aid Agency (ADA) has provided financial support for the Community’s Earthquake Readiness Programme. Your friendship and solidarity towards the Community were also shown through Austria’s generous contribution to the relief efforts in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti on 12 January 2010,” she stated.

A m b a s s a d o r Soeknandan acknowledged as significant, the step taken by Austria to enhance relations with the Community by proposing a joint Office in Vienna. She said while no final decision has been taken, it continues to be an important issue under consideration by Caricom Foreign Ministers.

The Austrian Ambassador noted that Vienna’s role as one of the United Nations head-

quarters has gained importance in recent years with the focus on energy, combating crime and corruption.

Since his Government believes that those issues are of great importance for the Caribbean region, Austria would be happy to support the opening of a common representation office of Caribbean countries in Vienna, he said.

He indicated Austria was pleased with the progress of the Comprehensive Disaster Management Strategy and Framework and was ready to continue its support for the creation of the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, which he said was an important initiative.

Given the positive feedback by both the participants to the Executive Training Programme for Junior Diplomats and Civil Service Officials at the Vienna Diplomatic Academy and to a workshop on international law, Austria will continue to offer those initiatives as well, Mayer stated.

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US$60,000 fine paid to GRA for release of ‘cocaine ship’ T he Cypriot vessel, MV DeltaDiep that was detained following the discovery of 185 packages of cocaine in a 40-foot flat rack container on January 6 has been released after the fine of Gy$12M (US$60,000) was paid to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

The fine was levied by the CommissionerGeneral of the GRA, Mr. Khurshid Sattaur, pursuant to the provisions made under Section 224 – 226 of the Customs Act Chapter 82:01 in lieu of the forfeiture which took effect on January 9, by way of a Notice of Seizure on account of the narcotics found on board

the vessel.

The MV DeltaDiep was represented by the law firm of Cameron & Shepherd who represented the Owners and Insurers of the vessel. The fine was negotiated with Cameron & Shepherd during one week of discussions and was finally resolved and based on the precedent of the MV CFS Palamedes.

This vessel was discovered in 2007 with 300 kg of cocaine. The Director of Public Prosecutions recommended no prosecutions.

The GRA had initially reported that one hundred and eighty five (185) packages (192.420 kg) of cocaine unearthed from the DeltaDiep ves-

Commissioner General of the GRA, Mr Khurshid Sattaur

sel, which arrived from Suriname, had an approximate value of Gy$800M. However, subsequent information revealed that the packages valued Euros 45,000 (Gy$2.1B). The ship left the Netherlands via Parimaribo, Suriname then proceeded to

Guyana to load bauxite and was scheduled to arrive in Belgium.

The packages bore identification marks such as the Rolls Royce, JR, Superman, XX, Playboy, Dolphin and Scissors logos. Following the findings, eleven other flat rack containers

were examined; however, no narcotic drugs were discovered in those containers.

Following the discovery of the cocaine, the captain and crew, two of whom were Polish nationals and nine Filippino nationals, were detained and escorted to the Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) while the container was transported to the GRA Warehouse Facility, Industrial Site, Eccles, for security purposes. The investigation

by CANU is ongoing.

GRA officials acted on intelligence provided by the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC), that one of the containers onboard the

vessel had cocaine. The Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit was called in, and together with officers of Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA’s) Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) and Drug Examination Unit (DEU), conducted an examination of the container.

The January 6 drug bust mirrors several successful efforts in previous years to stop the smuggling of illegal drugs such as the more than 3,000 kilos (6940 pounds) of cocaine found hidden on the St. Vincent-registered ship M.V. Danielsen in October 1998; the largest haul in Guyana’s history.

Organisations launch ‘Decade Works Services Group of People of African Descent’ exceeds 2014 targeted sea and river defence works

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Part of the gathering at the launch

epresentatives of a number of organisations looking into the interest of people of African descent in Guyana gathered over the weekend at the Parade Ground in Middle Street, Georgetown to launch a programme of activities to commemorate the “Decade of People of African Descent.”

The decade, commencing on January 1, 2015 and ending on December 31, 2024, was launched by the United Nations (UN) on December 10, 2014 following a resolution adopted on December 23, 2013.

Sunday’s activity saw a number of organisations, including the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA), the Pan-African Organisation, the Guyana United Apostolic Mystical Council, Ghana Day Organization, and the Nya Binghi, coming together to work on a programme of activities for the next ten years.

Addressing the gathering, Brigadier (retd)

David Granger admonished the organisations to stick to the ideals in the UN declaration. He posited that there is no need for the UN decade as declared, but the groups need to encourage their members to look to themselves for their salvation.

He pointed to the various communities he had visited and noted the misplaced priorities displayed by the people whom he had encountered.

Urging the groups to adopt an “every child in school” policy to develop their circumstances, he encouraged them to stop educating their children for salaried employment, but to engage in entrepreneurship as a form of job creation.

He pointed to the number of local organisations representing people of African descent, and told them that for all Guyanese to enjoy the bounty Guyana has to offer, they need to unite and work together with all Guyanese.

The UN Resolution recognises that “all human beings are born free and equal in digni-

ty and rights, and have the potential to contribute constructively to the development and wellbeing of the societies in which they live”, and that “any doctrine of racial superiority is scientifically false, morally condemnable, socially unjust and dangerous, and must be rejected; together with theories that attempt to determine the existence of separate human races.”

The UN Resolution also acknowledges the efforts and initiatives undertaken by states to prohibit discrimination and segregation and to engender the full enjoyment of economic, social and cultural, as well as civil and political rights.

The Resolution emphasises that, despite efforts in this regard, millions of human beings continue to be victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances, including their contemporary manifestations, some of which take violent forms.

The programme of activities for the decade is expected to be shortly finalised and published.

he Public Works Ministry exceeded its target for sea and river defence works last year. Coordinator of the Works Services Group of that ministry, Mr. Geoffrey Vaughn, recently reported that the targets had been exceeded in relation to the three critical areas of work: construction of new sea defences; rehabilitation of existing structures; and maintenance.

He said: “In terms

to the Corentyne. Among works successfully done were: construction of Rip-Rap river defences at Cane Garden, Leguan, in Region Three; at Glasgow/ Heathburn in East Bank Berbice, Region Six; and at Mosquito Hall in Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, Region Four.

Sums expended were Gy$44M, Gy$116M and Gy$275M respectively.

Also done were slope protection works at Onderneeming on

lation of geotextile tubes along the Georgetown Sea Defences in Region Four.

Vaughn disclosed that the Works Services Department completed 100% expenditure on both its capital and maintenance programmes for sea and river defence works, budgeted at Gy$1.3B and Gy$202M respectively.

He identified ready availability of rock materials for sea defence construction; the limited

of new constructions, we had programmed to compete 3.06 kilometres (km) and we completed 3.195km. In terms of rehabilitation, we planned to complete 2.8km, and we completed 10.29 kilometres; and in terms of maintenance, we planned to maintain 20.7km and instead we completed 45.4km.”

The geographical area protected was the entire Coastal Plain, which is divided into sea defence districts #1 to 8, stretching from the Essequibo

the Essequibo Coast in Region 2 (Pomeroon/ Supenaam), for the sum of Gy$108M; construction of Rip-Rap sea defences at Greenwich Park, East Bank Essequibo, Region 3 at a sum of Gy$42M; completion of emergency works at Rotterdam, West Coast Demerara, Region 3 at a sum of Gy$61M; and rehabilitation of the Groyne in Kingston, Georgetown Region Four at a sum of Gy$12M. Vaughn also reported on the successful instal-

number of experienced contractors with the capacity to implement major contracts, and limited technical staff and resources within the Sea Defence districts as some of the major constraints that the Group had to grapple with in 2014.

Notwithstanding these, he said, the WSG is preparing to improve on its mandate for protecting the low-lying coast and riverine areas from high tides and coastal erosion this year.

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Ministry cannot intervene in UG’s dilemma – Manickchand

Passing of Anti-Money Laundering legislation must take priority – top US Embassy official

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An empty classroom on the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus on Monday

he series of industrial actions planned by the University of Guyana’s Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) and UG’s Workers Union (UGWU) will, without a doubt, negatively impact students. But, despite this realisation, the Education Minister Priya Manickchand said the Education Ministry cannot intervene in the ongoing dispute.

She explained that the University is governed by a council with its own laws, and it is not within the Ministry’s jurisdiction to get involved.

“There is a law in the University of Guyana’s Act that says how the council must be made up and it specifically says that the council is the governing body…and they would have to work out the issues there.”

Nevertheless, Minister Manickchand

stated that the Ministry will not turn a blind eye to the situation, stating that advisory services will be made available to the council. She also made it clear that the Education Ministry is in support of the return to normalcy at the tertiary institution.

The unions are currently protesting for a 60 per cent salary increase. In addition to the increase, staff members have been clamouring for a 200 per cent increase in their travelling allowance, a better medical scheme, increases in allowances for books and other materials, duty-free concessions and yearly research grants.

UGSSA and UGWU have met the University’s Vice Chancellor, Dr Jacob Opadeyi and his Administration; however, the parties were unable to reach an agreement.

he price of doing transnational business in Guyana has gone up, so too has the cost of remitting money to the country. This is according to Charge d’ Affairs at the United States Embassy in Georgetown, Guyana, Bryan Hunt.

Hunt spoke with the media last Thursday during an exclusive interview and said with imminent elections, whichever administration takes the reigns of office after the May 11 elections, the amendments to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) must take priority.

According to Hunt, only recently he had perused some recent World Bank data, which shows that while the cost of doing cross border business around the world has been going down, due in part to the greater use of technology, things are different with Guyana where the inverse obtains.

He said that Guyanese businesses are now finding it increasingly tedious and, at times more costly.

Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt

Guyana, he said, is a country that also relies heavily on remittances, which has become more costly to do, which can only result in less money making its way into the country through monetary transfers.

The cost of doing business with Guyana has escalated as countries around the world adhered to the warning by the Caribbean Financial Action Taskforce (CFATF), which recommended to its member bodies to put measures in place when doing business with Guyana, in order to protect their financial systems.

Hunt said that while

Guyana was spared the last time the country came up for review by CFATF’s parent body, the Financial Action Taskforce (FATF), this would not occur at the next review.

Guyana is scheduled for a FATF review in September of this year.

According to the US Diplomat, the Guyana Government was able to demonstrate to that international body that it was able to put some non-legislative measures in place based on the CFATF recommendations.

He was making reference to undertakings such as the estab-

lishment of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), which had been set up specifically to investigate issues such as money laundering.

According to Hunt, should Guyana appear for the international review again, deficient of its legislative obligations, then greater sanctions could be put in place when doing business with Guyana.

The US diplomat was unwavering in his cautions that whoever the persons elected to Office in a matter of months, the critical amendments to the AML/CFT legislation must be addressed as a priority.

He said that one of the features of the life of the 10th Parliament which is currently prorogued, is that of ‘gridlock’ between the major political parties on what he termed—important national issues.

The 65 seats in Guyana’s legislative arm of Government are occupied by the Peoples Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C—32) A Partnership for National Unity (APNU—26) and the Alliance For Change (AFC—7).

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WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

wish granted: US Embassy in Guyana Gov’t looking at Final G/town grants visa to sister of dying man reintroducing big buses A for public transport - IDB study on urban transport system to be done this year

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he Ministry of Public Works (MPW) intends to reintroduce on the roadways a few big buses to observe how they fit into the road transport system.

The rationale is that these buses can impact positively and favourably on the mobility of commuters.

“They might also initiate a cultural change in the current system,” Minister Robeson Benn opined following disclosure made by the Works Services Group (WSG) of the MPW that a long-awaited study on urban transport systems in Guyana, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), will finally be undertaken this year.

In a brief comment

on the imminent study, Minister Benn said the urban transport study would address some of the questions about the role of big buses in the system. He said that Government was still of the view that some degree of participation by big buses would have to be considered.

He added: “In the meantime, pending the outcome of the study, we (the Works Ministry) are working to get a few big buses ourselves, put them on the road, and see how they impact the system.”

WSG Coordinator Geoffrey Vaughn disclosed last week that the Urban Transport Study (UTS) would help planners to develop specific diagnostics for the urban transport situation,

and provide recommendations relative to public transport infrastructure, its operations, its financing, and the institutional organisation necessary for improvements.

“The UTS will give us an entire composition of what is needed to make our transport system, as well as the infrastructure that supports the transport system, much better and much more efficient…,” He said.

“The UTS will begin with the situation in Georgetown first, and then move on to other areas; so this is one of the 2015 projects,” Vaughn said. “We are looking forward to ensuring that we can actually deal effectively with some of the congestion that we have in the city,” he concluded.

ccording to reports coming out of Guyana, a Guyanese man’s last wish to see his sister before he dies, is inching towards becoming a reality after the US Embassy in Georgetown granted the woman a visitor’s visa after first denying her request.

The man, 25 year old Christopher Robinson who lives in Brooklyn New York, is terminally ill with a rare form of cancer. His Doctors have given him just weeks more to live and have moved him to a hospice to make his final days more comfortable.

Days after tying the knot on his hospital bed with his longtime girlfriend, Robinson made one final request through the lens of the New York media. He begged for his sister to be granted the opportunity to see him one last time.

The two had not seen each other in two decades and although they would communicate constantly using social media and skype, Robinson said he wanted to hug his sister and hold her close one last time.

According to the man’s sister, Michelle Robinson, she had made previous attempts to secure a US visa, but those attempts failed and her story was told by the media in both the US and Guyana.

This newspaper understands that New York State officials even got involved in the story and made representation to the US Embassy. While the

Christopher Robinson

Embassy was clear that it does not disclose information about visa applications, it noted that there is a process to be followed and the sister was free to file another application. Michelle Robinson did exactly that earlier this week and was heartened when she was granted the visa.

The family’s story has also caught the attention of Fly Jamaica which operates flights between Georgetown and New York. The airline has stepped forward and will provide the woman with a free round trip ticket for the final reunion with her brother.

She is expected to leave Guyana before the end of this week.

Woman who jumped off Demerara Harbour Bridge identified

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he woman who jumped off the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) on Tuesday has been identified as Patricia Lowton of Grove, East Bank Demerara.

According to information received, the woman was mentally ill and was suffering from several illnesses including diabetes, high cholesterol and other complications. This publication was told that earlier in the day prior to the woman jumping off the Demerara Harbour Bridge, she had visited the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and found out that she had arthritis. A relative stated that this might have pushed the woman to commit suicide. The woman leaves to mourn her four children and close relatives.

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Lowton took the fatal plunge on Tuesday afternoon by climbing onto a section of the bridge, referred to as ‘Retractor 11’. It was reported that bridge officials became aware of the woman’s intentions after seeing her climbing onto the bridge and alerted security officials. However, upon seeing the security guard approaching her, the woman jumped into the Demerara River. Her body was later recovered in the vicinity of the Guyana Defence Force’s Coast Guard Base, at Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Up to late Tuesday afternoon, the woman was not identified but her body was taken to the Lyken Funeral Home.

She was positively identified on Wednesday morning by her eldest son. On December 24,

2014, Felicia Hussain of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara jumped off the DHB. The woman was reportedly battling with mental illness and might have suffered a relapse.

It was reported that on Christmas Eve Day, at approximately 13:00h, Hussain was seen jumping into the Demerara River, minutes after she had walked onto the bridge after exiting a minibus at Bagotstown.

The woman’s body was pulled from the river after an alarm was raised. She was clad in a pink top and a pair of long blue denim jeans.

Her handbag and shoes were found on the bridge.

A post-mortem examination performed on her body proved that she died from drowning.

Invitation

n February, a New Moon day will be celebrated in many parts of the world, particularly by people of Hindu descent as Shivratri (the Night of Shiva) observed as a day of fasting and penance. The day holds much spiritual significance especially as we face dark times of atrocities and uncertainty worldwide.

The festival marks a time of divine intervention by the Incorporeal God Shiva in the world cycle of events so as to shift the energies significantly towards love and truth, using the human mind as the vehicle of change, thus setting the trends for an Age of universal peace and happiness.

The Brahma Kumaris believe and experience this time to be now, based on revelations through their founder - Brahma Baba in 1936. It is therefore cause for a grand celebration.

'In God's Heart', to be held on Sunday, February 15th at Global Harmony House, the Regional Headquarters of the Brahma Kumaris, is inviting all to have a sneak preview of the power of individual transformation through God's love, leading the way for world transformation. The event’s organizers are intent on creating an unforgettable experience for you!

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WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Woman on Gy$1M bail for bounced cheques

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Lusignan, East Coast Demerara businesswoman was placed on Gy$1 million bail on Monday for allegedly issuing two cheques that bounced to a rice miller.

Bibi Faniza Deo, 35, appeared in a New Amsterdam Magistrate Court on Monday to answer two charges of incurring a debt and pretending to be in a position to effect valid payment.

The first charge states that she and her husband, Chatterpaul Deo 45, also of Lusignan, on December 22, 2013 at Number 36 Village, Corentyne incurred a debt of Gy$2,069,550 from Nand Persaud and Company Limited and issued a cheque to the same value.

The couple was also charged for committing a similar offence on January 2, 2014, also against Nand Persaud and Company Limited.

On that occasion, the sum involved was Gy$2,294,100.

Chatterpaul was not in court when the charge was read.

Bibi Faniza Deo

Magistrate Carlyn Artiga allowed Deo her pre-trial liberty in the sum of Gy$1 million.

She will have to return to court on March 19 for trial.

The defendant, who has been in business for more than 10 years, would buy rice from Nand Persaud Limited and redistribute it.

Sources close to the investigation claim that more than 20 similar charges could be laid against the defendant.

According to the source, more than Gy$30 million was allegedly paid by cheques, which were not honoured by the bank.

CXC to offer Portuguese for the first time D

uring remarks at a Ministry of Education press conference held at the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD) in Kingston, Education Minister, Priya Manickchand announced that the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) would be offering Portuguese at the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) examinations which are being written in nine territories for the first time in 2016.

The minister explained that the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) would offer Portuguese as a subject at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) in 2017.

“You may recall that it was Guyana’s Ministry of Education that piloted Portuguese formally in the secondary school’s curriculum. It was here that we developed the Curriculum Guides, resource materials, and trained our teachers to deliver this new but increasingly useful language,” Manickchand ex-

plained.

In May 2014, under the theme “Eliminating literacy, modernising education and strengthening tolerance”, the Ministry of Education intensified its efforts to have Portuguese taught in all schools across the country. The Ministry aims to further develop the capacity of modern languages’ teachers within the education system.

Deputy Chief Education Officer (Development), Ms. Doodmattie Singh explained the pioneering work done by the Ministry to establish Portuguese as a new modern language on the national curriculum, when it initially launched the Portuguese curriculum in six schools in 2013.

Ms. Singh pointed out that an additional 15 schools will now offer Portuguese when the new school year begins in September 2015.

The six schools that initially formed part of the launch of Portuguese in Guyana were Queen’s College, The Bishops’ High, Saint Stanislaus College, Saint Roses

Minister of Education, Ms. Priya Manickchand

High, Saint Joseph High and North Georgetown Secondary. The additional 15 schools earmarked to carry Portuguese in 2015 were: Georgetown – Brickdam Secondary, Christ Church Secondary and Central High; Region 3 – Zeeburg Secondary and West Demerara Secondary; Region 4 – Hope Secondary, Annandale Secondary, President’s College and Diamond Secondary; Region 5 – Rosignol Secondary and Bygeval Secondary; Region 8 – Mahdia Secondary; Region 9 – St Ignatius Secondary, and Region 10 – Mackenzie High.

M i n i s t e r Manickchand emphasised that the launch of this programme is in keeping with the com-

mitment made by the ruling PPP/C Government during its 2011 election campaign, in which its manifesto unquestionably stated that, within the next five years, it would work at “strengthening foreign language teaching, both in the school system, including at the primary school level, and for the public at large, with special emphasis (being placed) on Spanish and Portuguese, reflecting our country’s continental prospects.

The minister said: “This morning, we are fulfilling a part of that promise by preparing ourselves to introduce Portuguese all across this country.”

A team led by Manickchand has had several meetings with the relevant authorities of CXC over the last year, and has made proposals for Portuguese to be included formally as a subject that is offered at the CXC level.

“We are extremely pleased to say our efforts bore fruit, and we are grateful to all the territories who supported our application and proposals to CXC”, Manickchand said.

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Park Vue Hotel reopens under new management –owner proclaims confidence in Guyana’s economy

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Children’s Mash Competition kicks off in grand style at Anna Regina

Park Vue Hotel on the East Bank Demerara

azil Mirza, new owner of the Park Vue Hotel, explained that because of his confidence in the economy, he decided to invest in the hotel. He related that his aim is to raise awareness of the hotel and to promote its activities. He said this was “something that was not done before.”

He explained that he would be using specific activities and events, especially during the Mashramani period, to shed some light on the activities the hotel would be undertaking.

“What better way to do it (than) with Mashramani right around the corner?” he asked. He said an impressive lineup of exciting activities can be ex-

pected to “Mash up” the East Bank of Demerara during the weekend immediately prior to Mashramani.

On February 20, there will be a pool party featuring the Melody Makers Brass Band out of Suriname, and a Carlsberg ‘Happy Half Hour’ would be staged from noon to 18:00hrs.

On Saturday, February 21, the “Mash Up the Bank Celebrations” is slated to feature performances by Jomo Primo and Sammy Baksh, among others; and on Sunday, February 22, there will be a Chutney concert featuring Young Bill Rogers and other top local chutney artistes. All events are compliments of Carlsberg Beer, he dis-

closed.

Among the festivities held during relaunch of the Park Vue Hotel were performances from Sammy Baksh, Young Bill Rogers, and Jomo Primo. The audience was also given a glimpse of some of the hotel’s Mashramani activities with models from the designer Olympia Small– Sonaram.

The Park Vue Hotel and Lounge was initially opened in January 2014.

Construction of the hotel with its 32 spacious rooms, restaurants, poolside, bar, boutique, spa and gift shop, among other amenities, was meant to boost Guyana’s tourism sector. Park Vue has been under new management since January 1, 2015.

Students performing an item

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celebratory ambience descended on the town of Anna Regina, and joy and happiness was all pervasive as children of nursery, primary and secondary schools hotly competed in the dance and masquerade category of the Department of Education Children’s Competition last Thursday at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground.

The competition reportedly opened on Tuesday with dramatic poetry and calypso contests, and continued on Thursday with individual and group dances and masquerade.

In the nursery school group dance, Riverstown won the first place with “Six Races celebrating

as One People”, while Cotton Field took the second place with its dance, “Guyanese line up”. Lima Nursery won the third place with the dance, “Celebrate our worship.”

In the 5 to 7 group, Sparta Primary School won the first place with its group dance, “Proudly Celebrating as One People”; Mainstay Lake came in second, followed by Queenstown Primary with “Together We Stand”.

In the 8 to 10 group dance, Mainstay Lake Primary took the first place with its dazzling performance, while the second place went to CV Nunes Primary with “Unity in Our Culture”.

The third place went to 8th of May Primary students for their energetic group dance.

Primary and secondary school students also hotly competed in individual dances and masquerade. The winners in the various categories would represent Region Two in the national competition in Georgetown in February.

In this year’s competition, Mainstay Lake children have performed excellently in calypso and group dances. They have won top places in several categories already.

Several schools from the Pomeroon have also presented excellent performances at the three-day children’s competition.

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GuyOil commissions refurbished Regent Street Service Station

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he Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil) Service Station, on bustling Regent Street in Georgetown, was commissioned on Sunday, just weeks after the Company commissioned a major aviation fuel-handling facility at Timehri. And Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, underscored the fact that the Gy$250M project, which facilitated the doubling of the location’s capacity, is further evidence that public sector companies can be competitive and stand as a market leader.

In delivering the feature address at the event, Dr. Singh explained that with the reduced fuel prices announced last week, GuyOil’s influence as a market leader was evident.

The falling world prices for fuel propelled the reduction of local fuel prices. As a result, the price of gasoline was reduced from Gy$995per gallon to Gy$695, representing a 30 per cent reduction; diesel was reduced by 30 per cent, from Gy$985 to Gy$694; and kerosene saw a reduction of 42 per cent,

Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, and GuyOil officials during the ceremonial ribboncutting for the commissioning of the Company’s Regent Street Service Station

from Gy$850 to Gy$496.

According to the Finance Minister, the company’s investment has also contributed to Guyana’s development, which is a work in progress, both technologically and in terms of infrastructure.

He called attention to the fact that the downtown Georgetown land-

scape now highlights the advances towards a more modern Guyana.

As such, Dr. Singh commended the company for its investment and improvements in its service delivery.

The Finance Minister also commented on the political challenges faced by the current Administration, and was

emphatic that regardless of political persuasions, the common thread in political agendas must be national interest.

“We have an obligation (as politicians) to always act in the national interest,” he said.

To this end, he reiterated the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic’s (PPP/C) commit-

ment to supporting the company and, by extension, its commitment to creating more jobs and generating additional opportunities for Guyanese to earn an income.

Dr. Singh bemoaned dispositions of political parties that lend itself to “unpatriotic acts” of scaring away investors

and contributing to the creation of an environment that is not conducive to investment.

Stakeholders in the political arena, he stressed, must act in the interest of the Guyanese people.

Meanwhile, GuyOil’s Managing Director, Badrie Persaud, acknowledged the company’s role as a market leader, not only in what is offered by the company, but also in terms of trends in market prices.

He explained that the company’s expansion and improvement initiatives stem from a plan developed five years ago.

To date, Persaud said, GuyOil has managed to expand its reach, from Region 6 (East Berbice/ Corentyne) to several other locations.

According to him, with the achievement of expansion ‘under its belt’ there has been focus on improving services already being made available.

On that note, he assured that improvements at the Kitty Service Station and Providence Service Station will be completed soon.

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

By Isahak Basir, CCH

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ohn Stanislaus, 5 ft-tall and of Amerindian and Portuguese ancestry, was the first to hit a cricket ball clear over the Pomeroon River, in a match between Jacklow Cricket Club and Picker's Gill Cricket Club along the Upper Pomeroon River.

The historic event occurred at Picker's Gill Saw Mill Sports Ground, some 16 miles from Charity, Upper Pomeroon River. The Picker's Gill Saw Mill was a huge steam complex, the first of its kind constructed in 1915. The company employed more than 200 workers, who mostly lived around the complex with suitable housing facility. Picker's Gill was also the turning point for Bitmoutty Cargo Steamer Service operated by T&HD, which came from Georgetown.

The Picker's Gill Sports complex’s sub-soil was mixed with saw dust and bagasse, and was always wet. It supported a market, rental shop and dance hall. The epicentre of the cricket ground was close to 200 feet from the Pomeroon River bank in the east and west direction.

It was a sunny Sunday when the Jacklow cricket team arrived at Picker's Gill to be well-received by Leroy Westmas. The Jacklow team comprised Stanley Castello, Philbert Austin, Housman Alli, John Fernandes, Cecil Garraway, John Stanislaus, Dennis Gildhari, Harold De Mattos, Dolphos Williams, Thomas Tacourdeen and Henry

Basir (left) demonstrating the hit

James. The wicketkeeper was Fernandes and umpire was Michael Austin.

The Picker's Gill cricket team comprised William Brant, Moti Singh, Renold Smith, John Seymour, Oscar Paddy, Basil Harris, Neil McConnel, Thomas Trim, Charlie Chapelle, Leroy Westmas and Cecil Harris.

The match began with Picker's Gill winning the toss and choosing to bat. Picker's Gill wicketkeeper was John Seymour, whose father was the owner of the Affiance Sugar Estate on the Essequibo. The umpire was Harold Tobin.

During that period, only batting and wicketkeeping pads were available. A Wisden cricket ball would then have cost $2 and a Wisden, Spauldin or Christiani cricket bat would have cost $12. The Picker's Gill team made 105 runs.

Jacklow’s fast bowler was John Castello, a lanky 6 ft 6 inch person, and the leg spinner was Housman Alli. Picker's Gill’s fast bowler was Thomas Trim, a 6 ft for-

estry worker who was an aggressive pace man.

The Dance Hall Pavilion was filled with fans from Aripiaco, Kabacaburiand, and Abrams Creek.

John Stanislaus was a middle-order batsman and considered a slugger. While at his base waiting on the bowler, John would keep lifting his bat up and down to swipe at any ball. Sometimes, in different cricket matches, he would be bowled for duck, but on several occasions he would hit 10 sixes; as such he commanded an unusual audience. He was a 35-year-old with an unpredictable character, a good Catholic, very quiet with an unassuming personality, and smiles with his eyes expressing friendliness.

On that historic Sunday August 1953, John started batting around 3:30pm.

He missed a couple of ‘wide balls’ from fast bowler Thomas Trim, whose over ended with a maiden. John Seymour, a medium pace off-spinner, began to bowl to Cecil

Garraway who scored his second one run. It was now John’s turn to bat.

At that time the tide was rising and the breeze was strong when John, the slugger, crouched on his right knee, and with a vigorous left hook, struck the rising ball, which mounted over 200 feet into the air. It sailed over the Pomeroon River, landing on Joseph Goddett's Shop, parallel to the opposite river bank.

Pandemonium broke out as the umpire at the eastern end kept spinning his hands not knowing where the ball went.

When the crowd ran on the pitch, John too was

feature 29

not sure where the ball went. He was subsequently drenched with wine and cassirie. Part of the crowd scampered to the nearby river edge and the surrounding wharf to search for the ball. Some even paddled in canoes in search of the missing red Wisden cricket ball.

When Joseph Goddett shouted from across the river, it was then the destination of the famous stroke was established.

The match continued with Jacklow's team losing still – by 10 runs.

The collapse of the sugar estate in Essequibo by 1934 and World War II from1935 to 1945 saw the demise of cricket in Essequibo; even horse racing disappeared.

However, the Pomeroon River district kept the spirit alive with play fields at Jacklow, Siriki, Martindale and St. John, by the Gonsalves in lower Pomeroon.

The hardship created by World War II saw Pomeroon sportsmen being innovative and substituting professional cricket bats for those made from cedar and silverballi wood. Rubber and balata milk were used to make cricket balls and fiddle head savannah grass was used to make scoring sheets.

John’s parents and the surrounding community constructed a cricket ground parallel to the cemetery and alongside Stanislaus’ farm land. The cemetery came about in 1934 when an epidemic caused the death of dozens of residents. The community support comprised of the Vansluytmans, Allens, Stolls, Garraways, Durgas, Younges, Dasses, Evans, Austins, Daniels, Ramdehols, T a c o o r d e e n s , Braithwaites, and Bairds.

The history of John Stanislaus’ career is being promoted by his sons, all of whom are well-established cricketers residing in Pomeroon, who enjoy a record of good standing in their community.

The Alphonsos inclusive of Alfro Alphonso, who has invested much funding in the community, is the live wire of cricket inclusive of his uncle Joakim and George Alphonso; they are all the luminaries of cricket in the region.

Still alive are these persons who witnessed the above historic event: Alvin Melville of Jacklow, Cecil Harris of Good Hope, and Tabrack Basir, CCH, formerly of Jacklow.

30 feature

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Working for about 15 years now in the field of physiotherapy, Stacey Greaves never let her lack of sight discourage her dreams

D

etermined, optimistic and cheerful are just a few attributes that aptly describe Stacey Greaves.

Although she is completely blind, that has not dampened her resolve to fulfil her goal of becoming a physiotherapist.

Stacey was born in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), but later moved to Georgetown at the age of eight.

“In Georgetown, I attended Sacred Heart Primary School then to St Roses Unit for the Blind.

I started to lose my sight from six years old. At the age of 14, I completely lost my sight. The doctors, up to now, do not know the reason why I am blind.

I am the only one in my family who is blind. When I lost my sight I was neither depressed nor afraid.

I always hoped I would gain my sight. But it really hit home I would never see again after listening to a radio programme where a doctor was discussing about being blind.

At that time I was already married and had my daughter, who is now 14 years old. Although I was saddened by this, I did not

allow it to break my determination to fulfil my goals,” Stacey recalled in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

L She taught at the St Roses Unit for the Blind for a year, worked as a receptionist at Dr Hanoman’s office on Brickdam for a year, and was a switchboard operator at the Guyana Sewerage and Water Commission for a few months. She later went to train at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) for her present job as a rehabilitation assistant.

Coming to terms with her life

“When it hit home that I will never see again, I was saddened. However, I did not allow it to keep me down. I had to stop and examine my life and be grateful for all that I had achieved although being blind. I was determined to just pull myself together and be a role model for others. That is when I decided to dedicate myself to the two-year training I received from GPHC. It trained me to work with persons with physical injuries, and stroke patients, using rehabilitative techniques. I re-

Stacey on the computer at the Guyana Society for the Blind studying for her upcoming CSEC exams

corded the training sessions and had an electric typewriter, which I used to type my notes,” she reminisced.

Stacey noted that she has always been a “confident, fearless person” and being blind is not a trial for her. She cred-

its her family for showing their full support and never shutting her away.

As a little girl growing up, Stacey said she was never isolated or treated like a blind person. She still had chores to get done. Now, Stacey, a single mother, faces life with an optimis-

tic mindset. She washes, cooks, and cleans.

Working for about 15 years now in the field of physiotherapy, Stacey is currently employed through the Ministry of Health and is stationed at the Palms.

“I am trained in speech, occupational and physiotherapy. Currently, I am working in the physiotherapy department at the Palms,dealing with orthopaedic and neurological cases. I work with stroke patients and others, using heat and cold therapy among other techniques,” she outlined.

Stacey said too that she wrote History and English at CSEC and is presently studying Business, Human and Social Biology, Office Administration and Social Studies at the Guyana Society for the Blind. She is preparing to write those subjects at the upcoming CSEC exam.

“I am thankful for the programme the Society is offering because it gives blind and visually impaired individuals a second chance to achieve their academic goals.I decided to join the programme because I would

like to move ahead in my career. Ican read my notes via JAWS [Job Access with Speech] installed on my One Laptop per Family computer.

JAWS reads my notes to me and that is how I am able to study for my subjects. My goals are even more a reality thanks to the CSEC programme at the Society,” Stacey declared.

After CSEC, Stacey would like to pursue a degree in rehabilitation science at University of Guyana.

Her advice to blind individuals is to “go after your dreams and not allow anyone to discourage you.”

“Anything in life is achievable once you dedicate your life to it. I am also grateful to God for giving me the strength.

For those sighted persons, I would like to say that we [blind individuals] want to be treated as normal, and not to pity or shun us. Just give us a chance in life; we can visualise things and understand.

We want to be loved and respected just like everyone else. Being blind does not make us less of a person,” she stated.

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WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

History of Georgetown

Street lighting and tree planting in the city

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ave you ever looked at the towering trees on Main Street or around Georgetown and thought of when tree planting in the capital city began?

Or thought of the history of the installation of street lights?

of gas in 1860. It was spoken of as likely to be a great improvement, but there were doubts as to whether people generally would adopt it. It was not to be supposed that the town lighting alone could support a gas company. However, several persons came forward with projects: the first

annum and to supply light to private persons at $5 per 1,000 feet. He also stipulated that half the shares should be subscribed in the colony. The result of his action was a petition to the court and an ordinance dated August 2, 1862, which stated that the establishment of gas works

dinance having ceased, A. W. Perot and G. H. Oliver, directors of that company, agreed with G. W. Harris, A. Williams, and others in England, to apply for a new ordinance to establish the Georgetown Gas Company.

At last, in March 1873 gas lighting be-

The impressive Rain Tree on Main Street

of the high price, still there was small ground for anything like dissatisfaction.

Electric lighting

Present day electric lights along the East Coast seawall (Michael C Lam photo)

Gas lighting

According to the book “The story of Georgetown” by James Rodway, Stabroek was lighted in early times with lanterns fastened to wallaba posts. The oil used was probably train oil. In 1860 kerosene was introduced and iron lamp posts erected. Rodway also said in his book that gas lighting had been mentioned many times before it was seriously considered; it was proposed in 1838.

The Town Council back then seriously considered the introduction

being T. C. Jenkins, an American Consul. This offer was withdrawn after news of the impending war of secession.

Then came James Appleby, who offered to get up a company in London; his estimate was £4 4s. per street lamp, and 12 shillings per thousand feet for the public. The most serious offer was by S. R. Dickson, who, in 1861, proposed to establish the Demerara Gas Light Company. He asked for a lot of land for the works and offered to light 300 street lamps at $25 per

in Georgetown would be of public advantage. The petitioners were S. R. Dickson, H. I. de Jonge, Jos. Kaufmann and Jas. Brady.

Nothing appears to have been actually done, and in 1864 a new ordinance was passed on the petition of A. W. Perot, F. A. R. Winter, J. S. Hill, J. Kaufmann and others. This also failed or at least did not get into working order in the time given by the ordinance and a new charter was granted in 1870. The preamble stated that the Demerara Company or-

came an accomplished fact. The Georgetown Gas Company did fairly well, and although there were complaints

Early in 1889, Julius Conrad, R. Allan, W. S. Turner and R. Dodds applied to the Town Council for a conditional promise to support an electric light company, and as they wanted a monopoly they were referred to the government. Their request for a monopoly for 30 years and for permission to use the streets

were considered by the court and referred to the Town Council. Nothing was actually done until the following year, when a meeting was held at the house of Jacob Conrad on March 25, at which it was agreed to form a company.

On May 5 the town council agreed to refer a motion of Mr Gibson that a test of 50 electric street lamps should be made to the lighting committee, which ultimately arranged for such a test. At the first general meetcontinued on page 35

32 News

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

TT Law student told: You flushed your career down the toilet

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Dillon Doodlal, on his way to court

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: A law student who appeared in court on Monday charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol was admonished by a magistrate who told him he had "flushed his career down the toilet."

Dillon Doodal who worked as a paralegal at the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) was asked if he knew what the head of the office, senior counsel Roger Gaspard, would think of his behaviour.

Magistrate Rehana Ali said that being in the legal profession, she was embarrassed.

"So disappointing. I have been an attorney for the last ten years and this is highly embarrassing to me that you are before me. I am disgusted ...You should be ashamed ... Do you think you will be able to get an admission to the bar with a conviction against you? You have thrown your life away sir. ... I worked at the DPP's office as well and I have the highest regard for the office."

The court heard that at around 3.25 a.m. on Sunday at Mon Repos, officers on road traffic exercise stopped Doodal. The scent of alcohol was detected on his breath, said Traffic

Court police prosecution Sgt Dianath Harricharan.

The third year law student told constable Gerald, "Yes I had about two beers.

I just come to carry my partner home. I working in the DPP office and I know my rights. If you lash me, I will give you a lawsuit faster than that."

Breathalyser tests showed Doodal was over the legal 35 microgramme limit by 58 microgrammes.

Doodal, 23 of Princes Town on Monday told Ali that he got behind the wheel after he realised that his friend and the owner of the car, had consumed more alcohol than him.

Doodal's mother came before the court and said she was disappointed. She said that her son's driver's permit will be withheld from him.

"Take it. He is irresponsible. He is making bad decisions ... I think he has just flushed his career down the toilet. That's the reality."

Ali fined him TT$6,500.

Doodal had to pay TT$3,000 on Monday and was given until February 26 to pay the balance of the money.

With is conviction, Doodal was advised to get advice before he continued his education in the field.

(TT Express)

Jamaican Jazz and Blues Festival to feature Peter Cetera Peter Cetera

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INGSTON, JAMAICA: The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival is renowned for bring a number of acts who are making their debut performance on the rock. This year is no different.

Among this year’s debutantes is Peter Cetera.

Cetera, the former lead singer of the band Chicago, is all set to rock the crowd at the festival which kicks off this Thursday at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium and lasts until Saturday.

Executive producer of the event Walter Elmore is proud of his lineup and describes Cetera’s three decades of hits, including favourites, ‘You are The Inspiration’, ‘Glory Of Love’, ‘One Good Woman’, ‘Restless Heart’ and ‘Next Time I Fall’, as being worth the trip to the festival.

Cetera is an original member of Chicago and stayed with that soft rock group for 18 years. Cetera’s biggest singing and songwriting accomplishment with Chicago came in 1976 with their first world-

wide number one single, the ballad ‘If You Leave Me Now’.

His trademark singing style developed as a result of having to sing for a period of time with a wiredshut jaw. He is also an accomplished bass player as and his musical talents are a family trait as his two brothers, Tim and Kenny, were involved in the production of a number of Chicago and Peter Cetera solo records.

In 1985, upon quitting the band, Peter Cetera topped music charts with ‘The Glory of Love’, the first single from his album Solitude/Solitaire. The track which was also popular in Jamaica went on to become the theme song for the film ‘The Karate Kid, Part II’.

Among the other acts to take to the stage during the festival are megastar Mariah Carey, Charlie Wilson, The Pointer Sisters, Magic!, Soja, Arturo Tappin, Morgan Heritage and Richie Stephens. (Jamaica Observer)

News 33

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Healing from inside out by Jamaica’s Mama roots and Viva

Times Notebook Make 2015 election platform for development ideas

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From left: Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau with Viva and Mama Roots, keeper of ancient secrets

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I N G S T O N , JAMAICA: If you were unfortunate enough to have the "chicken gun yuh down" recently, you already know how painful and inconvenient the dreaded CHIKV can be. The year came to a close with a bang as the "chicken" almost took over the island.

Those "bad lucky" enough to come face to face with the biological terrorist that is the Aedes aegypti mosquito now have a new appreciation of the word 'pop-down'. It came in the form of days-long fevers, joint swelling and pain lasting for months and some downright miserable vibes that made everyday activities like coming out of bed or walking downstairs a major ordeal. If you happen to be one of the unlucky many you probably became obsessed with the desperate search for sweet relief.

The afflicted ones became well-versed with a myriad remedies and cures, from Panadol and prescription drugs and steroids, to our faithful local home remedies, like bizzy tea, papaya leaf tea, and guinea hen weed. The question is, do any of these homemade miracles actually work?

On the heels of our book tour in the UK, we returned to Jamaica where Suzanne found herself fighting a vicious battle with CHIKV. In search of a way to heal her aching joints, we were forced on an unexpected quest to discover some local healers and explore whether the purported healing powers of roots drinks, natural tonics and wines were myth or reality.

Could anything make the CHIKV better? We were determined to see if a nonmedical approach could.

Traditionally, when we hear of roots and roots drinks we think of quintessential Jamaican names like "Front-end Lifter," "Irish Moss" and our personal favourite "Stamina

Daddy," all of which supposedly enhance male virility and vitality. In essence, we 'drink the roots' to 'make yuh back strong!'

At the same time, however, roots tonics and natural wines are touted to have magical healing effects on the body, mind and spirit for a slew of ailments and are so popular with locals that even wellknown reggae artistes write songs about them.

Case in point: Chronixx's current hit Spirulina. We decided that there was no better time than the present to explore these local phenomena.

First stop on our journey to self-healing was a visit to roots shaman to the stars, Viva. As his name implies, Viva exudes life and health and is a bona fide healer whose mantra is that if you're going to live good and attract good, it must first start from within. He concocts the most delectable juice blends and healing tonics, all of which are flavoured with love, good vibes, positive energy and intuitive creativity. Utilising fresh juices, herbs, plants, roots and barks of all kinds, Viva knows exactly what the body and mind need to stay happy, healthy and strong. He believes in mixing fresh fruit juices like June plum, pineapple, and otaheiti with garlic, onion and ginger to boost the immune system from the inside out. As powerful as he is humble, Viva assured us that he is not the expert on roots and that in order to "really learn about the 'ting" we needed to visit Mama Roots -- the doyenne of all roots.

Whatever you believe, there's no denying the magical and mystical effect of spending an afternoon in the esteemed company of Mama Roots and Viva, and Suzanne and I both departed feeling healed, whole and downright holy. And that was before we even took any roots! (Jamaica Observer)

he President had promised since early December that in January he will announce a date for election. He has kept his promise. Now, both parliamentary Opposition parties have a problem with the date, since it clashes with CXC examination for certain subjects.

The President from the inception spoke about ensuring elections are held at an appropriate time, but there is no time that will not have one or more important things that will collide with elections.

We would hope that the political parties and politicians will engage in a real battle for ideas of how to ensure Guyana continues on the development road and possible ways to accelerate this development.

This election must be about how Guyana moves up to a high-middle income country from its present status of a low-middle income country.

This is not a too ambitious goal for Guyana to attain, although some people, particularly the Opposition, have said it is far too ambitious. We encourage political parties to make this a defining debate for the future of Guyana.

The PPP/C has made attaining a high-middle income status as a national goal for this generation.

Can APNU and AFC tell the nation if they subscribe to this goal and if their plans for Guyana include reaching that target as soon as possible?

The political parties must tell us what transformational initiatives will be pursued to move Guyana to the status of a high-middle income country and how soon they believe Guyana can get there.

The PPP/C has already declared that their destination for Guyana in the short and medium term is to attain high-middle income status. The PPP/C has shown by its track record that it has the capacity to lead Guyana towards this milestone.

It was the PPP/C that took

Guyana from a low-income, bankrupt, highly indebted poor country to now a low-middle income country, from a GDP of about US$250 per capita in 1992 to almost US$4,000 today.

The PPP/C has demonstrated policies and programmes that have contributed to development, reduced poverty, reduced the debt burden and modernized some aspects of the national infrastructure. It has developed policies and programmes that have improved the social welfare standing of the Guyanese people.

Transformational projects include the Berbice River Bridge and the Takatu Bridge to Brazil, the Suriname Ferry Service, the Convention center, and the new Linden and Georgetown Hospitals, to list a few.

The introduction of new schools, nursery, primary and secondary, has allowed Guyana to reach universal access to education at both primary and secondary school levels. Health has become a national priority, with services such as open heart surgery now available locally.

The PPP/C has introduced safety net programmes for the poor, such as increased pensions, wavier of water rates for the elderly, school uniform vouchers, grants for every child in school.

The PPP/C has proposed a way forward to reduce Guyana’s dependency on fossil fuel-based electricity and the use of fossil-based fuel in transportation. This is an important policy direction and the Amaila Falls Hydro Electricity Project that the PPP/C initiated and has committed to complete is a tangible component of this programme.

The establishment of a small bio-ethanol plant at Albion is intended to catalyze the introduction of blended fuel in the transport industry. The overall programme is intended to generate adequate and affordable electricity, create a more environment-friendly transport in-

dustry and reduce Guyana’s carbon emission footprint. These are important ideas for development.

APNU and AFC have voted against budgets for these projects.

APNU and AFC have radically different ideas when it comes to energy policies for Guyana. Both parties have taken positions that reject the direction of hydro-electricity and bio-fuel as important new directions for our country, as far as the evidence points.

APNU and AFC have expressed concern about the Chinese presence in Guyana. The PPP/C has made it clear since 1992 that foreign direct investment (FDI) is an imperative for rapid development in Guyana.

Since it assumed government in 1992, it has transformed the role of FDI in Guyana’s development.

Investors from North America, Europe, India, China, Latin America, the Caribbean and people from the Diaspora have flocked to Guyana as an investment destination. APNU and AFC must be clear if investors are welcome and state clearly if the Chinese would be welcomed as investors in Guyana since they both have declared the Chinese pariahs.

These and other policies and ideas are the kind of genuine discourse we should have over the next few weeks. There are public records that must be disavowed or clarified. This election period would be a time for the political parties to discuss their ideas openly and seriously with the people of Guyana.

It would be interesting to see how the political parties explain their policy direction for Guyana with their actions in the 10th Parliament. This election must demonstrate willingness by politicians to explore ideas for development and reject the usual cussing out that unfortunately both APNU and the AFC have already started.

Readers are invited to send their comments by email or Facebook to times.notebook@gmail.com.

TT Carnival market to open at Cruise Ship complex

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ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The Shoppes at Cruise Ship Complex will host its first Carnival market at the Portof-Spain waterfront.

Essentially a shoppers’ bazaar, the market will offer an eclectic mix of premium products from local artisans and designers including art, bath and body products, craft, fashion apparel and accessories, gourmet foods, handbags, jewelry and souvenirs.

The market is sure to provide a one-stop shopping destination for visitors and nationals who desire all things local. Customers can look forward to shopping in a unique and pleasant setting in a safe and secure environment, complete with ample amenities including adequate parking, air-condition, restrooms and security personnel, the release said.

The market will feature two main shopping areas. The Auditorium will feature various vendors with an as-

Shoppes at Cruise Ship Complex will host its first Carnival market at the Port-of-Spain waterfront (TT Guardian file photo)

sortment of local delights. The store area will allow shoppers the opportunity to become familiar with stores at the complex including Blue Basin Department Stores, Island Style, Jenni’s, Ken’s Copper Collections, and Webcraf Concepts to name a few.

The market is a collaboration between the tenants at the complex and the shops aim to provide an alternative retail shopping destination of local hidden treasures.

The market aims to provide a platform to showcase locally made and/or designed products; promote entrepreneurship and small business development; and provide an economic support tool. The Carnival market opens to the public on February 8, from 9 am to 4 pm. For more info: Jessel Brizan , via email at info@BlueBasin.co, or visit facebook. com/ShoppesatCruiseShipComplex.

(TT Newsday)

34 feature

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

E

very day we travel throughout Georgetown, navigating our way through various streets. But have you ever wondered where the streets got their names?

Luke M. Hill, once the City Engineer of Georgetown or – as the post was called in those days – the Town Superintendent, contributed to the journal “Timehri”, a most interesting article on the origin of the area and streets of Georgetown.

In Vincent Roth’s book, “Roth’s Pepper-Pot”, Roth penned vital information on the history of those streets based on what was found in “Timehri”.

Naming the capital

According to Roth, the oldest part of the city of Georgetown is Brickdam and the strips of land on either side that were built by the French in 1782 and called La Novelle Ville – the new town. When the Dutch resumed possession of the country in 1783, they named the infant settlement Stabroek after Nicolas Geelvinck, Lord of Capsicum, Bakum and Stabroek, president of the Dutch West Indian Company.

As the little town grew, by the addition of the front lands of adjoining plantations Vlissengen, La Bourgade and Eve Leary on the north, and Werk-enRust, Le Repentir and La Penitence on the south, it was on April 29, 1812 named George Town (two words), after King George III, the then reigning sovereign.

Indeed, many of the city street names will be found to refer to his reign

named from its being the main road to Plantation Thomas, and East Street on account of its easterly position in Cummingsburg.

Cummings Street was the back dam of Plantation La Bourgade and was named after the original proprietor of the plantation.

Lamaha Street was so named because it ran beside the north drainage trench of the area, which had direct connection with the Lamaha canal through East Street.

Bentinck Street commemorated H. W.

parish church now St George’s Cathedral.

Robbstown, together with Newtown, formed the front portion of Plantation Vlissengen and was originally called Bridgetown and consisted of small shacks in which dwelt free people of colour. It was leased

by John Robb who laid out the area in house lots.

Hincks Street was named after Sir Francis Hincks, governor from 1862 to 1868 and later Finance Minister of Canada.

Robb Street was

Bentinck, lieutenantgovernor from 1809 to 1812, while Middle Street was the old Middle Walk of Plantation Bourgade.

Murray Street was named after lieutenantgovernor, Major General John Murray, who was notorious for his ruthless suppression of the East Coast insurrection of 1823.

Church Street got its name because it led citizens to and from the

named after John Robb, its founder.

Regent Street was named after the Prince Regent, subsequently King George IV. South Street was so named because of it being the southernmost street of that ward. (Information from “Roth’s Pepper-Pot” by Vincent Roth)

Canal on South Road (Street)

and those of his immediate successors.

In 1842, the city of Georgetown – one word – was set up by Royal Warrant.

Street Names

Water Street was so named because it ran along the Demerara River foreshore and formed the original river dam protecting the plantations from tidal water on their river frontage.

At first, all the building lots were on the eastern side of the street.

The lands on the western side or river side were termed mud lots, on which wharfs or stellings with warehouses were constructed. Most these mud lots were subsequently further protected by building river walls of brick, and the intervening space between filled up, forming the site for the buildings on the western side of the street.

Camp Street was so named because it was the leading thoroughfare to the camp or garrison at the extreme north end

of the city.

Young Street, in some of the earlier charts called Camp Road, took its name from H. Fox Young, a former government secretary.

Cowan Street was named after Edward Cowan, an assistant commissary-general at the garrison.

Mundy Street was named after Major Robert M. Mundy, a lieutenant-governor in 1866.

Urquhart Street was named after J. Urquhart, a former Water Street merchant.

Hope Street was named after Admiral Hope, who visited the colony about that time (1866).

Carmichael Street was named after General Hugh Lyle Carmichael, lieutenant-governor in 1812-1813. He died in March 1813 from typhoid fever and was buried in the Officers Cemetery at Eve Leary. He was responsible for many reforms in the civil service.

Waterloo Street was named after Wellington’s great battle and victo-

Treasure Alana James

Regent Street looking east

ry of June 18, 1815. The Battle of Waterloo was fought near Waterloo in present-day Belgium, then part of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. A French army under the command of Napoleon was defeated by the armies of the Seventh Coalition, comprising an Angloallied army under the command of the Duke of Wellington combined with a Prussian army.

Thomas Street was

From Mabaruma in Region One, Treasure Alana James is the essence of beauty and brains. She completed nursery and primary school in Mabaruma then moved to Georgetown where she wrote CSEC at President's College. She later wrote‘ A’ Levels at Queen’s College, and now holds an associate degree in Chemistry from the University of Guyana. She is currently pursuing a medical degree at Texila American University. Besides studying, James enjoys pageantry and modelling.

She said they are some of the things that make her “happy, and the experiences are priceless”. The beauty has won the Miss Region One 2011 pageant, copped the first runner-up prize in the Miss Amerindian Heritage 2011 pageant, and was recently crowned Miss Texila American University. For the past five years, she has been a shape model for Guyanese designer Donna Ramsammy-James. Treasure wants to be a forensic pathologist, but also has an interest in plastic surgery. Her advice to youths is to stay in school, focus on academic pursuits, stay away from drugs, and to be “bigger than the influence.”

To be continued next week…

Star of the week

feature 35

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

To (the) Victor goes the Prize

By Petamber Persaud

Calling out… … AFC on race Say what you want about David Hinds, you can’t deny that the man has race on his brain. If to a hammer, everything’s a nail…with Hinds, everything’s about race. But if to Marxists everything’s about economics, what’s wrong with Hinds’ reductionism on race??

Marcus Garvey did advise that we must “cleave to the black”, OK?? And at least he has the gumption to bring his race talk out into the open rather than spout the sanctimonious, politically correct drivel you hear from most politicians.

So he’s taken on the most oleaginous and slimy of those politically correct hypocrites – the AFC. Not deliberately, mind you. After all, from within the belly of the APNU beast, his WPA leader Roopnarine’s negotiating a coalition with the AFC. That the talk up to now’s been “who gon be pon top”, is neither here nor there. It’s the principle of the thing that matters, no? They’re talking about hitching up.

Anyhow, Hinds posed some pretty serious questions to the AFC – some of which this Eyewitness’ been throwing out for quite a while. Like who gave Ramjattan the power to unilaterally jettison the AFC’s foundational principle of “ethnic rotation” of their Presidential Candidate?

As this Eyewitness has pointed out, this arrogation is most disrespectful and scandalous…but no one seems to want to talk about it. And it’s not like the AFC doesn’t have top caliber African Guyanese among its ranks.

Nigel Hughes may not want to be in the spotlight right now because of his own scandal with the Sithe’s Company Secretary cover up. But what about younger lights like Patterson or Williams?? Do they have Kuh-Kuh-Beh?? However, since Hinds said he was questioning some premises of the AFC, this Eyewitness hopes he won’t have a problem with some of HIS premises being scrutinised.

Like when he said that African Guyanese tend to vote for “other races” more than Indians. Is this a new epiphany?? If Hinds’ premise is right, then surely the best candidate for the WPA in 1992 – when they were so SURE they’d win the elections – was to put Roopnarine as Presidential Candidate rather than Clive Thomas, no?

After all with those racist Indians voting for their “own” – Roopnarine – and combined with all those Africans who are ever willing to “split their vote” – the WPA really could’ve carried the day! Rather than the pitiful four per cent they eked out!!

For the record, the PNC’s always gotten just over 40 per cent of the vote in every election since 1964. That’s the approximate percentage of the African and Mixed vote in the population that turns out to vote. So much for “one guilty race”!! …the academic snobs It’s clear that the senior staff at UG haven’t the foggiest notion about the distinction between “intellectual” and “academic”. From the comments one of the latter – named Ifill – made about Bibi Shadick’s appointment as Pro-Chancellor of UG – it’s also clear that some of them are really filled with hubris. About what?? Dotting “I-s” and crossing “T-s” in footnotes, that’s what.

You could just see Ifill, sniffing in disdain as she condescendingly allows, “We have nothing against her but for us it’s the principle.” You’ll note the arrogation of the royal “we” by Ifill as she complains that Ms Shadick doesn’t have the “academic experience”. We wonder if Eric Hoffer had been appointed Pro-Chancellor, Ifill would’ve demanded “academic qualifications”. Or Eusi Kwayana.

Ms Shadick, despite her homespun and unaffected demeanour, is a very grounded daughter of Leguan who continuously offers a uniquely shaped intellectual perspective on our Guyanese reality to folks like Ifill. Who can only regurgitate theories from books.

Academics!

Fire on that lot!! …Cameron PM Ralph Gonsalves is a man of this Eyewitness’ heart. This confounded nonsense by the WICB must stop! It’s shaming us all. Cameron must go!! And this should only be the start to recover our WI cricketing pride!

T

his article has its genesis in the wake of two events: the announcement of the Guyana Prize for Literature and the just concluded Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2015.

The announcement of the Guyana Prize for Literature brought back fond memories of Victor Ramraj, a colleague and respected academic, who passed away in 2014. Ramraj was involved in The Prize on many occasions, twice serving as Chief Judge. Over the years, Ramraj had been one of many who bequeathed me loads of publications in line with my work. Over the years, he would tug along heavy tomes, some with hard covers, in

V.S. Naipaul (b 1932)

his suitcase/s, sometimes in his wife Ruby's, suitcase/s, for this grateful litterateur.

The Bharatiya Divas started its celebration Jan 9, the day Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa. It is an annual event to celebrate the contributions/achievements of people of Indian origin (PIO). Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is also called the Non-Resident Indian Day. One of the publications that Ramraj gave to me is entitled, “The man who suffers and the mind which creates: V. S Naipaul on Mahatma Gandhi”, which was the transcript of Ramraj’s lecture at the 2009 Annual Lecture for The Gandhi Society of Calgary, published by the University of Calgary.

The Gandhi Society “promotes the values that Mahatma Gandhi focused on such ideas as non-violence, peace, and international

Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948)

understanding”.

Naipaul is the most prominent Indian writer in the diaspora to comment extensively on Gandhi. He is just as scathing and critical of Gandhi as dealing with other personalities and situations. Naipaul’s thoughts on Gandhi could be found in the following books, “An Area of Darkness” (1964), “India: A wounded civilization” (1977), and “India a million mutinies now” (1990). In his latest non-fiction collection, “A writer’s people” (2008), Naipaul focused on Gandhi again in two essays ‘Looking and not seeing – the Indian way’ and ‘India again’.

Naipaul was born in Trinidad to second generation Indians who came from India to Trinidad as indenture workers.

M o h a n d a s Karamchand Gandhi known as the Mahatma (Great Soul) was the most significant voice in India independence movement against British colonial rule. He was nominated five times for the Nobel Prize for Peace.

Victor Ramraj was born in British

Victor Ramraj (1941-2014)

Guiana where he exhibited a leaning towards literature before migrating to North America. His Indian ancestors were brought to Guyana from India as indenture labourers.

All three men – Gandhi, Naipaul and Ramraj - in various ways contributed to the shaping of Guyanese Literature.

Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com What’s happening: • Now available two new books by Basdeo Mangru, "Colonial Emigration from the Bengal Presidency” and “Kanpur to Kolkata: Labour recruitment for the sugar colonies”.

History of Georgetown... ing of the company, on August 6, it was reported that 650 private lamps and 50 street lamps had been ordered and works expected to start on January 1, followed by lighting the greater part of High Street from Brickdam to Kingston.

On January 17, 1891, crowds of people filled the street to look at the new lights being turned on. Since that time, electric slowly, but surely, replaced gas, until the gas company was compelled to discontinue its operations and gas light-

ing came to an end.

Tree planting

The first attempt at tree planting in the streets was a short line of Fiddlewood trees, with here and there a batseed, Andira inermis, in Commerce Street. These were planted before 1870. A great impetus was given to ornamental planting by the laying out of the Promenade Gardens in 1853, when many trees and shrubs were imported from the Trinidad Botanical

Gardens and elsewhere.

An early attempt to decorate Main Street was by a double line of Oleanders on either side of the canal, but these bushes never looked well due to them being damaged by the public.

An avenue of Mahogany trees in Le Repentir Cemetery dates from about 1870, and the coconut palms near the seawall were planted about the same time.

Rodway in his book stated, “All these were but poor attempts at street decoration, and we

from page 31

must thank the Botanic Gardens for almost everything [regarding trees] we have today.”

A recently added sign on one of the trees, obliquely of Walter Roth Museum on Main Street, reads: “Rain Tree, scientific name: Samanea saman.

Interesting facts: Native to Tropical America, grows up to 50m tall and spreads as wide as 200 human steps, seeds are chewed for sore throat.”

(Information from “The story of Georgetown” by James Rodway)

36

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

J k es

Oh baby!

This week's Crossword

Lady sits down on a train. Man sitting next to her turns to her and says, “Lady, that is the ugliest baby I have ever seen. That baby looks in a mirror, it’s going to shatter. You oughta put a bag on that baby’s head. That baby is just ugly.”

The woman, horrified, stands up and shouts for the conductor. “Conductor, this man has insulted me.”

“I’m so sorry, ma’am,” the conductor replies.

“What he did is totally unacceptable on this train.

I will deal with him later, but for now, please come with me. We’ll give you a nice seat in the firstclass carriage — and a banana for your monkey.”

Soup story

Old man comes into a restaurant, sits at his usual table, and orders the usual — matzoh ball soup.

The waiter sets it down in front of him, and stands back to watch him enjoy it. But the man just sits there.

“Is there something wrong?” the waiter asks.

“I can’t eat this soup,” the man replies.

“Is it too hot?” the waiter asks. “No.” “Too cold?” “No.” “Too salty?” “No.” The waiter calls for the maître d’, and for the chef, and each goes through the same routine: “Too hot?” “Too cold?”

“No, no no.”

Finally, the chief, at his wits end, says, “Sir, I will taste the soup myself. Where is the spoon?”

Says the old man: “A-ha!”

Riddles

What did one eye say to the other eye?

Don’t look now, but something between us smells.

Why did Tigger stick his head in the toilet?

He was looking for Pooh!

What does JCpenny and teenagers have in common?

Pants 50 percent off.

This week's Puzzle

Why did the chicken cross the basketball court?

He heard the referee calling fowls.

Labour laugh

A guy calls the hospital. He says, "You gotta send help! My wife's going into labour!"

The nurse says, "Calm down. Is this her first child?"

He says, "No! This is her husband!"

The here after

A vicar was talking to one of his parishioners.

Vicar: When you get to my age, you'll spend a lot more time thinking about the hereafter.

Parishioner: Why do you say that?

Vicar: Well, I often find myself going into a room and thinking, what did I come in here after?

One liners

1. Escalators don’t break down… they just turn into stairs.

2. “I’m sorry” and “I apologize” mean the same thing… except when you’re at a funeral.

3. Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Three birders walk into a bar…

Birder 1: What kind of bird is that?

Birder 2: A gulp.

Birder 1: A gulp? Never heard of it.

Birder 2: It's like a swallow, only it's bigger

Funny real signs

see solution on page 46

Sign on restaurant window: "Don't stand there and be hungry. Come in and get fed up."

Sign on a long-established New Mexico dry cleaners: “38 years on the same spot.”

Sign in a Maine restaurant: “Open 7 days a week and weekends.”

Sign in a non-smoking area: “If we see you smoking we will assume you are on fire and take appropriate action.”

feature 37

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Major investment conference in TT ACS urges sustainable

P

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: As government seeks to take steps to protect Trinidad and Tobago’s economy from the negative implications of falling global oil prices and seeks new opportunities for economic growth during this period of uncertainty in the international energy arena, Latin Finance and the Trinidad and Tobago International Financial Centre (TTIFC) are joining forces to stage a major finance and investment forum in TT which could offer solutions to these challenges.

The forum is called the 2015 Caribbean Finance and Investment Forum.

Scheduled to take place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Port-of-Spain from March 4 to 5, the objective of the forum is to “bring together regional public and private sector leaders with international investors, financiers and corporate leaders for two days of interactive panel discussions, informative presentations and pre-arranged one-on-one meetings, designed to explore investment opportunities, connect participants and meaningfully drive forward the regional agenda.”

Information provided to the TT media about the upcoming forum states that, “from tourism and banking to energy and infrastructure, the economies of the Caribbean provide investors with a wealth of investment opportunities across a wide spectrum of industries and

asset classes.”

According to a draft agenda for the forum, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is listed to give the keynote address on the opening day, March 4.

At a news conference on Monday, Planning Minister Dr Bhoe Tewarie indicated PersadBissessar will seek to advance talks on the establishment of a new regional agreement on energy market matters – including Petrocaribe – at this conference.

The first panel discussion to follow the Prime Minister’s address at the 2015 Caribbean Finance and Investment Forum is entitled, “What is the roadmap to a connected future?”

With the World Bank estimating that the Caribbean could experience economic growth of 3.6 percent in 2015, participants in this panel discussion will examine the current health of the region’s economies; the current condition of its capital markets; regional initiative in energy, infrastructure, health and education and how renewable energy and services can provide a stable foundation for generations to come.

This panel will be moderated by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Latin Finance, Katie Llanos Small. Members of the panel include Trade Minister Vasant Bharath; Massy Group President and CEO, Gervase Warner and Hans Schulz,

Vice-President for the Private Sector and NonSovereign Guaranteed Operations of the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB).

With correspondents spread throughout Latin America, Latin Finance is one of four EII flagship titles along with Euromoney; Institutional Investor and Asiamoney.

The primary focus of Latin Finance is debt, equity, structured finance, syndicated lending and multilateral financing and on the practical application of these products in finance and/or investment by sovereign, financial and corporate issues and portfolio, private equity and hedge fund investors.

Latin Finance exists to explain Latin America, its countries, companies and assets to international investors.

The TTIFC is an investment promotion agency created to boost a company’s operations by connecting prospective partners in financial services with excellent right sourcing resources and talent in TT. The TTIFC’s vision is to make this country “the premier location in the Western Hemisphere for financial services.” The organisation’s mission statement is, “To attract and facilitate foreign direct investment in the financial services sector, that would enhance the growth and diversification of the economy by creating sustainable employment.” (TT Newsday)

Canadian trade delegation developing business linkages with Barbados and the region

B

RIDGETOWN, BARBADOS: Business and institutional representatives from Canada’s Prince Edward Island (PEI) are visiting Barbados and other Caribbean islands to develop partnerships with local entrepreneurs, clients and associates.

The trade mission, organized with the support of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (PEI and Tourism), Innovation PEI and the High Commission of Canada to Barbados, consists of 13 companies with expertise in the areas of agriculture, professional services, information and communication technology, education and training and renewable energy.

The visit is also made possible through the active cooperation of the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce and its local partner, the Barbados Chamber of Commerce

and Industry. In 2011, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two Chambers was formalized with a view to fostering increased trade development and investment opportunities between Barbados and Prince Edward Island, through promotional activities, business exchanges and the sharing of best practices.

This MoU was renewed in 2013, and a second renewal is scheduled for Thursday, 29 January 2015, to serve as a further testimony to the commitment that Barbados and PEI have to strengthen this economic partnership.

The initiative has led to the forging of several partnerships across the public and private sectors, the exchange of the Chambers’ best practices and increased commerce and trade between the two jurisdictions.

PEI and Barbados not only share a longstanding history of com-

mercial ties, but also a belief in education and innovation as essential catalysts for economic growth.

Commenting on this upcoming visit, senior trade commissioner at the High Commission of Canada to Barbados, Marc Parisien, stated: “Over the past several years, Prince Edward Island has been very active in building a successful and globally competitive environment for its businesses, focussing on the well-being of its citizens. Working together with Barbados, one of its most important international business partners, and other Caribbean jurisdictions, the province offers to the region products, services and know how relevant to island environments, while giving access to global markets”.

The delegation will be in Bridgetown from 25-31 January 2015.

(Caribbean News)

tourism in TT P ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The Association of Caribbean States recently held a meeting with local tourism stakeholders co-operation on sustainable tourism development. Julio Orozco, director of

Development Company (TDC)—were presented with the aim of identifying cross-cutting areas for co-operation. Donna Ferraz, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, who represented Minister Gerald Hadeed at the meeting,

kind in the region. The STZC incorporates the principles of sustainable development in integrated tourism planning and offers a unique tool to co-ordinate regional efforts in tourism development.

Selection of TT’s

Sustainable Tourism of the ACS, reinforced the importance of cooperation activities and the sharing of achievements to strengthen the countries of the Greater Caribbean.

The work programmes of tourism authorities—the Ministry of Tourism, Tobago House of Assembly (THA) and the Tourism

said the minister and his staff recognised the importance of the discussions, and by extension, the dialogue on sustainable tourism.

Orozco and Amanda Charles, sustainable tourism adviser of the ACS, emphasized the priority of the Sustainable Tourism Zone of the Caribbean (STZC), the first of its

STZC destinations will be prioritized. A number of activities were identified for joint implementation and it was agreed that a representative from the ACS and national tourism agencies will be appointed to work towards formalisation of these proposals.

(TT Guardian)

38 arts & culture

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

W

inston Strick’s artistic talents and dedication to his passion for art have made him a notable artist whose mastery in creating distinguished artwork has been celebrated, as some of his pieces are a permanent fixture in the National Collection housed at Castellani House.

His painting “Silver Moon; Walk on Water”, part of the National Collection, is a beautiful, evocative painting.

It is one of the few, not well-known paintings by Strick. This is because Strick is best known for his superb work in leather. “Silver Moon; Walk on Water” shows that he is an equally excellent painter. In fact, he had pursued painting at the Brooklyn Museum Art School, New York, from 1972-1973. In 1974, he returned to Guyana at a time of nationalistic fervour, when artists of African heritage were returning to their roots.

Although he has never mounted a solo exhibition, Strick’s oeuvre is large and varied. He has won many awards and prizes for his leatherwork, but his paintings have also been recog-

Artist Winston Strick with his National Collection piece "Morning Breeze"

nised - as in 1985 when he won the Brewmasters Competition Painting category.

His artwork “Woman”, also part of the National Collection, is an example of Strick’s artistry in leather. While there are Guyanese who use local leather to make an array of footwear, handbags and crafts items, most of them have not ventured beyond these.

Strick’s use of this medium for creative, artistic pieces is unprecedented.

In addition to this, he displays an astonishing level of artistry and inventiveness in the pieces he has produced. He uses various kinds of leather of different thicknesses, and

incorporate seeds, pieces of metal and other objects and materials to produce works that are truly pieces of fine art.

Indeed, he has won numerous awards for his work.

Strick discovered leather around 1975 and began creating remarkable pieces of sculptural, decorative and even wearable art in this medium. He became associated with the Roots and Culture Gallery, which opened in 1983. The grassroots orientation of this gallery gave Strick an excellent context to explore local materials and develop his art.

In 1991, for his sterling contributions to the field of art in Guyana, Strick was bestowed

"Habitat" 1989 (Oil)

the Medal of Service by former President of Guyana, the late

Hugh Desmond Hoyte.

(Information on Strick’s artwork taken from

“Panorama: A Portrait of Guyana”. Photos courtesy of Castellani House)

news 39

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Trinidad Gov’t set to build 7,000 more houses P O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: With 5,300 housing units given out since 2010, Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal says the government is working to increase construction by 42 per cent over the next two years.

Speaking to new homeowners at Fairfield Estates, Princes Town, on Saturday Moonilal said the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) would build an additional 7,548 homes to meet the growing demand for home ownership.

The development was one of their proud-

Trinidad Housing and Urban Development Minister, Dr Roodal Moonilal, in discussion with a group of people after giving out keys to new housing units at Fairfield Estates, in Princes Town, on Saturday.

est moments, he said, and the HDC intended to include shopping areas and a farmers’ market in the community, which when completed will house a few thousand families. “You will need places to go for entertainment, recreation or even to cut your hair,” he said. He added that they were also working with the farming communities for new housing.

“I dreamt of the day when I could own my own car and when I could get a job. I am still dreaming of the day when I could own my first house. “Our government has been tackling housing and the need for housing.

We have been dealing with this matter.

Our construction effort and delivery is not four and a half years. It is three years because we took one year to access, one year to review, one year to understand the challenges we faced and then we embarked upon our construction programme,” Moonilal said.

After the function, he was approached by a group of squatters who said 30 families had been promised Certificates of Comfort for the past ten years, but only one resident was dealt with. He promised to have those matters looked into. (TT Guardian)

Jamaica’s Golding tables ganja amendments in Senate

K

I N G S T O N , J A M A I C A : Minister of Justice, Senator Mark Golding, tabled the landmark Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill which contains proposed changes to laws affecting the use of ganja, in the Senate on Friday.

Golding had announced last Wednesday at a post Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House that the Bill would be tabled Friday, follow-

Jamaica’s Minister of Justive Senator Mark Golding... tabled landmark Bill

ing

Monday's

approval

of the proposed amendments by Cabinet. The amendments are expected to be supported by the Opposition.

The Bill has proposed the following amendments to the Dangerous Drugs Act, which was enacted in 1948 and last amended in 1987, and the debate is planned for next Friday, January 30: Possession of two ounces or less of ganja to be a non-arrestable, ticketable infraction attracting

Miss Jamaica has won the hearts of many worldwide

K

I N G S T O N , J A M A I C A : Naturally, Jamaicans are feeling some amount of disappointment at the results of the 63rd Miss Universe pageant held in Florida, Sunday night.

The country had obviously got the sense that in Miss Kaci Fennell we had found the first Jamaican winner for this crown, coming after Miss Yendi Phillipps did us proud by placing second in 2010.

Already, many views have been advanced in the post-pageant analysis, and a lot of those opinions are being informed by raw emotion, including some who felt that her fifth placing did not adequately reflect the quality of her brilliance.

Amidst the passionate discussion, though, is a fact that we all know, and accept, that people enter competitions with the knowledge that they will either win or lose.

Miss Fennell herself may well be feeling a sense of underachievement. However, if she is, we would encourage her,

Kaci Fennell

and the many Jamaicans who supported her, not to, but instead to take pride in the fact that she did well -- extremely well.

Placing in the top five of a competition with 88 contestants is no easy feat. Add to that the fact that it takes considerable bravery and selfconfidence to appear on and master a stage in an arena with hundreds of people in the audience, plus millions more watching on television across the world.

Miss Fennell, we believe, was an excellent ambassador for her

country throughout this contest and she deserves our congratulations for holding Jamaica's flag high. She used the interview section to further expose our country's enormous achievements in sports and music, proudly trumpeting the fastest man alive in Usain Bolt and the indomitable reggae megastar Bob Marley.

While we congratulate Miss Colombia on her victory and wish her a successful reign, we are proud to boldly state that Miss Kaci Fennell is our queen. (Jamaica Observer)

a fixed monetary penalty, which shall be payable outside the court system and which does not give rise to a criminal record; Failure to pay the monetary penalty is to be a minor offence, punishable in the Petty Sessions Court by an order for community service; The Bill also seeks to effect reform of the monetary penalties applicable under the Act. Golding said Wednesday that there

will be discussions with the Ministry of Finance and Planning for portions of the revenues generated by the licensing of industry to go into a dedicated fund to be used to provide financial support for a public education programme.

The funds will also be used for drug-abuse support; funding scientific research into the medical and other specific uses of ganja; as well as for providing additional support

for the implementation of a new regulatory regime.

He said that, despite the proposals, Jamaica remains committed to the fight against transnational drug trafficking and organised crime.

"Save for the specific reforms that we have announced, the criminal sanctions for illicit activities involving ganja remain as currently set out in the Dangerous Drugs Act," he said then.

(Jamaica Observer)

40 news

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Green light for sugar factory financing in Barbados

B

R I D G E T O W N , BARBADOS: Cabinet has approved financing for the much discussed multipurpose sugar factory and has signalled its intention to become a major player in the supply of sugar to the regional market.

Minister of Agriculture Dr David Estwick confirmed on Monday that Cabinet gave the go-ahead for the financing at its January 8 meeting, with funds being provided by the Trinidad and Tobago-based Ansa Merchant Bank.

Reports indicated that the bank was providing Bds$60 million in financing for disbursement to the farmers to increase cane production and to satisfy the start-up operations of the proposed multi-purpose factory at Andrews, in time for the 2017 crop season.

Estwick said stakeholders would be updated on the status of the arrangement on Wednesday.

“We are now finalizing the funding for the field side . . . which means I am hoping to have a meeting on Wednesday where I can now lay out . . . the way forward for sustaining the agriculture sector, both on the sugar side and the non-sugar

Barbados Minister of Agriculture Dr David Estwick

side,” he told a St James South branch meeting of the ruling Democratic Labour Party.

“I’ll be holding a meeting with all the players and I’ll be bringing in all the stakeholders and giving them a clear indication as to how we’ll be taking that sector forward over the next five to ten years and settle that sector down.”

The state-of-the-art sugar factory is part of the Cane Industry Restructuring Project which has a projected cost of US$250 million.

Phase one would focus on

the production of high-end direct consumption sugar, sugar for export, bulk sugar for domestic consumption, high-end sugar for the rum industry, and 25 megawatts of electricity for the national grid.

In phase two, attention would turn to the production of biomedical products. In that regard, the minister challenged young scientists to work with government to create value-added products from sugar cane.

Estwick maintained his previously announced position that 2015 would be the final year for selling bulk sugar to Europe due to its unprofitability.

Rather, he said, the focus would shift to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) market, where he estimated states import close to Bds$1 billion in sugar from outside the region.

“We need to shift the marketing strategy away from a losing export position to a regional positive position and the second variable of that is that all the value added products, that is our market,” Estwick said, while promising to challenge CARICOM’s Council for Trade and Economic Development where necessary. (Barbados Today)

Genetically engineered mosquitoes reduce dengue and chikungunya in Panama

O

X F O R D , ENGLAND: An outdoor pilot trial of an engineered strain of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits the dengue and chikungunya viruses, has resulted in a reduction of over 90% in the local population of the mosquito.

The study took place in a neighbourhood of Nuevo Chorrillo, a residential suburb of the Arraiján District, west of Panama City. The 10-hectare urban area is home to approximately 900 residents and contains a school and several small businesses. Two similar neighbourhoods nearby were monitored for comparison purposes.

Male Oxitec OX513A mosquitoes, termed 'friendly mosquitoes' by many residents, were released throughout the study area on a regular ba-

sis. Whenever these males, which cannot bite or transmit disease, mated with local female Aedes aegypti, their offspring died before adulthood.

This reduced the population in successive generations of mosquitoes until, after only six months, the reduction was over 90% relative to the comparison sites. Hadyn Parry, CEO of Oxitec commented: The pilot was conducted by the Gorgas Institute with the OX513A eggs and technical support coming from Oxitec.

Nestor Sosa, director of the Gorgas Institute, said: "Panama, like many countries in the region, has been experiencing a dengue epidemic and more recently we are seeing a new virus, chikungunya, coming to our country.

(Caribbean News Now)

news 41

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

calls on TT PM to Cassava muffin project Ramesh remove Speaker, AG launched in TT P

Trinidad Food Production Minister, Senator Devant Maharaj, left, joins members of the scouts attached to the Tunapuna RC School, on Friday, to try out a tasty cassava muffin

P

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: The production of local fruits and vegetables has doubled, giving impetus to the campaign to have schoolchildren eat more local foods, the Minister of Food Production has said.

Speaking at the launch of the Cassava Muffin Project at the Tunapuna Boys’ RC School on Friday, Senator Devant Maharaj, Minister of Food Production, said production for some commodities had been on the upswing. He was delivering the feature address for the project which is a collaboration between his ministry, Namdevco and the National Schools Dietary Services Ltd. Maharaj said between 2010 and 2014, production of cassava went up from 82,800 pounds to 207,000 pounds; that of cabbage went up

from 296,700 pounds to 593,400 pounds; and dasheen went up from 28,463 pounds to 51,750 pounds. The production of tomatoes and pumpkin also doubled.

“Farmers were able to either double or triple the local food output over the last four years for 21 commodities identified by the school nutrition programme as part of its eat local campaign.

I am told that for the first time the National Schools Dietary Services Ltd has been able to use local produce every single day of its 20-day menu cycle. “This has resulted in a 70 per cent increase in local food content in the menus of the school-feeding programme, up from 30 per cent in 2010.”

Maharaj said cassava was important for both food security and nutrition as it contained high levels of carbohy-

drates and was adaptable to poor soils and water stress, making it less susceptible to climate change, as well as being compatible with a wide variety of crops in rotational farming.

He said it was the aim of his administration to reduce imported staples by between 29 and 100 per cent.

Dr Andy Ali, chairman of the National Schools Dietary Programme, said his organisation was aiming to get as much local produce into the 154,000 meals it served daily to 120,000 children. Ali said some of the challenges included the abuse of pesticides, availability and safety.

He said 153,000 pounds of cassava were required every school term for soups, salads, and its new cassava muffin to be served for breakfast. (TT Guardian)

Dominica to become fourth full member of CCJ

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OSEAU, DOMINICA: Dominica will become the fourth Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country to become a full member of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) early next month, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has said.

Dominica will join Barbados, Guyana and Belize in being members of both the Original and Appellate Jurisdictions of the CCJ that was established in 2001 to replace the London-based Privy Council as the region’s final court.

The CCJ also acts as an international tribunal interpreting the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas that governs the 15-member regional integration movement.

Last year, Dominica received the formal go-ahead from Britain to delink from the Privy Council and join the CCJ and Skerrit, speaking on the stateowned DBS radio said that the island’s acceptance of the CCJ would become a reality by early February.

“Last year we made the amendment to the Constitution to allow Dominica to recognise the CCJ as its final court. I

Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit

can say that by very early next month, the court will come into full effect,” Skerrit said, adding that there were some administrative matters that had to be dealt with.

“But I expect the court to come into full effect for Dominica by early February 2015. Certainly as we indicated last year this is an historic opportunity for Dominica. It would mean allowing more ordinary citizens to have greater access to the judicial system,” he said.

“I am very pleased to announce that, come February the court will take full effect in Dominica,” he added. (CMC)

ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Former Attorney General Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj has called on the Prime Minister to remove House Speaker Wade Mark and Attorney General Anand Ramlogan.

Speaking at a news conference at his San Fernando office on Tuesaday, Maharaj said the Prime Minister has to take action if she is serious about governance.

Maharaj also called on Mark and Ramlogan to resign.

On the issue of Mark, Maharaj said: “What the Speaker did was not an ordinary error. What the Speaker did was a grave injustice to the people of Chaguanas West and to the country as a whole, in preventing a Mem-ber of Parliament from moving a motion of censure against the minister.

Last Friday, Chaguanas West MP Jack Warner abruptly ended his presentation in Parliament after he was told by Mark he would not be able to raise an issue because it was not part of the motion of censure brought against Finance Minister Larry Howai.

Mark told Parliament he had been informed by

Former Attorney General Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj

the Judiciary of a matter involving Howai which was before the court and, therefore, debate on the motion was sub judice.

On Monday, the Judiciary said it had not communicated with Mark.

Mark apologised in a statement a short time later and said it was Howai who had informed him.

Maharaj said if the Speaker does not resign, and is not asked to resign by the Government, there can be a motion in the Parliament by which he can be removed.

He said the motion will have to be supported by the Government because the Gov¬ernment has the majority.

Concerning allegations of witness tampering involving Ramlogan, Maharaj said: “This matter concerns the integrity of the entire

Cabinet and whether the rule of law would prevail.

The rule of law means no one is above the law and the highest public official is subject to the law of the land.”

Maharaj said PersadBissessar has to act.

“It must not appear that the Prime Minister is acting now because it is a general election because the Prime Minister would have to do what is honourable in these circumstances. Not only to get rid of the Attorney General, at least temporarily, but also to take other action if it is to be seen that she is serious about governance in Trinidad and Tobago....

“If the Prime Minister sits down and allows this to continue, the Prime Minister, as head of the Government, has collective responsibility; she is just as guilty as every¬body else that she condones. And every member of Cabinet is just as guilty....

“I am still hoping that the Prime Minis¬ter...in the last few months of her prime ministership, subject to any national elections results, would decide that the country comes first and the politics comes after,” he said. (TT Express)

42 feature

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Sweet pan in the East of TT

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ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Another enthusiastic crowd of pan music lovers flocked the Arima Velodrome on Saturday evening to hear the offerings of 18 Single Pan steel orchestras from the Eastern Region of Pan Trinbago.

And like the night before at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain, they were not disappointed. The bands presented an array of great music as they appeared before the judges.

But many patrons complained they were not able to see the bands perform because of the position of the tent which covered the judges. This forced them to come forward on the fence.

Asked about the problem Eastern Region chairman Vernon Morancie said, “This happened last year with the conventional bands and I requested tents with extension poles but they were not delivered.

I am totally disappointed with the contractor. I humbly apologise to all patrons for the inconvenience.”

Playing in posi-

Trinidad East Side Symphony

tion five, joint defending champions San Juan East Side Symphony made a statement with Duvonne Stewart’s arrangement of Ronnie McIntosh’s “Shaking It”.

After the performance a confident Stewart said, “The players have done enough to make me proud, we are coming to

win once more.”

The other defending champion Pan Jammers of Santa Cruz came on stage oozing confidence. Under the guidance of retired army officer Robert Tobitt, this bunch of youths showed discipline in the task before them and had the entire Velodrome audi-

ence screaming.

They took Tobitt’s arrangement of Chris Garcia’s “Chutney Bacchanal” and made it into a work of art as they danced, sang and played. The composer/ singer was in the audience and he too was very pleased with Pan Jammers’ rendition of

his song. He even posed with some of the players for pictures after the performance.

The event ran smoothly with a quick change around time between bands which never left the audience waiting for music. DJ KC Class is Class filled in the short gaps while

the bands exited and entered the stage area.

Once again the intermission went to double the time specified testing the patience of some of the music lovers. But Morancie said this happened because several bands were having trouble getting into the Velodrome.

It was very obvious that the young arrangers are making a statement with the music they are putting out as seen by Marlon White and Marsicans, Carlon Harewood and Trinidad East Side Symphony, Amrit Samaroo and Trinidad Nostalgic, Duvonne Stewart, Curtis Marcelle and Arima All Stars Steel and Jerod Lett and San Juan All Stars.

The majority of bands chose to play songs from the past with newcomers Sound of Music being the only band to play a 2015 selection - “The Holy Grail”.

Four songs by Lord Kitchener “Kaka Roach”, “No Wuk For Carnival”, “Sweet Pan” and “Rainorama” led the way followed Arrow’s “Long Time” and “Oh La La”. (TT Newsday)

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Aerial view of Iwokrama River Lodge and Research Centre and untouched rainforest where the Screaming Piha Nature Trail is located (Photo by Alan Hopkins)

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he Screaming Piha Nature Trail is one of thenumerouswildlife trails you can visit inthe Iwokrama forest. It is located near the Iwokrama River Lodge and Research Centre.

Entering this trail, you experience the magnificent Mora forest, one of the many forest types in Guyana. This forest experiences seasonal flooding,which is typical of this forest type. As part of your walk, you would be amazed by the stunning views of the Essequibo River.

Some of the trees you would encounter are the hugeMora treesthat rise over the canopy, which defines this forest type; the Soft Wallaba trees, which we get electricity poles and shingles from, and the Wamara trees – found only in Guyana.

Additionally, there are opportunities to see various lianas(woody vines) and aerial roots such as the Kufa and Nibbi.

Kufa and Nibbi are important non-timber forest products that are used to make furniture, baskets and many other items.

On the Screaming Piha Nature Trail, you can also experience a rich, diverse fauna, including birds such as the screaming piha, a small bird with a beautiful call – that obviously gave the trail its name; capuchin birds, the greychinned hermit humming bird, grey antbird, chestnut woodpecker, the greywinged trumpeter, the black-necked

travel & tourism 43

It's still fun on the trail even in the wet season

Tour guide describing young Kufa vines to tourists Screaming Piha impressively vocalising, which leaves all in awe of its thunderous voice (Photo by Dave Curtis)

aracari and many others. Often there are also sightings of mammals like the agouti, an important seed disperser, various species of monkeys, and if you are very lucky, you may see the elusive cats such as the jaguar or ocelot.

To learn more about the Screaming Piha Nature Trail call Iwokrama’s office on 225-1504, email tourism@iwokrama. org; visit www. iwokramariverlodge. com or theIwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development Centre on Facebook.

44

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Big brains

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atiricus always knew he was no brainiac. And in case he forgot, his friends were always there to remind him. So Satiricus, not surprisingly, is in awe of those fellas and felines (see???) who could whip off the answers to brain twisters like, “What’s the capital of Kazakstan? Or why’s Miley Cyrus such a bitch?”

This fella Rambo Gaspin was one of Satiricus’ heroes in the brains department. The fella had once been a big one.

He had run the electricity company…that’s right.

“That he had run it into the ground is neither here nor there,” thought Satiricus. People were so picky!! What was the important thing was that Rambo Gaspin had an answer to every question – and then some.

“Take this prorogation business,” said Satiricus to his

buddy Cappo the cane cutter. “Rambo says we must come out into the streets to make sure Prezzie ends it.” The rains just wouldn’t stop so that Satiricus was forced by his high sense of loyalty to keep Cappo’s company at the back street bar.

“Budday!! You bettah ask Rambo something,” retorted Cappo, “When dem bin a gat Parliament, ah wha dem Opposition people bin do??”

“Cappo, you always wrong-sided,” said Satiricus hotly. “I ain’t talking about that. Rambo talking about the principle of the thing.”

“Principle me arse!!” Shouted Cappo, who’d already downed ten Banks. He’d heard D’Aguiar’s profits were dropping.” Every time dey don’t sit in Parliament, is Gy$1.7 million we saving in food alone!! Demn MPs can eat, boy!!

When dey sit dey does eat!!”

“OK, Cappo” said Satiricus with a shrug, “I get your point. But all Rambo saying is that Prezzie can’t rule without

Parliament. And that if the people march in the streets, Prezzie got to come to scratches.”

“Really?? How dey gon do da??” asked Cappo sceptically.

“Boy, Rambo already figure that out,” replied Satiricus.

“He said that once Pressie stop the prorogation, two-thirds of the Parliament can vote his ass out! Article 106 Section 7, boy!! That man too smart!!”

“Really??” said Cappo once again. “And where de Opposition gon get two-thirds, when dey only gat only one seat more than Prezzie party??”

Satiricus scratched his head, and was silent.

“But why de Opposition need two-thirds if Pressie call back parliament?” concluded Cappo with a smirk.

“Dey could just kick out Prezzie wid dem No-Confidence Motion!”

“Bai Cappo,” Satiricus said smiling, “Look like the cane didn’t soften you brain. Rambo should take some lessons from you!”

feature 45

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Scott, Hudson bring soul to Tobago Jazz

Both Green Jah and Rum Jhaat wanna be on top

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um Jhaat like to sing and dance to “one in front and one behind”. Especially when he performin pun Station Street and at 7-owe-4 from 7 till 4. Since he and Green Jah start sleepin together, he does sing it nuff times before dem sleep.

He does friken to sing it when he deh home though. Any ting bout front when Rum Jhaat deh home is he in front of a large. And any ting bout behind when Rum Jhaat deh home is he gettin licks in he behind.

Of course, that is licks in he behind to pick up de empty bottles and clean up when he done throw up.

De fact that he does pay dem fellas to clean up after he throw up any where in GT don’t wuk at he home address.

But nowadays no body wanna deh behind. Not Green Jah, not Rum Jhaat. Every wanna be in front like a leadah. And Guyana gotta lotta people who wanna be leadah. No body ever wanna “follow de leadah-leadah-leadah”. That is why Rum Jhaat don’t sing and dance to that.

Rum Jhaat wanna lead Green Jah, and Green Jah wanna lead Rum Jhaat. De best ting woulda be to put de two of dem to lead one another. Or as Sparrow seh, “both awee on top” (of one another). Should be a nice piece of wrestling (hustling?) match to see two old men tryin to get on top of one another.

De Nagga Man wanna be leadah too and in fact Rum Jhaat done put he to be leadah fuh de elections.

Since then Nagga Man start smilin and by de time he done a large he does start laughin.

But old people seh who laugh last laugh de best.

And right now de Nagga Man don’t get to see Rum Jhaat laughin in secret because he tink he gon be de leadah fuh Green Jah, who does also call he heself de leadah.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Soon both of dem gon wanna be on top of Nagga Man!

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ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Grammy and Academy award winner Jennifer Hudson, neosoul singer Jill Scott and legendary soul band Kool & The Gang have been announced as the headline acts for the 2015 Tobago Jazz Experience.

The revelation was made on Monday at the launch of the event at the Paprika Restaurant in St Clair, Port-of-Spain.

This year’s festival is themed Much More Than Music and will run from April 18 to 21.

Hudson will be the main performer on World Music Night while Scott and Kool & The Gang will bring down the curtain on the Beach Jazz Fiesta on the last night of the event.

THA Tourism and Transportation secretary Tracy DavidsonCelestine said the entire event is estimated to cost around TT$13 million.

According to DavidsonCelestine, the figure is based on last year’s expenditure when they invested TT$3 million and received TT$10 million in revenue.

Tickets prices for the Tobago Jazz Experience will see a slight increase.

Event co-ordinator John Arnold did not give a reason for the increase

The announcement that Jill Scott will be performing at the Tobago Jazz Experience has elicited a huge buzz on social media.

but he believes patrons will not be greatly affected by the changes. The Division is also reviewing the option of online ticketing to improve accessibility to patrons.

Last year, many of the earlier events were free while admission to the highly anticipated shows ranged from US$50 to US$150. He also revealed that the General and VIP sections will be divided vertically at the Pigeon Point Heritage Park. This will allow both sections the opportunity to be close to the main stage. Arnold said this was necessary to keep energy levels up at the event. A similar lay-

out was used during the Plymouth Jazz Festival, the predecessor of the Tobago Jazz Experience.

The shuttle service that was heavily criticised for being inefficient in 2014, is also being reviewed. Arnold said the festival saw a 100 per cent growth in patrons in 2014 which caused some new challenges for the event.

Last year, the National Operating Centre assisted with the creation of traffic, security and evacuation plans for the Tobago Jazz Experience.

THA Tourism and Transportation marketing manager Avion

Hercules, said one of the Jazz Experience events will be held at the new Shaw Park Cultural Complex. The multi-million dollar arts and cultural centre is expected to be opened soon. The Tobago Jazz Experience will be one of the first big cultural events to be held at the venue.

The THA estimates that around 60 per cent of the usual patrons of the Tobago Jazz Experience are locals. The division is hoping to increase international support for the 2015 edition. Hercules said they will continue to do press ads across various countries including the United States, Germany and Brazil.

Greater emphasis will also be placed on social and online promotion of the event. Work is also being done alongside hoteliers to build competitive accommodation rates and packages.

Tickets for Tobago Jazz Experience are expected to go on sale from February 19.

Auditions for the Tobago Jazz Experience will be held on Sunday at the Signal Hill Senior Comprehensive School from 9 am to 6 pm.

Interested people can also audition online for a spot at this year’s festival. (TT Guardian)

46 feature

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

National Trust of Guyana 2015 Calendar

A Glimpse of Guyana’s Lost Treasures

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his year, National Trust of Guyana’s calendar narrates the history of several distinctive Guyanese buildings of unique ar-

The old New Amsterdam Hospital

ings today represented what was there before”.

The once illustrious Sacred Heart Church is featured for January and February months.

uated on Main Street, Georgetown, was destroyed by fire in 2004.

The old New Amsterdam Hospital is highlighted for March

Alms House

chitecture and rich history that have been lost to time. These buildings were an irreplaceable part of our built legacy.

According to Lauren Grant from National Trust, the calendar’s objective is to “remind persons of the historic buildings which once graced our landscapes and to inform the younger generation of what once was, lest they think that the modern build-

In 1860, the construction of this new church commenced to accommodate the vast numbers of Roman Catholics in British Guiana. Once designed in a rectangular shape, the original building measured 30.5m x 9.1m. An eastern façade, which became the main façade, was designed by architect Cesar Castellani and erected in 1872.

This church, once sit-

Sacred Heart Church

and April. The old New Amsterdam Hospital, once located in Region Six, Berbice, in the town of New Amsterdam, was one of Guyana’s outstanding historical buildings. It was built in 1844 and designed by renowned architect Cesar Castellani, and described as a “timber architectural masterpiece”. The building was declared unfit to function as the primary hospital of the region and it was left abandoned where it

collapsed over time due to constant vandalism and deterioration.

May and June highlights The Alms House.

The architectural design of the original Alms House, in Brickdam, was again the ingenuity of architect, Cesar Castellani. It was completed in 1878. Since its original construction, other structures have been added in the complex to accommodate its growing population of the elderly and disabled. The Alms House was renamed the Palms but the nature and objectives of the institution remained the same.

Over time the original Alms House slowly deteriorated and was later demolished.

For the months of July and August, the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is featured. Located in Brickdam, the foundation stone for this edifice was laid April 21, 1868

by Governor Hincks. It was consecrated August 25, 1878. The remarkable feat of timber craftsmanship was designed by celebrated architect, Cesar Castellani. On March 7, 1913 it was destroyed by fire. The “Brickdam Cathedral”

St. Barnabas Church

Park Hotel

a stone edifice, replaced the structure.

Park Hotel is the feature building for September and October.

The Park Hotel was built during the 1900s and was owned by the Kissoon family. Its colonial architecture, evident in the use of timber, Demerara shutters and its veranda, was common at that time.

Once located in Main Street in the heart of the city of Georgetown, this landmark hotel was de-

stroyed by fire in May 2000.

November and December features the St. Barnabas Church.

The Anglican Church of St. Barnabas, where it once stood at Regent Street and Orange Walk, Bourda, opened as a rather small building in 1884. It was consecrated in 1938. The St. Barnabas Church with its flying buttresses and massive towers was sold and later demolished in 2011.

Damned if yuh do and damned if yuh don’t

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ld people gotta sayin that some times yuh does be damned if yuh do and still damned if yuh don’t. That got to be de way de Prezzie musbe feelin right now wid whah goin on in this country.

Every ting whah Rum Jhaat and Green Jah want, de Prezzie give dem double. Dem ask fuh dialogue, and when dem get it, dem didn’t want it. And dem ain’t tek it. Instead dem tek dem eyes and pass de Prezzie and de people of this country.

De Prezzie still ask dem again and again, and again and again dem still ain’t tek it. All de time Rum Jhaat prefer to tek he tuks and Green Jah prefer to tek he eyes and pass de Kissmoon woman in Linden.

Then dem complain that de Prezzie prorogue Parliament. De Prezzie seh don’t worry, elections in the New Year. So said, so done. De Prezzie keep he promise and call de elections. First month in 2015, and elections date done call arready.

Some of dem ambASSadors stay just like that.

Green Jah and Rum Jhaat run so much to dem ambASSadors that dem behavin just like dem two crooks. Dem fuhget that dem name ambASSadors and not Prezzie. And that mASSa days done.

De Ayre Man had a lotta air bout him. So when he jump up in de air and talk sheer hot air, by de time he reach back down, he had to go back to wheh he come from to get some cold air.

De Hardt Man had also learn de same ting de hard way. Since then de man who suppose to replace he friken to come.

A couple of months ago KopASSky and de HeeYou tell de Guvament that dem was doin well wid every ting fuh de lil sea defence money and fuh de lil sugar money. Now suddenly de money get hold up.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! It got to be that KopASSky ASSume that he can still behave like a mASSa.

News 47

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Jamaica’s Blue Lagoon to rise again - Lee-Chin’s company defends slow pace of restoration of world-famous property after stakeholders cry foul

The pre-nup negotiations K

S

atiricus’ ears perked up. After years of hemming and hawing and fervent denials, Rum Jhaat of the KFC had come out and fessed up that he was open to tying the matrimonial knot with GrainJa and the Pee-anSee. “Isn’t this sweet!!?” murmured Satiricus to himself. “History is repeating itself.” Satiricus had heard the story from his Daddy so many times.

Once upon a time, the Pee-an-See just couldn’t get rid of the PPCEE ― no matter how hard it tried. And by golly it tried! Its leader Burnt Ham was a fella who salivated when he just thought about power. So up came the good, ole Land of the Yankee Dollar Bill ― (YANKS), who created a new party called “United Farce”.

Not “The United Farce” …that’s another story.

Just “United Farce”! And in no time at all, lo and behold (that’s how Satiricus’ Daddy talked), United Farce entered the elections and picked up four seats.

The money flowed like honey to United Farce from the YANKS. The United Farce hated the PPCEE because that party was for the great unwashed masses. “And you know money goes to where money is,” said Satiricus Daddy, “and the money people went to United Farce!”

So up came another election and by now the YANKS were supporting both the Pee-an-See and United Farce. So even though the Pee-an-See didn’t like United Farce ― Burnt Ham thought those rich folks looked down on him ― the YANKS told them they had to tie the knot. As the YANKS say, it was a “shotgun” wedding!!

And by golly, the married couple of the Pee-anSee and United Farce ousted the PPCEE. But like most shotgun weddings, the groom really didn’t like the bride, and as soon as the honeymoon was over, the Pee-an-See started to take advantage of United Farce. “And if you think domestic violence is bad now, you should hear about that story,” thought Satiricus.

So after a couple of years, United Farce had to get a divorce. “But the poor dear got nothing from the marriage…and pretty soon it just petered out,” concluded Satiricus’ Daddy.

So Satiricus was happy when he heard Rum Jhaat say, “Dis time na lang time!” (That was how Rum Jhaat spoke.) Even though the YANKS had funded his KFC party ― and a Big Dick Poll ― and he had gotten five seats ― he remembered the fate of United Farce when the YANKS told him he now had to hitch up with the Pee-an-See. “Me gat fuh wear de pants,” said Satiricus.

And using his lawyer’s “town” voice concluded, “And me want a pre-nuptial agreement.” Satiricus wondered whether Granger would allow himself to be neutered.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

I N G S T O N , J A M A I C A : Michael LeeChin's Portland Holdings is dismissing claims that the Canadian billionaire has abandoned the world-renowned Blue Lagoon attraction in his home parish.

Once considered to be the gem of the Caribbean, the Blue Lagoon was purchased by Portland Holdings in 2009 with a promise from Lee-Chin that it would be restored to its former glory.

However, almost six years later, craft vendors, homeowners and other stakeholders around the once picturesque property, including president of the recently formed Craft Vendors' Alliance, Colin Beckford, have charged that those promises were empty, and the poor state of the property is now crippling their business.

"We have lost faith in Mr Lee-Chin.

Approximately six years ago when Mr Lee-Chin visited the Blue Lagoon, he spoke about his intention to redevelop the facility, and that we the craft vendors would be an integral part going forward. I believed every word back then, as this man had restored hope in us. But it has not happened," declared an obviously disappointed Beckford.

He noted that the Blue Lagoon, which was once Portland's premier tourist attractions, has attracted many of the world's rich and famous over the years.

The facility once housed a restaurant which is now partially submerged and rotting away - a mineral spa, a helicopter landing spot, and bathrooms - now covered by vegetation and closed to the public.

Baker is confident that with the timely approval of plans that will be submitted to the relevant agencies by February, the project should be completed by December 2015.

"Look at the Trident.

We started construction in April and it was completed by Christmas in the same year. That's my goal for the Blue Lagoon.

It will have to be opened by season coming and I want the community's support on that," said Baker.

"We will be putting in booths for vendors as well as an area for the public to see and swim, which will have lifeguards and

The partially submerged and decaying restaurant at the Blue Lagoon

changing rooms. These were never there before, but we want to do everything to support the community."

Baker went on to state that it was LeeChin's commitment to the community which had caused him to prioritise the Trident's renovation over that of his own private villa, the Blue Marlin, which is located closely to the Lagoon.

The unfinished property has upset neighbours and craft vendors, who say the unsightly building surrounded by zinc fences is driving away visitors from the attraction and causing a reduction in the value of their properties.

"Michael is as keen as anybody to get the Blue Marlin finished, but he'll always put the community first, and the commu-

nity is the hotel that employs 240 persons, that's 240 families," stressed Baker.

"So he recognised that the Trident had to be first, then the Lagoon, and then the house, for the record plans have already been submitted (to the parish council) for the house and we are expecting them back momentarily." (Jamaica Gleaner)

48 Hollywood

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Selena Gomez, Zedd enjoy bowling date A

Kristen Stewart to take a break from showbiz

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inger-actress Selena Gomez was spotted going on a bowling date with her rumoured boyfriend Zedd.

The 22-year-old ‘The Heart Wants What It Wants’ took to Instagram to post a video of her and Zedd showing off their bowling skills, reported Ace Showbiz.

The video began with Selena and Zedd each bringing a bowling ball.

As they launched their balls down the lanes at the same time, the video went into a slow motion.

The ‘Rudderless’ actress was seen kneeling

down while the DJ jumped up as their balls rolled into the pins.

Selena, who is currently filming ‘The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving’ in Atlanta, was wearing a black over-

sized jacket over a black crop top, grey leggings and black shoes.

Zedd, meanwhile, sported a grey long-sleeved top paired with jeans and black shoes with white soles. (Indian Express)

fter working back-to-back for two years, actress Kristen Stewart is ready to step away from Hollywood to pursue her other hobbies and relax.

During an appearance on ‘Live! With Kelly and Michael,’ Stewart, 24, said after wrapping up filming for ‘Still Alice,’ she has just been relaxing and enjoying pursuing her other hobbies.

The ‘Twilight’ star admitted to the host’s that after working “for a solid two years” she wants to stay out of the public for a while. “I need to

breathe. You can say one thing about a detail of your life and it expands like wildfire. Like, ‘Oh, so you’re a painter now!’ I’m like, ‘Not at all, I’m like in middle school art class in my garage,

basically,'” she said.

‘Still Alice’ is directed

by Richard Glatzer and Wash Westmoreland and based on Lisa Genova’s 2007 bestselling novel of the same name. (Indian Express)

Miley Cyrus goes topless Emma Stone ‘uncomfortable’ while playing in the ocean with paparazzi attention

A

ctress Emma Stone has revealed that she finds paparazzi attention “uncomfortable” outside her home.

The 26-year-old actress, who is dating her “Amazing Spider-Man” co-star

Andrew Garfield, said she will never enjoy seeing people outside her house snapping photographs of her, reported the New York Times.

“It’s uncomfortable to have photographers outside of your home. That’s never going to feel good, and I don’t think that’s OK. Yet there’s also a goal to live life normally. So, if they photograph you walking to the same restaurant every morning, like you do when you live in a neighbourhood. Honestly, I try not to think about it any longer than when it’s happening,” she said.

Stone said she feels incredibly “protective” of her personal life.

“For me, I value privacy so much and I understand why I need to talk about the work, the films and all of that but it’s incredibly hard to reveal stuff about my life, so it makes me feel pretty boring and very protective.”

(Indian Express)

Fatherhood is a mix of happy and exhausted moments: Ryan Reynolds

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yan Reynolds is adjusting to fatherhood quite

well.

The actor said life is great after his daughter was born, reported Ace Showbiz.

“I gotta jump in and do all those sorts of things. I mean, I’ve even tried breastfeeding,” the first-time father joked.

“It’s frustrating for the baby and frankly disturbing for me… Not well is the answer. It’s amazing that you can be that exhausted and that

happy at the same time,” he added.

Reynolds, 38, and his actress wife Blake Lively, 27, welcomed their first child together last December, two

years after they got married.

The hunky actor was at the Sundance Film Festival to promote his new film, “Mississippi Grind”. (Indian Express)

Lupita Nyong’o splits from rapper boyfriend

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scar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has reportedly split from Somalian rapper boyfriend K’naan.

The ‘12 Years a Slave’ star has been linked to K’naan since last March, but their romance has since fizzled out, and they actually broke up in late 2014, reported Us maga-

zine.

But Nyong’o, 31, has already been linked to another entertainer – fellow Oscar winner Jared Leto. During the Screen Actors Guild Awards, the two served as co-presenters, and following the Los Angeles ceremony, they were spotted at an after party, flirting and dancing

with each other.

The reports of a romance between Nyong’o and Leto began last year as they ran into each other on the awards show circuit, but both stars dismissed the gossip, with the actress joking about the relationship, suggesting “Miley Cyrus broke us up”. (Indian Express)

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op star Miley Cyrus went topless while playing in the ocean with

her boyfriend Patrick Schwarzenegger during their recent vacation in Hawaii.

In new pictures, the 22-year-old songstress wore nothing but a pair of skimpy black undergarments, reported Ace Showbiz.

Two photos showed Patrick putting his arms on Cyrus’ waist as they laughed and splashed around in the water. The son of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver sported light blue swimming shorts.

The couple have been dating each other over the past three months.

(Indian Express)

Angelina Jolie meets ISIS victims in Iraq

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ctress Angelina Jolie has met the victims of ISIS, who have been displaced in refugee camps in Northern Iraq.

Jolie, 39, who is the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, visited the Khanke Camp for Internally Displaced People on Tuesday.

The camp is currently housing tens of thousands of families, who were forced to abandon their homes after they were invaded by the jihadist group Islamic

State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), reported Us magazine.

Jolie gave an impas-

sioned speech, encouraging world leaders to step in and help end the fighting in Syria and Iraq.

I’m completely single: Kelly Brook

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ritish model-actress Kelly Brook has dismissed rumours of a reconciliation with her former fiance David McIntosh, insisting she is

“completely single”. The ‘Piranha 3D’ actress sparked rumours she had reunited with McIntosh following their split in September after they were spotted together in London in last December, reported Daily Mirror.

“I’m completely single at the moment… I’m just living with my girlfriend (in Los Angeles). I’ve got a beautiful apartment in an old Hollywood building and we have a great time.

“There’s no boy messing up the house. I’m like ‘Are you going on a date tonight?’ And she’s like, ‘Nah let’s watch a movie.’ It’s a no-boy zone,” she said. (Indian Express)

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WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

The job of a mentor is more fulfilling: Mahesh Bhatt

Shraddha Kapoor is ‘Queen’ Kangana Ranaut’s fan

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s someone who has directed films like ‘Arth’ ‘Saaransh’ and ‘Zakhm’, Mahesh Bhatt says he was equally comfortable in mentoring the young team behind his upcoming supernatural erotic thriller ‘Khamoshiyan’.

Bhatt has turned presenter for the Karan Derra-directed film that stars Ali Fazal, and will mark the Bollywood debut of TV actors Gurmeet Choudhary and Sapna Pabbi.

The film, produced by Bhatt’s Vishesh Films and presented by Fox Star Studios, will hit theatres on January 30.

“I just love working with the younger lot.

Karan is just 22. He reminded me of my journey when I began in 1973. They say as you get older, you have faith in younger people. I have tremendous faith in him and Ali, Gurmeet and Sapna. They have made

an unusual film,” Bhatt told PTI during a visit here.

“The idea seems familiar- it is in the supernatural erotic space but so is ‘Twilight’ and so are many films in the west.

I think this film’s heart is in the right place and that is why I am with it.

Last time I stepped up was with ‘City Lights’, which was also promoted very aggressively by me,” he added.

Bhatt, 65, said he does not see a contradiction in promoting erotic thrillers as he has made all kind of films though he is famous for his more serious outings.

“I don’t see any contradiction in promoting ‘CityLights’, which was a serious subject on rural migration and a triangular, erotic thriller like ‘Khamoshiyan’. I have made all kinds of films and there is once again a willingness in the audience to accept different

cinema,” Bhatt said.

The filmmaker, who quit direction at the age of 50, said he now enjoys mentoring young people.

“Making a film is very gratifying and intoxicating. It does great things to your self-esteem but pushing people and mentoring them to their full potential is far more fulfilling. Young people have a gaze. Every five years there is a shift in cinema space but we are slow to catch that. Young people understand that shift,” he added.

When asked why Karan was zeroed down upon, Bhatt said that he realised his potential while writing Vidya Balan-Emraan Hashmistarrer ‘Hamari Adhuri Kahani’ with him.

However, Bhatt had to convince Karan hard to helm the film as the newcomer felt it was too soon for him to turn fulltime director. (Indian Express)

Shah Rukh Khan to US President Barack Obama: Next time ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’ for sure

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ollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan on Wednesday said he was proud to get a mention in US President Barack Obama’s speech on gender and religious equality.

Barack Obama charmed the crowd while addressing a town hall event in Siri Fort on the third and final day of his visit to India by quoting Shah Rukh Khan’s famous line ‘Senorita, bade bade deshon mein…’ from blockbuster ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’.

The actor’s name cropped up again in his address as the President

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one should move on from cat fights to the more accepting and courteous

young film stars. Kudos!

(Indian Express, with IANS inputs)

I love to work with new people: Akshay Kumar

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ctor Akshay Kumar says that he likes the idea of working with new talent and this is the reason why he has given “maximum” chances to youngsters under his Hari Om Entertainment banner.

“I have given the

maximum break to new directors, actors and actresses under my banner,” Akshay told IANS. The ‘Khiladi’ Kumar, whose espionage action thriller film ‘Baby’, was released Jan 23, has given breaks to actors like Trisha Krishnan and

Vinay Virmani through his production company.

Also, the 47-yearold doesn’t feel hesitant in working with debutant directors like Sajid-Farhad in ‘Entertainment’ and Ashish R Mohan in ‘Khiladi 786′.

“I love to work with new people as I love new ideas,” he said.

Akshay will next be seen in the action drama ‘Mein Gabbar’ alongside Shruti Haasan. He will also be seen in the Bollywood remake of ‘Warrior’. The film will be released as ‘Brothers’ in India. (Indian Express)

Sunny Leone: From adult-film star to mentor

A Obama picked Shah Rukh Khan, sports icons like Milkha Singh and Mary Kom and Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi’s names to make a point about humanitarian values.

“Proud to be part

of the gender and religion equality speech of President Obama.

Sad he couldn’t do the Bhangra… next time Chaiyya Chaiyya for sure,” Shah Rukh Khan tweeted. (Indian Express)

Jacqueline Fernandez likely to play Mohammad Azharuddin’s wife Sangeeta Bijlani fter starring with Salman Khan in hit flick, ‘Kick’, Sri Lankan beauty Jacqueline Fernandez has quite a few movies in her kitty.

he whole nation is besotted with ‘Queen’; so how could actress Shraddha Kapoor be saved. The pretty actress took to Twitter to praise her contemporary and the lead actress of ‘Queen’.

Moreover, when she bumped into Kangana, who played an inspirational girl next door in the Vikas Bahl directorial, at a party, she appreciated her in person too and called herself Kangana’s fan.

Guess, it’s about time

According to reports, Jacqueline Fernandez, who will be playing a double role in forthcoming film ‘Roy’, will reportedly play Mohammad Azharuddin’s wife,

Sangeeta Bijlani in a biopic based on the former cricketer.

Azharuddin and Sangeeta tied the knot in 1996 and later separated in 2010.

It’s also said that, Jacqueline was not the first choice for the film.

The makers had initially approached Kareena Kapoor Khan. However the actress picked ‘Udta Punjab’ over Anthony D’Souza’s biopic. (Indian Express)

dult-film actress turned Bollywood actress Sunny Leone has surely managed to captivate the audience and has succeeded in creating a niche for herself in Bollywood. Sunny Leone, who impressed her fans with her last film, ‘Ragini MMS 2’, topped the list of most searched Indian celebrities of 2014.

She will now mentor contestants of an online talent-based reality show.

Sunny Leone will be advising the participants including singers, danc-

ers and actors on how to shoot and what they should shoot, according to a report in Hindustan Times.

The show requires the contestants to make vid-

eos showcasing their talent, after which they will upload these videos on the net and be judged on the popularity that their videos generate. (Indian Express)

I love being an actor: Varun Dhawan

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hree films old Varun Dhawan might have start-

ed off as an assistant director, but it’s acting that holds a special

place in his life.

Varun Dhawan tweeted: I was craving for a day off and I finally got it but as the day turns to night I can't wait to get back to work.

I love being an actor.

Before making his acting debut in 2012 with ‘Student of the Year’, he assisted filmmaker Karan Johar on Shah Rukh Khanstarrer ‘My Name is Khan’. (Indian Express)

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WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Jaguars’ preparation a work in St Kitts and Nevis awarded CPL Franchise progress, says Shabazz

By Avenash Ramzan

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ead Coach of the Golden Jaguars, Jamaal Shabazz, said getting the team to peak condition is a work in progress as they prepare to depart for this weekend’s international friendly against hosts Barbados.

During a visit to one of the training sessions earlier this week at the Guyana Defence Force ground, Shabazz highlighted that ever since the camp started last Thursday, the focus has been on getting the players to an acceptable level of fitness.

The local based players have been inactive for close to a month following the conclusion of the various year-end tournaments by the sub-associations, while the few foreign players joined the camp with match time in their legs.

“We’ve not achieved the point to where we would like to be because you know you could only push them so much because they’re not horses, they’re not animals, and I would have liked to be in a lot earlier.

“But having said that, I’m still happy that we can go to Barbados and

Head Coach of the Golden Jaguars, Jamaal Shabazz

give a good account of ourselves,” Shabazz said.

The travelling squad, comprising 18 players, will be announced today (Thursday), and according to Shabazz, the Technical Team has a fair idea of the composition of that squad. The Golden Jaguars are slated to depart Guyana on Friday afternoon onboard a LIAT flight from the Ogle International Airport at 14:50h.

The game is the Golden Jaguars’ first on a path to upward mobility on the FIFA rankings after they would have dropped from an all-time high of 86 in November 2010 to a current position of 167.

The Bajans are ranked 143. The game will be played at the

Barbados National Stadium and kick off time is 19:00h.

The preliminary squad reads: Christopher Nurse, Jamaal Smith, Emery Welshman, Brydon Caeser, O’Neil Carter, Oswald Cornett, Omallo Williams, Travis Henry, Solomon Austin, Kris Camacho, Quincy Madramootoo, Trevon Lithcott, Dwain Jacobs, Amos Ramsey, Daniel Wilson, Keron Solomon, Sheldon Holder, Clive Nobrega, Colin Nelson, Dwight Peters, Tishard Joseph, Dwayne Lawrence, Domini Garnett, Travis Hillman, Rawle Gittins, Denver Dennis, Calvin Sheppard, Joshua Brown, Eusi Phillips and Vurlon Mills.

The Technical Team comprises Jamaal Shabazz (Head Coach), Wayne Dover (Assistant Coach), Claude Bolton (Technical Director), Trevor Burnett (Manager – Equipment), Faizal Khan (Manager – Commercial and Administrative), Mark Xavier (ManagerOperations), Anson Ambrose (Trainer), Andrew Hazel (Goalkeeping Coach) and Debita Harriprashad (Physiotherapist).

The Warner Park Cricket Stadium

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he 2014 semi-finals and final were held at Warner Park in St Kitts and the new team has been awarded as a result of strong support from government and local business.

St Kitts and Nevis’ Minister of Sports, the Honourable Glenn Phillip, said: “Last year the government of St Kitts and Nevis was delighted to support the CPL by hosting the semifinals and final as well as a series of neutral games.

That partnership reaped great rewards as St Kitts and Nevis enjoyed a significant return on invest-

ment. Overall the economy benefited to the tune of $26m, which comfortably exceeded our expectations.

“Hosting the games highlighted that St Kitts and Nevis is home to some of the most passionate cricket fans in the region and having our own franchise team here will be a source of great pride for the people of St Kitts and Nevis, whilst also benefiting local businesses, as fans from around the region and overseas make the journey to watch the games at the Warner Park Stadium.

CPL is watched by millions of fans worldwide.”

Pete Russell, Chief Executive Officer of CPL, said it was a great opportunity for local players and added: “We have had a wonderful relationship with the government since we first started planning for CPL games in 2014 and we are now able to bring a team to St Kitts and Nevis.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the country as fans get the opportunity to support their own team – we all look forward to the unrivalled passion that will again be evident at the Warner Park Stadium.” (CPLt20. com)

GRFU shortlists 31 females for national duty

The female national squad

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he Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has shortlisted 31 females with the aim of deriving at a national squad to take part in the upcoming NACRA sevens in June.

The female national squad will be heading for their fourth title after winning the event in 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Further, the women will have a chance to play in the Olympic qualifiers depending on

whether or not they finish in the top three of the NACRA Sevens.

The national team will be sporting a blend of experience as well as newcomers as the cost to get the team to the NACRA Seven’s are set at USD $43,000 according to the GRFU. The list of 31 are as follows: Carren Carter, Tricia Munroe, La Toya Hamilton-Cordis, Collette Hope, Nicole Nero, Natasha Andrews, Alicia Fortune, Shennel

Daniels, Alicia Mentore, Carren Skeete, Sabola Gray, Andrea Lashley, Grace Jarvis, Princesa Wilkie, Vionette Profitt , Cloetta Dublin, Theresa Torres, Cindy Fraser, Abassie Bobb, Marva Chase, Natoya Norville, Keaisha Erskine, Temika Thornman, Kateyka Jeremiah, Natyor Carbon, Sophia Vanderstoop, Kateja Hall, Delicia Harding, Nicketia Jonas, Fiona Ward and Alana Phillips.

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TT Red Force crush Guyana Jaguars to lift title

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ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Trinidad and Tobago crushed Guyana Jaguars by 135 runs to win the final of the NAGICO Super50 on Sunday.

Led by a six-wicket haul from champion offspinner Sunil Narine, Red Force bowled out Jaguars for a paltry 65 off 24 overs at Queen’s Park Oval, to secure a ruthless victory.

Narine finished with remarkable figures of six wickets for nine runs from eight overs as Jaguars, chasing 201 for victory, crashed from a position of 36 without loss to lose their last ten wickets for 29 runs.

Opener Trevon Griffith top scored with 31 from 28 balls but once Narine removed him in the seventh over, caught

by Kieron Pollard at first slip, the innings plunged into terminal decline.

Jason Mohammed, who had earlier stroked a brilliant unbeaten 117, supported with two wickets for three runs while seamer Dwayne Bravo finished with two for 29.

Griffith, meanwhile, was the only batsman to get into double figures.

Off-spinner Sunil Narine .... six for nine from eight overs

Mohammed had earlier rescued Red Force with a well-controlled maiden regional one-day hundred to help fire Trinidad and Tobago Red Force up to 200 for eight off their 50 overs.

With wickets tumbling around him, the right-hander stood firm to unfurl an innings of class—an unbeaten 117 off 132 balls.

Surviving a chance on 69, Mohammed went on to counted 11 fours and five sixes, helping to rally the innings with

four key partnerships after Guyana Jaguars had made early inroads with their varied attack.

Mohammed put on 38 for the third wicket with opener Jeremy Solozano (21), 43 for the fifth wicket with Dwayne Bravo (10) and another 34 for the sixth wicket with Kieron Pollard (9).

However, it was Mohammed’s unbroken ninth wicket partnership of 52 off 33 balls with captain Rayad Emrit, who finished 12 not out, that turned the game around for Red Force.

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul finished with three for 22 while seamers Royston Crandon (2-27) and Wintz (2-44) picked up two wickets apiece.

Mohammed and Solozano were the only two batsmen to pass 20.

TT RED FORCE 200 for eight off 50 overs (Jason Mohammed 117 not out, Jeremy Solozano 21; Veerasammy Permaul 3-22, Royston Crandon 2-27, Paul Wintz 2-44).

GUYANA JAGUARS 65 off 24 overs (Trevon Griffith 31; Sunil Narine 6-9, Jason Mohammed 2-3, Dwayne Bravo 2-29) (TT Guardian)

Three Jamaicans to be honoured at The Queen's/Grace Jackson Meet 2015

Jamaica's Kaliese Spencer, left, and Portugal's Vera Barbosa compete in a heat for the Women's 400m Hurdles at the World Athletics Championships in Daegu, South Korea, Monday, August 29, 2011. Spencer placed first

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I N G S T O N , J A M A I C A : The Queen's School Past Students' Association Sports Development Committee will host the 14th staging of the annual Queen's/ Grace Jackson Meet this Saturday at the National Stadium.

The meet remains a qualifying meet for the ISSA Boys' and Girls' Athletics Championships, and is the largest development meet to date on the JAAA Track & Field calendar and continues to serve as a season opener for many elite athletes.

The order of events includes but is not lim-

ited to 200m, 400m, 4x400m, triple jump and high jump. The event will commence at 8:30 am, and admission is Ja$500 for adults and Ja$200 for students with ID and children under 12 years old. Accommodation will be at the Grand Stand only.

In keeping with tradition, each year the meet honours individuals within the sporting arena for their outstanding contributions or for performance in various fields.

This year the honorees are Bruce James, president and co-founder of MVP Track Club, and Kaliese Spencer

and Rasheed Dwyer, Commonwealth Games gold medallists.

Competitors of the meet will comprise track teams from various secondary/high schools from urban and rural Jamaica.

Additionally, competitors from the major athletics clubs, including MVP/ UTech, Racers Track Club (UWI), GC Foster, among others, are also expected to compete.

Registration will only be online via the event's website www.queensgracejacksonmeet.com. jm. Results of the meet can also be accessed online, at the same address.

(Jamaica Observer)

Hercules elected President of GABA

New GABA President Junior Hercules (centre) poses with his executive body

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EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Junior Hercules will have his hands full after being elected President of the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) on Sunday at the Duke Lodge.

Hercules, who is also President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Coaches Association (GABCA) as well as President of the Plaisance Basketball Club, won the election unopposed, with seven votes in an open ballot system.

Hercules thanked outgoing President Michael Singh for his tremendous work over the last two years, while committing to ensuring that basketball in

Georgetown continued to progress under his administration.

In addition, Hercules highlighted that the first step his administration will take is to develop the game through a “collective approach”.

Further, Hercules believes that his post as GABA President will not conflict with his presidency of both the GABCA and Plaisance Club since development will be the key for all involved.

Singh, who noted that he has not left the sport and was also Vice President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), said the GABF was committed to ensuring that the new administration transitioned smoothly into their operations.

Meanwhile, Adrian Hooper was appointed the new Vice President, defeating Ewart Williams six votes to three, while Cheryl Thomas was elected as Secretary of the Association after running against Nadine Luthers-Williams.

Joyce Sullivan was elected Treasurer unopposed, while LuthersWilliams was elected unchallenged as the Assistant SecretaryTreasurer.

The clubs that voted were the Colts, Republic Bank Nets, Eagles, UG Trojans, Plaisance Guardians, Knights, and Melanie Patriots while the Dynas Ravens, TGH Pacesetters and Pepsi Sonics were no-shows.

(Guyana Times)

Couples Resorts Ocho Rios Charity Golf Tourney raises Ja$1.6m for local charities

Paul Issa (left), deputy chairman of Couples Resorts, congratulates Tiana (centre) and Chris Cruz, winners of the Couples Ocho Rios Charity Golf Tournament last week Sunday at the Upton Golf Club. They won in the net score category with a score of 59

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INGSTON, JAMAICA: Couples Ocho Rios and Couples Sans Souci celebrated their 37th and 9th anniversaries, respectively, on the weekend of Jan 16-18, culminating in the 14th Annual Couples Resorts Ocho Rios Charity Golf Tournament which was held last week Sunday at the Upton Golf & Country Club.

The tournament was the brainchild of multiple repeat guests of the hotel, Gene and Jane Saks and Alan and Josie Kline and

is organised and hosted by Couples Resorts under the direction of Alexandra Ghisays, Group PR director of Couples Resorts, and Sebert Walker, golf professional.

The tournament attracted 86 players, many of them local.

The main sponsor was once again Digicel, and other sponsors included Fraser Fontaine & Kong, General Accident, ICWI, Advantage General, JN General, Guardian Group and BCIC. This year's tourna-

ment raised Ja$1.6m for the Three Hills Primary School, the Hamilton Mt Basic School and the Animal House shelter. To date, the tournaments have raised over Ja$18m for these and other local charities, including the donation and maintenance of an x-ray machine to the Port Maria Hospital and outfitting an entire school with new desks and chairs, and fencing the school grounds.

In addition, each year the Animal House is able to continue their operations with the assistance of funds raised on their behalf.

The third place winners, Dudley Wilson and Opeton Marshall each received two nights at a Couples Resort; second place went to Michael Wilmott and Zandra Roy, who each received two nights in a suite at a Couples Resort.

Dave Wagner and his partner Nick Borie came out on top and received a three-night stay at the new Couples Barbados Resort, presented by Paul Issa, deputy chairman of Couples Resorts.

(Jamaica Observer)

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“Big blow”; “right move”; Jamaican Warren Barrett Jnr “can’t blame him” says enjoying life at Calabar

− reactions to Sunil Narine’s withdrawal from World Cup

By Avenash Ramzan

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EORGETOWN, GUYANA: Sunil Narine’s abrupt withdrawal from the Cricket World Cup has left the Caribbean and the wider in a state of shock, as one of the game’s most recognisable figures will no longer be part of cricket’s mega event in Australia and New Zealand next month.

Only Sunday last, the mystery spinner was wielding his magic at the Queen’s Park Oval, snaring 6-9 from eight overs to hand Trinidad and Tobago Red Force a commanding 135-run victory over Guyana Jaguars in the final of the NAGICO Super50 tournament.

Despite that successful comeback, after being on the sidelines for three months, Narine admitted that he was not completely confident about returning to international cricket. He made the disclosure via a West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) release on Tuesday.

“Playing for [TT] Red Force and winning the NAGICO Super50 has been a big boost, but going in to the World Cup

is a little too much too soon and, after consulting the WICB, for both West Indies’ and my sake we have decided to delay my return to international cricket until I am 100 per cent confident in all that I do,” Narine said.

The Trinidadian offspinner has decided to give himself more time to work on his bowling action, which was reported as suspect in successive matches during last year’s Champions League T20 where he represented Indian Premier League (IPL) side, Kolkata Knight Riders.

Cricinfo columnist Colin Benjamin also shared his thoughts on Narine missing out on what would have been his first 50over World Cup. “From a global perspective it is good that the ICC is cracking down on illegal action/mystery spinners. The sport has had many ‘chuckers’ taking wickets for too long.

“However, I remain puzzled why Narine was ever called since I’ve never noticed any chucking faults in him. His action to me is just as normal as other regular international off-spinners such

as Ravi Ashwin, Nathan Lyon and Mark Craig,” Benjamin said.

“However, if Narine doesn’t feel comfortable with the new action, you can’t blame him for pulling out of World Cup. Given how questionable WICB has been treating its major players over the years, it makes no sense for Narine to risk being called on WICB duty.”

Narine’s decision comes less than a week after the ICC revealed that it will fast-track the testing process during the World Cup and submit a report within a week of the bowler’s action being reported.

The faster evaluation is part of ICC’s effort to eradicate suspect bowling actions and is bound to defeat any strategy of teams saving bowlers with suspect actions for the latter stages of the World Cup; that would have worked under the standard regulations applicable to non-ICC Events where the bowler can continue to bowl in international cricket as long as he is tested within three weeks of being reported. (Guyana Times)

Warren Barrett Jnr competing in the Class One Discus event at the Big Shot Invitational Meet at the Excelsior High School on Saturday. Barrett won the event with a throw of 54.86m.

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I N G S T O N , J A M A I C A : Having donned the red and gold of Cornwall College with distinction for years, Warren Barrett Jnr says he is now thoroughly enjoying life at Calabar High School where he hopes to build on his career.

Barrett Jnr, who broke the Class Two shot put record last year with a throw of 18.18m at the Inter Secondary Schools Sports Association Boys' and Girls' Championships, said the camaraderie at Calabar is unbelievable.

"Being at Calabar so far is a great feeling.

Not to put Cornwall in any disregard or anything, I enjoyed myself at Cornwall. It's a good school, big up my coach and everyone who assisted me to get where I am," he told the Jamaican me-

dia on Saturday, after capturing the Class One discus with a throw of 54.86m at the Big Shot Meet.

Barrett Jr, 16, who is the son of former Reggae Boyz goalkeeper Warren Barrett Snr, in his first year at Class One, also won the discus at the Jamaica College Meet on January 10 with 53.19.

He was second to national representative Fredrick Dacres in the shot put open at the same meet. Barrett heaved 16.08m but was some distance behind Dacres' 17.51m.

"I am at Calabar now.

I just want to continue my winning ways," said Barrett.

"Calabar is a very vibes school. It's just natural for them and I have adapted pretty good because I know most of the guys before," he noted.

Young Barrett, who

revealed he is carrying some niggling injuries, knows that despite his good early-season form, he has to work to stay on top and is looking to gain his personal best.

"I have some minor injuries, but I still want to try and get my PR and if I get it, knowing that I am not a hundred per cent, I will be pleased," he admitted.

The multiple medal winner at Champs and the regional Carifta Games says his main aim this year is to be part of the junior teams to the PanAm and Carifta Games.

"The rivalry is between a lot of us. The junior throws in Jamaica are very competitive. It can go in anyone's favour, so I just want to continue to train hard and hopefully I will get the reward that I work for," said Barrett.

D’Andrade finishes 2nd in TT Half Marathon

Trinidad based Guyanese Lionel D’Andrade

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EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Trinidad based Guyanese Lionel D’Andrade finished second in the Trinidad and Tobago International Half Marathon on

Sunday.D’Andrade finished closely behind Trinidad’s Shayne Barran in a time of one hour, 18 minutes and 26 seconds. Barran won the event in a time of one hour, 18 minutes and 15

seconds. Kade Sobes of Tobago was third in one hour, 22 minutes and 34 seconds.

“I was in the lead and at the 12-mile mark, Shayne came from behind and we were running together, and then at 600 metres, he took the lead and I tried to take it back but I just couldn’t.

“I wasn’t really doing any speed work, just putting in the mileage. I feel kinda good, my time was slow, so I’ll be putting in some more training for upcoming races,” D’Andrade told Guyana Times Sport of how he felt in the race.

Meanwhile, Trinidad based Guyanese Kelvin Johnson finished sixth in the Marathon. (Guyana Times)

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Golden Jaguars players share knowledge with youths in Guyana

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EORGETOWN, G U Y A N A : Golden Jaguars Captain Christopher Nurse and strikers Vurlon Mills and Sheldon Holden visited the Junior Jaguars Football Academy on Saturday as they took a break from training for the international friendly clash with

Barbados on February 1.

A full house of 40 junior players between 5 and 12 years of age were at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) Ground, Bourda, to meet, take photos with, and be coached

by Nurse, who is currently undertaking the United States Soccer

Federation B licence coaching qualification.

The Junior Jaguars Academy is held 16:00 to 17:00h every Saturday afternoon at the GFC Ground. The session is a full hour of fun, safe developmental football coaching for boys and girls of all abilities and levels.

The youngsters were eager to meet the Golden Jaguars players

TT’s Cowie out of World League Hockey qualifiers

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ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: TT will be without the talented Darren Cowie and five other regulars for the FIH World Hockey League Round Two qualifiers set for Chula Vista, San Diego, California, USA, from February 28 to March 8.

This came after Cowie, who led the team as captain to the Round One win in Jamaica last September and a silver medal at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in November, was forced to withdraw from the team due to work commitments.

In addition to Cowie, other members of the team who participated in the first-round series and the CAC Games in Mexico are also forced to pull out of the event.

They include Aidan De Gannes, Christopher Scipio and Ishmael Campbell through work commitments, while Kiel Murray and Stefan Mouttet are injured.

However, making a return to the team are England-based Kwandwane Browne, Dillet Gilkes and Dwain

TT men’s hockey player Kwandwane Browne dribbles a player during a warm-up match ahead of the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

Quan Chan, all of whom will be making their first tour together in over a year, while youngsters Joshua Olton, Kelon Skerritt and Teague Marcano have all been drafted into the training squad.

Francis also welcomed the introduction of the new faces in the training squad, saying, “The team is in transition at the moment as over the next couple of years, players like Browne and Gilkes and a few others will not be around, and it is hoped that these

youngsters gain enough experience now to pick up where they leave.

“We have a lot of youth in the set-up now with the Emmanuel brothers, Kristin and Kwasi, Marcano boys, Tariq and Teague as well as Lyndell Byer, Joshua Olton and Kelon Skerritt, and they are all the future of TT hockey.

In California, TT will compete in one group with USA, Russia and Canada while Austria, Chile, Ireland and Italy are in the other roundrobin group at the end of

which the team will meet in cross-over quarterfinal matches followed by semifinals, third placed and final matches.

And looking ahead to the tournament, coach Glen “Fido” Francis,” who returns to lead the team after interim coach Raphael Govia coached the team through the round one series in Jamaica last year, said the group draw for the local squad is a tough one, but also presents a good chance to prove itself worthy of being involve.

“We will be the lowest-ranked team in the tournament and based on the new format we are already assured of a quarterfinal spot as only

eight teams are involved.

“However, we want to get past that hurdle and reach the semifinals for the least.

“The current crop of players are a very good mix of youth and experience, but we still have lots of work to do as a team and for that we will need to the support of the powers that be financially,” he said.

A former national goalkeeper Francis also welcomed the return of Browne, who he says will bring a lot to the team.

Following the World League round-two series, the national men’s team is carded to head to the Pan Am Games in Toronto, Canada, from July 10-26.

Men’s training squad Ron Alexander, Kwandwane Browne, Cogie Butler, Lyndell Byer, Shaquille Daniel, Solomon Eccles, Kwasi Emmanuel, Kristen Emmanuel, Dillet Gilkes, Nicholas Grant, Dominic Jaikaransingh, Marcus James, Shane Legerton, Terrence Baptiste, Justin Pascal, Tariq Marcano, Che Modeste, Michael O’Connor, Allan Henderson, Mickell Pierre, Dwain Quan Chan, Jordan Reynos, Andrey Rocke, Karlos Stephen, Akim Toussaint, Jordan Vieira, Danil Trancoso, Dominic Young, Teague Marcano, Kelon Skerritt, Joshua Olton.

(TT Guardian)

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WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

WEEK ENDING February 1, 2015 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

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