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INTERNATIONAL

- the journey of a one-eyed otter from Rupununi to Florida Page 34

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

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You can also read Guyana Times daily edition online at www.guyanatimesgy.com ISSUE NO. 173

week ending December 22, 2013

Ramotar emphasises need for food security in region

– at ALBA-PETROCARIBE Summit See story on pg 13

Page 3 DPP orders reopening of murder case against cricketer

Wild celebrations in Jamaica as Tessanne wins ‘The Voice’ Page 15

President Donald Ramotar greets Minister of Energy and Petroleum and President of PDVSA Rafael Ramírez at the ALBA-PETROCARIBE Summit in Caracas, Venezuela.

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

NEWS week ending December 22, 2013

Cabinet roasts 'dirty' Kaieteur News column on Sooba

embers of Cabinet have criticised what they deemed the unwarranted and malicious attack on the recently appointed Town Clerk Carol Sooba by the Kaieteur News. The appointment of Sooba has sparked outrage in some quarters. At a press conference earlier Wednesday, Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon said that members of Cabinet are disgusted and have vehemently objected to the Monday edition of the “Dem Boys Seh” column titled “Dem boys seh… Parbattie aka Carol was a night nurse”. “ Sexist, racist, libellous – were terms used with regards to the content of the “Dem Boys Seh” piece and the feeling of Cabinet is shocking and indeed it took the kick as we said in terms of records in Guyana,” Luncheon stated. In the most often scandalous column, Sooba was referred to as “Carol Ganga”, an alleged night nurse who operated in Corentyne,

Town Clerk Carol Sooba

Berbice. Luncheon said that this malicious article is an example of the pit in which Kaieteur News and the media fraternity have descended. The Cabinet secretary further stated that efforts have been made over the years to render the expression of press freedom a more responsible exercise. He noted that while various remedies have been exhorted, anarchy still prevails in the journalistic world and in Guyana that is being practised by the Kaieteur News.

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DPP orders reopening of murder case against cricketer

irector of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Bibi Shalimar Ali-Hack has instructed that the Preliminary lnquiry (Pl) into the murder of a man on Orange Walk earlier this year allegedly by Carlyle Barton be reopened. The decision was made in accordance with Section 72 (2iia) of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act, 10: 01. In November, Magistrate Fabayo Azore discharged the case at the PI stage after police witnesses did not show up and video evidence of the murder was not rendered, saying that a prima facie case was not made. The video evidence showed the cricketer when he allegedly shot Nelson, with whom he had a longstanding friendship. A release issued by the DPP chambers stated that in a letter dated December 16, to Magistrate Azore, the DPP has directed that the Pl be re-opened for some witnesses to complete their testimony and to allow for other wit-

nesses who had not testified during the first Pl, to be given the opportunity to do so. Subsequent to the discharge of the accused, a perusal of the police file revealed that there was a need for certain investigations to be carried out. On the DPP’s advice, the file was sent to the police on December 6, for these investigations to be carried out. On December 11, the police file was returned to the DPP’s Chambers for further legal advice and is presently in the hands of the prosecutor. Justice to be served Hours after the magistrate’s decision was handed down, relatives of the dead man vented their frustration, calling for justice to be served. During a recent interview with this newspaper, Police Complaints Authority (PCA) Chairman, retired Justice Cecil Kennard said that disciplinary actions should be taken against the errant police ranks, who failed to testify in the said case. Kennard, a former chancellor of the judiciary, said it was sad

Acquitted murder accused, Carlyle Barton

that despite the fact that sufficient evidence was gathered for the case, the police ranks did not show up in court. “If it is a case where the police ranks all teamed up and decided not to give evidence in the case, then I think that they should be charged with conspiring to defeat the course of justice.” But, the police will have to determine if that was the case. He added that this is one of the issues that have been hampering the judicial system over the years, and will take some time to correct unless something drastic happens. The retired justice also highlighted that

another sad affair was the missing footage of the shooting, which was supposed to be presented in court. Magistrate Azore had announced that she was forced to set Barton free, owing to the lack of evidence since the witnesses failed to show up. Barton made his first court appearance on May 28 before Magistrate Sueanna Lovell and was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which stated that on May 27 at Orange Walk, he murdered Nelson. The matter was then transferred to another court where the PI commenced. As the PI continued, several prosecution witnesses did not show up to testify, which brought a halt to the proceedings and forced the case to be adjourned. The entire shooting incident was captured by surveillance cameras and based on the evidence, the cricketer was charged with the man’s death. The surveillance recording that was collected from a nearby business was reportedly not presented in court.

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week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

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EDITORIAL

Guyana’s sovereignty

n the opposition-induced feeding frenzy over claims that Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud had issued “mining permits” to a Brazilian company (registered in Guyana), there appears to be a troubling willingness by that opposition to compromise the sovereignty of our nation in their quest to score political points. As to the claim itself, this is a question of fact and, like all issues from this quarter, will be settled by reasonable people after considering the evidence presented by both sides. What is undisputed is that it was a permission for geological and geophysical survey (PGGS) that had been issued to Muri Brazil Ventures Guyana, and not a mining permit. As might be evident from its name, a PGGS grants its holder permission to survey a demarcated area for the presence of specified mineral deposits. It is also undisputed that other PGGSs have been issued in the past. The initial reason offered by the opposition for raising the brouhaha, was that the minister, when questioned by the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Natural Resources, parsed his answer very carefully to only deny the issuance of any mining licence. The pertinent dialogue was: Lieutenant Colonel (retired) [Joe Harmon]: “Thank you very much minister. Is there though any permission or anything for any activity other than mining say for example forestry or forestry concessions issued for in that area?” Robert Persaud: “I am advised by the technical officer… I am told by the staff that there is no permitted forestry operation in that particular area.” In retrospect, it is evident that details of the Muri PGGS, which was subsequently leaked to sections of the press friendly to the opposition, had already been in the latter’s possession and was used to “set up” the minister. As such there was no further follow up as to whether there was permission for “any activity other than mining or forestry”. The minister’s equivocal answer was then used to accuse him of lying to the committee. “Mining”, however, is defined by the relevant legislation as quite different from a “survey” or “prospecting” licence and the minister is adamant that he answered the question posed. Leader of the opposition David Granger then raised a fresh red herring: that the southern Suriname border and the Brazilian border in the Rupununi are “sensitive areas”, in light of respectively, an invasion by Suriname military personnel and an uprising in the Rupununi, both occurring in 1969. It appears that the defence board has to sign off on any sustained activities, such as settlements and mining, up to10 miles from the border. We expect that when prospecting and mining do take place in the area, the necessary permission will be solicited. But in the flurry of “he said” “she said” and “had not said” were the aforementioned disturbing undermining of Guyanese sovereignty by the opposition, which raises the bona fides of this opposition to represent Guyana. In a letter to the minister, the Deputy Chairman of A Partner for National Unity (APNU) Dr Rupert Roopnaraine asserted that any mining “activity would certainly give rise to a fresh surge of anxiety and agitation from our eastern neighbours”. It is no secret that Suriname claims the New River Triangle and it is just as clear that we have always maintained that the current demarcation that allocated the area to Guyana is unalterable. Why, then, should the exploitation of our sovereign territory be held in abeyance because of Suriname’s “anxiety and agitation”? To paraphrase what was held unanimously by all Guyanese when Venezuela rattled its sword at our western border, “every blade of grass” is ours to do whatever we see fit with it. While we believe most Guyanese will agree, in hindsight, that the minister might have volunteered the information on the PGGS and not allowed himself to be ambushed, hindsight, we know is always 20/ 20. On the other hand, the opposition must be brought to task for being more concerned with Suriname’s territorial claims rather than our sovereign rights to develop our country.

Cartoon character Dora The Explorer moves through the crowd of children who were feted at a party hosted by Parliament on Wednesday (Carl Croker photo)

CSF targets promotion of science in Caribbean T

he recently held third annual Caribbean Science Foundation conference (CSF) saw the raising of awareness on mechanisms to promote science in the Caribbean using Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The conference was held two weeks ago in Guyana at the Grand Coastal Hotel, and saw a gathering of professionals from the world over to discuss and debate on how to advance science in the Caribbean to help diversify the economies of its countries. The two-day conference held under the theme “Stimulating Education, Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Science and Engineering”, was a collaboration among CSF, Guyana’s Education Ministry and the Caribbean Diaspora for Science, Technology and Innovation.

Networking

During the conference, collaborations and cooperation between institutions and sectors throughout the region, and networking with the Diaspora were mentioned frequently as the key to facilitate science and technology advances. At the opening ceremony, both Guyana’s Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Education Minister Priya Manickchand highlighted the importance of harnessing science and technology for the development of the region. Presidential Advisor on Science and Technology Navin Chandarpal, spoke about the approval of Guyana’s national science and technology policy as a national milestone in elevating awareness of the importance of the STEM education reform. Students and teachers from

A section of the participants during the conference in Guyana

various high schools in Guyana were given the opportunity to participate in the workshop, during which students posed some of the most difficult questions to the speakers. They were also allowed to carry out experiments using microscience kits provided by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). The students had nothing but praise for this hands-on learning experience. The conference saw the featuring of CSF programmes such as the Sagicor Visionaries Challenge and the Student Programme for Innovation in Science and Engineering (SPISE), with three local students reliving their experiences in these programmes.

Fun learning

STEM curriculum and modernisation updates, also received attention, with the primary objective of making science fun for the students. Focus was placed too on teaching with examples drawn from local resources and needs, inquiry-based science approaches, the scientific method, and the use of digital e-learning were emphasised. The need for more national science fairs, math Olympiads

and science museums was also stressed. One area which saw a lot of enthusiasm was the career panel, which explored a vast range of career options in the STEM disciplines for the students. The requirements for the launch of a high-tech electronics start-up company were demystified with examples showing how, in the Internet era, the materials and components needed could be sourced worldwide from a desktop. The critical need for execution to bring ideas to fruition was emphasised. The conference further saw the 2013 CSF Distinguished Service Awards of the University of South Florida going to overseas-based Guyanese Professor Maya Trotz and Petal Jetoo of the Education Ministry, Sagicor Financial Corporation, and Sagicor Life Caribbean. The CSF was established in 2010 as an independent non-profit, non-governmental organisation, whose mission is to assist with the diversification of the region’s economies by promoting education reform in STEM and stimulating more technology-based entrepreneurship.

week ending December 22, 2013

World Bank deems corruption public enemy number one

eclaring corruption “public enemy number one” in developing countries, World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim Wednesday described how the group is stepping up its fight against corruption. He called upon developing world partners and the private sector to be part of the solution. “In the developing world, corruption is public enemy number one,” said Kim, speaking at an event hosted by the World Bank’s anti-corruption investigative arm, the Integrity Vice Presidency. “We will never tolerate corruption, and I pledge to do all in our power to build upon our strong fight against it.”

Important step

Kim was joined on stage by former World Bank President James D Wolfensohn, former U. S. Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, Transparency International Chair Huguette Labelle, and Philippines Finance

World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim

Secretary Cesar V Purisima. It was Wolfensohn in 1996 who publicly declared corruption a “cancer”, the first time a World Bank president spoke openly about the issue. Kim described the pernicious effects corruption can have in developing countries. “Every dollar that a corrupt official or a corrupt business person puts in their pocket is a dollar stolen from a pregnant woman who needs health care; or from a girl or a boy who de-

serves an education; or from communities that need water, roads, and schools. Every dollar is critical if we are to reach our goals to end extreme poverty by 2030 and to boost shared prosperity.” An important step toward fighting corruption and helping more people lead better lives is to build institutions with greater integrity, Kim noted. He described three key elements in the World Bank Group’s approach: “First, we need to improve the way we share and apply knowledge about building institutions with greater integrity; second, we need to empower citizens with information and tools to make their governments more effective and accountable; and third, we need to build a global movement to prevail over corruption.” Kim announced that the World Bank Group will be creating a single pool of technical experts in rule of law, public continued on page 12

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week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Govt says some activities in scrapped USAID project still being implemented T

he Guyana government on Wednesday said that despite it cancelling a multibillion- dollar U. S.-sponsored governance project, some activities of the programme are still ongoing. And it has been revealed for the first time that political parties could have received commodity support valued US$ 50,000 under the programme. “There have been repeated reports that activities in the disapproved project are being implemented, currently, by either the U. S. embassy or the USAID or the International Republican Institute,” Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon told a news conference at the Office of the President. When questioned about a number of the activities being conducted in Regions Three and Four, and Cabinet members having reported that activities involved “political parties and their mobilisation”, women and children, Dr Luncheon said he had not received any re-

ports that any activities involved the governing Peoples Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/ C). On the issue of the funding for political parties, he told reporters that U. S. Ambassador to Guyana, D Brent Hardt had assured him during talks up to October 2012 that political parties would not have been funded intentionally or otherwise. “If the man tell me so, what you want? Watch the ambassador in he face and tell he he lie?” Luncheon asked. Government had announced last month that it pulled out of the 2012 project, as a consequence of the flaws in the agreement. Dr Luncheon said the project proposal presented to Guyana did not reflect the input of the government, as well as that of USAID, and on that basis, considerable reservations were expressed by the administration. He explained that the design was considered by Cabinet and both the project and the design were rejected.

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon

U.S. Ambassador D Brent Hardt

“The project that habitually and conventionally is an engagement between Guyana and its development partner USAID – this one in 2012 departed from that convention. Firstly, we were presented with an agreement to sign, over which we had zero contribution. “Secondly, when we officially got the design, there was considerable objection, as far as the administration was concerned. This design would have never ever been provided for in any bilateral relationship; as

a consequence, it was rejected.” The Cabinet secretary added that the design allowed for the involvement of USAID in the national life and politics of Guyana. The US$ 13.1 million bilateral agreement was to advance development in health, economic growth and democracy and governance. It is believed that government had become uneasy with some of the project outlines. Under the strengthening of the National Assembly, the project

had set out to support the legislature in maximising the effectiveness of its existing website and other technology. This may include live broadcasts of proceedings to better inform citizens, bringing the National Assembly closer to the public and encouraging greater public involvement. According to the project, support would have included consultative processes drawing on international experts, the public, members of political parties and representatives of Parliament.

Long-term interest

On key reform issues and agendas, including needed reforms to the Guyana Elections Commission, reforms of the Constitution, local election policies, decentralisation and political party financing. The US$ 1.5 million project was also expected to build capacity within the political parties, support holding local government elections and supporting women and youth political leadership.

Meanwhile, according to the project document, the U. S. government said the spread of stable democratic governments was in its longterm interest. It said assistance in strengthening political parties, both in government and opposition, is one way that Washington can support its friends and allies engaged in democratisation. Moreover, the document said political party assistance provides an important means to engage a nation’s future leadership, a factor often key to advancing U. S. interests overtime. Additionally, the goals of the USAID political party assistance are to develop and consolidate representative democracies; develop transparent political environments; establish viable democratic parties; and ensure the conduct of free and fair elections. The USAID said the political party assistance was a new policy priority, one that requires commitment and innovation.

Funeral of Imam Roshan Ali to take place in Florida

Imam Roshan Ali (third left seated) and family members

mam Roshan Ali who hailed from Charity, Pomeroon died on Thursday afternoon, following a brief illness. Imam Ali, 87, popularly referred to as Uncle Roshan, was the father of nine children, including Guyana’s Honorary Consul in Florida, Ramzan Roshanali. A businessman and farmer in his earlier days, Uncle Roshan was very active in the Muslim community in Guyana. He received the Indian Arrival Committee’s

Award in 2009 for his outstanding contributions to the religious and business sectors. He spent his early childhood in Siriki, Pomeroon and later moved to Wismar and then back to Charity from where he migrated to Canada in 1983. He returned to Guyana in 1995 with his wife and resided there until last year when he joined his children and grandchildren in Florida. Over the years, Imam Ali officiated at several

special events in Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Canada, Antigua, the United Kingdom, and the United States, including Guyana’s Republic anniversary and Indian Arrival Day celebrations in Florida in February and June respectively, this year. The funeral service for the late Imam Roshan Ali will take place on Friday, December 20, at 14: 00h at Fred Hunter Funeral Home on Taft Street in Hollywood, Florida.

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week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Essequibo power woes continue despite assurances from GPL

ower outage continues to hurt Essequibo businesses with a complete shutdown of the network on Wednesday despite a Guyana Power and Light statement saying that power supply is back to near normalcy. Small businesses which cannot afford a generator as yet were busy searching for ice to cool their items. Poultry farmers said they are now forced to sell “live” chicken since they cannot say whether there will be a daily power supply. One poultry farmer, Jean Samaroo said she is losing on her chickens since she cannot pluck them due to frequent power outages. Samaroo related that

press release said all remedial work on the 11kV bus bar at the Anna Regina generating station has been completed and power supply has returned to a state of near normalcy. According to the company, intermittent outages are, however, still being experienced as

Spoilt sausages, ice cream and chicken which had to be dumped

she earns more from plucked chicken but due to the unreliable power supply, plucking is a risk. Many offices on Wednesday were unable

Sanjay Persaud’s fishing equipment has been laid up

to function due to the blackout. Sanjay Persaud, a fisherman from Cotton Field, said he has not gone out to fish, owing to the unreliable power supply which hit the Essequibo Coast since last week. He said GPL is unreliable and even if he purchases a generator, he cannot go to sea. Persaud sells fish in large quantities and if the power is unreliable, his customers would not buy fish since they would have to incur additional expenses to buy ice. Meanwhile, GPL in a

faults develop on its distribution network as a result of high winds. “Be assured that no effort is being spared to deal with this situation. We apologise for the inconvenience caused, thank you for your forbearance over the past week and a half and we appeal for your patience

over the next few days as we work towards ensuring that you have a Christmas that is free of outages. We also urge you to limit your use of electricity during the holiday season and to visit our website at www. gplinc. com for more information on energy conservation.”

8 caribbean news Barbados to lay off 3000 public servants T week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

he head of the Barbados Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAB) says the Barbados government took too long to make up its decision regarding the dismissal of 3,000 public workers as it seeks to revive an ailing economy. Finance and Economic Affairs Minister Christopher Sinckler, announced early last week that the Freundel Stuartgovernment would trim the public service by as much as 3,000 and that government ministers, government legislators as well as parliamentary secretaries and those considered to be a “political appointee”, would face a 10 per cent pay cut. But ICAB president David Simpson told Barbadian media that

Barbados’ Finance Minister Christopher Sinckler (Nations file photo)

apart from the retrenchments, the government would still have to outline a plan to stimulate foreign exchange earnings and improve the economy. “I feel this is just the start. I don’t know what other successes they will have in significantly cutting expenditure in other

areas. But unfortunately the highest level of government expenditure is in wages and salaries in central government and transfers and subsidies in statutory corporations, so it was inevitable that at some time that sector would have to be cut because of a lack of success in other areas,” he told reporters. Meanwhile, there is concern in Barbados that the labour unions, especially the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW), have not made public statements regarding the pending dismissal of workers next year. NUPW officials are reported to have met over the weekend to discuss the matter, but the officials remained silent on the position of the union.

Government officials said that the plan to cut public service jobs would result in savings as much as Bds$143 million and that the government had also agreed to institute a “strict programme of attrition” across the central public service, filling posts only where it is absolutely unavoidable, over the next five years, ending 2018-2019. “This attrition is expected to reduce central government employment levels from approximately 16 970 to 14, 612 jobs– a projected loss of 2 358 posts; and savings of Bds$121 million. Over the current 19-month adjustment period, public sector employment will be reduced by an additional 501 jobs with a projected savings of Bds$26 million,” Sinckler said. (Caribbean News)

Grenada’s Parliamentarians to stop receiving constituency allowances

he Grenada government is moving to stop paying legislators a monthly allow-

ance to assist with the operations of their constituencies. Soon after it won

the February 2013 general election, the New National party (NNP) of Prime Minister Dr Keith

Grenada’s Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell

Mitchell announced it would provide EC$1,500 allowance to assist with the operations of constituency offices. This money was in addition to their monthly payment of EC$1,200. But the minutes of the Standing Committee on Finance, which is chaired by Mitchell, indicates that “the key reason for the new arrangement was that no monies would be going through…the parliamentarians hands, which would be safeguarding the parliamentarians and all concerned.” The minutes which were laid in Parliament earlier this week, also provide new guidelines as to the maximum fee for rental, payment to staff and other supplies for the effective operations and functioning of the offices. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Mitchell presented a national budget of EC$933.9 million, outlining a series of taxes, and stressing the need for a curtailment of government expenditure over the next 12 months. (Caribbean News)

New Perspectives

By Anu Dev

hen I was doing my CXC’s and chose to write 16 subjects, many persons thought that there was no point in doing subjects like history, for instance, since I’d already pretty much settled on going into medicine. But I’d found the subjects interesting and just enjoyed history especially, since it allowed me to get a glimpse of how our societies have become what it has, in the Caribbean. I also agreed with Marx’s point that the present can only be understood historically: everything is the consequence of something that has preceded it. While that may seem quite obvious, most of us seem to not follow its corollary. That if we act in the present in ways that we believe to be the better way, we can actually “influence” the future. Sort of like creating the future. But in my first year in med school, I had to chuckle a bit when I saw that one of the required classes (they’re all “required” incidentally) was “Caribbean Civilisation”. Quite a lot of my new friends found the going quite strenuous and unfamiliar... but to me it was quite familiar territory. The professor, Dr John Campbell, chose as his foundational text, a book he’d written: Beyond Massa. This deals with running of the sugar plantation Golden Grove in eastern Jamaica during the years 17701834. The setting and timeframe are both significant since at the time, Jamaica was the most profitable British colony in the Caribbean and yet there were pressures developing in England for the abolition of slavery, the “peculiar institution” from which the wealth from sugar was generated. Most interestingly, Campbell used as his primary source of data the correspondence from the manager of the plantation, Simon Taylor and the absentee owner Chaloner Arcedeckne. These letters are on the web... and they are fascinating. But what made the work interesting was his use of ideas from the contemporary Human Resource Model (HRM) of managing workers. He placed emphasis on the social interactions between the enslaved and the managers rather than the now conventional historiographical focus on the economic aspects of plantation society. He emphasises that there was a two-way negotiated space where the enslaved people had more ‘agency’ than previous studies had accredited to them: they were subjects and not just objects. The study also contended that the differences between the West African form of slavery, from which the slaves were brought and Caribbean chattel slavery were crucial in the new dyadic master-slave relationship. In the West African form, the slave was still considered a person while under the chattel slavery system; the slave was completely dehumanised and considered “property”. And it is because the enslaved people were accustomed to this more benign concept of slavery that HRM techniques could work. There could be opportunities for bargaining and negotiation. Taking the logic to its denouement, the author posits a third and controversial thesis – that the enslaved people did not want to end slavery itself, they simply “wanted to change the tone of British West Indian slavery”. The historiography on the institution of West Indian slavery was initially dominated by British writers who focused on the “civilising” mission of the enterprise for the African slaves who were not considered fully human. This is our textbooks. This perspective was challenged by historians such as Eric Williams, who later became the first PM of TT. He proposed a more Marxian, economic based approach which stressed the role of slavery in laying the material foundation of Britain’s industrial revolution. We don’t hear much of this. Now Campbell offers another perspective. It’s worth checking out. Look how I’m running on about that “boring and irrelevant” subject – history. But trust me; it’s as important to your health (mental) as medicine.

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times International, Industrial Site Ruimveldt Georgetown, Guyana or guyanatimesint@gmail.com

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Our Christmas wish is for the Government and Opposition to work together to move the country forward Dear Editor, Recently in Parliament, some opposition parliamentarians, by abstaining from voting on critical items such as the specialty hospital, allowed a project initiated by the majority party, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/ C), to be funded. This is the first sign that their supporter who has been angry at their tactics to block the nation’s economic and social progress is causing some of them to break ranks with their party. I have always argued that capital projects that have been proposed by the government such as the hospital, energy and airport expansion must be funded. Each of these projects when put together, demonstrate the commitment by the government to enhance these critical

sectors. The Specialty Hospital is surely needed, especially to effectively manage complex diseases such as heart, diabetes and other internal conditions.

2013 report card

The fact that 2013 has come to an end, without the approval of the energy and airport projects will have a significant toll on us in 2014 and beyond. Every country knows that without cheaper energy, it is difficult to be competitive regionally and globally. Sectors such as manufacturing depend heavily on cheaper energy. The failure of the opposition to support this project in 2013 in order to be ready for the new generation needs by 2020 has now put them at great risks to compete. What the opposition needs to realise is this is not a zero-sum game

where there must be a winner and loser. They must evaluate the needs of the projects as it relates to the larger vision of Guyana to be a nation that builds on its infrastructure for the new generation. These projects as proposed by the PPP/ C and listed in their 2011 manifesto are not projects created just on paper but after years of comprehensive planning by many contributors and for the most part supported by the 2011 opposition parties’ manifestos. Then that begs the question why would then these same opposition parliamentarians disapprove some of the same plans they proposed prior to elections. Their supporters need to ask them why. Again, when it comes to our country’s today and future, the only win-

Josiah was one of those extraordinary people who will never be forgotten Dear Editor, On behalf of the board of directors, executives and members of the Humanitarian Mission of New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir Inc, its Guyana and Toronto Chapters, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family, his fellow law enforcement comrades, on the passing of Assistant Commissioner Derrick Josiah. News of his demise was received with great sadness. However, all is not lost. I had the opportunity to meet with him while he was stationed in Berbice as commander. There isn’t much we can say or do to ease the pain of separation from his dear family members, his law enforcement comrades and all those whom he had a relationship with. However, please take comfort in knowing that our prayers and thoughts are with his entire family and friends during this very difficult time. We recognise that there is much pain involved in letting go of someone so dear to them and so loved by them all, we encourage them to surrender their pains to the feet of God Almighty, knowing that God is capable of, and will remove the pain of separation. So let’s celebrate his life and legacy in a meaningful way. He has touched the

lives of many with his profession, kindness and compassion. Additionally, be assured in knowing that God loves them, He is holding out His arms to comfort each one of them at this critical juncture of the life, and that our collective prayers to God will strengthen their heart to find the solace truly deserved for him being such a compassionate and caring person especially to his family, friends and all those whom he has touched with his genuine love. “Not how did he die, but how did he live; not what did he gain, but what did he gave.” We may not ever understand why he died. For many years he took good care of everyone. It was so tough to stay so strong, the road he travelled hard and long. But now he has gone to walk a beat on some gold-paved heaven street. The angels will rest well forever and we will take comfort together. Lay down your burdens one by one – the time for healing has begun. In memory, we love you still and you know that we always will, Derrick. Sincerely, Pandit Suresh Sugrim Humanitarian Mission New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir Inc

Penalties for sexual predators

Dear Editor, I feel a satisfying sense of justice after hearing that a local judge sentenced a man to 20 years imprisonment after he was found guilty of carnal knowledge. At the said time of the act, the victim was only 13 years old. The accused man is a father which makes the act that he committed even more despicable. When it comes to sexual molestation and rape, I am strongly of the opinion that individuals found guilty of such crimes should suffer severe consequences for their actions. Rape is a criminal act like no other. It causes everlasting emotional trauma to a woman. Additionally, in some countries, women who have been raped are scorned

and are often seen as unfit for marriage. They become outcasts in their society and struggle to survive. Rape is more than an assault on the body. It is an assault on the soul and it is usually accompanied by fear and guilt. Date rape is even more devastating because it comes from a person who has been trusted. Women who become victims of this brutal crime often require counselling. For many years, support groups have been used to render comfort and assistance to those who have suffered such an attack. It allows individuals to know that they are not alone, while helping them to regain some form of control of their life. Sincerely, Vishal Dhaniram

ner should be Guyana. The opposition can approve a project with certain conditions to be measured. The failed opposition is somehow bent on just saying no. They are on the wrong campaign – they should join the campaign saying no to drugs, or no to littering, not no to economic success. In 2013 also, other projects were supposed to be debated such as the long awaited road to Brazil which many of us predict will be the singular most important investment our nation can facilitate with our neighbour, whose economy is within the top 10 in the world. The atmosphere in Parliament is just not conducive to presenting many of these important and major projects. As I stated in the past, our economy does not have excess economic capacity and requires every project to be started at specific junctions, in order for Guyana to stay or become more competitive with our neighbours. One senior private sector business leader told me that we need to forge stronger ties with

Suriname and look to combine some of the projects such as the deep water harbour which is the other major initiative proposed by the PPP/ C to be implemented in their five-year plan. Budget cuts of 2013 have affected many of our local regions. When a budget is presented, it is not for stove pipe development, meaning singular type projects, but a comprehensive and integrated approach in nation building. For example, the expansion of the airport is tied to increased tourism focus including the Marriott Hotel and other projects within the sector. Therefore when one comes without the other, added pressure is put on the success factor. This particular example is also tied to our aggressive approach by the Tourism and Commerce Ministry to solve the travel sector woes and attracting new and recognised airlines. Recently, I travelled out of the airport and got fully soaked. I watched the TravelSpan passengers get off their first flight and had to pull out

umbrellas. Why can’t we just get an airport approved with covered jetways. Is the opposition so vindictive? Conclusion The crack in the opposition is a good thing. It shows we still have some of them who believe in our nation and will not allow the 1980s outdated leaders to constantly block our nation’s ability to succeed. It is not just about our today, but it is about our tomorrow and our plan for our new generation. If we do not build on our infrastructure today and give them the best opportunity to succeed when their turn comes, we would have failed our children. Our culture must change to rational thinking and be weighed against the needs of our future generation. I hope the Christmas season brings some sense of semblance and goodwill to the 10th Parliament and opposition parties can reflect on their failure in 2013 to help contribute to our nation’s success in 2014. Respectfully submitted, Dr Peter Ramsaroop

NEWS

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Trinidadian man charged with raping Diaspora could play larger role in Caribbean development three stepdaughters denied bail - World Bank study A

new study by the Washingtonbased World Bank says the Diaspora could play an even larger role in contributing to the Caribbean’s development with the “right incentives and policies”. The study titled “Diaspora Investing: The Business and Investment Interests of the Caribbean abroad” was conducted by infoDev, a global innovation programme at the World Bank. The international financial institution said the assessment brought together knowledge and data gathered from over 850 self-identified members of the Caribbean Diaspora, and sheds light on their characteristics and investment interests. It said the Caribbean Diaspora was already “significantly engaged in the region,” with some 70 per cent being formal or informally affiliated to organizations in their home countries. The Word Bank said half of those surveyed send remittances and 85 per cent give back to the Caribbean either through financial help, or other support in kind. Moreover, it said nine out of 10 would like to be even more engaged in the future, potentially as investors. “With nearly one Diaspora member living in North America or Europe for every resident still in the region, this ability to engage represents a significant untapped potential,” the World Bank said. “There is also a grow-

The World Bank says the Caribbean Diaspora was already “significantly engaged in the region,” with some 70 per cent being formal or informally affiliated to organizations in their home countries.

ing community of angel investors among the Diaspora that are already actively involved both where they live and back home,” it said, adding that about 23 per cent of respondents have already invested in a startup company of some sort in the Caribbean region. Looking forward, the World Bank said investors have expressed strong interest in financing sectors, with high development potential for the region, such as green energy, mobile applications, education, and agribusiness.

Challenges

But the bank said challenges remain, stating that the gap between real engagement and expressed interest “remains significant”. For instance, the World Bank said while 85 per cent of Diaspora members would be interested in investing in a business back home, only 13 per cent of respondents currently do so. “The biggest barrier we found was visibility,”

said Qahir Dhanani, author of the report. “The money is out there, but there is a lack of awareness of investment opportunities, including what deals are there, what deals are high quality, and which entrepreneurs are receptive to angel investing,” he added. The report also highlights bureaucracy, associated with making such investments, and weak legal enforcement as key barriers. The study found that the patchwork of regulations among different countries makes it difficult to unlock the latent demand for regionally-focused investments among the Diaspora. According to the World Bank, the study provides other recommendations for interventions that are designed for the Caribbean as a whole. It said chief among these is the creation of an online marketplace that connects Diaspora investors with opportunities back home. “Such an approach would capitalize on the geographically dispersed nature of Diaspora populations, the increasing use of the Internet for social networking and investing, and the nascent but growing crowd-funding sector,” the World Bank said. Other recommendations included targeted capacity building for both entrepreneurs and angel investors, and the strengthening of existing angel investing networks. (Caribbean News)

‘Crime, my govt’s top priority’ PM Kamla reassures citizens

iven the spate of homicides that have gripped the nation in the past week, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar Sunday sought to reassure the nation that the crime rate was her government’s top priority. Over the past few days, a number of persons have been murdered including a female security guard, who was one of two persons killed at the Chaguanas public cemetery while a Moruga woman was gunned down on Saturday morning. Speaking to reporters during the Prime Minister’s Annual Christmas toy distribu-

tion at Skinner Park, San Fernando Sunday, Persad-Bissessar was asked to comment on the recent spate of murders which had already overtaken last year’s record of 370 for the same corresponding period, said that one criminal act was one crime too much. “Every crime is one crime too much and that remains number one priority in our list to deal with crime in Trinidad and Tobago. Murder is murder and every single one is painful and traumatic to us. We will continue to remain committed in the fight against crime. I know the Minister of National Security is doing the best

that he can, but there is still much more that we need to do.” Persad-Bissessar pointed out that many of the crimes were crimes of passion. However, the prime minister added, “Where it is that it is a domestic situation where crimes of passion is taking place, but I want the country to know that murder is murder and each loss is a great loss.” Persad-Bissessar also commended Chief Justice Ivor Archie for initiating steps to reduce the backlog at the nation’s courts, saying the government could also assist by its legislative agenda. (Excerpted from TT Newsday)

labourer in Trinidad has been denied bail after appearing before a magistrate in Couva charged with the rape of three girls, two of whom were under the age of 14. Amit Dhaniram, 30, of Gran Couva, appeared on the charges before Senior Magistrate Lucina CardenasRagoonanan in the Couva Magistrates’ Court Monday, following his arrest, at his home, by police officers of the Gran Couva Police Station, on Saturday. On Sunday afternoon, Dhaniram was taken to the Couva Police Station for his appearance in court. Dhaniram stood before CardenasRagoonanan who read the charges that between September 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012, he had sex with a girl who was under the age of 14. At the time, the girl was 11 years old. She is now 13. The second charge alleged that between September 1, 2011 and February 17, 2012, Dhaniram had sex with another girl who was under the age of 14. The second girl was 13 then, and is now 14. The magistrate then read the third charge that between July 18, 2011 and November 30, 2013, Dhaniram had sex with a girl above the age of 14, but without

Amid Dhaniram (TT Newsday photo)

consent. The girl, who turned 18 in July, was 16 years old at the time of the alleged rape. The charges were laid by WPC Alicia Soodeen of the Gran Couva Police Station. C a r d e n a s Ragoonanan told Dhaniram all the charges against him were laid indictably and that meant he would not be called upon to enter a plea. A preliminary inquiry would be held after a State attorney is appointed to prosecute the cases. Police prosecutor, Sgt Peter Francis, told the magistrate the police objected to bail because a trace needed to be conducted to determine if Dhaniram has a criminal record. Attorney Anisah Mohammed, who told the court she represented Dhaniram, asked for bail. CardenasRagoonanan told the attorney the court was concerned that Dhaniram

lived in close proximity to the alleged victims, and this would be a factor in grating bail. Mohammed said she had been given an undertaking that if bail is granted, the accused would stay by a relative in La Romaine. However, Francis said the computer system on criminal records of persons charge was not functioning and as a result, the prosecution wanted Dhaniram remanded for tracing. C a r d e n a s Ragoonanan told Dhaniram bail would not be granted pending an investigation into if he had a criminal record. The magistrate remanded him to reappear on January 13. According to a report, the girls lived in a one-bedroom house in Central Trinidad together with their 51-yearold mother and the stepfather. A police report stated that the elder sister visited the Gran Couva Police Station last Friday morning. There, she spoke to female police officers about the two years of rapes she and her sisters endured at the hands of their stepfather. According to the police report, the stepfather would often have sex with the minors at night while his common law wife slept. (Excerpted from TT Newsday)

Murder accused appears in court

he man accused of murdering his mentally challenged brother made his first court appearance on Wednesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Ann McLennan. Neville France, 38, was not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that on December 12 at Fallstop, in the North West District, he murdered Richard France. Based on reports, the two brothers were under the influence of alcohol when an argument ensued between them. During the argument, the now dead man, who is mentally challenged, reportedly hit his elder brother Neville, and in retaliation, the latter picked up a knife and dealt him a blow to the back. Upon seeing this, their father who was at home, ran to the rescue of his son, only to find him lying on the ground

Neville France leaving the courthouse, escorted by a policemen

in a pool of blood. Further information revealed that earlier in the day, the now dead man had an issue with a neighbour, resulting in him receiving a few lashes. It was immediately after that commotion,

the argument broke out between the two brothers. France was remanded to prison and the matter was adjourned to today (Thursday) where he is set to appear before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry.

Caribbean news

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Accused child killer to undergo evaluation in Trinidad

urious onlookers Monday threatened the life of Dwayne Lewis, the 28-year-old man charged with killing six-year-old Keyana Cumberbatch, as he left the Arima Magistrates Court en route to the St Ann’s Hospital where he is to undergo an evaluation. The onlookers, of various ages, shouted abuses at Lewis and officers when he was being taken to and from court, asking that Lewis not be allowed to hide his face and that the officers display him for the public to see, all so that they could feed their curiosity to see the man accused of carrying out such an act on an innocent child. Officers also had to quell several situations in which it seemed the crowd was threatening to overwhelm the police and converge on Lewis as he was being taken to the police vehicle for transportation to St Ann’s. Some of members of the public were heard threatening to castrate Lewis. One man had a glass bottle taken away from him by police, after

he was heard saying he wanted to attack the accused and would surely be granted bail if he assaulted Lewis. A woman was also stopped by a police sergeant when she attempted to get a closer view of Lewis with a glass bottle in her hand, while another was pushed to the ground by an officer while Lewis was being transported from the first vehicle he was put in, to another, as she attempted to get too close to the accused. “I want to bite up he like a dog,” one woman was heard shouting. Another woman said all she wanted was “one moment with him.” Some of the onlookers were heard saying that Lewis, a security officer, did not deserve to live, especially while in prison since “is we feeding he.” “He don’t deserve to live,” one woman shouted with support from those around her.

Threats by prisoners

Earlier inside the courtroom, Lewis’ attorney Fareed Ali, told Senior Magistrate Indrani Cedeno his client was threatened by other prisoners at the

Peace on Earth...

Accused Dwayne Lewis is escorted to a police vehicle after appearing in the Arima Magistrates Court Monday for the murder of Keyana Cumberbatch. Lewis was remanded in custody to the St Ann’s Psychiatric Hospital for evaluation. (TT Guardian photo)

courthouse, with some throwing their food at him when he was placed in the holding cell. Lewis is charged with killing Cumberbatch on a date unknown between November 24 and November 29. Cumberbatch went miss-

ing from her Maloney Gardens, D’Abadie, home on November 25. Her decomposing body was found in a barrel in her mother Simone Williams’ apartment three days later. (Excerpted from TT Guardian)

Dismissing HIV positive workers to be outlawed in Jamaica

he government of Jamaica is closer to enacting laws which will impose sanctions on employers who dismiss workers based on their HIV/AIDS status. Such persons will be seen to commit an offence and will be liable to face sanctions in a Resident Magistrate’s Court. And employers who seek to compel potential or existing workers to submit to an HIV test as a condition of employment will also be seen as committing an offence. These restrictions are to come into being when the Occupational Health and Safety Act is enacted next year. Labour and Social Security Minister Derrick Kellier, insists that the legislation, which has been long in coming, will be passed before the end of the financial year on March 31, 2014. He is therefore urging employers to begin to develop a workplace policy on HIV/AIDS. Kellier was speaking

that in 2007 his ministry started a voluntary compliance programme for employers and up to November this year 276 companies have come on board. The Labour and

Jamaica’s Labour and Social Security Minister Derrick Kellier. (Jamaica Gleaner file photo)

Monday as he launched the White Paper on the National Workplace Policy on HIV and AIDS. The policy will form part of the regulations, which will accompany the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The labour and social security minister stated that a monitoring and enforcement unit, staffed with 20 investigators, will be set up to ensure employers comply with the law. He added that public education and sensitisation among employers will be stepped up in the New Year. Kellier pointed out

Social Security Minister noted that persons living with HIV have a right not to be discriminated against and should be allowed to earn a living. (Jamaica Gleaner)

atiricus sighed. If only... That’s what a little voice inside his head was telling him. The little voice spoke often to Satiricus nowadays. It was the season to be jolly and Satiricus was not one to miss out on any jollity or jollification that might be going on. He was jolly often and he was jolly long. And the little voice was telling him, “If only prezzie had taken GrainJa to South Africa.” The problem was that the little voice would say no more. So Satiricus had to fill in the blanks. He lay back in his hammock, closed his eyes and saw the two leaders in the plane jetting across the Atlantic Ocean. Too bad it wasn’t the plane Kamra had chartered for her contingent. That one had a real Trini atmosphere... rum flowing like water, chutney and kaiso blasting from the speakers, with the captain as the DJ and fellas running around screaming, “Doan hold me back!!! Doan hold me back!!!” Nope. Here was Prezzie, with wide open, outstretched arms walking towards GrainJa. “How ya doin’ Grainj??” “What business is that to you?” replied GrainJa brusquely. “You know I’m a military man, and my health is a military secret. If I tell you, I’ll have to kill you afterwards.” Prezzie had moved back defensively. “Hey, Grainj... I only asking, boy!! Making conversation, you know?” “Listen, Mr President. I don’t make conversation, even with my wife,” GrainJa snapped. “She refuses to call me Brigadier.” “Boy, you real serious,” noted Prezzie. “Don’t you ever smile?” “Smile? Well, if you tell me some good news, I might,” promised GrainJa. “Like if you tell me GreenBridge stop running for PNC leader.” “Well, I doan think GreenBridge giving that up for nobody,” said Prezzie. “But listen, man, we gon be flying for eight hours to London and then 10 hours to South Africa. How about if we sit down?” “OK,” said GrainJa as a concession, as Prezzie looked at him. Finally, Prezzie couldn’t hold it in any longer, “Man, is how you back so stiff even when you sitting down,” he marvelled. “Well, don’t tell anyone. They think is because I was in the army,” confessed GrainJa. “But I’ll tell you the truth. One time I was parachuting in the jungle, I landed on a tree. I still have a stick up my a55.” Prezzie’s eyes had opened wide, “Sheesh! That must be painful,” he said solicitously. “Not as painful as that pain in the ass, GreenBridge,” noted GrainJa with a sigh.

news

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

No security concerns World Bank deems in survey deal – Urling corruption public enemy number... …but govt must consider Norway pact

from page 5

e o r g e t o w n Chamber of C o m m e r c e and Industry (GCCI) President Clinton Urling said Guyana should not be concerned about any security threat resulting from its grant of an exploration permit to a company to carry out geophysical survey in the New River Triangle area, asserting that the land belongs to this country and that Georgetown should not be too overly bothered by Suriname’s reaction. He said that the only issue that should be addressed is if the government is willing to revise its current policy of not permitting mining in the specified area, noting that the administration will have to ensure that if it indeed changes its policy on mining in the area, then it should take into consideration commitments related to the GuyanaNorway agreement on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and

Forest Degradation (REDD+) and how funding from that arrangement can be affected if mining in the specified area negatively affects control of Guyana’s total forest degradation levels. Urling is the latest public figure to add his voice to the growing storm over the granting of the Permission for Geological and Geophysical Survey (PGGS) to Muri Brasil Ventures Incorporated and why Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud did not tell a parliamentary committee about this when he had met the body. Persaud, his ministry and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) have been criticised for the deal after a copy of the PGGS was leaked to the media.

No underhand arrangement

In a letter to the editor, Urling said, “I do not believe there was any intent by Mr Robert

GCCI President Clinton Urling

Persaud, the minister of natural resources and the environment to subvert due process and instead engage in some underhanded arrangement with the company.” According to Urling, the issuance of PGGS is nothing new to Guyana, pointing out that Pharsalus Incorporated was granted a PGGS in 2007 by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. At the time, the GGMC was

led by Commissioner William Woolford. It was pointed out that the PGGS issued in 2007 was not far flung from the one issued in November 2012. “During the duration of the permission, the permittee shall have the right to apply to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission for, and shall be granted, a maximum of 20 prospecting licences for radioactive minerals and rear earth elements,” a clause in the 2007 PGGS read. In accordance with the 2012 PGGS, Muri Brasil Ventures can apply for the maximum of 18 prospecting licences (PL). According to the Mining Act, Article 30, Chapter 2, a PL shall be granted if the applicant can demonstrate adequate financial and technical expertise to carry out an effective prospecting operation and can show that it has an adequate prospecting programme or operational plan. On Tuesday, Muri Basil Ventures broke its silence on the PGGS it was issued on November 7, 2012 for several types of minerals in South East Berbice in the vicinity of the New River Triangle.

sector, financial and state management, and public procurement. He said this “global practice on good governance” will become a major player in the anti-corruption effort for years to come.

Clean business practices

To show how progress can be made in the anti corruption fight, Kim gave specific examples of how the World Bank and its partners have had an impact on the problem. “When corruption threatened to derail a critical power project for southern African countries, the World Bank intervened, preventing more than US$ 6 million from being misused. In Afghanistan, we supported the Network for Integrity in Reconstruction which trained 980 people who have monitored 281 infrastructure projects worth US$ 247 million.” In addition to anticorruption governmental action, Kim called on other partners to join the fight, including the private sector. “The private sector has to be part of the solution as well. Oil, gas, and mining firms are increasingly disclosing their contracts with governments. This gives everyone a chance

to scrutinise the behaviour of corporate and public officials.” Kim noted that through innovative solutions in key sectors like engineering consulting, the World Bank has convinced major firms to commit to clean business practices.

Integrity Awards

At the event, three recipients of the World Bank’s “Integrity Awards” were honoured: the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, whose cooperation in an investigation resulted in World Bank sanctions and legal action; a senior financial management specialist whose vigilance in reviewing a project prompted corrective actions in the audit and treasury functions of the local government in China; and a person working in Timor Leste who unveiled fraud and corruption affecting US$ 44 million of World Bank-financed contracts. “Inspired by these examples, the World Bank Group is more committed than ever to continue the fight against corruption – that will be a critical part of our work to end extreme poverty and to boost shared prosperity,” said Kim.

Driver struck while fixing flat on icy morning in Queens

he New York Daily news has reported that a livery cab driver who got a flat tire in Jamaica, Queens, early Sunday lost both legs after he was struck by an out-of-control SUV. Thakoor Dayaram, 52, lost both legs after he was hit around 12:20 a.m. on North Conduit Ave. east of Cross Bay Blvd., a coworker at Merengue Limo & Car Service confirmed. "I don't know how he'll take it," Jonathan

Abreu, 28, said. "Not this. He lost both of his legs." A Department of Sanitation worker who stopped to assist the driver was also struck but escaped serious injury, a city spokesman said. Alphonse Landi, a supervisor who has been with the department since 1997, was on snow patrol when he stopped in the rain to aid the driver, Department of Sanitation spokesman

Vito Turso said. According to NY Daily, both men were struck by a Chevy Equinox that lost control on the sleek street under the Cohancy Street overpass. Landi, who was "shaken up," was treated and released, Turso said. The driver who struck the two men remained at the scene and there were no charges, cops said. Abreu said Dayaram was on the side of the road because of a flat tire. Dayaram had been driving for the company for three years and was originally from India. Abreu said his friend often pulled 12-hour shifts and rarely took off. "He's my friend," Abreu said. "He's a very nice guy. Very hard working."

News

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Ramotar emphasises need for food security and skills in region – at ALBA-PETROCARIBE Summit

uyana’s president Donald Ramotar during his presentation at the ALBA (the Bolivarian Alliance of the Peoples of our America) and PETROCARIBE Summit in Venezuela on Tuesday said the PETROCARIBE project is one of foresight and is already being seen in the Region as very important. Two years after its establishment, the world found itself in a deep financial and economic crisis, which affected the region tremendously, and PETROCARIBE played a role in helping the Caribbean. The President pointed out that for Guyana, the PETROCARIBE arrangement was exemplary and important, and has helped increase trade relations with Venezuela. Stressing on food security, he emphasised the importance for the region to secure its own food, and pointed out that Latin America has the ability to free itself

from problems and could make international contributions with regards to food supplies. “It is vital that this plan is put into operation,” he said. He also pointed out among other issues to be dealt with, the project on Universities which he said should not be confined only to services, “but there are a lot of other crucial skills which we need for development in our various societies. In Guyana for instance, we lack a lot of infrastructure in our country, we need more engineers, we need more agriculture specialists to improve our yield to our variety,” President Ramotar added. He emphasised the need for improvement in economic, engineering and managerial skills which are vital for the region. The Guyanese Head of State also welcomed arrangements being put in place to resolve problems between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, which he described as a

major step forward that speaks well for the future. He acknowledged the Chairman’s call for stronger economic unity in the region observing that it would enable the region to wield more power that would lead to increased trade and less dependence on the rest of the world. “We will play our part and try to identify strong, capable people to work in these bodies so we can contribute to directing our country forward,” he promised. Among the highlights of the summit was the proposal for establishing an exclusive economic zone, and Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett who also attended the summit, said that they agreed to look at the economic zone for PETROCARIBE members with a smaller group to lead the effort; Dominica, Ecuador, Venezuela and Nicaragua and Jamaica with Ecuador to coordinate.

President Donald Ramotar being escorted to the venue in Caracas, Venezuela for the ALBA-PETROCARIBE Summit.

The creation of the economic zone was proposed by Venezuela’s Head of State Nicolas Maduro during the Summit of Heads of State of Alba, held in Guayaquil, Ecuador in July. PETROCARIBE, formed in 2005, comprises Antigua and

Barbuda, Bahamas, Belize, Cuba, Dominica, Granada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname and Venezuela. President Maduro

said the regional bloc has risen above economic and political spheres to become a truly human integration mechanism. “PETROCARIBE has transcended the energy sphere, spreading out to economic, commercial, cultural, humanity and political areas,” he told journalists.

14 Caribbean news Jamaica’s Housing Trust wooing Diaspora T week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

he National Housing Trust (NHT) is on a drive to get Jamaicans living overseas to contribute to the fund and to build houses for them. "Jamaicans, whether they do it or not, they always wish to come back home," NHT Chairman Easton Douglas told Jamaican media recently. "And those who do not come back home wish to know that at Easter, Independence and Christmas, they have somewhere they can stay." Already, the State agency has visited seven cities in England and has spoken to Jamaicans who have expressed an interest in the services being offered by the trust. The NHT also fol-

lowed up with some potential contributors at the Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference in June. Douglas said that during the NHT retreat in February next year, the agency set a date to visit the U.S. and Canada to generate interest in the plans among Jamaicans there. Douglas admitted that the contribution mechanism hasn't been finalised, however, the feedback the trust has been getting has been "excellent" so far. There's a vast number of Jamaicans in the Diaspora who have lost faith and trust in the private contractors, said Douglas. "They didn't know that we can build their

homes, that we will build houses in clusters for single-family houses, that we will go through the process of identifying land, the contractor and everything, or we'll project manage it for them," Douglas said. In addition to that programme, the NHT is also on a quest locally to involve the approximately 700,000 workers who aren't contributing to the scheme.

First Step Homes

He suggested that the non-contributors could be attracted through the NHT's First Step Homes programme, which provides shelter for as low as Ja$1.2 million, or the Mortgage Partnership programme, under which contributions can be given to someone to own a

home. "If you have money that you are not going to use, say a member of the Diaspora has contributed to the NHT, but really doesn't need it, you can donate to somebody to [acquire] their own homes," Douglas said. The NHT chairman said the agency has made headway as it relates to the development of affordable homes with the construction of starter homes that require no deposit, but rather a monthly payment of Ja$7,200. NHT contributors who qualify for a loan of no more than Ja$2.5 million can benefit. Even so, the demand for the starter homes is massive. "We advertised for 200 houses in Longville

NHT says on its website.

Low-income earners

NHT Chairman Easton Douglas (Jamaica Observer photo)

[Park] and we had 11,000 applications," he said. First Step Homes have already been built in Trelawny and Westmoreland and model units are being constructed in Clarendon and St Catherine, the

Under the programme, 600 First Step Homes will be provided per year over a five-year period to low-income earners. Since inception and up to March 31, 2013, the NHT has had a direct hand in 93,718 housing solutions. It has been a prolific developer with nearly 42,000 housing units. "We have allocated Ja$19 billion to the private sector to the building of houses and the NHT itself has spent Ja$11 billion for the building of houses, we are in partnership with building societies and every bank in Jamaica with respect to mortgages," Douglas said. (Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

Three security firms sued for breaching minimum wage order

Dr Nanda Gopaul

hree security firms have been taken to court for failing to adhere to the new National Minimum Wage Order and the 40-hour work week, Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul said on Wednesday. Speaking at his end of year press conference at his 1 Water Street, Stabroek, Georgetown office, Dr Gopaul said some 2218 inspections were done at various businesses countrywide, which led to the ministry taking legal action against three security firms, who are not in compliance with the new minimum wage order. The three firms are Home Safe Security Services, Supreme Security Service and Strategic Action Security Service. The labour minister said cases have been filed so far and more will be filed for all workers who are not being paid accordingly. He said the security firms have not been paying workers their rightful salaries even prior to this year’s new minimum wage order, which he believes is blatant and to-

tally disrespectful to the working class. “We are pursuing prosecution, we have 19 cases against them so far and we intend to file all the cases for the workers who have not been paid en bloc,” he said. According to the labour minister, the trial is continuing and this will be monitored to ensure workers get there due sum. On the other hand, commercial entities were also taken to court and will be up for trial. The ministry will be seeking the assistance of the Attorney General’s Chambers and private lawyers will be sought to ensure that these companies comply with the law. Dr Gopaul added that the assistance of the Attorney General’s Chamber and that of private lawyers will be sought to ensure that these companies comply with the law. Some 35,000 workers at the lower level are said to have benefited from the introduction of the national minimum wage and the 40-hour work week order. In addition to the inspections carried out, the ministry also received approximately 1100 complaints from persons working in various industries about issues relating to dismissal, termination of employment, outstanding wages, overtime and annual leave. The Labour Ministry has secured Gy$ 14.1 million from employers for payouts to aggrieved employees.

caribbean news

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Wild celebrations in Jamaica as Tessanne wins ‘The Voice’

o n g r a t u l a tions flowed Tuesday night as Jamaicans, who had gathered across the island, celebrated the crowning of Tessanne Chin as ‘The Voice’ 2013. Chin, who thanked the nation for its support during an interview with Jamaican media after her victory, walked away with a recording contract and US$100,000. High on the list of those hailing the singer's win in the American talent competition was Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller. "You have been a fine ambassador for Jamaica during this gruelling competition and your voice, your victory, will now serve to set the new standard for others to follow. We in Jamaica... feel a special pride that you are one of us and we look forward to celebrating with you in a larger and appropriate way on your return to the island." Minister of Youth and Culture Lisa Hanna also showered Chin with praise.

Tessanne Chin (Jamaica Gleaner photo)

"Tessanne was the best voice and performer on the programme," Hanna said in a statement issued just minutes after the announcement. "I speak on behalf of the country when I say that we are all happy for her success. I am very pleased that so many more people across the world did get, and will get, to see what we already knew----that Tessanne is an amazing singer who enchants her audiences, not only with her beautiful voice, but with Jamaican grace and charm as well. She is an excellent role model and outstanding representative of Jamaican cul-

ture." H e a d l i n e Entertainment's Jerome Hamilton, one of Tessanne's booking agents, was also ecstatic over the win. "I expected her to win. It is a great win for Tessanne, the artiste, and a great thing for Jamaica. It is a wonderful opportunity for her and it will once again shine light on Jamaica," Hamilton said. The night was nothing, but wonderful for Chin, who broke down in tears as she was announced the winner, after 12 weeks of competition. She finished ahead of Jacquie Lee, who secured second and Will Champlin, who finished third. Although teary-eyed, Chin sang her first postvictory single, ‘Tumbling Down’, written for the competition's winner by Ryan Tedder of ‘OneRepublic’. Earlier on the night, Chin got the opportunity of a lifetime to perform alongside musical icon Celine Dion. (Excerpted from Jamaica Gleaner)

week ending December 22, 2013

| guyanatimeSinternational.com

NEWS

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

New River mining will bring 'unimaginable' benefits – Muri Brasil

uri Brasil Ventures Inc said there was nothing opaque about its deal with the Natural Resources Ministry to gain Permission for Geographical and Geophysical Survey (PGGS).It also clarified that it is a local company and not Brazilian and that it was encouraged to apply for the PGGS following an advertisement by the administration. Approximately one week ago, the PGGS document signed between the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and Muri Brasil Ventures Inc was leaked to the press, sparking controversy, as Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud was accused of withholding information – an allegation he has denied. The minister was among signatories, for the PGGS, which was issued on November 7, 2012 for several types of minerals in the New River area in south-east Berbice.

The opposition and the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) claim that the minister misled them on questions concerning the PGGS. In a two-page press statement, Muri Brasil Ventures Inc, firstly, dispelled what it said is a misconception that it is a Brazilianregistered entity, clarifying it was registered in Guyana under the Companies Act, with Guyanese shareholders and directors. The company was reportedly encouraged to apply for the PGGS following the publication of an invitation for the exploration of rare earth elements in the Muri Mountain area in March 20, 2012. “Exploration activities have not commenced, because permission is being awaited for the construction of a small airstrip to facilitate the airborne aspect of the survey. Other research activities have taken place,” the company pointed out.

Prospecting licences

However, before a prospecting licence is issued, a work programme and financial and technical capabilities of a company must be supplied.

Unfounded

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud was questioned about the agreement by A Partnership for National Unity parliamentarian Joe Harmon in Parliament

The clause within the PGGS that paves the way for the granting of, at least, 18 prospecting licences is the main bone of contention, since the Natural Resources Ministry had indicated that no mining activity was being done in the New River Triangle. “These kinds of exploration activities cost millions of U.S. dollars, which can only be sourced as exploration investments from outside of Guyana. No such

investments would be available if the investor is given no assurance that he will be granted prospecting licences. The investor takes a risk. If he or she is not assured of a potential return, investment capital will dry up and so will Guyana’s mining industry,” Muri Brasil Ventures Inc explained. According to the company, constant exploration activities are essential to accelerate the mining industry.

A PGGS is qualitatively different from a mining permit, Muri Brasil Ventures Inc stressed, as it alluded to the Mining Act, saying the attack on the Natural Resources Ministry is unfounded. “The first was the accusation that he lied. This did not stick, so he was then accused of withholding the facts. That also proved to be unfounded so that the Stabroek News’s editorial of December 16 accuses him of secrecy, a crime which he allegedly shares with the government. These accusations are unfair and do not stand up to scrutiny. We hope that this controversy is not allowed to adversely affect the PGGS granted to the company. Overseas investment funds in Guyana’s mining industry and in exploration will dry up.

Imagine what investors will think when they read about this controversy.” South-east Berbice has long been an area of interest to miners. In the 1970s, the late Chris Barron of the UK did enormous work in mapping the terrain of that area, some of the toughest in the country, including the Muri Mountain area. In 1976, he led a United Nations’ supported survey team to the area which identified phosphate and rare-earth bearing carbonatite. Sylvine and other minerals were also identified. “These and other minerals exist for the benefit of Guyana and the Guyanese people. Their exploitation under environmentally sound practices, if found in commercial quantities, which will not happen for at least 10 years after exploration and perhaps much longer, will bring unimaginable benefits to the Guyanese people,” the statement added.

week ending December 22, 2013

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NEWS week ending December 22, 2013

Man on bail for forging Gy$5000 notes

man was on Tuesday placed on bail after he appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry to answer to the charge of forgery. It was alleged that on December 16 at Georgetown, Guy Matheson was in possession of four Gy$ 5000 Guyana currency notes without any lawful reason or cause, knowing the same to be forged. Matheson pleaded guilty with explanation to the charge as it was read to him. An unrepresented Matheson told the court that he was walking along the road when he found an envelope containing the notes along with Gy$ 200 and had spent the smaller amount but went to enquire from a shop owner about the Gy$ 5000 notes stating that he had never seen them before. He went on to say that when the police came to arrest him for another matter, this one was brought to their attention, but he has not

yet been charged for the previous matter. He added that he did not know he was supposed to take the notes to the police station until he was told about it. Based on his explanation, Chief Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry entered a not guilty plea. Prosecutor Bharat Mangru objected to bail, citing the seriousness and prevalence of the offence along with the fact that more charges are likely to be laid against the defendant. Bail was granted in the sum of Gy$ 75,000 and the matter stands adjourned to February 7, 2014. After hearing that his bail was in a substantial amount, the defendant seized the opportunity to escape since the officers were distracted by another prisoner who was behaving disorderly. He walked briskly out of the courthouse and was heading in the direction of Carmichael Street when Constable 21528 Yarris noticed the defendant missing and subsequently arrested him.

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Guyana records highest gold declaration in 2013

istory has been created in the mining industry, with Guyana recording the highest gold declaration of 458,105 ounces. The announcement was made by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud on Tuesday. This declaration surpasses the previous highest level of 455,918 ounces, which was achieved in 2001, with the combined efforts of Omai and small scale operations. Speaking at his Brickdam’s office, Persaud said the achievement is a stepping stone for Guyana. “This is a proud moment for all those who work in the sector. It shows dedication and commitment of the miners and also addresses the concerns about under-declaration of gold or the claims of gold smuggling,” he posited. Optimistic that the figures would increase by the end of 2013, Persaud said all of Guyana should rally with the mining sector. “We as Guyanese, we should celebrate, be proud of

this and we should not demonise or chastise these hard working men and women.” According to the Guyana Gold Board, in 2011, gold declaration stood at approximately 363,083 ounces, but the figure jumped at the end

nology being utilised to affect more efficient recovery and production, the Natural Resources Ministry said. In 2012, gold and bauxite exports represented 50 per cent and 10 per cent respectively of total export reve-

Guyana on Monday declared some 458,105 ounces of gold, the highest production it has ever recorded

of 2012, with Guyana recording 438,645 ounces. The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry this year has placed major emphasis on green development within the extractive sector, which is within the framework of its low carbon economy. Increased investment in the sector has resulted in innovative tech-

nues, the ministry posited, noting that gold export earnings totalled US$ 716.9 million; 38.7 per cent higher than the 2011 level. The average export price per ounce of gold increased by six per cent to US$ 1575.4 per ounce from US$ 1486.5 per ounce in 2011, the ministry pointed out. “Mining is an im-

portant part of the Guyanese economy, contributing 10.6 per cent to the nation’s annual GDP in 2012. Between 2007 and 2012, there was 14 per cent growth of the total export value of mining. In 2011, it was estimated that 13,800 people are directly employed in small and medium scale gold and diamond operations and 19,000 indirectly employed in mining support industries.” Based on the ongoing trend, the ministry anticipates that mining will continue to be the key driver in Guyana’s economy. In an effort to alleviate the negative impacts of mining and promote sustainable development in the industry, the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry said its 2013-2018 strategic framework will reduce environmental degradation in the mining sector. Improving reclamation of mined out areas, and providing initiatives to address impacts on deforestation and forest degradation from mining are among areas to be tackled within the strategic framework.

News

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

CJIA passengers get 'Guyanese Christmas' treat

ncoming passengers at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) were on Monday morning given a taste of Christmas, Guyanese style, as the airport continued its tradition of celebrating the major holidays in Guyana. Black cake, which is synonymous with Guyanese celebrations, especially during the Christmas holidays, was among the various treats. A little after 09: 00h, passengers deplaned from two Caribbean Airlines flights and were greeted by CJIA customer service representatives; Demerara Distillers Limited’s ‘El Dorado ladies’, Edward Beharry’s Chico man and his beautiful helpers, as well as Windsor Estates and the Guyana Tourism Authority ‘black cake’ ladies. CJIA’s Santa and

A passenger samples one of Edward Beharry’s products under the merry gaze of the Chico man

his personal one-man band kept the festive momentum going with their unique brand of Christmas spirit. As usual, the duo was a mas-

sive hit with the children. The students of Success Elementary choir gave youthful, yet masterful renditions of Christmas car-

ols, while the Republican Steel Orchestra added that ‘pan’ touch of class. Santa hats were also distributed. According to GTA

Director Indranauth Haralsingh, there is no Christmas like Christmas in Guyana. “It is very proud moment to greet passengers in this style and fashion, and it is not only Christmas time [we do this] but other major Guyana celebrations, including Mashramani, Easter, Phagwah, Emancipation, and Diwali… this makes CJIA unique and one of the friendliest airports in this part of the world,” he added. The annual meet and greet concludes on December 24. The Oasis Café, Demerara Distillers Limited, Windsor Estates, Friendly’s Restaurant and Bar, Bakewell, Digicel, Candy Corner, Edward Beharry, and Caribbean International Distributors Inc (CIDI) are on board to make the

activity a remarkable and memorable one.

Annual parade

In keeping with the holiday spirit, the airport’s chief executive officer, Ramesh Ghir said CJIA’s annual parade, now in its sixth year, will take place on December 20. “We have a number of sponsors with us, and we will take the opportunity to go into the Timehri North area and share out some gifts,” he told reporters. He also introduced the airport’s three customer service representatives. The customer service unit was established two and half months ago, with a view to improving the quality of services offered. On the security front, he expressed confidence that “all will be well” during the season, since security has heightened.

New Grenadian envoy to Caricom applauds reform process

he work that has been done with the Caricom Reform Process is to be applauded, newly-appointed plenipotentiary representative of Grenada to Caricom, Dr Patrick

Antoine said. The ambassador was speaking during a ceremony at the Caricom Secretariat in Georgetown, Guyana where he handed over his credentials to Secretary

General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque. Dr Antoine said there were challenges that needed to be addressed in relation to the reform process, but the work so far was to be commend-

ed. According to him, more attention needed to be given to some issues and the contours of the assignment needed to be further defined. “This assignment provides Caricom with the opportunity to prove our worth and our mettle,” he said. Ambassador Antoine said there were a number of issues that needed to be examined during this important time of the regional integration process. He referred to the completion of the Caricom Single Market

and Economy (CSME), including the contentious issue of free movement of labour, the movement of goods and developing a strategy and outlook for 2014 and beyond within the construct of Caricom as a community for all. He said the community should find a way to bring the diaspora and the private sector onboard in developing this agenda. “Caricom is not a project. Caricom has been part of our ingrained aspirations as a communi-

ty,” the ambassador said. In relation to Information Communication Technology (ICT), Ambassador Antoine said there was also much work to be done in this area. However, he thanked the Caricom secretary general for an initiative taken by Caricom in ensuring that an offer made by U. S. Vice President Joe Biden to provide financing for a single Caricom ICT space was being pursued.

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Simply the Truth

On Nelson Mandela

By Professor Daizal Samad

he passing of Nelson Mandela makes the world a poorer place. South Africa is poorer, Africa is poorer, and every citizen of this planet is poorer. But if we begin in our own individual lives to live as he lived, then we will begin again to enrich ourselves and the countries and the world in which we live. This is the way to keep Mandela alive. We need not go through decades in prison to learn. We do not need to assist in the dismantling of a system as cruel as apartheid to do this. We need not be president or prime minister of our respective countries. We simply need to look at, and emulate, the simple decency of the man. That decency was shown in several ways. His gentle manner of talking. The passion of his belief was such that he did not need to be strident nor loud nor aggressive. When we lack substance, we run to adjectives and we make noise. Mandela had substance. His calmness under pressure never failed. He was intense in his belief in justice, but that intensity never boiled over as poisonous anger. Mandela never exaggerated. The decency came out in the grace of the man! He gave to all people with grace, and he accepted their adoration with a kind of bashful grace. He spoke with grace and listened with grace. Mandela was loath to speak ill of anyone, even his political adversaries. Men like F W De Klerk. He disagreed with Thabo Mbeki who succeeded him, but nary an ill word in public. He showed that one may disagree with another without resorting to crudeness. And Mandela laughed. He smiled. He joked and had others laughing. And the laughter had that element of youthful innocence and bashfulness that is always to be found in the wise and the humble. But most of all, the humour was turned on himself.

This great gift at being able to laugh at oneself. Mandela’s lesson: take the work seriously; take yourself much less so. Like all the greats before him, Mandela taught without seeming to teach. Mandela did not need a classroom. He did not proclaim his degrees. Much like the poet, Wong Phui Nam, Mandela corroded ego to a papery frailty. One just never really knew how much the man knew, did not know the depth of the gentleness nor wisdom through his proclamation of these things. One felt it though. Dr Walter Sisulu, Mandela’s late good old friend who spent a little longer in jail than did Mandela, said to a small group of three of us: “Mandela is humble. He never felt comfortable in ceremonies, nor in boardrooms. He is honourable.” The things we can learn from this great man! Grace, respect, humility, humour, intensity without loudness, correctness without rancour, and honour! The great Chinese Philosopher Lao Tzu (about 320BC; formal name: Taishang Laojun; mentor of Confucius) said thus: “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” The Nazarene knew this. Thus, he had both strength and courage. Henry David Theroux knew this. Mahatma Ghandi knew this from both. Mandela learned, as did Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and Mohamed Ali. Mother Theresa and Mary Woolstonecraft knew. A long lineage of goodness and honour, strength and courage. We do not need microphones and prerecorded music to know what they knew; we need not classroom walls to learn what they teach. We need not jump and scream for the heavens to hear us. The heavens themselves hear us in the pulses of our hearts. It is up to us to listen to our own heart beating, behold our own goodness. In the end, I may tell my Beloved that I need and wish to be needed, to love and be loved. I pray that Mandela is taken up and warmed in the cool blue flame of the Lord himself. Surely, he sits on the right hand of God with that smile of his. And all the children of this Republic of Guyana should shed a gentle and quiet tear upon our cheeks. Such tears will surely bring good things upon us all. The world is poorer for the passing of Mandela. The world would be replenished if we followed his example.

The Specialty Hospital must not be a political football

he Specialty Hospital that government is trying to establish is a muchneeded development initiative and it is good for all citizens. In the 2013 budget presentation, the opposition parties, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC), voted against the initiative. On December 12, the government presented a supplementary budget paper to provide funding to accelerate the construction of the hospital. Both APNU and AFC again voted against the project. But there was divine intervention. God really is on the side of the people of Guyana. Had every AFC and APNU member voted, they would have had 32 votes, but APNU Member of Parliament (MP) Debra Backer was absent from that sitting. This meant that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/ C) had 32 votes and the opposition had 32 votes. When the vote was taken, however, the opposition had only 31 votes.

God's intervention?

APNU MP Volda Lawrence was absent during voting and the budget was approved. Could it be that God decided to intervene on behalf of the Guyanese people? The Specialty Hospital must not be a negotiable project. Every Guyanese must embrace its establishment. Small, developing countries like Guyana will never be able to afford a hospital that can provide routine high quality tertiary care services such as cancer treatment, heart and brain surgeries, transplants and other interventions. Guyana’s Specialty Hospital is designed to attract people from other countries to come to Guyana for such services, rather than having to go to distant Asian locations. While people from

A model of the Specialty Hospital which is to be built at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown

outside will pay regular prices for such services, resident Guyanese would be assisted to obtain services at an affordable cost. Government will negotiate a discounted price that all Guyanese will benefit from. Government will also provide support to those Guyanese citizens who cannot afford even the discounted prices. In this way, all citizens will benefit from the investment. It is shameless that any politician will vote against a project that is good for Guyana, simply to ensure that the PPP/ C does not get credit for such a development. Anything that is good for Guyana should have the support of all politicians. But APNU and AFC consistently have voted against the welfare of the nation and the interest of the Guyanese people. This is but only one example of how reckless the opposition is, as they trade good sense and decency for recklessness and indecent sabotaging of development in Guyana. They have demonstrated time and again, a propensity to hold Guyana hostage in their shameless efforts to grab political power. The opposition also threatened to vote against a budgetary al-

location to expand the cardiac care unit at the Georgetown Public Hospital which presently caters for patents benefiting from heart surgeries at the Caribbean Heart Institute (CHI). More than 300 Guyanese citizens are alive today because of life-saving heart surgeries at CHI. Persons who have accessed CHI services are Guyanese citizens of every race, religion and from all political background.

Access

The opposition wanted to vote against the provisions to expand the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) because they say CHI is a greedy institution that only caters for the rich. But they should speak to the large number of pensioners, cane cutters, farmers and labourers who were provided with support to get services. Had CHI not been here, many of these persons would not have had access to such life-saving interventions. Because of CHI, Guyanese citizens of all walks of life have access to services that they would not have been able to afford, even with government help to go abroad. In the seven

years in which CHI has been operating as part of a public-private-partnership, Guyana has saved more than Gy$ 1 billion in medical costs, if citizens had to travel abroad for those services. The partnership between the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and CHI has more than justified the government’s bold initiative to bring better health care to the people. This is the kind of further upgrading of health services that the Specialty Hospital promises. If Guyana saved more than Gy$ 1 billion in seven years with CHI providing only one kind of service in Guyana, how much more would be saved from the Specialty Hospital? Politicians should stop playing games with people’s lives. Every MP should be asked how they voted on the Specialty Hospital and we should judge them, not from their words but from their action. Let’s look at how they vote whenever it comes to anything that directly benefits Guyanese citizens. Readers are invited to send their comments by email or Facebook to times.notebook@gmail. com

PUC approves reduced call rates to Canada, U.S.

– promotion ends March 31

he Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has recently approved a promotion on outbound international calls to Canada and the U. S. A. (excluding Alaska and Hawaii) at the approved pre-tax rate of Gy$ 20 per min-

ute (peak) and Gy$ 12 per minute (off peak). According to a release, these rates were made effective from December 15 and will run to March 31, 2014. “This promotion is applicable to all GT& T and Digicel custom-

ers and is offered on both the wire-line (landline) and mobile services, free of any subscription or fixed charges. With the applicable taxes, the rates will be Gy$ 23.2 (peak) and Gy$ 13.92 (off-peak),” the PUC said.

The body noted that that the peak period is from 06: 00h-18: 00h, during the weekdays, while the off peak period is from 18: 00h m to 06: 00h. Weekends and holidays are considered off peak, the PUC noted.

News

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Town Clerk blames Council’s infighting for flooding in Georgetown

eavy downpour in Guyana over the weekend resulted in flash floods in various parts of the city, and Town Clerk Carol Sooba is blaming the City Council’s non-support of her for the problem. Businesses and residents in the capital rushed to take the necessary precautions to safeguard their stock and property. They lashed out at City Hall for doing nothing to alleviate the problem even though they collect taxes every year. With a lot of garbage piled up at various locations in the city, concerns are being raised about the need for persons to also take the necessary health precautions to guard against infections. The recently-appointed town clerk is blaming the constant flooding in Georgetown on the many disgusting garbage pile

The state of James Street, Albouystown on Saturday

ups in the capital city’s drains and trenches. Sooba said the regular unhealthy practice of dumping garbage about the city is the root cause of the city’s floods. The town clerk noted that the situation is beyond her control as she does not have the support of the mayor and city councillors. “The garbage is the

main reason for all these floods…they want to keep these people on the road and so they keep dumping about the place all the time…as fast as we clean the place up, the people dump their garbage, so there is only so much we can do on our own,” the town clerk said. Sooba, nevertheless, assured that all the kok-

Ambassador Ishmael launches book on Guyana-Venezuela border issue

eteran Guyanese diplomat and author Dr Odeen Ishmael’s contribution to international diplomacy and South American history comes in the form of a book on the Guyana- Venezuela border issue that started in 1840. Guyana today is much less powerful than its neighbour Venezuela, but not at the time of the boundary dispute. Guyana was then British Guiana, a colonial territory of Great Britain. In The Trail of Diplomacy Ishmael shows the behind-thescenes diplomatic negotiations, the historical thrill of official documents and how they translate into history, and even intrigue on the international level, one that involved not only Venezuela, Guyana and Great Britain, but also the United States during the then penultimate arbitration in 1899. The Trail of Diplomacy: The GuyanaVenezuela Border Issue, the first volume of a three-part documentary of the Guyana-Venezuela border issue, gives a general overview of the early history of the colonisation of the Essequibo region forming the large western part of Guyana. It presents the background to the origin of the territorial dispute, which developed from 1840, and examines the opposing views of pro-

Seasoned Guyanese diplomat, Dr Odeen Ishmael

posed boundary lines and the long trail of diplomatic exchanges between Venezuela and Great Britain. It concludes with the involvement of the United States in support of Venezuela, eventually leading to the international arbitration for a “full, perfect, and final settlement” and the arbitral award which delineated the territorial boundary in 1899. Ishmael’s book shows that history is an exciting and thrilling process as supported by diplomatic minutes. The Trail of Diplomacy is interwoven with the trail of espionage and international intrigue, and the trail of war and violence. In the boundary dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, it is “The Trail of Diplomacy” that prevails over sensitive

events that continue to define a significant part of South America. Dr Ishmael, a widely published author, is currently Guyana’s ambassador to Kuwait and Qatar. He previously served as ambassador to Venezuela (20032011) and to the United States of America and the Organisation of American States (19932003). He has written extensively on Guyanese history, education, and culture and is internationally recognised as a premier analyst and commentator on the political integration move-

ment in South America. In 1997, Guyana decorated him with the Cacique Crown of Honour for his diplomatic work, and in 2002, in the United States, he was honoured with the Martin Luther King Legacy Award for international service. (Caribbean News Now)

ers and pumps are working well and teams were clearing blocked drains, allowing for free flow of the heavy water accumulation. Only recently, the entire Georgetown City and coastlands experienced a flash flood which caused many businesses and residents to suffer losses. Meanwhile, the Agriculture Ministry

said the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), having been prepared to respond to the expected rainfall, dispatched a team of engineers and technical staffers to assess the situation. Water accumulation has been recorded in Regions Two, Three and Four. It was recorded at

Cotton Field, Bush Lot, Anna Regina, La Bell Alliance and Three Friends in Region Two. In Region Three, low-lying residential areas such as Parfait Harmony, Bagotsville, Good Hope and Tennis Farm in Canal Number One were all affected by the above normal weather pattern. Several communities in Region Four were affected, including Buxton and Vigilance. The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), also suffered from the above normal weather pattern as agricultural lands from Ogle to Haslington were inundated, resulting in a halt to operation. Since the above normal rainy period commenced, the Agriculture Ministry has commenced a number of emergency interventions which has seen outfall channels excavated and desilted.

Britain to assist Jamaica in monitoring deportees

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Major General (Retired) Stewart Saunders (centre); shakes hands with British High Commissioner David Fitton (right); and Deputy Commissioner of Police with responsibility for the crime, Carl Williams, after the signing of a MOU to strengthen monitoring and management of deportees. (JIS photo)

he government of Jamaica’s efforts to improve the monitoring and management of criminal deportees have been strengthened, under a Ja$48 million agreement with the United Kingdom (UK) government. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Major General (Retired) Stewart Saunders and British High Commissioner David Fitton, last week, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for an 18-month project, aimed at boosting the capacity of the Deportee Monitoring Unit (DMU). The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry in Kingston. The initiative,

which got underway in November, will provide for the training of key personnel, and provision of equipment such as computers, cameras, printers, servers, telephone handsets, cell phones and office furniture. The objectives are to improve the systems of reception, processing and monitoring of deported migrants; and reduce the risk of recidivism through improved management and reintegration. “With this project, we sincerely hope that we will be better able to execute processes relating to the rehabilitation of these individuals and most importantly, to protect the citizenry against deportees, who are like-

ly to continue to cause harm within the society,” Major General Saunders said. He added that there is a component of the programme to provide the deportees with life skills and other learning opportunities to ensure that they are properly reintegrated into the society. “We are seeking to ensure that they are gainfully employed within the society, having been properly adjusted,” he stated. High Commissioner Fitton said that the UK government has been working with Jamaica to return and resettle Jamaicans, who have overstayed their time in the UK and others who served criminal sentences. (JIS)

news week ending December 22, 2013

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APNU in local govt election GPHC boss says medical services were not compromised campaign mode

he A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has started its elections campaign as it prepares for the highly anticipated local government elections. Coalition leader David Granger said that the Guyana Youth and Student Movement (GYSM) recently kickstarted a series of rallies

Dissatisfaction

“We are confident that election will be held and the bill will be assented to,” he said. APNU has been pushing for the past two years to have the local government election held, pointing out that the dysfunctional local government structure is creating little room for the

Local Government Commission Bill – were passed by the National Assembly, after the bills were tabled in the house. The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) said it is fully equipped and ready to stage the long-anticipated local government elections. GECOM’s Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally had said that the commission is prepared for the elections.

during industrial action

Foreign donors

Opposition Leader David Granger addressing the media

across the country, three of which have already been held. APNU Member of Parliament Winston Felix, who is directing the campaign, is the key person who will set dates and times for rallies at various locations. The coalition launched its election on November 28, and Granger said the response thus far has been satisfactory. “As far as the parties are concerned, we are going into the election campaign as a partnership…” he added. He also expressed his dissatisfaction with the president’s non-assent to the Local Government (Amendment) Bill.

improvement of community life. APNU has also stated its dissatisfaction with government’s response to the call for local government elections. Government on the other hand has made some effort to ensure that local government elections are held, especially since there were numerous calls by the diplomatic corps to ensure that this becomes a reality. Four local government reform bills – the Fiscal Transfers Bill 2012, the Municipal and District Councils (Amendment) Bill 2012, the Local Government ( A m e n d m e n t ) Bill 2012 and the

According to him, GECOM has already demarcated the various boundaries and constituencies – 71 districts. Each of these areas has been targeted for voters’ education. Further, Dr Surujbally added that with support from foreign donors and funds covered under the commission’s own budget, finance will not be a problem. GECOM has conducted approximately 7000 transactions ahead of the closing of its fifth cycle of continuous registration on November 23. Additionally, the Local Government Ministry has given the green light for GECOM to commence its public awareness programme. Next year will be 20 years since local government election was last held in Guyana. Government has indicated that local government election is expected to be held in either the second or third quarter of 2014.

GPHC CEO Michael Khan

e o r g e t o w n Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael Khan said medical care was not compromised at the institution during the weekend when there was a reported staff shortage. Khan made this comment to Guyana Times International on Monday after it was reported in sections of the media that patients were left unattended while many staff members had called in “sick”. According to the CEO, there was indeed a staff shortage during the weekend and the persons who have reported sick were asked to put in some extra work and they did so “admirably”. He explained that the staff who reported sick were from various wards; however, none were from the maternity section. Khan praised those who pulled their weight, plus worked beyond the call of duty, noting that he is

proud of them. He said the hospital is monitoring the situation as it relates to the staff shortage, pointing out that there was an excellent turnout at the institution on Monday. While it is evident that the stunt pulled by the staff is in retaliation against the five per cent wage increase imposed on them, the government remains firm in its position. When contacted, Public Service Minister Jennifer Westford said she is not engaged in any discussions or negotiations with the union to have the situation ironed out. She then declined to comment further on the matter. Meanwhile, Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) President Patrick Yarde also disclosed to this newspaper that he too has not been contacted by any government functionary to discuss or negotiate a possible way forward. He said the govern-

ment seems to have no regards for the representations made on behalf of the GPSU members. Yarde stated that the members, very rightfully, are angered by the blatant disrespect shown to them. The GPSU president disclosed that to address this situation, he has sent a letter to the police commissioner, indicating that they intend to move away from scattered picketing activities to protest marches to gain the attention of the government.

GPSU President Patrick Yarde

He added that the union has even given one agency a- 72 hour ultimatum for strike action. “The situation will be confronted and we will be pushing for that… we tried to do everything to avoid this but government will not let up,” he said. Yarde called the government’s action “dirty politics”, saying that despite having the money, they refused to sufficiently pay public servants what they are entitled to.

Unlicensed teenage driver perishes in Mon Repos accident

ess than two weeks shy of his 18th birth anniversary, Ryan Britton of Da Silva Street, Kitty, Georgetown succumbed to his injuries at the Georgetown Public Hospital on Friday evening after he lost control of the car he was driving and slammed into an iron bridge at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. Based on information received, the teenager was alone in the motor car bearing registration number HC 1619 and was proceeding along the railway embankment on Friday morning when he attempted to overtake another vehicle and lost control of his car. The young man, who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol, slammed into the bridge causing the entire left side of the car to be dam-

aged. He was also pinned in the driver’s seat for some time before publicspirited citizens broke the back window of the car to retrieve him from the wreckage. He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital by persons in the area in an unconscious state. Police in a release stated that they are investigating the fatal accident which occurred on Friday morning about 06: 00h, which resulted in the death of Britton. The police also confirmed that the teenager was not licensed to drive a hire car. Geeta Muniram, an aunt of the dead teenager related that he left home on Thursday evening with a friend and went to a birthday party. During the celebration, from reports, he collected a friend’s car

Dead teen: Ryan Britton

unknown to the friend and went for a drive and in the process, he met with the accident. He was reportedly under the influence of alcohol.

Not aware

The aunt explained that they were not aware of the accident until they realised that he was missing. “He is a respon-

sible person, so we really don’t call he and find out what time he coming home and so...” However, after time elapsed, relatives began to feel “uneasy” and decided to make contact with the young man, but numerous attempts proved futile. His mobile phone was off but still the relatives did not suspect anything had happened to him since he would normally take off his phone when he wants his space. “He was supposed to go and buy cooking gas for the house, so we thought that he went on the road to buy same and hadn’t return… he spent most times at his cousin’s place at Light Street, Alberttown.”

Worst fears

After some time, the owner of the car contacted the family after making a few calls

and informed them that Britton was involved in an accident and was in the Intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital. The woman added that after receiving the news, the entire family went to the medical facility and searched all the departments, but did not find him. This, she explained prompted them to visit the front desk where they made further enquiries. Upon doing so, they found out that two persons were taken to the facility in an unconscious state following separate accidents. By this time, a police rank approached them and showed them a few photos of the young man and asked to return on Saturday morning to identify the body. When they did, they were confronted with their worst

fears. The young man used to work with his aunt at her store, but earlier last week, he took a few days off claiming that he wanted to look after some personal issues. The aunt stated that his grandparents live in Mon Repos, but she was not sure if he was going to meet them at that hour in the morning. She also suggested that he might have been going to see his girlfriend, who reportedly lives in the same area. “These are all just speculations, we don’t know where he was heading and where he was going nor do we know where the party was held.” Muniram disclosed that Britton is the only child for his parents in Guyana as his sister resides in the U.S. The police are continuing their investigation.

News

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Businesses urged to convert waste into innovative products

ead of the Georgetown Solid Waste Management Progamme (GSWMP) Gordon Gilkes is encouraging Guyanese businesses and entrepreneurs to look at new and innovative ways to utilise some of the waste materials taken to the Haags Bosch Landfill Site, so as to generate income and ultimately extend the life of the landfill. Gilkes was at the time addressing corporate entities at a workshop hosted by Guyenterprise as part of its efforts to create public awareness about the GSWMP. Among the waste that can be reused for other

Oh, what a tangled web... .. in AFC

A section of the rapidly filling Haags Bosch Landfill Site

onboard and start using this waste to make new products,” Gilkes pointed out. He made reference to the Institute of Applied

An example of a pitch made from recycled tyres

purposes include plastic bottles and tyres. “We had several visitors from Europe and Brazil and they’ve indicated to us that we have valuable material going into the landfill; so entrepreneurs need to get

Science and Technology (IAST), which uses plastic bottles to make roof tiles. The landfill site was designed in 2003 but waste produce has grown significantly from the 70,000 tonnes per year previously projected.

The landfill site was initially designed to last 26 years, however, based on the magnitude of waste going into the landfill, contractors are now projecting a lifespan of only 19 years. To encourage maximum usage of the landfill site, innovative measures of reducing, reusing and recycling waste are being encouraged. Rubber tyres are said to be a particularly problematic waste product that does not readily disintegrate and therefore takes up landfill space. According to recent surveys, considering the millions of tyres disposed of every year in all countries, significant recycling opportunities exist for investors to earn dividends consistently. Land filling and burning tyres now have limited prospects, as environmental authorities are ac-

knowledging the need for greener alternatives for what can become valuable waste products. Recycling tyres is not a new practice, but many countries have been failing to put them to use. In 2007, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported that the owners of Tyre Genics at Baglan, Neath Port Talbot, would reprocess over 30,000 tonnes of used tyres each year into rubber crumb. The company uses liquid nitrogen to freeze tyres until brittle, then smashes them into tiny pieces for use as sports pitches and rubber flooring. Guyanese entrepreneurs are therefore being urged to explore ways and means of how tyres, PET bottles, plastic bags and other products can expand the economy, and the long-standing capacity of the Haags Bosch Landfill site.

Three nabbed in operation to curb illegal hunting

joint operation to curb illegal hunting and fishing has been successful with three hunters nabbed and wild meat confiscated during a river patrol at Burro-burro, Region Eight. The joint operation was conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Iwokrama, the Fisheries Department and the Guyana Police Force on Thursday at the mouth of the Burroburro River, Iwokrama Rainforest Conservation. The team’s objective was to observe any fishing and hunting activity and to investigate and ascertain if it was commercial. Upon investigation, a small aluminium boat was discovered on the right bank of the Burroburro River with a small generator powering a small freezer. Further investigation revealed a significant quantity of wild meat in

The three hunters nabbed in the operation

the freezer with evidence of powis being cleaned (plucked/ gutted) in the immediate vicinity. The team subsequently detained three individuals and discovered several rounds of ammunition, which one of the individuals was apparently attempting to hide. The police rank informed the three young men that they were hunting illegally for which they would be charged and were accom-

panied to Kurupukari Police Outpost. The team made an inventory of all seized assets and stored them appropriately. Approximately 13 labbas (170lbs) and six powis (30lbs) were found to be in the confiscated freezer. The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry said it will continue to collaborate with the various agencies to continue similar operations to

protect endangered animals and indigenous communities that depend on hunting for a livelihood. To this effect, last Thursday, subject minister Robert Persaud submitted to the National Assembly the Wildlife Import and Export Bill of 2013 to be enforced by the Wildlife Management Authority and signed the Wild Management and Conservation Regulation of 2013 to be enforced by the EPA.

In truth, the truth really hurts. Especially when you’ve been caught with your pants down, and more so when you’re holding yourself out as the local George Washington, who never told a lie. Khemraj Ramjattan had displayed his endemic ignorance of parliamentary practice when he accused Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh of misspending monies for public servants’ salaries. Ramjattan, of course, has been assiduously sucking up to public servants since he can’t shake his habit of poaching on A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) turf. So the finance minister, who’s obviously had it with the sleazy ambulance-chasing lawyer, bitch-slapped him about ignoring his party Chairman Nigel Hughes’ hiding his conflict-of-interest relationship with the Amaila Falls Hydro Inc (AFHI). Now Hughes has been hiding under a rock since the scandal broke, but now his wife – who was the public relations flak for AFHI’s affiliate Sithe Global Inc, jumps to his defence. Unfortunately, she’s landed him smack into the old doo-doo he hoped would’ve washed off. This is what the self-proclaimed public relations guru proclaimed: “Ramjattan, on the day of the publication of the news of my husband’s position as company secretary of Sithe Global, stated that he knew of Hughes’ relationship with the company. “That Hughes had disclosed this relationship to the party and that he, Ramjattan, saw no conflict of interest, as Hughes did not participate in any Alliance For Change (AFC) meetings, discussions or decisions taken in relation to the Amaila Falls Hydro Electricity Project (AFHEP).” Lies! Lies! And more lies! That is exactly what DID NOT happen. At the time, Ramjattan confessed that while he knew of some “association” between Hughes and AFHI, his chairman hadn’t shared with him the news that the “association” was actually that of company secretary. Now this is not an inconsequential difference. And in her assertion, Hughes’ better half shows that she’s just as contemptuous of the intelligence of the average Guyanese. Does she really believe that in this day of the retrieval capabilities of the Internet, we can’t check what was really said? ... versus the truth As we wrote then, “A ‘company secretary’ isn’t someone in short skirts who takes notes in shorthand. Hughes is basically the legal officer of AFHI and in that capacity would have advised, for instance, on the entity getting the best deal – that is making the maximum profits from the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) – from the deal. Now Ramjattan said, as a professional lawyer, Hughes can sell his services to whomever he wants. We have no problem with this. What we have a problem with is that Hughes has been less than “professional” in not revealing his employment in a company that has been in the centre of a controversy precipitated by his party’s position. Ramjattan assured us that Hughes recused himself when matters involving the Amaila Falls hydro project were being discussed by the AFC. But if Ramjattan and other party members didn’t know of how key a position Hughes held in the SPV, how the heck can we be sure that in informal contexts Hughes mightn’t have influenced others? Or even the gullible Ramjattan himself? In our highly-charged political atmosphere of accusations and counter accusations of “conflict of interests” and “self-interested parties”, shouldn’t Hughes, at least, have revealed the true nature of his involvement? Like when, for instance, on June 21, he articulated his party’s position on AFHEP at a press conference?” We hope the AFC wankers realise that “the truth will set us free”!

... in APNU

Imagine that APNU’s leader David Granger will “investigate” Volda Lawrence because the poor woman ran out of the House before she puked on her colleagues. Seems that the brigadier feels his members of parliament must remain at their post, come hell or high water – or vomit. We just hope he doesn’t muster up a firing squad for Lawrence for “desertion”.

News

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

HIV/AIDS no longer a gay issue – Desiree Edghill

A.I.D.S. Executive Director Desiree Edghill

rtiste in Direct Support (A. I. D. S.) Director Desiree Edghill said while stigma and discrimination remains a major issue in Guyana, she believes that the issue of HIV/ AIDS is no longer a gay but an anal issue. Edghill explained that while HIV/ AIDS has been associated largely with gay people in Guyana, it is no longer the case, noting that the problem today is that too many men and women are engaging in anal sex. The director told Guyana Times International that more young girls are having anal sex and this places them at a higher risk of also contracting HIV/ AIDS. While stating that

Guyana has made a few steps to end stigma and discrimination, especially among high risk groups, she believes that there is much more that needs to be done in order for Guyana to win the war against the disease. However, in pointing to the positive outcomes of the fight against stigma, Edghill said years ago, people never wanted to been seen getting an HIV test. Today, people usually line up on National Day of Testing, without being scared of being seen taking the test. Edghill said this is a plus for Guyana and is a testimony to some of the achievements made.

Positive change

In addition, Edghill said that more couples

are now getting tested before they start a sexual relationship or before getting married. This is a step in the right direction for Guyana, she said, while noting that these are ways that show people are becoming more HIV/ AIDS conscious and want to know their status. However, she noted that the issue lies mainly in the key population of higher risk persons, mainly men who have sex with men. According to her, when HIV/ AIDS first came to the fore in Guyana, it came from a gay man. Since then, the discrimination and stigma towards gay people have been rapidly growing. Edghill said for example, if one is to say that a child has HIV/ AIDS, the response would be far different from someone saying that a gay man or woman has contracted the virus. “The community itself needs to step forward and take some responsibility for stigma… they have to step out to say that we are humans and we want to be treated as such,” she added. Edghill said that

there are many marches held for persons at risk of contracting the virus but the gay community does not participate.

Attitude adjustment

However, Edghill said that law enforcement agencies are becoming more responsive to the gay community, pointing out that they

no longer harass them as they used to do in the past. She contended that the move by some religious bodies to speak out against the gay community also has to be altered to end the stigma and discrimination. In the foreword of Dr Prem Misir’s recent

book titled HIV & AIDS Knowledge and Stigma in Guyana , it said that although widely recognised as a problem, HIV/ AIDS stigma has not been studied enough to inform policymakers and assist them to develop evidence-based, effective policies to fight the epidemic.

NEWS

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyanese businesses beginning to feel squeeze after blacklisting

ess than a month after Guyana was blacklisted by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), businesses are already feeling the squeeze. Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Ronald Webster in a recent interview told Guyana Times International that the commission is doing everything in its power to ensure Guyana fulfils its February deadline

to CFATF, to avoid further scrutiny. He noted that the blacklisting by CFATF is beginning to create a negative impact on the economic front for Guyana. Webster also pointed out that if Guyana is blacklisted internationally, the impact will be far worst and there will be no returning for the country. According to the PSC chairman, local businesses are already beginning to complain

about the extra paperwork that has to be done now when conducting international and even regional transactions. However, he noted that the full backlash of these things takes time and would not be felt overnight. Republic Bank Chief Executive Officer John Alves, in an interview with this newspaper, had said the situation has placed the banking sector at a loss, and

there will be great difficulties for both incoming and outgoing foreign exchange activities with corresponding banks.

Onerous

“Guyana being blacklisted… means it would be much more onerous for foreign exchanges,” he said. According to Alves, already there are a number of difficulties and challenges in processing transactions, and this is not good for Guyana. “Clearly, now our tasks as bankers are going to be far more difficult and ultimately costly for customers because of the to and fro in getting matters sorted out… in the longer run, it will make the whole transfer of payments more difficult,” he added.

Dissatisfaction

G e o r g e t o w n Chamber of Commerce (GCCI) President Clinton Urling had expressed dissatisfaction at the situation. He said the severity of the implications will not bode well for Guyana. “… this would have economic consequences which could not only affect businesses, but private sector as a whole,”

PSC Chairman Ronald Webster

he stated. CFATF had ordered Guyana to get the necessary legislation in place to be compliant with the sweeping reforms taking place regionally and internationally to fight money laundering and terrorism. However, it was only earlier this year, in April, that the bill made its way to Parliament, where the opposition political parties voted to send it to the special select committee. The bill was returned and the combined opposition withheld their support for the legislation for the second time, despite threats of seri-

ous sanctions. The opposition claimed that the committee’s work was incomplete and wanted the bill to be re-sent for completion, but the government refused and when the matter was put to a vote, the combined opposition used its one-seat majority to defeat the government. Then came the November deadline which was given to Guyana by CFATF to get its affairs in order; however, due to deadlock and lack of compromise in the National Assembly among the parties, Guyana was formally blacklisted by CFATF, who warned its members against the implications of doing business with Guyana. With Guyana now blacklisted, transactions and payments in areas such as remittances, oil and goods and services, among other things, will likely face severe consequences. The country, nevertheless, has a chance to change its fate when the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) holds its next plenary meeting in February 2014.

Georgetown resident needs financial support for urgent kidney treatment

Reena and her husband Fazil Sultan

eena Sultan of 199 Charlotte Street, Bourda, Georgetown, is seeking financial assistance to undergo urgent kidney follow-up treatment in India next month. Reena, in 2008, underwent transplant surgery for both kidneys in India, and according to the young lady, her body has been rejecting them. She told Guyana Times International that recently, she had spoken to her doctors in India and was told that she needs to get followup treatment as early as possible. The treatment, transportation and other expenses have been estimated at US$ 22,670 but

her family does not have that amount of money to foot the bill. Fazil Sultan, Reena’s husband said he loves her dearly and without her, he and their six-year-old son would suffer greatly. He is appealing to members of the public to look into their plight and help them to meet the cost of the treatment to save his wife’s life. Reena has expressed gratitude to her supportive husband whom she said has been her bedrock, and would not have been alive without him. Persons desirous of assisting Reena can do so through Republic Bank on account number 2989358 or call 227-4167 or 609-0616.

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

week ending December 22, 2013 |

guyanatimeSinternational.com

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

anadian Brothers Development Limited has brought to market its first set of smart homes in St Catherine, Jamaica, in a complex called Royal Plantation Estate. Built on a roughly half-acre property, the development to be finalised in January was pursued in collaboration with the Plantation Heights developer, said managing director at Canadian Brothers, Cameron Mitchell. The smart home development adjoins the Plantation Heights property to the east and is on Molynes Mountains, the developer said. Seven of the nine smart units have been listed at US$196,000 (Ja$20 million) to US$219,000 (Ja$22.4 million) for one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. A second set of threebedroom units to be sold for US$230,000 to US$324,000, will also be constructed. Mitchell said the lands were bought for Ja$25 million, and that Ja$121 million was invested in the development to bring the units to market. Construction began in February 2012. "So far the project has been funded by just us but we will partner with National Commercial Bank (NCB) to build the second building," said Mitchell. NCB will provide Ja$60 million in loans for the completion of the project, the developer said.

Brian Yap of Green Concepts did the technology design of the homes using the Control4 home automation system, with Flow Jamaica as the Internet partner. Control4 allows technological products and systems within a home as well as gadgets such as iPads, iPhones and Android smartphones and tablets to be integrated to create enhanced security, ease of access and convenience. The developers are "hoping the homes will sell fast".

For young professionals

Interior of a finished Royal Plantation Estate home in Jamaica. (Jamaica Gleaner photo)

The first building is a threestory complex with seven twobedroom homes and two threebedroom townhouses. That building is complete, and construction of the second building, which will feature four threebedroom units, is underway, he said.

Unique style

Each floor of the first building is said to have its own style

and quality of finish. The doors don't have traditional key-locks, but are electronically controlled. The smart homes are plugged into the Internet, "So you can basically operate your television, microwave, fridge, stove, just about everything electronic from you android phone or your computer at your office," said the developer. "If you want to open the door

for your helper or turn off your lights, you can set up your system in which a special code is entered," he said. "You can set it up on your keypad console so you know whether your children arrive home on time or leave the home without permission. You get an email indicating who has entered the home and at what time," he said.

Other homes on the market in Kingston without the smart home features are selling at similar prices, he said. Royal Plantation Estate is targeted at young professionals "who really like that exciting life", said Mitchell, as well as small families, empty nesters and retirees, the company said. Prices are subject to escalation "based on the movement of the dollar", but are fixed at the point when buyers sign a commitment letter. "So far we have three commitments for both the threebedrooms and the penthouse," he said. "I believe that Jamaica should have access to such housing concepts irrespective of being a Third World country. If we can have access to cable television and Internet, why not this kind of technology and style of living?" Mitchell reasoned. (Excerpted from Jamaica Gleaner)

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

By Petamber Persaud

elson Mandela has seeped into the psyche of peoples worldwide, including the people of Guyana, through various sources – mainly books, music, films and quotations (the words of Mandela). It is difficult to measure that effect. That effect is more, much more than naming a street in tribute to the man. Other manifestations of that effect can be seen daily especially in letters to local newspapers. Mandela came to Guyana through the following sources: Films Many outstanding actors played Nelson Mandela in memorable portrayal of the man. In the 1987 HBO film Mandela was played by Danny Glover. Ten years later, Sidney Poitier played Mandela in “Mandela and de Klerk”. In 2007, Dennis Haysbert played Mandela in “Goodbye Bafana”. Two years later, Morgan Freeman portrayed Mandela in “Invictus”. Then in 2013, the big hit, “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” in which Mandela was played by Idris Elba. Music Music is another art form through which Mandela pervaded the Guyanese consciousness. Here’s a short list of songs that spoke about, and still speak to the man and his work. ‘Number 46664” by Bono, Joe Strummer and Dave Stewart “Free Nelson Mandela” by the Specials “Mandela, bring him back home” by Hugh Masekela “Asimbonanga” by Johnny Glegg (a music video in which Mandela was a part) “Nelson Mandela song” by Nomfusi & The Lucky Charms “Freedom now” by Tracy Chapman “Mandela” by Carlos Santana “Prophet of Rage” by Public Enemy “Ordinary love” by U2 The more one listens to the songs the more the songs seem to speak to the life and work of the man. Books Monday evening I listened to excerpts from the “Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela” which tells of his early years,

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (July 18, 1918- Dec 5, 2013)

a childhood of activities lived in a place where he could enjoy the neat line of the horizon. David James Smith’s “Young Mandela” tells about the rise of Mandela in the African National Congress. From reviews, this was a riveting piece of writing, showing rather than telling the story of the man. Looking back on those formative days, we could see the making of greatness through humility. “Mandela’s Way”, by Richard Stengel, transforms Mandela’s prison experiences into the life lessons, which we may be advised to take from the book. (Some of the quotations in the following section will bear witness to this.) In his own Words The following quotations “copyright © 2010 by Nelson R. Mandela and The Nelson Mandela Foundation or From Nelson Mandela by Himself: The Authorised Book of Quotations’. Difficulties break some men but make others. No axe is sharp enough to cut the soul of a sinner who keeps on trying, one armed with the hope that he will rise even in the end. It is in the character of growth that we should learn from both pleasant and unpleasant experiences. Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do. A critical, independent and investigative press is the lifeblood of any democracy. I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles. Long speeches, the shaking of fists, the banging of tables and strongly worded resolutions

out of touch with the objective conditions do not bring about mass action and can do a great deal of harm to the organisation and the struggle we serve. It is never my custom to use words lightly. If twenty-seven years in prison have done anything to us, it was to use the silence of solitude to make us understand how precious words are and how real speech is in its impact on the way people live and die. You sharpen your ideas by reducing yourself to the level of the people you are with and a sense of humour and a complete relaxation, even when you’re discussing serious things, does help to mobilise friends around you. And I love that. What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead. Death is something inevitable. When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace. I believe I have made that effort and that is, therefore, why I will sleep for the eternity. Many Guyanese have had the good fortune to meet the man in person, meetings that would tell their own stories and add to the avalanche of material soon to surface, all contributing in time to the shaping of Guyanese literature. Responses to this au-

thor telephone (592) 2260065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com What’s happening: • “An Introduction to Guyanese Literature” is now available from the listed contacts; Austin’s

Book Service and at the National Library. This book is an up-to-date guide featuring significant literary landmarks from the 16th century to the new millennium. This 150-page book including over 100 photo-

graphs is an attempt at bringing to the fore little known facts about lesser known aspects of our literature. The big books, the big authors and the big success stories in Guyanese Literature are also featured.

Feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

By Deodat Persaud

magine for a few moments, living for 102 years, how would you spend your days? Tough to imagine? What about living it?

Some pray to the Almighty for longevity for many reasons; perhaps to experience all there is to relish on this planet. But some live simply to praise and worship God.

Mataji Sukhdaia Bhuali, also known as Sumintree Mahabir – said to be the oldest resident in the East Canje community – is such a person. Popularly known in the village

Bhuali being awarded for her devotion

as “Moonsee Nani”, this 102-year-old devotee of 86 East Canefield Settlement proudly credits God as the sole reason for her being alive today. She insists that her remaining days must be dedicated in service to God. This of course is taken literally since she is present at almost all religious Hindu functions in the community. She is noted for her exceptional punctuality at religious functions and for worship at mandirs, the latter to which she always walks. Her trademark of greeting is unique and brings a sense of conviviality when she says “Ram Ram”, and uses her hands to gently rub the receiver’s face and utters, “Oowwebaab, how u a do?” It is like the feeling you experience when someone in a divine and esteemed position touches you.

The numerous tragedies she overcame during her life have not shadowed the ever present human spark of love that prevails in her. Even though her birth certificate record states her date of birth as December 30, 1910, her relatives are maintaining that she is much older. It was explained by the relatives of Bhuali that both her parents came from India and arrived at Plantation Highbury. They later settled in Mara- an agricultural village 25 miles from New Amsterdam. Given the difficulties prevailing in those times, accessibility to a registry office was seemingly impossible. It was after about 5 years, when her family migrated from Mara, the registration of her birth was possible. Her relatives insist that this lapse caused a grave error- the incorrect recording of her date of birth. If her relatives’ claims are true, Bhuali would be celebrating 107 years of existence this month – ranking her as one of the oldest citizens in Guyana. Despite her age, Bhuali is a moderately fast individual who enjoys dancing, singing, chatting, performing basic chores such as washing and cleaning, and visiting neighbours. She is always willing to share words of advice to the younger generation, often mixing her conversation with English and Hindi. To the amusement of many, she continues to fold her legs in padmasana position at religious functions. She is ever ready to offer guidance and even assist in puja (prayers) preparations. What is noteworthy is that she is always alert during a puja in the

event the priest requires additional ingredients. Her physical appearance makes her quite conspicuous. She can be spotted from a distance with her brisk walking, curved back posture due to age, and neat rumal or head kerchief. Another, distinctive mark of Moonsie Nani is her gownah or tattoo on her hand, signifying her family’s promise to her suitor for marriage. Her marriage union ended in 1970 when her husband died. She then moved from the village, New Dam (modern day backlands of Albion) to Canefield to live with her relatives, since she has no children of her own. This centenarian, a former labourer at the Rose Hall Estate, does not compromise her diet for age. It is amazing to watch her eating “seven curry” in the evening without complaint. She occasionally eats fish and meat, but enjoys her vegetables and supplement tonics. She boasts a body free from diabetes and hypertension. The residents in her community consider her presence and company as a blessing and joy. “Nani can gyaff, she likes being around people,” her granddaughterin-law, with whom she resides, said. When asked how she was able to live so long, Bhuali jokingly said, “Beta, me deh hay too long. Me beg dem (God) fo tek me now, me live enuff, and me want meet me ancestors them now.” A meeting with Bhuali and you will learn that happiness in life can be found through service to God. Her life shows that man must use time to seek God and serve humanity. (Article first published in Horizons 2013)

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

- the journey of a one-eyed otter from Rupununi to Florida

he story of Buddy, a blind otter who once lived at Karanambu Lodge in the Rupununi, is one from tragedy to happiness for both the otter and his caregiver. In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Salvador de Caires, who was born and raised in Georgetown, related his unforgettable experience with the loving otter. Salvador first met Buddy on the Rupununi River sandbank at Karanambu. Salvador has known Diane McTurk for years. They met through a mutual friend Duane de Freitas, the manager of Dadanawa Ranch. Diane has, for years, been executive director of the lodge which this year won the Caribbean Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Award. Over the past 20 years or so, Diane has cared for more than 50 orphaned giant river otters at Karanambu – the majority of which have successfully been returned to the wild. “My wife and I came to Guyana, after living overseas for a number of years, in January of 2010 with the intention of investigating the possibility of moving home to Guyana. We went to Karanambu to visit Diane for 10 days and ended up staying for three months. When we finally returned to the U.S., it was only two weeks before Diane called us on Skype and asked us to make her home our home. It

not to keep them as pets. “Buddy was unable to live on his own because he was blind. It would have been just a matter of time before a caiman got him. It was a question of quality of life over safety. But Diane still would not agree to send Buddy to a zoo. I tried to tell her that this would be his only chance to mate. She wavered; and then the wet season came and the river came up about twenty feet. Buddy became disoriented because the sandbank was gone and the steps that he was accustomed to going up and down at a great speed to the

Buddy in his habitat at Jacksonville Zoo created just like the one at Karanambu

agers of Karanambu Lodge Inc. That was four years ago,” he recalled. When Salvador and his wife arrived at Karanambu, they saw Buddy who was just a teenager. Salvador recollected Diane having two baby otters at that time: Philip and Belle. Salvador described Buddy as “very inquisitive and friendly”. “Having a large animal, (about six feet from tip of tail to tip of nose) checking you out is a little nerve-racking. But I soon realized I had nothing to fear from Buddy. As he heard Diane call out, ‘My beloved beast!’ he came bounding over and almost knocked her over. Buddy and I be-

Salvador and Buddy playing in the water at Karanambu

took us five minutes to agree. We returned to Karanambu as the man-

came very close friends. I took over his care, al-

lowing Diane to spend more time with the two baby orphan otters,” Salvador reminisced. He noted that Buddy’s temperament was what stood out about him. He trusted Buddy completely. The loving otter was never aggressive, unlike many others raised by Diane. Salvador mentioned that he could lock his fingers behind Buddy’s canine teeth and pull him through the water and not get bitten- it was a game they played. Buddy had lost his sight in an accident when he was much younger. A small boy, Salvador recounted, was playing with Buddy and stepped on a board which flipped and hit Buddy across the eyes, blinding him instantly. Taking Buddy to the sandbank twice a day for at least two hours each time, Salvador got to see what he could do, and was amazed. Not having sight in the murky river waters was not an obstacle to catching fish. Buddy surprised everyone when he caught an 86lb arapaima and dragged it up out of the river onto the sandbank. Another time he caught a huge stingray and ate most of it. “But Buddy was getting big. Twice he followed a wild otter down the river and we had to go behind him in the boat to bring him back. He also had several close encounters with black caiman, who were thankfully not bigger than he was,” Salvador remembered. Because of his blind-

Having fun together on the Rupununi River sandbank

ness, Buddy required special attention; he would not have survived very long in the wild. Jacksonville Zoo, in Jacksonville, Florida, was looking for a giant river otter to add to the gene pool. The zoo collaborates closely with the Government of Guyana. Two jaguars from Guyana are already there. Diane’s intention, according to Salvador, has always been, with each otter she has raised, to return them to the wild,

sandbank disappeared under water. Diane relented,” Salvador recollected. A few weeks later, a charter flight landed at Karanambu and a crate was loaded with Buddy and Talia – a volunteer who had become very close to all of the otters. After 48 hours of travelling, Buddy finally arrived in Jacksonville. Salvador said the experts checked his eyes, but unfortunately nothing could be done. He had a few parasites and

Buddy plays in the water at Jacksonville

was kept in quarantine until he had adjusted. At Jacksonville Zoo, a complete habitat based on Karanambu was designed. Underwater channels, a waterfall and even a sandbank were designed just for Buddy. Salvador also related humorously that Buddy was accustomed to catching fresh piranha and eating them headfirst, so when Jacksonville served him his first frozen fish popsicle, he swallowed it too quickly and got “brain freeze”; shaking his head madly. Salvador is happy to know that Buddy is now given the best of care. He has a team of caregivers, including expert veterinarians. But most importantly, Salvador mentioned, Buddy has a mate, Ms. T, which would not have been possible in the wild. Otters live in groups of at least six to eight. Only the dominant pair mate and so it would have been very unlikely for Buddy to find a group, much less become the dominant male. “This year, thanks to the senior veterinarian at the Jacksonville Zoo, Dr Nick Kapustin, we got to see Buddy. Dr Kapustin arranged a behind-the-scenes meeting. Much to my surprise, Buddy came right over to me and greeted me, standing up on his back legs and greeting me hand to paw. I could not believe that after three years he recognized me. It was a very emotional reunion,” he reminisced. “A few months ago, the veterinarians thought Ms. T was pregnant, but it turned out to be a false alarm. I had a serious heart-toheart talk with Buddy at Jacksonville, explaining about ‘the birds and the bees’. All of us at Karanambu are anxiously awaiting the news that Buddy and Ms. T will soon be parents,” Salvador added jovially.

Feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

ot forgetting where she came from, Canadianbased Guyanese Subrina Mohamed-Puran’s aim is to give back to her homeland. Through her We Care, We Can Foundation, the humanitarian donates necessities to numerous orphanages and families, putting a smile on their faces, in the process. In an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine , Subrina stated that her charity work started over two years ago, when she came to Guyana to get married. She approached one of her friends in Guyana to help her raise funds to give back to the needy. Via the fundraiser, Subrina was able to supply 3 orphanages across Guyana with plenty needed necessities, and her charity efforts grew from that. Her foundation, We Care, We Can Foundation, stemmed from a food drive initiative she was part of with Youth Media Guyana. Subrina saw how effective volunteerism proved to be in helping the needy and it stuck with her. Subrina and her team help orphanages across the countryabout 14 of them, which are all fully registered. She reiterated that her team follow strict criteria because they want to provide help where it is most needed. “Guyana is my home. The Canadian culture of always giving back is instilled in me. Giving back started off as a hobby and is becoming a career actually. In Guyana, I gathered some of my friends who willingly joined in giving back to our communities. I now have a group of five, all Guyanese, including myself. In a week's planning we had helped more than seven orphanages and from that our efforts expanded. Some of my team members have notable jobs in Guyana and it is commendable that they are taking the time to give back to their communities,” she noted. The philanthropist mentioned she is always research-

in such activities. Then I always thought about the children who were given help for one day and wondered what happens to them the next day. This is what also sparked my interest in giving back. I will never forget Guyana no matter where I go. I’m also inspired by the children who remember me and hug me to express their thanks,” she explained. Currently, Subrina is working with the Volunteer Youth Corp which is trying to get 500 toys for 500 children in the Sophia area. “So far I have gathered toys for about 200 children and I’m researching online on how we

Subrina (right) packing boxes filled with toys

ing orphanages and groups that require help. Through social networks such as Facebook, Subrina searches for individuals or organisations she can reach out to-either to help them or to encourage persons to donate to her charity work. “Giving back comes naturally. The team I’m lucky to have is always willing to make things happen. People see that and it encourages them to donate. The team would go the distance to make things happen and we’re very transparent and people tend to relate to that really well. Our motto is we care because we can and we want to volunteer,” she related. Recently, Subrina donated bags of toys to the Step by Step Foundation, a school for children with autism, spreading the Christmas cheer with the children. Additionally, she donated bags of foodstuff and toys to the Ruimveldt Children’s Aid Centre, which is a regular feature of her visits to Guyana. She has also donated bags of school supplies to the Child Care Protection Agency and groceries to Help and Shelter. “I usually plan my vacation time to Guyana so that I

Plenty of toys to be distributed

can continue our charity work. Some people define vacation as somewhere they are happy and comfortable, and in Guyana is where I’m most happy and comfortable. I plan a trip maybe twice or three times a year and I coordinate initiatives with my team,” Subrina declared. Through Facebook, according to Subrina, she can connect to businesses and overseasbased Guyanese who are willing to help donate to her charity. She said her team acts as the “middle man”, donating

on behalf of those individuals. Guyanese in Canada and as far as Germany, she revealed, have donated to the foundation’s work and have expressed their joy in giving back to their country. Charity work and volunteerism are not new to Subrina. In Canada, she has been volunteering for more than 10 years with international companies and high-profile events. “I have always been giving back. I grew up like that. My family always is involved

an enthusiasm for fitness training. He left his job with an online shopping business, which he began after he completed school, to pursue his dream of being a trainer. He began making and selling workout videos and was

also doing personal training at persons’ homes. With the earnings he got from these ventures, he saved up and used it to go abroad to complete a certificate programme in fitness training. He covered the American Council on Exercise (ACE), a threemonth course on personal fitness training, and also received training from a gym in Canada, after which his certificate was approved. When Singh returned to Guyana in March, he continued his training sessions, only this time doing it in group sessions, which led him to establish his very own fitness centre, Fit-Rex Training Centre. He started with one client and, within a mere few months, managed to acquire approximately 40 clients.

can get more. VYC’s event is on December 21 and I’m encouraging all those who can donate to please do so. VYC’s Chief Executive Officer Goldie Scott is an amazing, stellar person who is doing an excellent job. She motivates me to keep expanding my work,” Subrina noted. Visit We Care, We Can Foundation Facebook page or email Subrina at subrina_mohamed@hotmail.com for more information.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS By Vahnu Manikchand

t the age of 19, Joshua Singh is a qualified fitness trainer with his own training centre, a dream driven by his motivation and own experience. The youngest of five children, Singh spent most of his childhood indoors playing video games – and eating. “I was a big eater, I loved eating. As soon as I got home from school I would go get something to eat and so I was overweight,” he recalled. Singh attended Marian Academy during his primary years before going to School of the Nations where he spent his secondary years to write six Cambridge subjects in 2012.

At the age of 13, he weighed more than 200 pounds, and this was challenging for him as someone who was growing out of childhood into adolescence. “It was the toughest challenge in my life; I got picked on in school and was very weak and sluggish. I never did anything, I just ate and slept. I was unmotivated to do anything. I was even uncomfortable going out because I would get picked on.” After realizing the toll his size was taking on his life, Singh began working out in his room, trying out new routines. Within one year, and with no help, he lost more than 100 pounds. He then joined a gym, after which he began training people in the National Park. During this time, he developed

Singh could not have done all that he managed to accomplish without the continuous support from his family. He said that parents who have overweight children should take more interest in their health, and avoid too much junk food. “They can still eat junk food but in moderation. They also need to be active, get into sports or physical activities, and parents should pay keen interest in their children’s diet and start being health conscious.” He urged those in their early teens not to attend gym even though it may seem tempting. He recommended that they first start with physical exercise and then they can attend gym in their midteens.

fun time

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

This week's Crossword

J k es

Letter to Santa

Dear Santa, For this year all I’m asking for is a huge bank account, and a tiny body. Please don’t mix them up like you have done every year!

The hypochondriac

Brian, one of the world’s greatest hypochondriacs, bumped into his Dr. one day at the supermarket. “Doc!” Brian exclaimed, “I’ve been meaning to tell you, remember those voices I kept on hearing in my head? I haven’t heard them in over a week!” “Wow! What wonderful news Brian! I’m so happy for you!” his Dr. exclaimed. “Wonderful?” asked a dismal looking Brian. “There’s nothing wonderful about it. I’m afraid my hearing is starting to go now!

Charitable rescue

This week's Puzzle

John, had been a Red Cross responder for years, but there was still one incident that happened in his first year on the job, that he would never forget. They had been searching a rocky river for hours searching for a woman by the name of Wendy. After many fruitless attempts at calling “Wendy, it’s the Red Cross!”, they finally heard a faint response saying “I hear you, Red Cross, I gave already!”

Diet dollars

A group of prosperous businessmen were dining at the Sam’s Hotel in Las Vegas. “Seems to me you are getting a little slimmer,” remarked one. “I should be!” replied the other. “I went on one of those high protein diets. Nothing but expensive steaks and chops. And would you believe it? –In just two weeks I lost thirty dollars!”

Money woes

When the lodge meeting broke up, John confided to a friend. “Mike, I’m in a terrible pickle! I’m strapped for cash and I haven’t the slightest idea where I’m going to get it from!” “I’m glad to hear that” answered Mike. “I was afraid you might have an idea you could borrow it from me!” see solution on page 46

Icy walk

“It was terrible”, moaned John upon entering the classroom a half hour late. “I left with plenty of time to arrive at school on time, but it was so slippery that every step I took, I slipped two steps back.” “Well,” said the teacher, with a suspicious look on his face, “how in the world did you get here at all?” “Well”, said the quick thinking student, “finally after twenty minutes I gave up and started heading home!”

Funny fish

For our daughters 6th birthday we bought her a fish. We couldn’t help laughing when on the way she announced “the fish’s name is Sparingly.” “How do you know?” I asked. “Look,” she responded, “it says “feed sparingly 3 times daily.”

Grandma babysits

Grandma Sally’s first great-grandchild was born, and after a few weeks, when the parents need a break, she was given the job of watching her. “Let me see the little cutie,” begs her friend Gerty. “Not yet”, Sally responds. When she again refuses five minutes later Gerty has had enough. “What are you waiting for?” she fumed. “I’m waiting for her to cry.” “Why is that?” questioned Gerty. “Well, because I forgot where I put her!”

Riddles for kids

Q: What did the farmer call the cow that had no milk? A: An udder failure. Q: Why do gorillas have big nostrils? A: Because they have big fingers! Q: What do Santa's elves do after school? A: Their gnome work! Q: What do you get from a pampered cow? A: Spoiled milk. Q: What does Tarzan sing at Christmas? A: Jungle Bells! Q: Why are teddy bears never hungry? A: They are always stuffed!

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Refurbished Grenada stadium to be named in honour of Kirani James - China soon to start construction on US$25 million football, athletics stadium

Kirani James

he refurbished Grenada football and athletics stadium is expected to be renamed in honour of the Spice Island's Olympic 400-metre champion Kirani James. Grenada's Sports

Minister Emmalin Pierre said a rebuilt football and athletics stadium will enhance sport performance in the island, and also encourage the development of sports tourism. Pierre was speaking continued on page 39

health corner

By Tisha Boston

ccording to the National Library of Medicine, an allergy is the body’s immune response to foreign substances called allergens which are usually harmless. The environment plays a critical role in triggering allergylike reactions in people. For instance, let’s consider cold temperatures. During the winter, spending more time indoors affect allergy symptoms in people whose immune systems are oversensitive to allergens such as mold spores and dust mites. Closed doors, shut windows, active heaters, forced-air furnaces that circulate airborne dust containing lint, fabric fiber, bacteria, animal dander, etc, all contribute to a less ventilated environment in which we are forced to dwell in, due to the winter season. This is proven to be a very difficult time for people with indoor, winter allergies, since the risk of exposure to indoor allergens is now greater. Some of the com-

mon symptoms associated with indoor, winter allergies include: coughing, sneezing, runny and stuffy nose, and itchy eyes, nose, and throat. Sometimes these allergy symptoms can be mistaken for the common cold. Nonetheless, there are some clues that can help in identifying the difference. For example, for winter allergies, nasal secretions are watery and clear while for the common cold, nasal secretions are usually discolored. Another example involves itchy eyes and throat; these are symptoms common to winter allergies while with the common cold, one might

more experience chills and body aches. Also, allergy-like symptoms lasts for weeks while symptoms associated with the common cold usually disappear within a week. To ensure that your winter allergies do not ruin your holiday season, here are a few suggestions from the New York Presbyterian Hospital: • Spray live Christmas tree with a garden hose before setting it up and remove all dust from holiday decorations. • Since the bedroom is where you spend most of your time, keep it allergen free; therefore,

avoid having pets, carpets, rugs, and plants in your room. • Wash hands frequently, especially after playing with pets and returning from public places to reduce the transmission of allergens. • Wash bed linens and clothing in hot water i.e., above 130 degrees, to kill dust mites. • Turn on exhaust fan when showering or cooking to remove excess humidity and odors. • Keep indoor humidity-level between 30%-40% using a humidifier or dehumidifier to prevent the growth of mold and mites. • Change water and filters in humidifiers frequently to avoid contamination by mold and bacteria. • Mop floors and vacuum carpets frequently to decrease dust mites and pet allergens. • Check inside and outside of the house monthly for molds of high risk mold areas that might be near the house. • Install high-efficiency furnace filters and ensure it’s always on.

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Liana Cane

ocusing on doing business that is holistic, and a model that promotes and practices concepts of sustainability as they relate to people and the environment is what Liana Cane is all about. It was at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro where Jocelyn Dow, Guyanese environment advocate and managing director, first dreamt of manufacturing furniture in Guyana from non-timber forest products from Guyana’s pristine rainforests. Two years after the Earth Summit, Liana Cane, now an internationally recognised brand, was founded. In response to the need to conserve Guyana’s extensive forest, Dow researched ways in which she can manufacture furniture sustainably. She trained young Guyanese women and men in the manufacture of new, high- quality furniture of functional and high-end design and offered it to both the local and international markets. Liana is a gener-

ic name for woody rainforest vines that attach themselves to the towering tree canopies while their roots and multiple offshoots droop down to the forest floor. Similar in look and texture to the rattan and bamboo of

Liane Cane furniture is made from the most sustainable forest products

the Far East, the kufa and nibbi vines are used for the structural elements of the furniture. Nibbi, a small vine that grows from the forest floor up the trunks of trees, is used for binding joints as well as for the weaving that gives a wicker-like appearance to some of the pieces. A fibre of the Ite palm is made by women into a twine called tibisiri. This is used for the production of a cord-like

material that is woven into fabric for the seats and backs of the chairs and tables, a feature unique to Liana Cane furniture. Liana Cane manufactures furniture in a way that stimulates all-round development, with Amerindian communities as its partners in this pioneering effort at sustainable development. The unique traditional knowledge and skills of surviving Arawak and Carib peoples in Guyana are key to the sustainable harvest-

ing of the liana vines, from which Liana Cane takes its name. “We are heartened by the numerous designers, artists , government officials and private investors who have embraced our vision of creating fine, carefully crafted furniture inspired by nature, and which is a model of what can be achieved, especially in the global South, when we honour the essential relationship between people and nature,” Dow expressed in her catalogue. The production of Liana Cane furniture and architectural pieces from forest vines helps to combat the destruction of Guyana’s forest ecosystems, threatened by two pressures. The first is the increasingly desperate search of people in poor countries for survival; the second is the movement by big timber businesses into the remaining global forest resources of the

South. Adding value to nontimber forest products encourages the diversified use of the tropical Guyana rainforest and provides evidence that a more sustainable forest practice is economically beneficial to people. Liana Cane materials are harvested with a light ecological footprint on the forest and, in comparison with the conventional timber industry, generates many times more jobs per unit impact. David Cassels, former director general of Iwokrama Rainforest Conservation Programme, commented on the work by Liana Cane: “The Iwokrama International Centre sees the availability of companies like Liana Cane that can provide responsible business partnerships with communities living in and near key forest biodiversity areas such as the Iwokrama Forest as an essential prerequisite to the development of viable alternatives to the continued loss and de-

Jocelyn Dow

struction of tropical rain forest ecosystems. Their development is thus a key element in meeting the overall objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversityconservation, sustainable utilization and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits from the use of biodiversity.” Dow’s foresighted vision has centred on rainforest conservation through the use of renewable forest products and the social responsibilities of building capacity in developing her country through quality design. Dow always reiterates that her furniture has been inspired by nature and is created for life. For more information, visit Liana Cane on Facebook or call 2258404.

feature Refurbished Grenada stadium to be named in honour of...

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Star of the week

from page 37

Tuesday at the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the stadium, which was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004. "The breaking of ground for the refurbishment of the football and athletic stadium signals this government's ongoing commitment to excellence in sports," Pierre said. "We believe there is a direct correlation between better sporting facilities and improvement in performances of our local athletes." The facility sits right next to the cricket stadium at Queens Park on the outskirts of the city. The cricket stadium, which was also destroyed, was earlier rebuilt in the time of the Cricket World Cup in 2007. The People's Republic of China is assisting the Grenada government in the 20-month refurbishment project estimated at about US$25 million. It is being undertaken by the China State Construction E n g i n e e r i n g

Corporation. "We believe there are many diamonds in the rough, waiting to be discovered and polished," Pierre said. "There are many sons and daughters who, given the opportunity, are ready to make this nation proud. This country that has given the world Kirani James and Shalrie Joseph (the MLS star), indeed has more to offer". Pierre said that Grenada is looking forward to host major events such as the regional athletics championship CARIFTA when the project is finished. The sports minister said that the government also hopes that world-class athletes will also use it as a training facility. "It is our vision that it will also be used as a training facility for the best in the world---who can come to Grenada particularly in the northern winter periods to fine-tune their skills and maintain their standards," she said. (Caribbean News)

Farzaana Ameena Khan

brilliant beauty, 17-year-old Farzaana Ameena Khan is a driven individual who loves dancing. Farzaana attended Mae’s School where she wrote her CSEC examinations and gained 9 subjects. She then went on to School of Nations to further her studies in business and English. One of Farzaana’s notable talents is dancing. Her inspiration comes from her mother who has a fond love for dancing. Farzaana credits her mother for encouraging her to follow her passion. At the tender age of 7, Farzaana took up dancing. She started with Kathak dancing- her favourite form of dance. Farzaana, at the age of 8, won her first place trophy- a huge encouragement to continue dance. She had originally started dancing at the Indian Cultural Centre but had to leave there because of her exams. She then joined the Dharmic Nritya Sangh and participated in her first Naya Zamana show in 2012. Farzaana described it as a “truly amazing and unforgettable experience”. She continues to train under the tutelage of dance instructors Dr. Vindhya Persaud and Trishala Persaud. Farzaana also received training from notable, talented teachers from India who always encouraged her to never give up on dancing. The talented dancer is thankful to her dance teachers, family and dance associates for their endless support throughout the years. Dancing for Farzaana is a way of expressing herself and keeps her fit. She gets excited when she learns of new dance forms and choreographies and tries her best to continuously improve her abilities. A humanitarian, Farzaana enjoys donating to orphanages and also loves animals. She plans to graduate with a degree in business and to continue to grow as a talented dancer.

travel & Tourism

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Cascading waterfall along the hike up the mountain

he Kanuku Mountains are located in the heart of the Rupununi Savannahs in south-western Guyana. The mountains are divided by the Rupununi River into western and eastern ranges. This area is one of the most ecologically diverse ones in Guyana with habitats ranging from savannah, gallery forests and semi-deciduous forests in the lowlands. Through photographs, Ronald Nandlall, a hobbyist/ professional photographer, shares with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine his experience of an unforgettable hiking journey on the Kanuku Mountains. Ronald and 11 others braved dangerous difficulties to reach their destination, the ‘Sleeping Giant’, a peak found in the Kanuku mountain range. Brian Gomes, who was also on the hike, describes the adventure: “Almost 3,000ft high, we stood there exhausted, fatigued, sore, dripping in sweat, but somehow energized by the feeling of accomplishment. Eleven hikers and I, not forgetting ‘Magga’ the dog, conquered the ‘Sleeping Giant’. We were faced with obstacles and challenges around every turn: steep slopes, almost vertical drops, slippery rocks, thorny trees, dangerous snakes and everything that you would expect to find in dense untouched rainforest. After every obstacle was overcome and every battle won, we were then awarded with some of the most amazing and picturesque views including streams, creeks, waterfalls, beautiful flowers, strange trees, unique insects and a landscape view of beautiful Guyana that no combination of words can describe. It was by far the most amazing experience of my life. On the flip side, it was also the most challenging. A mountain climb with a team of persons motivating each other all along the way proves to me that if we work together in every aspect of our lives, almost anything can be achieved.” For more information on the hike, email Ronald at rnd22@hotmail.com (Cover Photo: Ronald looks tiny next to this massive boulder along the hike on the mountain) Rays of sunlight beaming through the canopy

Refreshing stream of water flowing down the mountain

Fashion

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

A Designer Keisha Edwards

vant-garde designer Keisha Edwards recently launched her sensual yet classy collection. Her signature ‘ShaSha Designs’ is the perfect choice for any Christmas festivity. For a distinct look this season, Keisha carefully designed her collection with pieces that will surely stand out at any occasion. She has also incorporated a stylish twist on plaids- designs ideal for any day or night event. The pieces are also very comfortable and contour any body type. From the

conservative to plunging backs and necklines, these designs will suit any fashionista. “Shasha Designs is ‘Personality Risen to the Surface’. A mixture of traditional rock meets modern wear with a dash of Caribbean flavour. My collection is a true expression of self and an escape from the norm into the extraordinary. ShaSha Designs allows you to be bold and express your stylish persona,” the designer said in an interview with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

For more information on ShaSha Designs, email at shashadesigns@gmail. com or call 676- 7341.

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

rom paying your bills to picking out recipes, smartphones have made it easy to do everyday tasks with relative ease. One of the only things they seemed incapable of doing was to actually deliver you your dream manâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;until now. That's because dating apps are becoming increasingly popular and so with just the click of a button, you can be connecting with your Mr Right in no time. One of the latest apps on the market for the socially active single is Lulu, which goes a bit further and allows women to actually rank those they have dated. The app is solely for women and has over one million users worldwide already. These women are allowed to anonymously rank their male Facebook friends, hookups and exes from one to 10 based on quali-

One of the latest apps on the market for the socially active single is Lulu which goes a bit further and allows women to actually rank those they have dated. (Jamaica Observer photo)

ties such as their physical attributes, personality and sex abilities. Those doing the rating are also asked to choose from a list of positive

and negative hashtags to describe the men to the benefit of other women who might have some interest. But if you plan to

just log on to dish the dirt on your no-good ex, think again. You would have to answer a series of multiple choice questions and select the hashtags that describe the person you are rating.

Other dating apps

Although some have described the app as being sexist, it seems some men don't mind, because since being launched over nine months ago, the social networking site has received a number of requests from guys wanting to be rated. But Lulu is just one

of several apps you can shop for in your playstore if you are seriously intent on hooking up with the perfect match. There are also apps like Tinder, which helps to connect you to your Mr Right by matching you with someone who has similar interests based on your Facebook page. While a dating app like Hinge is for those who want to be wined and dined before getting into serious relationships, others like Bang with friends are for those who are just looking for hook-ups. One of the most con-

troversial mobile dating apps to date has been Carrot dating, a mobile social network that allows women to be bribed by their suitors. According to the app's intro page, Carrot dating is a win-win for everyone. Critics of the app have accused its developer of supporting borderline prostitution. That's because, upon logging on, you are allowed to choose one from 20 bribes such as a plastic surgery, a dinner or flowers, and then offer it to another user in exchange for a date. Software developer Sylvester Morgan believes the use of mobile apps is a great and efficient way to meet and greet someone of the opposite sex, but cautions women to bear in mind some of the same considerations they would when using a regular dating site, such as not giving out too much personal information too soon. "I think it's a good thing. Quite frankly, you are so busy going about life, so any help you can get with dating is useful," he said. He believes apps are probably going to be more popular than websites for dating purposes, primarily because of the fact that they are seen to be more personal and efficient. (Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Trini sails around world in nine years

ouring rain was probably not what Vidya JeremiahPettersson, who claimed to be the second-ever Trinidadian woman to circumnavigate the globe by sea, envisaged arriving back to in the land of her birth, but that’s what she got. Landing just after 10 am Saturday and greeted by her brother, Shiva, uncle Steve and nephew Ravi, she walked ashore at the quay at Coral Cove, looking positively buoyant despite it being her first encounter with dry land for 21 days. The final stint of her nine-year voyage with Swedish husband Kenneth Pettersson had taken them from Cape Verde islands, off the west coast of Africa, across the Atlantic until they eventually sighted TT and the marina in Chaguaramas where the couple first met. The couple followed the path of Harold La Borde, who in 1969 to 1973, circumnavigated the world in his 40-foot ketch, Hummingbird II. He was accompanied by his wife, Kwailan, and his five-year-old son Pierre. Harold and Kwailan were awarded the nation’s highest honour—the Trinity Cross in 1973.

the couple set sail from Trinidad, but for Kenneth it began long before, when he was a little boy growing up in the old fishing port of Skanör, reading about sailing voyages. The journey has taken nine years and JeremiahPettersson listed the route which took in countries, including Venezuela,

Vidya Jeremiah-Pettersson, who claims she is the second Trinidadian woman to have circumnavigated the globe by sea, stands on her boat, El Cordero, at Coral Cove Marina, Chaguaramas, Saturday. (TT Guardian photo)

Back in January 1999, Jeremiah-Pettersson was working as a manager in the office at Coral Cove marina when Kenneth arrived on his boat. He had landed in the Caribbean after one of his eight transAtlantic voyages, four of which he sailed solo. After sailing back to Sweden he returned again in 2001. “I think it was his intention to find me again,” Vidya said, beaming. Before meeting Kenneth she had never sailed before. “He built the boat himself.

You could say he’s a sailing freak,” she said. The boat, named El Cordero (or lamb in Spanish), looks small and cosy and is adaptable enough to cope with the open seas as well as the tight canals and waterways of mainland Europe, which must be navigated on the route they took. Pettersson described the boat as “an old-fashioned Swedish design, a longkeeled boat. It’s not fast.” The story began for Vidya back in 2004 when

Colombia, the Panama Canal, Galapagos Islands, French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, Suvaru, Tonga, Fiji “where we spent the hurricane season, six months, wonderful island,” she added, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Yemen,

Sudan, Egypt and through the Suez Canal across the Mediterranean to France. They funded the trip along the way by building boats. Now they plan to stay in TT for a while, and definitely for the Christmas period. (Excerpted from TT Guardian)

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Caribbean news

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

‘Buy Bajan’ campaign gains momentum B

arbadians appear to be heeding the calls to buy local and save jobs, according to President of the Barbados Manufacturers Association (BMA) Karlene Nicholls. In an interview with Barbadian media Monday, Nicholls said “We have also seen changes in local attitudes towards buying local which is a testament to the impact of our ‘Buy Bajan campaign’.” “Every time you purchase an item that is Barbadian produced, you are saving jobs, and that is the message we want to send out to the wider public. From the reports we have received, it is gaining ground and we are seeing actual success,” she stressed. She noted that linkages are important to the sectors’ growth such as partnership with the BIDC, BAS and Intimate Hotel of Barbados. “We will continue exposure for manufactures and producers inward such as the BMA bringing buyers into Barbados, creating more opportunities for the sec-

President of the Barbados Manufactures Association (BMA) Karlene Nicholls (Barbados Advocate photo)

tor and outward missions such as BMEX, which continues to be the singular most important expo for the sector’s exposure to local and international buyers.” Nicholls indicated too that the entire world is going through a recession and that there will be some companies that will not make it while others will thrive. She explained that will be so because the ones expecting to survive will do what is necessary. While the awareness of the state of the economy is acute, she has however advised businesses

to look at the positives and develop those areas where Barbados has some strengths, streamline those practices that need change, and continue the lobbying of buying local at the fore front. Meanwhile, she observed some strides in the manufacturing sector. “There are a lot of positives in the (manufacturing) sector, more young people are getting into manufacturing and we have seen steady improvements in marketing, labelling, and presentation of products,” Nicholls said. “More companies are becoming export ready and we also see that small and medium sized businesses are breaking into export markets.” The BMA President said that while Barbados is a high cost location overall, it still has to find ways to be competitive, even if it means initially “that we go with a lower margin so that we have increase turnover in volumes to get entry in those markets.” (Excerpted from Barbados Advocate)

history

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Storm van Gravesande is well known as the first governor of Fort Island in Dutch Essequibo, who is credited for turning its wilderness into a colony that would eventually become independent Guyana. But all that came at a personal cost... aurens Storm van’s Gravesande was born in the Dutch city of ‘s Hertogenbosch on Oct 12, 1704, the eldest child of Pieter and Alpheda Lousia nee van Lutchenburg. His family was one of the city’s old families. While little is known of his childhood days, van’s Gravesande, who, in his dispatches written while in Guiana, describes himself as habitually outspoken, is known to have entered the army at 17 years old, and may have even studied law. In 1727, Storm, as he was more commonly known, is said to have “contracted an alliance” with Lumea Constantia van Bercheyck with whom he had seven children before his arrival in the Dutch Guiana colony; five of whom were alive when they travelled. One born on the colony just after their arrival, died young. Of all his offspring, six reached adolescence: four boys and two girls. Three of the boys served under him while the two girls worked unofficially at his constantly undermanned colonial office. When the girls had married, Storm wrote in a dispatch: “By the mar-

Map of Fort Zeelandia on Flag Island (1772) of which van’s Gravesande became governor and director general

riage of my daughters I have lost my clerks.” In October 1737, Storm took the oath as secretary and bookkeeper for the West India Company’s Essequibo colony, which he elected to serve. Upon arriving in Essequibo, Storm immediately set out trying to improve the militia stationed at Flag Island, later renamed Fort Island. He also offered his superintendence to the fort being constructed. By 1743, with much work already completed, the Essequibo seat of government was moved to Fort Island and the fort itself, named Fort Zeelandia, was completed in 1744. Storm’s contribution to Fort Island was rewarded with his

provisional appointment as Commander of Essequibo in 1742 upon the death of the previous commander Gelskerke. His appointment was officially declared April 13, 1743. But Storm and the directors of the West India Company would forever be at loggerheads over the latter’s constant neglect of the colony, which was often left in short supply of soldiers, food and ammunition provisions and slaves – sometimes for years. Things had become so acrimonious for van’s Gravesande that in December 1746 he applied to the company for his discharge, repeating the request some eight months later. The response from the compa-

ny was an increase in his salary, the appointment of one of his sons as an assistant, and a slave, his wife and child as a gift. The overtures worked for a while but by March 1749, things had deteriorated further in Essequibo, and van Gravesande prepared to return to Europe to speak to the directors in an effort to improve conditions on the colony. However, his twoyear absence from Essequibo and his presence in Europe both proved to be unfortunate. While away, the management of the already simmering colony deteriorated. In Europe, though his speech impressed the directors and he was given the ti-

Preserving our heritage through pictures

tle of Director-General, nothing practical and beneficial to the colony came out of it. Storm returned dissatisfied to Essequibo in 1752 and was horrified at the change for the worse of the colony. His authority, already resented by the Secretary, a man called Spoors, was lessened while he was in Europe. In fact, Spoors was given official direction along with the Director-General over the company’s plantations; a position that saw frequent conflicts of opinion between the two. Adding to Storm’s distress while in Essequibo, on Dec 31, 1752 he lost his second son, Warnard Jacob, who was his assistant and had travelled with him to Europe. In March 1760, his wife Lumea died; in May 1761 his eldest son Jonathan Samuel also died. In July 1764 another son, Gerard Johan passed away aged 24. Storm writes in his dispatches, “...of my six sons I have therefore none left but the youngest [Jeremias; born 1749] who has gone to Europe in the country’s warship ‘Zephyr’...”. Storm

lost his eldest daughter, Maria Catharina, in June 1771. Storm would grow old vainly battling the company he worked for to improve conditions on the colony. He eventually repeated his earlier request for his discharge in 1776, though, with the directors warring among themselves, a response was never provided. Then, after a service of 35 years, Storm was released for “bad and unjustifiable management” and for what is termed his lack of “honesty, attention and economy”, after a Feb 19, 1770 letter from the Zeeland Company took him to task for encouraging the purchase and importation of slaves unapproved by the company, and for the illicit acquisition of another cargo of slaves which the company had also not authorized. His replacement, George Hendrik Trotz, arrived in New Zeelandia Nov 22, 1772 and Storm retired to his plantation Seostdjik in Demerara. Laurens Storm van’s Gravesande died Aug 14, 1775, aged 70 at Seostdjik.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

Hotel Tower, Georgetown, British Guiana Circa 1900s

feature

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Four of the six children from Joshua House presented with certificates from Mexican Ambassador Francisco Olguín (third from left, second row) and embassy staff

ince 1996, the Institute for Mexicans Abroad of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico convened an annual children's drawing competition called Este es mi México (This is my Mexico). Originally, it was intended to strengthen the ties of children of the Mexican Diaspora born mainly in the United States and Canada, with their motherland. Eventually however, the Mexican authorities discovered that non-Mexican children were often willing to participate as well. Conscious that un-

derstanding among peoples is more easily achieved through cultural and artistic expressions, and of the importance of fostering the creativity of children and their ability to communicate through learning about cultures different than theirs, the 11th edition of the drawing contest in 2006 was opened for children ages 7-11 from schools and orphanages all over the world, whether they were of Mexican heritage or not. They were invited to express their artistic abilities and imagination by drawing different aspects of

Artwork by 10-year-old Robin Rogers

Mexican life, culture and history. Starting in 2010 in Guyana, as the Embassy of Mexico officially opened in Georgetown in July 2009, local children have been invited to participate. In October 2012, the embassy invited children from public and private schools to visit the embassy to see an exhibit of participating drawings of the 14th and 15th contest editions. They also perused through Mexican art, geography and history books, saw assorted videos about Mexico, and were provided with cardboard and colouring pencils and crayons so they could get started on their own drawings to enter the 17th edition of the Este es mi México competition. Six children from Joshua House entered their drawings in that competition, and on behalf of the jurors, a panel of Mexican painters and sculptors led by renowned artist Jorge Marin, the Institute of Mexicans A b r o a d sent them a Certificate of Recognition for their efforts. The certificate includes a “winged” child

"Mexican" by 11-yearold Ronaldo Bovell

painted by Jorge Marin, whose work is always inspired by winged characters. The Mexican ambassador, Francisco Olguín, Wednesday presented

the certificates to the six winners from Joshua House. The ambassador also used the occasion to share with the 60 children of Joshua House a joyous time ahead of

the Christmas season. Additionally, the embassy made a contribution of books to the library at the children’s home. (Info and photos by Embassy of Mexico)

Bollywood

week ending December 22, 2013

| guyanatimeSinternational.com

‘Initially I found Salman very rude and inconsiderate’ - Aamir

ctress Preity Zinta and filmmaker Karan Johar have urged the media to respect the privacy of their friends, Hrithik Roshan and his wife of 13 years, Sussanne, who have announced their split. Hrithik released an official statement on Sussanne’s decision to part ways with him after a relationship of 17 years. The duo dated four years before tying the knot Dec 20, 2000. At the red carpet of the Colors Golden Petal Awards, Preity was asked to comment on the news. She said: “I have one thing to say to the media with lots of humbleness...these are very personal moments for people, and please don't slander either him (Hrithik Roshan) or her (Sussanne). It is a very personal matter.” “I think you have to give them that space. It is very sad when everybody has their own personal comments,” she added. Karan, who shares

A a friendly bond with Hrithik and has worked with him in films like ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham’ and ‘Agneepath’, also refrained from commenting. “It is too personal to them (Hrithik and Sussanne) and, therefore, personal to us. So, I feel very uncomfortable talking about, especially anything too personal to close friends on a national platform,” he added. However, actor Anil Kapoor is hopeful about the couple's re-union in future. “Hrithik is a fam-

ily friend. He is like a younger brother to me, even Sussanne. I am very fond of both of them. But I think these are the things that really happen in a relationship,” Anil, who shares a friendly bond with the couple, said. “I am very optimistic and hope they get back together,” he added. On Dec. 13, Hrithik announced his wife Sussanne’s decision to split from him after 13 years of marriage. Together, the couple has two sons---Hrehaan and Hridhaan. (TOI)

“She (Aishwarya) has always been around. I don't think you guys (media) will allow anybody to make a comeback. You all cover us so extensively and so well,” Abhishek told IANS in an interview.

The actor said filmmaker Prahlad Kakkar, has approached him and Aishwarya for a project, which the two of them are considering individually. “Prahlad has expressed a desire to make a film with both of us. We have not read the script and both of us have to like the script individually,” he said. Known for her performances in films like ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’ and ‘Guru’, Aishwarya was last seen in ‘Guzaarish’, which also featured Hrithik Roshan. (TOI)

fter Salman Khan and the Kapoor cousins, Ranbir and Kareena, now it's Aamir Khan for the first time on ‘Koffee With Karan’. And no points for guessing that KJo has managed to get interesting revelations out of Aamir and his wife, filmmaker Kiran Rao. When asked why he avoided getting on the couch, Aamir said,

Bipasha Basu to launch a restaurant

‘Aishwarya has always been around’ - Abhishek

ipasha Basu is a self-confessed foodie. So it is not surprising that she wants to launch a restaurant. Indian media reported earlier this week that the actress, who is gearing up to make inroads in the hospitality sector, is scouting for a commercial property in the suburbs, along with partners who would invest in the project with her. Although, the developments are at an early stage, Bipasha already knows the kind of res-

ishwarya Rai has not been active in films for quite some time, but her husband, actor Abhishek Bachchan has not really missed her as he feels the media keeps her in news all the time.

‘Best time to meet me is morning’ - SRK

uperstar Shah Rukh Khan says that the best time for anyone to get him to agree to something is in the morning. It is only at this time that he is not aware enough to think rationally. “Best time to meet me is morning...I pay a lot of compliments then. My eyes take a while to adjust to the reality through the haze,” Shah Rukh posted on Twitter. The ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’ star is busy shooting for Farah Khan's ‘Happy New Year’, which also stars Abhishek Bachchan, Sonu Sood and Deepika Padukone. (TOI)

“When you started your show, I did not know you too well and whatever little I knew about you, I didn't like. I think when you don't know a person you have a lot of misconceptions about them. But the point is, I like you now and I'm happy to be here.” Speaking about his contemporaries, Aamir was all praise for Salman. “He is raw brute

star power. Salman just comes and he shakes his belt a couple of times, puts his goggles behind his shirt and everyone goes bananas...I don't have that kind of stardom.” He also spoke about his initial dislike for Salman: “In ‘Andaaz Apna Apna’, I had a bad experience working with him. I didn't like him as I found him very rude and inconsiderate. Over the years whenever I met him, I was polite, but I just wanted to stay away from this guy. However this changed sometime around when I split up with Reena. He walked into my life at a juncture when I was at my lowest phase. Once when I met him, he said that he wanted to come over. And he came over and we started drinking. I don't know how, but something connected there. It kind of grew, we began spending more time together.” (TOI)

ctress Madhuri Dixit, busy promoting her forthcoming women-centric drama ‘Dedh Ishqiya’, admits that the world is male dominated and it's up to a woman how she makes a mark for herself. “The whole world is male dominated, not just this industry,” she said when asked whether the option gets narrowed down for an actress postmarriage and does she feel that the film industry is male dominated. “There will be this difference, but it is up to a woman to make a mark for herself and fight for her rights. Woman has to work two times harder than men to prove herself again and again.

taurant she wants to run. “It will be a multicuisine, fine-dining joint with lots of signature dishes,” revealed a friend. “Getting a licence is an elaborate process, but Bipasha will soon be

working towards it.” Confirming the news Bipasha said, “I'm taking baby steps as an entrepreneur and it really is quite thrilling. I will finalise the details in the latter half of 2014.” (TOI)

That's the reality of life,” the actress told IANS. “But whatever you get in return is much

more satisfying,” added the star of films like ‘Dil’, ‘Beta’ and ‘Dil To Pagal Hai’. (TOI)

Hollywood

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Bruce Willis, Emma Heming Keanu Reeves turns expecting second child bilingual for ‘47 Ronin’

ctor Bruce Willis and his wife Emma Heming are reportedly expecting their second child together. Willis, 58 and Heming, 35, who got married in 2009, are already parents to a 20-month-old daughter Mabel, reported US magazine. Willis, Heming and their daughter most recently were seen visiting a local farmer's market

in LA. The 35-year-old model showed what ap-

peared to be growing baby bump during the outing. In addition to Mabel, the ‘GI Joe: Retaliation’ actor is a parent to 23-year-old Rumer, 20-year-old Scout and 18-year-old Tallulah with ex-wife Demi Moore. Willis and Moore separated in 2000. Willis is currently filming action movie ‘The Prince’ alongside John Cusack, Jason Patric and 50 Cent. (TOI)

Profits of Walker's last film to be donated to charity

he profits made by late Paul Walker's movie ‘Hours’ will be donated to the actor's Reach Out WorldWide organisation. Producers of ‘Hours’, which released in the U.S. last week, have confirmed that they will be donating a portion of the film's box office revenue to Walker's charity, reported femalefirst.co.uk. Even executives at Universal Pictures have confirmed that they will donate a portion of the proceeds from the DVD release of ‘Fast & Furious 6 to the actor's charity. "With the passing of Paul, the world has lost a man who spent a great deal of his life in service to others. We share

ctor Keanu Reeves has turned bilingual for his fantasy action film ‘47 Ronin.’ He took help from a Japanese coach so that he could record his lines in Japanese, and says it was an "exciting" experience. The 49-year-old Canadian actor said that he was asked to record his lines in English as well as in Japanese for the movie, but he did not give any second thought to it. "It's always exciting for me, for the idea of acting in another language. I've been getting instructions on pronunciation. It's been fun. I recorded every scene with Japanese dialog according to the wishes of the director. If the director wanted to, he could probably release a full Japanese version of the film," Reeves said in a statement. But the actor admits that it was a challenge too. "It's always exciting for me, for the idea of acting in another language. I've been getting instructions on pronunciation. It's been fun. I recorded every scene with Japanese dialogue accord-

ing to the wishes of the director. If the director wanted to, he could probably release a full Japanese version of the film," he said. Based on one of Japan's most enduring legends, the extraordinary tale of courage has its origins in the early 18th century, when 47 noble samurais honoured the untimely death of their master by avenging him. (TOI)

an initial split in September. The 48-year-old brunette beauty and the 44-year-old retired cricketer got back together last month, but if a source is to be believed, the couple has now called it quits for good. "It is very sad and they tried to make it work but there were just too many issues in the way. Elizabeth is taking it one day at a time. She will always be extremely fond of Shane," HELLO! magazine quoted a source as saying. Rumours of their split were fuelled after Warne tweeted: "The past should be the past and stay there. It destroys the future. Live life for what tomorrow has to offer, not for what happened yesterday." The duo parted ways in September after Hurley reportedly found intimate text messages from someone else on Warne's mobile phone while packing for a trip to his native Australia. (TOI)

Hurley, Warne split again in the deep grief of his family, friends and the countless fans who love him," said Universal Pictures chairman Donna Langley. (TOI)

‘I wanted to pose for Playboy during pregnancy’ - Susan Sarandon

ollywood star Susan Sarandon says she turned down numerous offers to shed her clothes for the

Playboy magazine, but wanted to do so during her pregnancy. However, the 67-yearold actress' could not

fulfil her wish as they did not show any interest then, reported Daily Express. "You know, they haven't asked me in about five years. They used to ask me on a regular basis and I wanted to do it when I was pregnant, but they weren't game---that was before everyone else started doing it pregnant," Sarandon said. The Oscar Winner, who had shown skin in some of her movies is unsure she would do something like that again. (TOI)

Amy Adams on 'intimacy' with women

inger-actress Amy Adams, who has shared screen space and a kiss with Jennifer Lawrence in forthcoming film ‘American Hustle’, believes that there is a different vibe and energy that she feels when working with a woman. The 39-year-old actress played Sydney Prosser in ‘American Hustle’. She admitted that she didn't mind getting intimate with Lawrence for the kissing scene. Contactmusic.com reported that Adams told Vanity Fair magazine: ''I

ctress Elizabeth Hurley and former cricketer Shane Warne have reportedly called off their engagement for the second time after

Penelope Cruz finds breast feeding ‘addictive’

enelope Cruz, who is mother to Leonardo, 2, and Luna, 6 months, with Javier Bardem, has said that she find's breast feeding addictive. The 39-year-old actress told Allure magazine that one's supposed to get extra calories because breast-feeding, you burn an extra 500 a day, the New York Post reported. She said that she breast-fed her son for 13 months and plans to do the same with her daughter, asserting that

it's hard that one has to stop nursing. (TOI)

Lindsay Lohan to write a tell-all book

rarely get to work with other women. I got to act with Jennifer, and I thought, this is the most fun I have had in so long. "Not because I don't

like acting with men, but because there's an energy created when two young women go at each other or are able to create intimacy.'' (TOI)

ctress Lindsay Lohan is reportedly planning to pen down a tellall book about her life. The 27-year-old is writing about her

arrests, drug abuse, acting career, and family in the book and she has already received several publishing offers, reports tmz.com. Sources said the book started as a series of journal entries, which she wrote in the rehabilitation centre as a therapeutic exercise. The book is still in its early stage, and it doesn't have a clear focus, but she says she wants to open up every part of her life. Lohan held a meeting with Waxman Leavall Literary Agency, which has represented celebrities including Victor Cruz, Novak Djokovic and Bill Murray. (TOI)

Sport

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Mc Donald finishes 54 out of 110 competitors in Prague … 45 places better than last outing

Soepe wins Mr Suriname title… again

ational champion Abigail Mc Donald returned from the Scrabble Champions Tournament 2013 in Prague, Czech Republic, richer in experience after finishing 45 places better than four years ago when the event was held in Malaysia. She finished 54th of 110 competitors with 16 wins and a spread of + 21 while her two other Caribbean counterparts Orlet Bullock ended with 17 wins and a spread of + 192, and Leslie Charles with 16 wins and a spread of + 159. The Scrabble Champions Tournament 2013 (formerly World Scrabble Championship) was held in the Andel’s Hotel. Prague, Czech Republic from December 4-8. Nigel Richards of New Zealand was the winner while Thailand’s Komol Panyasophonlert was the runner-up. According to a report Mc Donald wrote, day one of the championships was a “disaster”, citing that she only won one game out of seven; day two however she won four games. Day three, according to the report and website, she leapfrogged 58 opponents, and after the first game on the final day, she was in the 37th place, having gone on an incredible 8-1 streak. Her biggest game was against former world champion Canada’s Joel Wapnick. She noted that playing alongside some of the big names made her realize she belongs although she has only about 40 percent of her dictionary covered while some have as much as 85

National champion Abigail Mc Donald

percent. She outlined that her favourite words played during the tournament were: thumbkin, windsail, realeasee, ericoid, dugouts, narthex and enquirer, which was challenged by Wapnick for 105 points. Concluding, she said “This is a proud time for the Caribbean in scrabble and I have no doubt that within the next four years, the Caribbean will produce a number 10 or better finisher at the world’s.

he name Koese Soepe may be difficult for many Guyanese to pronounce, but few who watched his performance at the 2012 Flex Night International cannot forget the manner in which he won the hearts of the Guyanese audience at the National Cultural Centre, and conquered the field of bodybuilders who possessed physiques much larger than his own. Last Saturday in Paramaribo, Soepe put on an encore performance when he won the

Koese Soepe

Mr. Suriname title for the second successive year, defeating the likes of Melvyn Setropawiro and eight other contenders. Soepe’s victory in Paramaribo (as well as his success at the 2012 Flex Night International) has been likened to the “little axe that cuts down the big tree.” Soepe is very short by bodybuilding standards, measuring just under five feet in height. He has, however, been able to pack an

enormous amount of muscles on his diminutive frame, presenting an extremely balanced and symmetrical body that clearly stands out on stage regardless of who has the misfortune of standing next to him. The good (or bad) news for Guyanese bodybuilders is that Soepe has his eyes set on retaking the title of Mr Flex Night International which he won in 2012. Can this Suriname legend be stopped? That question will be answered in the new year.

Klitschko gives up boxing for politics

orld heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko has given up his WBC title and says he is unlikely to fight again because he is focusing on politics. The World Boxing Council has made him a “champion emeritus”, which would allow him to directly challenge a new champion if he wants to resume boxing. But the 42-year-old, who is a Ukrainian opposition leader, said: “That is something I currently cannot imagine. “My focus is on politics in Ukraine and I feel the people there need me.” Massive crowds have demonstrated for weeks in Kiev against President Viktor Yanukovych’s decision to shun closer ties with the European Union and Klitschko, who is very pro-EU and plans to run for president in 2015, has been prominent in the protests. They were sparked by the Ukrainian government’s decision not to sign a partnership deal with the EU - a move which seemed to come as a result of pressure from Russia. The 6ft 7in heavy-

Vitali Klitschko

weight has won 45 of his 47 professional fights, 41 by knockout, with one of his two defeats a controversial reverse against Britain’s Lennox Lewis in 2003. The Ukrainian’s younger brother Wladimir holds the other significant world heavyweight belts. “I thank the WBC

and its president Jose Sulaiman for the support in our battle for democracy and freedom in Ukraine,” added the older Klitschko, who is leader of the Udar (Punch) political party. Klitschko’s last fight was in September 2012 when he stopped Manuel Charr in the fourth round. (BBC Sport)

SPorts

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Kwakwani Secondary emphatically take Titan Bowl title

Kwakwani pose with their medals and winning trophy after the presentation ceremony (Treiston Joseph photo) By Treiston Joseph

w a k w a n i Secondary are once again rulers of school basketball after routing the University of Guyana (UG) 79-54 to win the Youth Basketball Guyana-organised Titan Bowl on Sunday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Kwakwani after losing earlier in the year by one point to Marian Academy in the National School Basketball Festival (NSBF) left no stone unturned in the

Titan Bowl final as they outplayed UG in every facet of the game. The Region Ten school once again played tough defence that resulted in a number of fast break opportunities. They got hot from the field after a cold first half from beyond the arc. Kwakwani was also excellent on the glass, grabbing a number of garbage points, diving for every loose ball as the team outhustled and outmuscled UG. On the other hand, UG never got things rolling as their big

men and perimeter players struggled to hold on to the rock after receiving some flashy passes from guard Jonathon Pooran. He kept relentlessly penetrating the lane only to see his passes slip through his teammates’ fingers or they missed easy buckets. Shafeeq Thomas finished with a game high 25 points while Domair Gladstone dropped 12 points of his own in the win. Leonard Primo did not contribute much to

Shafeeq Thomas elevates for an easy two points to lead Kwakwani to the win against UG

the score card but was a rebounding “beast” with 16 boards. Pooran was the only player in double figures for UG with a stat line of 16 points, six assists and five rebounds in the loss. Meanwhile, in the third place playoff Linden Technical Institute (LTI) humiliated Bishops’ High School, scoring a tournament high 90 points to Bishops’ 62. Terron Welch scored 31 points, had 12 rebounds, five assists and five steals and was named the Most

Valuable Player of the tournament; he was also the only player to drop 30 points in the three-day tournament. Dennis Niles also regained his touch from the field after a horrible shooting night the prior evening in the semi-final to score 20 points while Vibert Benjamin finished with a double-double of 21 points and 12 rebounds to blow away the Georgetown side. Daniel Haynes was the point man for Bishops with 26 points and 16 rebounds while

Marvin Durant had 20 points and 10 rebounds in the loss. Marian Academy outplayed St Rose’s High School for a 41-37 win to finish fifth in the tournament while the Government Technical Institute (GTI) got their only win against President’s College to finish seventh 56-41. In addition to Welch gaining MVP honors, Pooran won the most assists award while Primo was the best defensive player of the tournament.

ICC suspends Shillingford for illegal bowling action

he ICC has suspended Shane Shillingford, the West Indies offspinner, from bowling in international cricket after his action was found illegal. His team-mate Marlon Samuels, who is a parttime offspinner, has been prohibited from bowling quicker deliveries in international cricket. The pair were reported for suspect action on November 16, during the second Test against India in Mumbai. They underwent biomechanical analysis in Perth on November 29, before the start of the series against New Zealand. Shillingford has taken six wickets at 42.66 in the first two Tests against New Zealand but will now not be available for the final match in Hamilton which starts on Thursday. Samuels has not bowled in the current series. An ICC statement said that an independent biomechanical analysis had revealed that for both Shillingford’s standard off break delivery and his doosra, the amount of elbow extension in his bowling action exceeded the 15 degrees’ level of tolerance permitted under the ICC regulations. Shillingford will remain suspended until he

dergo a biomechanical analysis. If the analysis concludes that Samuels has an illegal action for any delivery, he will be banned from bowling in international cricket for

Shane Shillingford

submits a fresh analysis that proves his action has been corrected. Ottis Gibson, the West Indies coach, said: “Though I felt confident about the way the two players performed at the testing, the report did not come back in our favour. Shane is obviously gutted, but Marlon’s role in the team, as I have said previously, is primarily as a batsman, so the impact on him is a little bit less.” “We will formulate a suitable plan of action and work to rehabilitate their bowling actions in the New Year, so Shane can continue his international career in the shortest possible time and Marlon can continue to contribute with the ball when he’s required. “They are both tough characters and have had their share of ups

and downs in the game over the years. We have no doubt that they will emerge from this latest setback with the utmost confidence.” Earlier this week, when asked about the pending report, Gibson hoped that Shillingford would not be singled out. “There are a few people around the world bowling with similar, if not worse actions, so I expect him to be cleared for sure.” Meanwhile, the analysis on Samuels’ action revealed that the spinner’s standard off- break delivery was legal but the quicker delivery exceeded the prescribed levels of tolerance. If Samuels is reported for a suspect action in the next two years, the ICC will take note of it as a second report and the player will have to un-

a minimum period 12 months. Shillingford had earlier been suspended from bowling in international cricket in December 2010, a month after be-

ing reported for a suspect bowling action on West Indies’ tour of Sri Lanka. He underwent remedial action on his bowling and was cleared by the ICC in June 2011. (Cricinfo)

Sport

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Windies U-19s to play on opening day of World Cup

Jamaican Sherone Simpson's confidence grows after switching training camps

- grouped with Canada

est Indies will play South Africa at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in one of four matches on the opening day of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under-19 Cricket World Cup on February 14. The West Indies is also grouped with Zimbabwe and Canada in the 16-team tournament. The tournament will be staged across seven venues in the United Arab Emirates from February 14 to March 1, 2014, and will also include Afghanistan, Canada, Namibia, Papua New Guinea, Scotland and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) besides the 10 full members. Other matches scheduled for the opening day include 1998 winner England taking on the UAE at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi; Zimbabwe locking horns with Canada at Abu Dhabi Oval 1 and New Zealand meeting Sri Lanka at Sharjah Cricket Stadium India will open its title defence against traditional

rival and one-time former champion Pakistan on February 15. In the 16-day tournament, 48 matches will be played across seven venues, which are: Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi; Abu Dhabi Oval 1; Abu Dhabi Oval 2; Sharjah Cricket Stadium; Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai Sports City; ICC Academy Oval 1, Dubai, and ICC Academy Oval 2, Dubai. The format of the competition is such that the 16 teams have been divided into four groups, with the top two teams progressing to the Super League quarter-finals, while the two bottom teams from each group qualify for the Plate Championship quarterfinals. "The ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup is a hugely important event for international teams and for the ICC, as it showcases the future stars of international cricket," said ICC general manager of cricket, Geoff Allardice, while announcing the groups and fixtures in

Dubai. "The tournament has produced more than 40 full member players who have gone on to captain their side in international cricket in different formats--Brian Lara, Graeme Smith and Inzamam-ul-Haq, to name a few. The ICC U19 CWC gives the world's best young cricketers a chance to test their skills in a truly global event. "Teams will need to be at their best every day if they want to win the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup. We expect to see some spectacular cricket." The UAE tournament will be the 10th edition of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup since its inception in 1988. Australia won the tournament in 1988, 2002 and 2010, England in 1998, India in 2000, 2008 and 2012 and Pakistan in 2004 and 2006. The West Indies best finish in the tournament was runner-up to Pakistan when the tournament was hosted in Bangladesh in 2004. (Jamaica Observer)

Jamaican athletics coaches for Colombia

senior Colombian diplomat has revealed that his country will benefit from the involvement of Jamaican athletics coaches, in an effort to improve that South American nation's track and field stock. At the same time, efforts are being made to have retired Colombian World Cup star, Carlos Valderrama come to Jamaica to hold clinics for young footballers during 2014. William Bush, Deputy Head of Mission at Colombia's Embassy in Kingston, said that the exploits of Jamaica's athletes over the years had whetted the appetite of Colombians for greater performance by their own athletes. With that in mind, the Spanishspeaking nation turned to Jamaica for assistance, what with the achievements of Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce, Veronica Campbell Brown, among others, firmly planted in international sprinting history. "Next year we will have trainers from Jamaica going to Colombia to train coaches in schools," Bush said. "Colombia is trying to develop its athletics, beginning at the school level and that is why we have turned to Jamaica for support," Bush said. Valderrama, Bush said, has already been asked to make himself available for the trip to Jamaica. "Valderrama is one of our objectives, for him to be here to train youngsters. We want to have clinics for the Jamaican kids," Bush said. "We are waiting on an answer from Valderrama. He runs his own private company, but he also does work for the Colombian government. We are even acting on a request from your Minister of Foreign Affairs, AJ Nicholson, for us to bring him here," Bush said. Valderrama, (full name Carlos

Deputy Head of Mission at the Colombian Embassy in Kingston, Jamaica, William Bush takes a call at his office in New Kingston Monday. (Jamaica Observer photo)

Alberto Valderrama Palacio), a former captain of Colombia, is one of that country's highly regarded players in World Cup Finals history. After a 22-year career in which he played for club teams, which included Montpelier in France, Miami Fusion, Tampa Bay Mutiny and Colorado Rapids in Major League Soccer (United States), Union Magdalena, Millonarios, Real Valladolid, Atletico Junior and Independiente Medelin, he now serves as a coach at the Clearwater Soccer Academy in Florida. The native of Santa Marta, a city located along the Caribbean coastline, has a statue erected in his honour in that part of the country. Colombia have qualified as one of the 32 teams for the 2014 World Cup Finals to be hosted by neighbours Brazil, the only country that has won the World Cup five times since action began in 1930. (Jamaica Observer)

Jamaican Olympic 100-metre silver medallist Sherone Simpson. (Jamaica Observer file photo)

amaican Olympic 100-metre silver medallist Sherone Simpson is said to be growing in confidence two months after relocating from Jamaica to a new training camp in Florida. Simpson, one of five Jamaican athletes who tested positive for banned

substances earlier this year, is being coached at her new training camp by veteran Loren Seagrave. Seagrave has coached Bahamian icon Pauline Davis and current World 400-metre champion Lashawn Merritt. "She's been doing great. She absolutely loves it there. She is re-

ally enjoying the coaching she's getting," said Simpson's agent Paul Doyle. "Every week she is excited about her first race. She's been adjusting really well and getting more optimistic every day." Simpson is scheduled to have her hearing on January 7 and 8, 2014. The public spectacle that emerged from news of the positive tests drove a wedge between Simpson and Stephen Francis, her coach of the last eight years, who publicly lambasted the 2006 Commonwealth Games champion and her clubmate, Asafa Powell. Both athletes tested positive for the same stimulant, Oxylifrine. "Time heals wounds, but there is a lot ahead for her, and it's still very disappointing for her," said Doyle. "Eventually, she is going to get through this and return to the Sherone that we always knew- the happy-golucky kind of girl who is out there competing." (Jamaica Observer)

Bravo appointed brand ambassador for Chinese firm

est Indies Cricket ODI c a p t a i n , Dwayne Bravo, has become the first international cricketer to partner with one of the largest Chinese corporate entities in the world. Bravo, the West Indies Cricket ODI captain has been appointed as the sporting brand ambassador for the Billionaire Engineering, Construction and Consultancy giant, China Harbour. The deal will see Bravo featured in exclusive ad campaigns and conducting personal appearances on behalf of China harbor. “To become the first international and West Indian cricketer to be sponsored by a globally renowned Chinese firm is an incredible honour and a privilege,” said Bravo. “The Chinese are by far one of the most powerful nations in the world today, thus their introduction into, and their presence within West Indies cricket, will make a tremendous difference not just for us as cricketers but for the entire Caribbean region”. China Harbour becomes Bravo’s official corporate sponsor ahead of a packed West Indies playing schedule. The schedule in-

West Indies Cricket ODI captain Dwayne Bravo

cludes the upcoming oneday international series against New Zealand followed by the team’s home series against England and subsequent participation in the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh, where the West Indies will defend their T20 Championship title, early next year. “For me to be the first cricketer to be bestowed with such a prestigious partnership is an incredible feeling,” said Bravo. “I further hope that our affiliation will pave the way for significant ongoing relations and investment between China and the Caribbean, longterm”. Bravo’s agent, Emma Everett, says they were thrilled that China Harbour was interested in a partnership, although cricket is still a virtually unknown sport

in China. “Dwayne has made history today,” said Everett. “He has become the first international cricketer to venture into the powerful Chinese market whilst cricket as a sport remains relatively new in China”. China Harbour is estimated to be worth US 10 billion dollars and has a substantial presence in the Caribbean. “Whilst it is a new concept for us to affiliate with a sporting brand ambassador, we are thrilled by this exciting partnership and look forward to Dwayne Bravo leading our brand and ethos with the same diligence and commitment he displays when representing West Indies Cricket,” said Deng Bo, regional general manager. (TT Guardian)

Sport week ending December 22, 2013

| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Berbice crowned Inter-county champions –GCB names provisional squad for Regional Four-day By Rajiv Bisnauth

erbice reclaimed the senior Intercounty Four-day title at the end of the rain affected third and final round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) organised tournament on Wednesday. By virtue of their ten-wicket victory over defending champions Demerara in the second round and first innings win over the President’s XI in the opening encounter, the Berbicians accumulated 22 points to win ahead of the President’s XI (19), Demerara (16) and Essequibo (four). Meanwhile, both third round matches in the GT& T/ Hand-inHand Insurance sponsored competition, were drawn after rain hampered play for three and half days. At the Everest Cricket Club ground, Berbice in reply to Essequibo’s first innings 159, reached 27-1 when play was called off at 16: 30 hours. Leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo, who was later adjudged Best Bowler and Most Valuable Player in the tournament, was

Berbice captain Sewnarine Chattergoon collects the winner’s trophy from Hand-in-Hand Insurance’s Marketing Coordinator, Andrea Jodhan-Khan (Photos: Rajiv Bisnauth)

the chief wrecker, scalping 6-53 to end the tournament with 25 wickets. Royston Crandon ended with 2-48, while fast bowler Keon Joseph had 1-3. Dellon Heyliger (39), Kemo Paul (36), and Mark Gonglaves (22) were the main contributors with the bat for Essequibo. With 17 overs remaining, Berbice lost opener Sewnarine

Chattergoon for four, while Kandasammy Surujnarine and Assad Fudadin were not out on seven and 16 respectively when the game was called off. Across at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground, leg-spinner Amir Khan claimed 6-17 to help Demerara destroy the President’s XI for 102 in 55.2 overs. Shemroy Barrington (36), Jason Sinclair (26)

Leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo receives the Best Bowler award from former West Indies fast bowler, Colin Stuart

and Robin Bacchus (19) were the batsmen to reach double digits. Randy Knights, Christopher Barnwell and Zaheer Mohamed picked up a wicket each. In reply, Demerara raced to 28-2 in 1.5 overs when the both captains brought the proceedings to a halt. Barnwell, who made a rapid 26, and Chris Pattadin (nought) were the batsmen dismissed. Kellon Carmichael claimed 2-1.

Meanwhile, at the presentation ceremony held at the Everest Cricket Club ground, GCB Secretary Anand Sanasie expressed the board’s gratitude to both sponsors, adding that corporate support is vital to the development of the game. The tournament formed part of Guyana’s preparation for next year’s Regional Four-day competition organised by the West Indies Cricket Board.

After the presentation ceremony, the GCB announced a provisional 37-member squad that will be required to attend a fitness test on December 28 as preparations continue ahead of the Regional tournament in 2014. The squad reads: Leon Johnson, Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul, Anthony Bramble, Robin Bacchus, Vishal Singh, Zaheer Mohamed, Royston Crandon, Christopher Barnwell, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Assad Fudadin, Tagnarine Chanderpaul, Ronsford Beaton, Rajiv Ivan, Amir Khan, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Shaquille Williams, Narsingh Deonarine, Jonathan Foo, Steven Jacobs, Trevon Griffith, Keon Joseph, Raun Johnson, Jason Sinclair, Paul Wintz, Anthony Adams, Collis Butts, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Rajendra Chandrika, Gudekash Motie, Shemron Hetmyer, Andre Stoll, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Ryan Ramdass, Chris Pattadin, Rayon Fredricks and Totaram Bishun

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Sport

week ending December 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

TT’s badminton player eyes historic Olympic spot

ational badminton player, Solange Guzman is on course to becoming TT’s first ever representative at the Olympic Games due to her mammoth rise up the Badminton World Federation (BWF) rankings at the end of the 2013 competitive year. The Cuban-born athlete, who stood at a distant 365 at the close of 2012, propelled to an impressive 161st position on the world rankings after a hectic, but successful latter half of 2013. Guzman is the only TT player to have leapt over 200 places up the global ladder and is intent on breaking into the top-100 during her 2014 campaign. The 27-year-old recently told TT media that her main objective for 2013 was to climb into the top 200, a feat which she has certainly surpassed. And Tuesday, she explained that her drive to compete at the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is closer than she thinks. “I am very happy with the results that I have received from all competi-

tions this year,” she said. “I did not expect to do so well, but it is a testament of the hard work I have put in. Once I can enter the top 100 Women’s Singles players on the BWF rankings next year, my chances of making it into Olympic qualifiers will be increased a lot.” Throughout the latter half of 2013, Guzman participated in four international tournaments which saw her secure a podium position each time. “I am really hoping to vie for honours in the Pan Am (Canada) and the US and Canada Open. I am also remaining optimistic that I can take part in a European meet. Right now I’m looking at a tournament in Spain. Once I get there and do well, my overall BWF points would be notably amplified. Competing on the European circuit increases your points much more than participating locally and regionally. There’s also the Central American and Caribbean Games (CAC) in November which would be good for my chances,” she added. (TT Newsday)

Dominica government vows to support embattled Shillingford

he Dominica government Tuesday said it was standing behind the embattled West Indies off-spinner, Shane Shillingford, who has been suspended from international cricket because of an illegal bowling action. The 30-year-old Dominican, who is now with the West Indies team in New Zealand, has been promised support by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) to rehabilitate his bowling in the new year. Shillingford has taken six wickets at 42.66 in the first two Tests against New Zealand, but will now not be available for the final match in Hamilton which starts Thursday. The International Cricket Council (ICC) said Monday that Shillingford had been suspended from bowling in international matches after his actions were found illegal. It also said that his Jamaican teammate Marlon Samuels would continue to bowl his standard off-break delivery, but the quicker delivery exceeded the prescribed levels of toler-

ance. Dominica’s Sports Minister Justina Charles, in a statement, said Shillingford had the full support of the entire country. "The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports wishes to place on record its solidarity with Mr Shane Shillingford...a man of the soil who has made Dominica proud over the past years." She said that the country was very disappointed at the ICC release and that "over the past few years, Shane has emerged as one of the top slow bowlers in international cricket and has been an integral part of West Indies resurgent effort in recent years". "It is therefore unfortunate that this incident occurred at this point in time and it is definitely going to be a major blow for West Indies cricket. However, we stand resolute with Shane and we are confident that this, too, shall pass. "We pray that he will continue to comply with recommendations and following the remedial interventions the bio-

West Indies off-spinner Shane Shillingford has been suspended from international cricket because of an illegal bowling action. (Jamaica Observer photo)

mechanical analysis will be favourable," she said, adding that she was confident he would emerge as a better and stronger player. The government said it was prepared to provide support to Shillingford, its goodwill ambassador, to ensure his return to international cricket as soon as possible. "We can recall that in 2010, Shane was suspended for similar illegal action, he underwent remedial action and was cleared by ICC and so we are confident that as

he goes through the ordeal again for the second time that he will persevere and be successful," Charles said. "I can say on behalf of the government we will stand at his side and give the necessary support he requires in order to ensure that he can continue," she added. Shillingford, who made his test debut against South Africa in 2010, has played 14 Tests and collected 65 wickets, including fivewicket hauls in an innings on six occasions. (Jamaica Observer)

guyanatimeSinternational.com

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

week ending December 22, 2013

Berbice crowned Intercounty champions PAGE 53

–GCB names provisional squad for Regional Four-day

Members of the Berbice team pose with the Inter-county trophy Devin Munroe

he Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) has shortlisted a squad of 36 local male players to begin preparations for the Indoor Pan American Cup, scheduled for Montevideo, Uruguay, from April 7-13 next year. The Guyanese men will be returning to international competition after a three-year hiatus due to a lack of funding. While the national female hockey team has been competing with great success in recent years, it was the men who represented Guyana with good success in the 90’s and early 2000’s.

Guyana’s Hockey Board names strong training squad for Pan Am Cup The last time Guyana competed in an Indoor Pan Am Cup was back in 2010, finishing fifth out of eight nations. Prior to that, Guyana had only competed in one Indoor Pan Am Cup, which was in 2005, where the locals narrowly lost out to the USA for a bronze medal. Very few of the faces who have competed for Guyana in the past remain on the current list. The squad in fact may be seen as a changing of the guards as 19 of the 36 players named are below the age of 21. This young crop is led by the exciting talents of Aroydy Branford, Jamarj Assanah, Omar Hopkinson, Andrew Stewart and Steven Xavier. They will be guided by the experience of former national captain Devin Munroe, as well as the likes of Kevin Spencer, Aderemi Simon and Shane Samuels, who all have multiple international caps to their names. Overseas players, such as England-based Marvin Dannett, are also expected to make strong cases for their inclusion. The team will train under the guidance of newly appointed national men’s coach Robert Fernandes, who recently completed his FIH Level Two and Pan American High Performance coaching courses. Fernandes is a former national player and coach of the outstanding Hikers Cadets, who have dominated local indoor hockey at the junior level and more recently

have been having similar success at the senior level. The tournament in Uruguay is a senior continental World Cup qualifier with the winning team earning an opportunity to compete at the highest level in the 2015 FIH World Cup. Canada is likely to enter as tournament favourites having never lost any Pan American Hockey Federation Indoor Cups in which they have entered. The USA boasts the second best record in the region while outdoor powerhouses Argentina have been recently been placing more focus on indoor as well. Guyana’s best ever finish has been a creditable fourth place and the current squad is hoping to eclipse that mark in 2014. The training squad reads: Orland Semple, Kevin Spencer, Raphael DeGroot, Stephen Xavier, Eric Hing, Kareem McKenzie, Keon McKenzie, Mark Sargeant, Medroy Scotland, Robert France, Devin Munroe, Randy Hope, Colonel Heywood, Travon Younge, Jamarj Assanah, Aroydy Branford, Rayon Branford, Andrew Stewart, Leon Bacchus, Michael Harding, Shane Samuels, Laured Stewart, Jason Hoyte, Osafo Timmerman, Joel Hunte, Chris Low- Koan, Dwight Sullivan, Aderemi Simon, Askofu Simon, Jason DeSantos, Anthony Cole, Omar Hopkinson, Richard Thomas, Micah Hartman, Timothy Baker and Stephon Sprostra.

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