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ARCHIVES FOR OCTOBER 21, 2009

Aquaculture sector advancing
- Tilapia hatchery commissioned at Cove & John
Government’s thrust to develop the aquaculture sector was boosted yesterday with the commissioning of phase one of the tilapia hatchery at the Maharaja Integrated Farm, Cove and John, East Coast Demerara.

The hatchery was commissioned after Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud activated the aerator for the pond where the first set of super male breed stock of tilapia is housed.

The Minister was accompanied by Chico Persaud, Proprietor of the Maharaja Oil Mill; Mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Carol Horning; and Chief Fisheries Officer Vivek Joshi.

The hatchery will help aquaculture pioneers to enter the industry with confidence to rear tilapia and other types of fish.

The new hatchery is one example of the joint partnership involving National Aquaculture Association of Guyana (NAAG), the Ministry of Agriculture and United States Agency for International Development/Guyana Trade and Investment Support project, seeking to promote farm-raised seafood as Guyana’s newest crop.

The Maharaja Integrated Farm
The company began when the Maharaja Oil Mills Limited was commissioned in October 1970. Today it is investing in aquaculture, an undertaking that is different from the original ideas of the Company’s founders.

The ponds were constructed on the lands surrounding the oil mill and were historically used for planting rice, raising cash crops and dairy farming, but was later faced with minor flooding, and the company decided to become integrally involved in aquaculture.

Subsequently a proposal was advanced and the decision to establish a hatchery was taken for the production of Red and Nile tilapia fingerlings. The Ministry of Agriculture’s role in the project involved the provision of an excavator to commence digging the ponds.
The species of tilapia at the hatchery are the Mozambique, Nile and Jamaican Red Tilapia.

Minister Persaud lauded the farm’s management team for satisfying the three most important elements needed in the development of aquaculture: ponds, fingerlings and feed.

Highlighting initiatives undertaken by the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration, Minister Persaud said some have been successful through collaboration with the international community.

He said aquaculture in Guyana was built after some discussion with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for it to be included in the agriculture diversification strategy.

“Aquaculture now is a central and important element in our agri-diversification. It is no longer treated as an afterthought, it is mainstreamed in our agriculture diversification project,” Minister Persaud said.

The Agriculture Minister disclosed two major initiatives already in the making that will positively impact on aquaculture, the first being the completion of negotiations with a German firm to develop the type of agribusiness support needed for an aquaculture commodity chain. This project, Minister Persaud said, will cost $195M and of that sum $65M will be allocated to aquaculture development in the area of market support, research and business plan development.

Another project was completed about two weeks ago with an Italian investor who is expected to be in Guyana to develop a modern animal health system in which aquaculture will play an important part.

Breeding fingerlings
The Hapas method will be the main technique implemented for breeding fingerlings. It is a process whereby one male fingerling is placed in a Hapas with three females specifically for reproductive purposes. Following this process, the Hapas will be taken out of the ponds and the fertilised eggs lodged in the females mouth will be extracted and incubated into fries. Chico Persaud said with this method, the recovery rate is expected to be 100 percent.

“We are approaching this hatchery with as much simplicity as possibility, given the magnitude of aquaculture education in Guyana. The trick to its success is running water to keep the eggs in motion,” Persaud explained.

It is envisaged that the optimum production of fries is expected to exceed one million per month which will be adequate to supply foreign orders for fingerlings which Persaud explained will take off the excess which local farmers may not be able to rear.

A section of the gathering at the commissioning of the Tilapia Hatchery

Explaining the biological nature of the tilapia, Persaud (Chico) said it was discovered that the male grows larger, heavier and more uniformly than the female due to reproduction activities.

Approximately 16.45 million fingerlings will be produced yearly which will make about 1200 new jobs in the aquaculture and supporting industries.

The USAID Mission Director said many of USAID’s projects are modelled after work done in Jamaica in the 1970s, when USAID provided technical assistance and inputs for a start-up in the aquaculture industry. This has resulted in Jamaica producing about 6,000 metric tonnes of aquaculture products.

In Guyana however, with the advantage of abundant water and consistent climate, Horning said Guyana has an even greater potential with which her organisation is willing to work to be realized by Guyana.

The fisheries sector contributes about two to three percent to Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product; but according to Chief Fisheries Officer Vivek Joshi, the sector has been faced with the challenge of limited resources and over-fishing.

Nevertheless, he said, the fisheries sector provides almost 13,000 jobs, with fish holding the reputation as the most highly consumed commodity. In this regard, he said the aquaculture sector provides viable opportunities.

“Aquaculture presents an option for agriculture diversification away from our traditional rice and sugar… aquaculture is also a prime area of development in a low carbon economy,” Joshi said.

The next step
Phase two of the integrated farm will incorporate the aspect of growing crops for the export market and using waste water from the fish ponds to irrigate these plants. This model of integration is expected to influence Guyanese farmers to follow similar lines of development and realise the benefits of alternative farming methods. The planners envisage a four to six-week completion.

The final phase is still being negotiated but mirrors the first phase in which a breeding programme for sheep and feed-lot for lambs are proposed.

Chico Persaud disclosed that his company will vigorously pursue efforts later on this year to regenerate interest in the aquaculture sector with the main aim of expanding the industry to assist in the diversification of agriculture.

The specific targets, he said, will be the rice farmers during the rotational crop and as marine fish becomes more scarce and expensive.

The earliest known attempts at aquaculture in Guyana can be traced back 100 years to East Indian inhabitants of the Corentyne Coast, with the brackish, salt water species types.

In 1997, Guyana’s National Development Strategy stated that aquaculture development should become a priority because of its potential to positively impact social and economic development by creating jobs and generating income. In the same year, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) specialists visited Guyana and worked with the Fisheries Department to outline proposals for aquaculture development. (GINA)

No agreement reached on LBI production target
By Tajeram Mohabir
THE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) have failed to agree on a production target for the La Bonne Intention (LBI)/Diamond Estate for this week.

GAWU President, Mr. Komal Chand speaking with the Guyana Chronicle after the meeting on Monday said the corporation has insisted that the weekly production for the estate remains at 1,114 tonnes of sugar per week, against the union’s demand of 870 tonnes.

He pointed out that the workers cannot satisfy GuySuCo’s demand because the estate does not have an adequate amount of canes as well as of high quality to reach the 1,114 tonnes of sugar target.

Chand said the union rejects the corporation’s resort to blame the workers for not meeting the production target, stressing that the GAWU work force at the estate has been the same in numbers for the past 18 months.

“Poor production has to do with the unavailability of adequate amount of canes and the quality of the canes,” he reiterated.

Moreover, Chand said the average weekly production of canes at the estate this crop is 851 tonnes.

The top GAWU official said too that nearing the end of harvesting, production tapers down and this is another reason why it would be impossible for the LBI/Diamond Estate workers to achieve the target GuySuCo is demanding.

He reported that the corporation for this crop has set out to complete harvesting of the estate’s cultivation in 10 weeks, targeting the production of 11,930 tonnes of canes.

This projection, Chand said has not materialised and the workers at the LBI/Diamond Estate are now working in the unscheduled weeks.

He underlined that though the workers have exceeded the initial 10 weeks work period and have completed 11 weeks to date, the production target at the end of last Saturday stood at 9, 369 tonnes.

The GAWU President said the Corporation’s inflexible position on the matter is provocative and could worsen relations with workers affiliated to GAWU.

Workers from LBI who took industrial action over the production target dispute last week returned to work on Sunday but could resume their protest if there is no early resolution on the matter.

Their colleagues at the Diamond cultivation who are also discontented over the GuySuCo production are still on strike but over the payment dispute for the removal of obstacles.

The Diamond workers are demanding $1620 for the clearance of obstacles but GuySuCo does not want to pay more than $700 for the job.

GuySuCo and GAWU will be meeting today to settle this matter and also to resume wages and salaries negotiation for 2009.

An estimated 88 per cent of the sugar workers countrywide struck last Wednesday, in support of a call from GAWU following GuySuCo’s withdrawal from the bargaining process on previous day at LBI Training Centre.

GuySuCo Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Errol Hanuman, had said the strike called by GAWU was deleterious to the industry and that the strikes the corporation has been experiencing can only serve to derail the turnaround plan and frighten away its bankers and creditors.

GuySuCo took the decision to withdraw from the scheduled negotiation meeting with GAWU after some workers stopped working in protest at the 2009 wages offer, among other issues.

He lamented that such conditions have seriously jeopardised not only tillage and planting operations but a significant amount of follow-up work.

“The situation facing GuySuCo is grim, as, in 2008, the corporation suffered a loss of $4 billion and owed its bankers $3 billion.

“At the end of September 2009, we owed the banks just under $5 billion and our losses for this year are projected at $2.5 billion.

“As of December 31, 2008, the amount owed to creditors stood at $2.6 billion and, as of September 30 this year, $1.8 billion,” Hanoman disclosed

GAWU President, Mr. Komal Chand, who is pressing for a 15 per cent pay increase for the workers, said, given the prevailing circumstances in the industry, the union, is willing to negotiate, with GuySuCo, a settlement which is lower but reasonable for the workers.

He said the three per cent raise proposed by GuySuCo as final is unacceptable.

GAWU General Secretary, Mr. Seepaul Narine had said the decision by GuySuCo to be absent from the negotiation is influenced by ulterior motives.

He reiterated what Chand said, that the strike by the majority of cane harvesters at LBI on October 13 had no relation to the ongoing negotiations between GAWU and GuySuCo.

Importation of Guatemalan sugar ends
THE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has ceased importation of sugar from Guatemala to satisfy local consumption needs.

GuySuCo Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Errol Hanoman made the disclosure at a recent press convened at the National Communication Network (NCN) Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

He pointed out that the final shipment of sugar from Guatemala arrived earlier this month and assured local consumption will now be met as there is adequate local production.

Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud has said the average local consumption is between 40,000 to 50,000 tonnes per annum, and the amount that was being imported was to fill the gap when there was a shortage on the market.

The importation, he explained was done on a needs basis as the situation arose and according to him, based on available documentation, there has been no request exceeding 13,000 tonnes.

He reasoned that given the strategic need and business sense, GuySuCo makes more money by importing a quantity of the merchandise and exporting what it produces to Europe, where it obtains a premium price.

Guyana began importation from Guatemala in the first week in February, a move Persaud described as “a very unfortunate development” but explained, it was taken to allow GuySuCo to meet its export commitment to Europe.

Persaud, who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle before the importation, noted that the decision was imperative as this year’s first crop was expected to have started later than anticipated.

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon, had pointed out that the decision to import sugar from the Central American country was made to offset the consequences at the end of the second crop in 2008, which inevitably resulted in a shortfall in the amount of sugar to satisfy both internal and external markets.

It should also be noted that strikes, intense rainfall and technical problems experienced by the Skeldon factory resulted in a catastrophic drop in cane production during last year. (Tajeram Mohabir)

5,000 Region Two customers to benefit from new well
To complement several water treatment facilities being constructed across the country and improve the level of service to consumers, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) will be constructing a new well at Somerset, Region Two to benefit 5,000 residents.

The well will be drilled at a cost of $20M and is one of several being constructed across the country to improve service to customers. The project when completed will comprise a pump house, generator and network connections to move the water supply to residents.

Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI), Divisional Manager, Ravindra Deonaraine told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that civil work on the construction and development of the water treatment facilities are about 20 percent complete.

“The new well will boost the water pressure from Charity and the area that is receiving low pressure. As a result of the underperformance of the present well, residents here receive water from the existing well once every three days … so to alleviate all water woes in this area Government saw it necessary to construct another well.”

Recently, the GWI embarked on the implementation of a strategic ‘Turn Around Plan’ for the water sector to improve its services to customers. The Plan includes the acquisition of new capital infrastructure such as wells and distribution network, and the consolidation of existing capital investments.

Other communities which are scheduled for interventions are: Great Falls, Sand Hill, Kimbia, Wiruni and Wikki/Calcuni, all in Region Ten.

Under the hinterland water strategy, about 55 wells were dug and rehabilitated in areas such as Mahdia, Mabaruma and Waramuri (Region One); Laluni and St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Region Four); Moraikobai (Region Five); Orealla (Region Six); and Bina Hill (Annai), Fairview, Shiriri, Massara, Apoteri, Karasabai and Potarinau in Region Nine.

GWI to date has constructed over 100 new water supply sources to benefit about 21,000 people at a cost of over $90M. (GINA)

Police launch ‘Roger Khan’ investigation
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) yesterday notified the public that it has launched a special investigation team based at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, to enquire into the alleged murders which have surfaced during the court hearing of drug dealer Shaheed ‘Roger’ Khan.

The police are calling on all individuals, organisations or groups who may have information or vital evidence concerning these alleged murders involving the Fine Man gang, Roger Khan’s gang, or any other gang or individuals who may be involved to come forward and provide whatever information or evidence that may be available.

Persons may make contact with Assistant Commissioner Seelall Persaud at C.I.D Headquarters or call the following numbers: - 225-2227, 226-6978 or 225-8196.

CCJ'S INTEGRITY IN CEMENT SAGA
TCL, CARICOM and Guyana
By Rickey Singh
(Barbados)
SINCE THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) dismissed on August 10 the case brought against the Caribbean Community by Trinidad Cement Limited (TCL) in connection with application of CARICOM's Common External Tariff (CET) on cement imports, there have been a few developments of significance:

The CCJ had ruled that while there was "procedural flaw' in the authorisation by the Community's Secretary-General and its Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) to suspend the CET to facilitate cement imports by Jamaica in 2008 from sources other than TCL, it could not find a basis for treating the Community's decision as "illegal".

COTED, meeting in Barbados earlier this month, considered a set of proposals presented by the CARICOM’s Secretary-General, arising from the CCJ's observations for guidance when decisions are to be made by relevant ministerial councils.

However, within six weeks of its ruling in favour of CARICOM in the case brought by TCL, the CCJ, which serves as a final appellate institution for some Community states, and with original jurisdiction for all participating countries in the settlement of trade disputes, was to authorise the Guyana Government to re-impose, in 28 days, the CET on cement imported from non-CARICOM countries--an action the country had taken some years ago.

TCL, as a regionally-based corporate entity, had applied to the CCJ for such an order, contending that since it has the capacity to satisfy the cement needs of Guyana, it was unjustified for the government in Georgetown to suspend the CET to permit cement imports from other sources.

The date for implementation of the court's order expired on September 17 while the Guyana Government--which has been claiming unreliability on TCL's part to satisfy its cement requirements, was manoeuvring for an extension of time which it formally sought on September 23.

The CCJ fixed October 14 for the parties concerned to be engaged by telephone on Guyana's extension application. But eight days prior to the scheduled 'hearing' via telephone, TCL filed an application with the CCJ to hold Guyana's Attorney General "in contempt of court" for failing to implement the CET as the court had ruled.

Four days later, on October 12, TCL filed a response opposing the court granting an extension of time to Guyana to re-impose the CET.

"Dwindling options"

By October 15, faced with what Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, described as its "dwindling options", the Guyana Government announced that it would abide by the CCJ's ruling on re-imposition of the CET on cement imports from non-CARICOM sources.

That decision was to take effect even as this column was being written. However, the case of 'contempt' filed by TCL remains in force and Guyana's Attorney General said that they would respond to the application filed. Questioned whether TCL's contempt application was more than academic interest in view of Guyana's decision to abide by the substantial ruling to re-impose the CET, two well known legal luminaries, who prefer not to be identified, said that while the case may still go forward, "mitigating factors" could be expected to surface.

However, it was doubtful, as one of the legal expert surmised, that TCL may wish to exercise the option of withdrawing its contempt of court application, given the bitter verbal exchanges in the media by both sides to justify their respective actions.

Those "exchanges" reached a very troubling point when the President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo, alluded to a recent meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government at which the issue of a "conflict of interest" was raised. It centred around TCL's Chief Executive Officer, Rollin Bertrand, who also serves as chairman of the CCJ's Trust Fund while actively involved in litigation before the regional court.

TCL's Board had a sharp rebuttal in defence of the integrity of its CEO. Whatever the nature of the "concerns", as alluded to by President Jagdeo, no "conflict of interest" has been established.

Now, therefore, while we await the outcome of the contempt of court matter, the question arises whether both parties—the Guyana Government and TCL--will consider moving towards a healing process rather than maintain a hostile relationship.

In all of the scenarios that have emerged, what certainly stands out is the independence and integrity of the CCJ.

Little wonder that even those political parties and lawyers who still nurture reservations about the CCJ, in preference for the Privy Council, are now shifting to the reality that with the judges of the Privy Council themselves anxious to part company with this region, all should come aboard this still fledgling regional court.

After three-conference…
Plans to decentralise health care delivery outlined
By Vanessa Narine
THE second 2009 Regional Health Officers Conference, which ended last Thursday, underscored the important role that Regional Health Services (RHS) Department plays in decentralising the functions of the Ministry.

The Director, Dr Narine Singh commented that, from the RHS standpoint, decentralisation means more equity of services in all the regions, leading to better care delivery.

The three-day forum, hosted in Regency Suites Hotel, Hadfield Street, Georgetown, was organised by the Health Ministry in conjunction with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Themed ‘Working towards a stronger Regional Health Care system’, it provided an avenue for frank and open discussions, as ideas to develop best practices in the Regional Health Offices were shared, Singh said.

“As we continue with our efforts, there will be hiccups but these are catered for by the conference, because we are able to meet and discuss issues,” he remarked.

Singh said there was participation by local government organs as well as individuals from different sections of the Ministry.

He also noted that, for the duration, feedback, evaluations and updates on current issues, such as H1N1, were facilitated.

“In the end, we were able to look closely at our strengths and weaknesses and discuss the best solutions to advance as we seek to decentralise services,” Singh said.

Achievement
He said one achievement was the strengthening of the Materials Management Unit (MMU) which has led to positive reports on the drugs and medical supplies situation in the Regions.

“All the Regions reported that there were adequate stocks and that procurement of supplies was improving,” Singh said.

He said some weak areas were addressed and assured that the Ministry is working towards solving the problems.

“One weakness that came up was shortage in staffing, particularly nursing staff but there are a number of nurses in training. So, within a year, this should be rectified,” Singh said.

He admitted that absenteeism and lateness on the part of health workers has an effect on the overall delivery of health care but reaffirmed that Ministry of Health is addressing those issues.

Singh said the training programmes for medexes and midwives are being upgraded, information technology was introduced for health workers and more trained doctors have been assigned to the various regions towards the decentralising process.

He said two of the doctors have been appointed Regional Health Officers, Dr Avinash Richards to Region One (Barima/ Waini) and Dr Buthakan Wilson to Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni).

Singh also announced that new Health Managers are being posted in Regions One and Nine (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo).

“The doctors in the regions have been acting as the mangers but, because we have new hospitals in those regions, we need more administrative skills and we appointed Health Managers,” he explained.

Singh acknowledged that, while efforts to better health care delivery are being made, there is much work to be done to ensure that the RHS Department is strengthened.
The final aim is equality of services,” he reiterated.

M&CC extends amnesty period for property owners
THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has extended the period of amnesty to October 31 and is therefore urging all property owners to take advantage of this facility as there is not likely to be any further extension to it.

According to a release from the M&CC, the Council has agreed to the extension after numerous requests were made by home owners.

It said rate-payers who are in default should make optimum use of this facility and settle their accounts at City Hall. During this period, the Council said it would waive all interests on accounts provided that the demand is paid in full for 2009.

However, the release said this amnesty should not be misrepresented as a sign of weakness on the part of Council to collect outstanding service as there are a number of options available to the municipality including initiating legal proceedings in the courts against defaulters.

The Council however said it understands the financial difficulties of many home-owners hence this is another attempt by Council to reach out and assist those who may be struggling to honour their civic obligation to the City.

The Council said in its 2009 estimates of revenue and expenditure, it has anticipated collecting more than $400M in interest but so far, it has collected less than half that amount.

If this was achieved, the Council said, it would enhance the ability of the municipality to honour its financial obligations to its garbage and other contractors and would also allow the Council to continue providing various services to the City and its citizens.

DPN taking steps to involve Region Five differently-able
By Vanessa Narine
STEPS are now being taken to get men with disabilities in Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) involved in the programmes arranged by the Disabled People’s Network (DPN).

President of the organisation, visually impaired Mr. Mark Archibald said it is harder for men with disabilities to accept their position.

He said talks have been ongoing with the Regional Chairman, Mr. Harrinarine Baldeo, to facilitate the provision of a stall at Bath Settlement Market, West Coast Berbice and other plans of the DPN have also seen success.

He said the most recent was the progress that was facilitated through the DPN October 4 Fun Day.

According to him, there was also some amount of advocacy to push the DPN that day.

But there are still some challenges, among them barriers in communication with deaf persons not versed in sign language and the difficulty in raising money for the $3,000 per trip to shuffle beneficiaries from their homes to the centre where they are able to realise their potential.

Acknowledging that there will always be challenges, Archibald expressed the hope that assistance from the Health Ministry and the Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) will help address them.

The operating base is the DPN Unit at the William Carmichael Community Centre, Seafield, West Coast Berbice and anyone interested in contributing to the cause in Region Five can contact him on telephone numbers 232-3351 or 678-8777.

Hope
He said getting involved with something shows the differently-abled that there is still hope and purpose in life, he said last week.

Archibald disclosed that a letter has been sent to the Ministry of Health requesting funding because the DPN hopes to acquire carpentry and other tools to engage in different skills based activities.

“We want to include the men and these tools will help us to get them involved in activities they would prefer to get into,” he explained.

Alluding to the reason for involving the men, he said consideration was given to the plight of those with disabilities.

“I look back at my own situation, when I lost my sight. It was hard for me and life had no meaning until I got involved with the disability movement,” Archibald said.

He noted that, with the introduction of the skills based activities, men cannot only find purpose in life again but see their self-esteem and confidence build while they get the opportunity to reorient themselves.

“With the benefits of the activities, the men will be able to see that they can continue to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to society,” Archibald maintained.

He said the organisation has been making progress in all areas and the craft products made by persons with disabilities will be marketed soon.

CHILD MURDERERS
A few weeks ago 14-yr-old Marlon Lowe of Freeburg Primary School nearly lost his life because the school bully was not merely content to taunt the vulnerable Marlon, but also had murderous intentions. He invited his friends, who did not belong to the school, to attack the weaker child in the school compound after classes.

Marlon was not only badly beaten, but was also stabbed with a sharpened implement in his back. The weapon penetrated Marlon’s body, narrowly missing vital organs. Fate saved two young men from their lives being utterly wasted – one by death and the other by incarceration in a penal institution.

The sad aspect of the incident was that the attack occurred in the school yard within yards of members of staff, who did not think that such a matter fell within their mandate, so no one intervened.

One afternoon a senior staff member of this newspaper was on her way to her home on the East Bank when the vehicle she was using was forced to a halt in the vicinity of the junction of Russell and James Streets by a crowd of school children lustily cheering on two of their classmates who were viciously fighting with each other.

The horrifying thing is that adults were nearby, either uninterestedly pursuing their own affairs, or looking on at the fray. The Chronicle staffer made an attempt to intercede but the driver refused to let her out and drove her home. He said that her safety would have been compromised by the school children.

What an indictment of our society–that school children would present a danger to the safety and life of an adult. What happened to the inbuilt respect for elders that was once integral to our traditional way of life?

How did the ethos and actuality of caring for one another inherent within communities disappear to such an extent that our children are injuring and killing each other and no one thinks it fit to intervene until a tragedy occurs?

Fenella Benjamin was not as fortunate as Marlon’s mother, because the injury inflicted on her 15 yr-old-son proved fatal. The lives of Eon Benjamin are both lost – one to death, and one would certainly be incarcerated for a long time in one of the country’s penal institutions.

Guyana is not the USA. Our communities are small and most often closely knit, so how is it possible for these tragic situations to escalate to the point where a life is lost?

Our national leaders, our community leaders, our religious leaders, our teachers, our elders, and the parents of Guyana’s children need to urgently work together to reverse this frightening trend of violent behavior in our young people.

It is not the children who are delinquent. It is the leaders, the elder, the teachers, and the parents who are delinquent, and the children are the victims of this delinquency.

A group of executives in a boardroom were laughing at the idea of fireworks being thrown at policemen in Alexander Village during Diwali last year. They found this flouting of the law by lawless elements hilarious. If these men, some of whom are major entrepreneurs in the city, can think it is acceptable for hooligans to not only break the law, but attack our law enforcers in the process, where are we going as a people and as a nation, because where are the role models for our children to emulate.

National leaders are openly advocating violence as a means of problem-resolution, when many times the problem is concocted for political and personal agendas, and parents faithfully follow these leaders and inculcate hatred in the hearts of their offspring.

Parents and other adults abuse destructive substances then go home and abuse their families. Violence is learned behavior, and the cycle is relentless.

In an address to the audience at an IAC/GT&T Diwali function, President Jagdeo said that our children are the diyas (light) of our lives and that we should nurture them.

However, it would take a collective effort of all the adult stakeholders to ensure that these “lights” of Guyana’s future are not consumed in the darkness of hatred.

THE PARROT
Heightened security around Libraries
The Parrot is amused; very amused. My amusement stems from the recent exchanges between Uncle Freddie and Uncle Hemraj. Is ‘buse’ fuh ‘buse’. Everyday Uncle Freddie ‘busing’ plenty people. That boy could ‘buse’! Never “come across” a man who could ‘buse’ like that. Uncle Freddie mek some “third gender” people and some “sweet ‘oman” look like “sign talkers”. Can you imagine looking at two people ‘busing’ but not hearing what is being “communicated”? Uncle Freddie can reduce other ‘busers’ to that.

The way Uncle Freddie ‘buses’ everybody, including guvment people, you would believe that he more holy than St. Peter. He ‘buses’ as if he is cleansed of all deficiencies; deficiencies that attract ‘busing’. Apparently, he so ‘holy’ that he over indulged himself in what one of the Holy Books says, “he who is without sin cast the first stone”. Now we all know how Uncle Freddie likes books. So, after reading the thing and thinking he is without “sin”, he ain’t “shy” (Guyanese slang for pelt) one stone; he “shy” plenty. Everyday he “shying”.

What he forgot is something call “research” and that some people who witnessed some of his “sins” are still around and are not amnesiacs. He also forgot another local slang; “knock got knock back”. Similarly, “buse got buse back”. Everybody who knows Uncle Freddie, knows that he don’t like when yuh “touch” he. The “touch” in this case doesn’t relate to a physical manoeuvre. In other words, Uncle Freddie don’t like when yuh tek he on; he don’t like others ‘busing’ him back. So when a past Library staffer, Uncle Muniram, wrote “breaking news” in the paper on how Uncle Freddie stole some Library books, Uncle Freddie “hit the roof”.

Dem boys seh he deliberately “hit the roof” head first so as to have an “alibi” why he cannot clearly remember what actually took place. Dem same boys cited another Guyanese slang; “bazadee”. Uncle Muniram detailed how the quantum of books led to the drastic metamorphosis of Uncle Freddie’s shape as he left the Library years ago. He walked in bookless and normal shaped and walked out like a fridge; rectangular. The books literally “reshaped” Uncle Freddie. The revelations were startling. Uncle Muniram’s revelation smashed the “veil of invincibility” Uncle Freddie wore over the years.

Dem same boys seh how Uncle Freddie got mad when he read the thing. He never expected the Big Market paper to publish it. The thing really touched him. He doesn’t like touching; he is a “touch-me-not” as he explained when he claimed that he was “touched” by Uncle Muniram. The “touch” resulted in a broken glass from a cuff. Some touches can indeed result in something breaking! Uncle Freddie’s hand has the ability to cause a man’s thing to break. Who would have thought that Uncle Freddie had “sticky fingers” and kangaroo-like pouches to hold the books he took? Uncle Muniram exposed Uncle Freddie’s marsupial fridge-like traits.

De wicked boys dem seh how the way Uncle Freddie does walk with he shoulders drooping is directly related to the weight of the eighty-eight books he hastily packed around his back. The weight was too much for his size. According to Uncle Muniram, Uncle Freddie was “passing” books after passing the Library door. We know some people does pass some strange things including drug pellets. But books? Only Uncle Freddie could have been that unique. One could image the excruciating pain he endured in the process. Not to be outdone, Uncle Freddie hit back and accused Uncle Muniram of many things including a false name and suggestive touching. Knowing Uncle Freddie, that was expected. Uncle Muniram replied to Uncle Freddie’s reply and debunked his allegations. Is ‘buse’ fuh ‘buse’.

One man replied to both of them say that no “dirty laundry” must be left in the public, especially the one when Uncle Freddie was “passing” books. While all o’ dem ‘buse’, the current Library staffers taking serious precautions. They are in the process of installing “Freddie-proof” mechanisms to preserve their stock of books. Also they have employed trained personnel and installed state of the art technology to detect any change of shape whilst visitors leave. Change in shape can lead to incarceration. Expecting mothers are forewarned not to have deliveries whilst perusing books. The drastic change in tummy size will be treated as a violation.

In addition, a full-time janitorial service has been secured to look for and mop-up book “passings”. Whew! Not an envious job. Uncle Freddie’s action has lead to much inconvenience to library users. Getting in and out is similar to checks at US airports. Library officials say the “De-Freddieing” mechanisms are for the “welfare” of the books. The Parrot will now be forced to increase its internet reading. Oh, dem set o’ same boys seh they now understand the reason for the plenty “blackouts”; GPL don’t read. If they did, enLIGHTment would have been transmitted. Squawk! Squawk!

Clousseau
The underlying core attribute which produces success is a keen sense of being responsible in whatever area of activity you are involved. Collectively, we are all involved in moving our nation forward from the professional right through to the unskilled labourer, maintaining responsibility is what matters most.

This is what is involved; the appreciation that we individually act as cogs in the major effort of nation building an inter-dependency syndrome for the general welfare of everyone.

It is from this perspective that Clousseau views the ongoing workers strike in the sugar industry. Is it being responsible in seeking improved wages at a time when the industry is faced with myriad financial obligations, the details of which were made known to the workers and their union management during recent dialogue with the top echelon administrative personnel? Be this as it may it does appear that established procedures were not followed by the workers before going on strike, ignoring the need to be responsible in promoting the best interests of the industry. The survival and progress of the corporation should be the determining factor in taking collective action to focus on perceived grievance and Clousseau wonders whether the realities surrounding the working demands at this particular time was taken into consideration.

There is a well thought-out turn around plan in place for realising a sound future for the industry, despite the severe financial constraints being experienced currently and there is crucial need for the union and its workers to exercise mature wisdom in agitating for increased wages, etc.

Further responsible dialogue must be pursued between the workers and their representatives and the top echelon industry management.

Too much is at stake to do otherwise. The industry and the nation cannot afford failure to reach an amicable resolution.

What is the truth about the books stealing issue?
I feel compelled to send the following letter given the discussion about a columnist who stole books in Guyana and the poor excuses that are made for him by people like Balwant Persaud.

On Diwali day, October 17, he used his KN column to instruct Guyanese Indians that, “They must be truthful to themselves.”

Is this man shameless or plain ‘ruckshun’? Please allow me to address him directly about some truths about himself.

Can he for once be truthful and inform all Guyanese if it is true that, for many years with the aid of a Big Coat, he stole books from the following as has been alleged:

A. Third World Books in Toronto (TWB)

B. Student Christian Monitor (SCM)

C. The National Library of Guyana

D. The University of Guyana Library.

If so, where are these stolen books now?

Secondly, is it really true that he made a “killing” reselling most of the books he stole using his Big Coat from Third World Books and the Student Christian Monitor (SCM) bookstore to Third world students, especially African students?

Was that by any chance because he was helping them ‘seek knowledge’ as he told Muniram recently? Or is what I am saying here just political propaganda aimed at destroying his good reputation and unblemished credibility in Guyana, if you know what I mean?

Many of your ex-colleagues say that the student-run Christian bookstore closed down mainly because of Big Coat people like him, and that the African gentleman, Lenny, who ran TWB kept the store open mainly as a service to the African and Caribbean communities. Is this true?

Third, what about the items they say he ‘liberated’, as he used to boast, from department stores? Would he care to tell us the truth about that? Was he ever arrested for shoplifting while doing your ‘liberation’ work? And how many times?

Fourth, before he demands from me to be truthful to myself, can he truthfully tell us all how many books, he less than truthfully obtained as ‘desk copies’ from publishers and how exactly he managed to pull off this piece of knowledge seeking stunt?

If he has forgotten the details, I can get a few of his ex-friends, who, by the way, enjoy telling long stories of his swindling, to remind him of how he went about impersonating professors at the University of Toronto with stolen request forms for free books from publishers, among other things.

Fifth, but not finally, what was the consequence of this when he was caught by the University of Toronto? Please be truthful to yourself here as it has implications for knowledge seeking.

His answers to these questions should fill his column for months; moreover, his column would be more informative than the unadulterated nonsense he dishes out to the reading public daily.

Enough for now BC! Ok, the next time he feels like lecturing Indians, President Jagdeo or Mr. Ramkarran or feel like dishing out advice to anyone, he should reflect on these truths.

As an Indian, he should be truthful to himself: is he really, seriously, more than his BIG COAT, a national embarrassment to Guyana and to indeed to Indians everywhere?

And, does he believe that if one day the whole truth about him comes to light, that he is going to be prosecuted and jailed for his swindling ways?
PEDRO ARCHANJO Ph.D
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Opposition wants to mislead the public
LAST year I graduated from the University of Guyana and I find it quite confusing as to what democracy really is after hearing the opinions of prominent persons in society. There are some basic tenets which govern a Democratic nation such as freedom of press, freedom of speech and freedom to assemble.

It is my observation that the print and electronic media in Guyana enjoy extensive freedom. Guyana has three privately owned newspapers of which two are very highly critical of the government. For instance, in one of the newspapers a certain columnist seeks to cast aspersions on government on a daily basis. He continues to write his articles unhindered and yet accuses the government of being dictatorial.

The electronic media are also given as much freedom as the print media but enjoy a larger audience because I believe persons prefer to be glued to the television set rather than read newspapers. There are several television channels that broadcast anti- government news /programmes and continue to practice do so unaffected by the government.

Freedom of speech is synonymous with the Guyanese lifestyle since this administration took office. Guyanese share their political thoughts and ideas either in groups or in large crowds.

I can remember when I was at university a certain politician from the parliamentary opposition who was the lecturer for a political course and, even though, it was a classroom where objectivity was supposed to prevail, used a lecture session to curse the government.

Also, when President Manuel Zelaya was ousted from his office earlier this year the Leader of the Opposition, Robert Corbin said that Guyana should follow “Honduras’s actions”. He continues to accuse the Government of all sorts of things as he enjoys his democratic right of freedom of speech.

Now readers do you understand my confusion? How can the theory of basic democracy be put into practice on a daily basis and yet people refuse to acknowledge it? I have only one answer, the opposition wants to mislead and instill fear in the public with their inconsistent statements.
D. SINGH
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Birthday of Hanuman is observed in March/April
IN yesterday’s Chronicle, there is a letter from Vishnu Bishram relating to the celebration of Diwali in New York. In one of his paragraphs he states that it was "a day of special prayers as it fell on the birthday of Lord Hanuman." Please allow me to clarify this, as his information is extremely misleading.

The birthday of our Hanuman to whom we do our jandhis is called Hanuman Jyanti and is observed in March/April, approximately one week after Ram Noumi, every year. It is always on a full moon day, while Diwali is Amawasya (New moon)

At Diwali time the Jains observe a divine day called JAIN MAHAVEER NIRVAN. Because Hanuman Jee is also called Mahaveer, misinformed people tend to mix up the two.

SAINT MAHAVEER was the founder of the Jain's religion. Nirvan refers to death/salvation, not birth. So that day was the death, not birth anniversary of Jain Mahaveer.

It has absolutely no relationship to Lord Hanuman, the great servant of Lord Ram.

I pray that our people, Hindus in particular, will not be continuously misguided on this festival. May Hanuman Jee bless us all!
PANDIT HARRY NAUTH
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Visitors to Guyana should be advised to contact THAG for guidance
BEING a private tourism advocate and performing the duty of a tour guide allowed me to meet some amazing nationals mainly from Norway, Canada, UK, Holland, US etc in the past and during that period there were some glory days for me.

I was fortunate to see many places of interests in Guyana and I am now great friends with an American author/writer.

I just read with great sadness the report of a British national, "Julie Warner' who apparently was falsely accused of being a drug mule and was a guest of the state with a nightmare of an experience as carried in the KN issue of Sunday, October 18, 2009.

To the British Consulate/Embassy, I am so sorry and saddened with the unfortunate experience meted out to a national of your country and it is my sincere hope that she gets all the help needed back home in gaining the courage and strength to continue her life's journey.

Had I been aware about the situation, I would have definitely made myself available and volunteered my time on compassionate grounds.

I urge all foreign based offices through circulars to their nationals that whenever they are planning to visit the shores of Guyana to make every effort to contact "The Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana" (THAG) for all guidance that may be required for a visitor.
T. PEMBERTON
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Is this how we want the young to behave?
THERE seems to be an emerging debate as to whether Freddie Kissoon is a role model for the young? Let us examine the facts. Malcolm Harripaul claims that Freddie literally gave away groceries from his mother-in-law's store to the poor and needy. While it is a wonderful thing to give to the poor and needy that act has meaning only when the giver gives out of his or he own resources.

After all it is no sacrifice on the part of the giver to give away that which belongs to others. And the giver has certainly not invested his or her own sweat, time, efforts et al in earning that which is given away. So then is Malcolm Harripaul advocating that young people should emulate Freddie and give away the resources of others whenever they are asked to take care of such resources? Would Harripaul happily allow his resources to be so given away? True empathy for the poor and needy is demonstrated by those who earn and/or raise resources through their own efforts and then donate same. For example my wife and son visited Guyana in August and donated foodstuff, school supplies and clothing to the Bosco Boys Orphanage at Plaisance. And this is not the first time that my family has made donations to that orphanage. Now this is an act I would urge all young people to emulate. Freddie Kissoon's act of giving away on the other hand, is not an example to be followed for quite obvious reasons. In seeking to hold up Kissoon as someone worthy of emulation by the young perhaps Harripaul can regale us with anecdotes of Kissoon's generosity as it relates to Kissoon's own resources?

Secondly, Kissoon has been proven time and again to lie, the latest example being his perpetual declaration that his source in New York conclusively proved that Vishnu Bisram is not a teacher. Yet when eventually confronted with proof to the contrary Kissoon refused to apologise to Bisram. Is this the kind of example that the young should follow?

Thirdly, Kissoon makes declarations on the basis of mere speculation and when proven wrong refuses to acknowledge his error. For example Kissoon stated that there was no way OAS Assistant secretary General, Albert Ramdin would ever communicate with someone named Annan Boodram. So I provided the proof and Kissoon publicly declared that he got in touch with Mr. Ramdin to verify the communication but to date he has not retracted his speculative declaration or issued an apology to me. Is this the kind of role model that we want our young to emulate?

Also Freddie Kissoon is in the habit of dropping concepts and names to display his learning. Invariably there is little or no connection between the concept/writer and his argumentation and/or his interpretation of the concept is usually incorrect. Thus, for example, his application of Fareed Zakarias' illiberal democracy to Guyana is premised on a misinterpretation of that concept as detailed in the author's book. Yet, instead of acknowledging his error, Freddie continues to perpetuate this inaccuracy. Is this how we want the young to behave?

Mr. Editor, Freddie once declared that a poll conducted by Dick Morris was absolutely accurate and in fact loudly touted that poll while strongly criticizing a Bisram poll that had a totally different result. Yet when the Morris poll was proven to be totally off base and the Bisram poll proven to be absolutely accurate, Freddie neither acknowledged his error nor did he apologise to Bisram.

In short, Kissoon routinely presents inaccuracies as reality and routinely makes assertions against others that turn out to be untrue. Yet he neither corrects when proven wrong.

One final reference Mr. Editor, although I can go on ad infinitum: Freddie has declared in at least one of his columns that he has never stolen anything. Yet when confronted with proof, he refused to correct his earlier declaration. Instead he sought to make a comparison as if to say because others do worse it is okay for Freddie to steal books. So are we telling the young that it is okay for them to steal as long as their acts are not as bad as those of others?
ANNAN BOODRAM
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NIS contribution statements are grossly inaccurate
THE Stabroek News dated October 5, 2009 carried quite a piece on NIS expenditure on benefits as highlighted by the General Manager (ag), Doreen Nelson. While Mr. Ram (Chartered Accountant) gave some concise statistics about the NIS, which is very good such data is made known to the general public as to the operations within the NIS.

However, whether the Management of the Scheme is working under difficult circumstances or, the NIS Board is doing a poor job, some burning questions about NIS are currently unanswered. And, the NIS is still bobbing and weaving on these issues.

NIS contribution statements

The statements are grossly inaccurate and when queried, you are told that efforts are being made to have them corrected. When is it going to happen?

Clients illegible for NIS pension

Some clients are presently in waiting on their NIS Pension Books for over 10 months now. When the NIS Pension Division was contacted, they were told that additional NIS contributions are still pending at the Records Division.

It seems as if the NIS administration expects you to take for granted, that all contribution statements sent out to clients are correct, hence, causing a war between employees and employers. Very good strategy by the NIS!

From a recent survey among fellow employees, it has been verified that their NIS contributions were promptly paid in by their employers to the Finance Division at NIS Brickdam. In acknowledgement, an authentic finance stamp has been affixed on the relevant payment schedules.

These very employees took the onus of going through their yearly payment schedules, where it was confirmed, that their contributions surpassed those sent on the contribution statements. And, then the NIS administration has the audacity to say that it is only an update on the computer system.

The big question is why these records were not updated for so many years? And when they tell you that it would happen in the near future is only optimistic. There is an old saying, “that the horse is starving while the grass is growing”. This is how the scenario of NIS is presenting itself.
T. DEO
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Columnist should deal with real analysis
ON page 10 of the Kaieteur News of October 16, 2009, an article speaking about race and politics in Guyana appeared. In referring to Indo-Guyanese domination the author noted “…one flock succeeded another. African domination went out and Indian legacy came in…”

Fortuitously on the next page, i.e page 11 there was a photograph of the ‘members and participants of the Bureau of Statistics.’ It should be noted that all but one of the 16 persons in the photographs are African Guyanese. The other could have been Indo-Guyanese or Amerindian Guyanese.

I believe if we check in many other offices we would find the predominance of Afro-Guyanese. The NIS office, for instanceis good example. This seems acceptable. However, in any institution where Indo-Guyanese are in more number it appears to be a problem.

The only area that no one seems to complain or mind of Indian domination is in the cane fields or picking up garbage.

I bring this to your attention not because I am against anyone race group dominating in any area, I did so to point out how superficial some people can get in dealing with a sensitive issue. The counting of heads of this or that race group could lead to incorrect conclusions.

Maybe Kaieteur News should advise its columnist to deal with real analysis as it relates to politics and programmes.Not the pseudo intellectualism we have been subjected to.
ROBERT CONSTANTINE
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A Justice of the Peace under no circumstance should make false promises
JUSTICES of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths to Affidavits are being urged to be cognisant of their role in society in the discharge of their duties.

Since some officials have expressed a desire to see more JPs study the constitution, which is supposed to guide them efficiently in carrying out their functions, there has been a recent call for Justices of the Peace to familiarise themselves with their roles and responsibilities.

It is against this backdrop that Attorney-at-law Moses Nagamootoo is calling for a formal guideline for such functionaries.

Mr. Nagamootoo is of the view that JPs are performing a great role in society and is calling on them to change the way in which some sections of society view them.

He is of the view that their attitude should be an example for citizens.

The Attorney posited that the resolution of a problem is more likely to be accepted if the behaviour of a JP is in keeping with public approval.

Recent incidents of JPs getting involved in skullduggery were also pointed out.

In this regard, they are being urged to desist from such practices and live up to the motto of the Association, which is ‘Peace and Respect in Performance’.

The Attorney is also urging these functionaries to equip themselves with a better knowledge of the law, as in some cases the law was misunderstood.

Meanwhile, Mr. Hermon Bholaisingh the President of the Guyana Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths to Affidavits Association believes that citizens should also show recognition for the work of JPs.

A Justice of the Peace shall not act in a way which is harmful or detrimental to the Office of the Justice of the Peace or which may tend to discredit the office or give the office a bad name.

A Justice of the Peace shall take every effort to keep his/her independence in the discharge of his/her duties. He or she shall not ‘take sides’ at any time.

A Justice of the Peace shall defend with the diligence and to the best of his/her ability the rights and interests of those who require his/her services in keeping with the Laws of Guyana.

A Justice of the Peace shall not perform any service or give any advice involving the following:

(a) disloyalty to the State

(b) disrespect for any Judicial Office

(d) deception or betrayal of the public

A Justice of the Peace shall not, at any time or under any circumstances whatsoever, make any false promises to any person seeking his assistance.
HERMON BHOLAISINGH

EBFA/Stag Division One League launched
By Michael DaSilva
THE East Bank Football Association (EBFA)/Stag Division One League was launched yesterday at the Ansa McAl Boardroom, East Coast Demerara.

According to Guyana Football Federation (GFF) vice-president with responsibility for football development on the East Bank, Franklyn Wilson, eight teams will contest the tournament which is expected to get under way in another two weeks.

The eight teams are: Kuru Kuru Lions, Kuru Kururu Warriors, Soesdyke, Mocha Champs, Agricola, Yarrowkabra, Grove Hi Tech and Timehri.

Wilson disclosed that the EBFA is currently in talks with the management of Splashmin’s to have some of the matches played at its football facility.

According to Wilson, for the past two to three years there has been no organised football played on the East Bank, hence, he has been tasked with the responsibility of developing the sport in the area.

Wilson informed that after being dormant for the past few yeas, the GFF executive met and installed a new EBFA executive and since then, the two bodies have been meeting on a regular basis.

He said after a successful Under-13 tournament earlier this year, he approached Ansa McAl, soliciting sponsorship, and the beverage company did not hesitate to get on board using its Stag Beer brand.

In brief remarks, Ansa McAl’s public relations officer Darshaine Yussuf said her company is pleased to be the one that will be resuscitating football on the East Bank, since it would be giving people in the area a chance to be more involved with the sport.

The company’s Brands Manager John Maikoo said Stag is honoured to be the exclusive sponsor of the tournament, adding that Stag promotes strength, energy and masculinity.

He said his company would always be there to support football on the East Bank.

Wilson pointed out that the Riddim Squad football team which currently heads the points standing in the Georgetown Football Association’s Western Union Division One tournament is originally from Mocha Arcadia “which tells you that there is a lot of talent in the East Bank area.”

While Wilson did not disclose the prize structure, he said the top four teams will receive cash prizes and trophies for the efforts. The prize structure he said is still to be worked out.

Maikoo said there will also be incentives for outstanding players and also there will be giveaways on match days.
Matches will be played at 13:00 h and 15:00 h on match days.

Lara expects tough going for Windies Down Under
MELBOURNE, Australia (CMC) – Brian Lara expects West Indies to be swept, when they visit Australia later this year for three Tests against the former World No.1 side.

The West Indies batting legend believes the stain of the contractual dispute between the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) which led to a players’ boycott may be too hard to erase.

“I fear West Indies could be in for a bit of a hiding,” Lara said in the Melbourne Age newspaper.

“I think one of the handicaps will be that they haven’t played together for a long time, due to the dispute with the board.

“That coupled with Australia coming off an Ashes defeat, with a captain who is under some pressure, they (Australia) will be trying to get their team back on track.”

Lara added: “I fear West Indies will feel a backlash … (But) we do have match-winners with the likes of Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sarwan, and Chris Gayle on his day.

“But I will just be happy if we play good cricket, and play cricket over five days, and not throw in the towel.”

Lara is in Melbourne for a month-long promotional tour for Angostura Bitters, and felt a full-strength West Indies side would make the trip to Australia.

But the World record-breaking batsman feels that there may still be some rumblings which may surface at a later date, and feels this could lead to an exodus of leading players.

“Definitely, the West Indies players are more vulnerable to becoming freelance players because of the strained relationship that has been going on with the board for so long,” he said.

“No player wants to be in the situation where they compromise their marketability. You do understand their position.

He continued: “Unless the WICB takes a strong pro-player stance, where the players are going to be happy under the contractual arrangements that they have, you are going to have this situation where the players are going to be second-guessing what is the best thing to be doing for themselves.

“Both parties need to come to terms. There are contracts flying all over the place in India, England and Australia. But I hope the maroon cap is still what everyone is thinking about ... The tour hasn’t started yet and you don’t know what might pop up at any time.”

West Indies face Australia in three Tests at the Gabba in Brisbane (November 26 to 30), Adelaide Oval in Adelaide (December 4 to 8), and the WACA in Perth (December 16 to 20).

First practice match…
Trio highlight gloomy day before rain stops play
By Calvin Roberts
THREE Berbicians, all national players in opener Sewnarine Chattergoon, middle-order batsman Assad Fudadin and left-arm orthodox spinner Veerasammy Permaul, were the bright lights on a gloomy day at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground yesterday, before rain stopped play in the first practice match between Jacobs’ XI and Johnson’s XI.

Batting first in brilliant sunshine and on a track which was full of bounce, Jacobs’ XI reached 211-6 off 35 overs when time expired, thanks to Fudadin’s patient 49 (4x4; 2x6) and Chattergoon’s classy 44 (5x4) against the bowling of Dillon Heyliger (2-27) and Dion Ferrier (2-33).

In reply, Johnson’s XI were struggling on 102-7 with skipper Leon Johnson unbeaten on 19, Richard Ramdeen 27 (3x4, 1x6, 1x5) and Ferrier and Trevon Griffith 13 each, with the latter hitting three fours including two off successive deliveries from national all-rounder Christopher Barnwell who took 2-28 to show support to Permaul who grabbed 3-17.

What may have been a sign of concern to the selectors, two of whom were present at yesterday’s game, would be the non- appearance of the dependable West Indies middle-order batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who according to a Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) official, should have been in the country since Sunday.

Appointed captain Ramnaresh Sarwan was given leave of absence to participate in the Chris Gayle-organised 15/15 tournament in Jamaica and is expected back in the country tomorrow, in time to lead the national team in the GCB four-team Twenty20 Festival which commences the following day at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

When Jacobs’ XI batted, Chattergoon and West Indies middle-order batsman Travis Dowlin (27) added 80 for the first wicket from 12.4 overs, before Dowlin was caught at midwicket by Griffith off Ferrier and was quickly followed by Barnwell who picked out Gajanand Singh at deep backward square off a short delivery from Heyliger.

Fudadin joined Chattergoon and they took the score to 101 before the latter was caught by wicketkeeper Derwin Christian two overs after Barnwell’s dismissal which allowed Fudadin and Royston Crandon to add 57 for the fourth wicket from 10 overs.

Fudadin hit Sauid Drepaul over forward square leg for six, followed by a four over midwicket and another six back over the head and out of the ground off Mahendra Nagamootoo, while Crandon pulled a short delivery from Drepaul over wide midwicket for six.

That was to be the last hurrah for a while, as Crandon, Fudadin and skipper Steven Jacobs (4) were dismissed in quick succession in a game which had official umpires but no black sightscreen, to leave Jacobs’ XI on 197-6.

Thanks to some superb hitting from Jonathan Foo (15, 2x4) and Delbert Hicks who struck his first delivery from national fast bowler Brandon Bess over wide long off for six - his lone scoring shot - they reached 211-6 when the innings closed.

When Johnson’s XI began their reply, they were in early trouble when Shemroy Barrington (1) who entered the game full of confidence following his ton in the finals of the Port Mourant Twenty20 Festival held last Sunday, was caught by Dowlin low to his right off Esaun Crandon (1-22) in the second over.

Griffith, who will be going into encampment with the West Indies youth team from today, entered the scene and signalled his intentions with back to back boundaries all along the ground off Barnwell, before the same bowler rattled his stumps two deliveries later.

Ramdeen displayed the attitude that has made him one of the best youth batsmen this country has ever produced, hitting Quason Nedd for four, followed by a six into the adjacent Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground off Barnwell, who won the war by having him caught by wicketkeeper Delbert Hicks, pulling at another short delivery.

Singh (6) looked sound but was caught by Dowlin, one of four catches at slip for the former national captain, when he pushed tentatively forward to Permaul’s first delivery of the match and was quickly followed by Heyliger (0) who picked out Foo at deep midwicket, leaving Johnson’s XI on 63-5.

Christian struck Permaul low over long on for six, followed by a four off Nedd before he gloved one from Permaul through to Dowlin at slip and when Ferrier (13) who also drove Permaul exquisitely through extra cover for four was caught by none other but Dowlin off Jacobs, the rain, which was drizzling slightly, increased forcing the umpires to call it a day at 15:10 h with Johnson unbeaten on 19 and his team 102-7 from 21.2 overs.

A similar match is set for today from 09:30 h at the same venue weather permitting.

Third Fruta Conquerors/Namilco tourney kicks off Friday
By Michael DaSilva
THE third Annual Fruta Conquerors/Namilco Football tournament will kick-off on Friday with a double-header at the Tucville ground.

Fruta Conquerors vice-president Ivor Thompson (third left) accepts the sponsorship cheque from Namilco’s Managing Director Roopnarine `Bert’ Sukhai while executive members of the club along with Namilco’s staff members look on (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo)

The tournament, which has been boosted with a $2M sponsorship from Namilco and which was launched yesterday at the Namilco Boardroom, will see Uprising tackle Sunburst Camptown in the opening game from 18:00 h and from 20:00 h, Pele will face Flamingo.

According to Fruta Conquerors vice-president Ivor Thompson, 2008 champions Alpha United, one of the 16 teams invited to be a part of this year’s tournament, would not be defending their title, opening the way for a new champion team this year.

Thompson disclosed that Alpha United, the Georgetown Football Association’s 2009 Cellink Plus Premier League champions, have withdrawn from the tournament because of unforeseen circumstances. He did not divulge what those circumstances are.

Addressing members of the media at yesterday’s launch, Thompson admitted that Fruta Conquerors have benefited tremendously over the past two years with assistance from Namilco, in terms of sponsorship for the two previous years’ tournaments as well as assisting with the construction and painting of the facility at the Tucville ground.

Namilco’s Managing Director Roopnarine `Bert’ Sukhai, in a short address gave a brief overview of the company’s operations and production, informed that this year Namilco, which has been operating in Guyana since 1969, has introduced four new products on the local market and these include three that are associated with sportspersons.

The products according to Sukhai are: Whole Wheat Flour, Multi Grain Flour which contains eight grains that are good for the athletes’ body and digestive system, and Toasted Wheat Germ. The other is the Gourmet flour.

Sukhai said his company is pleased to be associated with the tournament and is of the belief that Thompson, who is holding the fort for the club’s president Marlon Cole who is on a one-year study leave, is doing an excellent job.

The managing director is optimistic that this year’s tournament will be conducted more efficiently.

He explained that before the sponsorship deal was concluded, he requested the financial statement from last year’s tournament and was pleased to see that the money invested was wisely spent on the upgrading of the club’s facility in Tucville.

He noted that sports is a powerful tool, as it is a multi-billion dollar industry that is used by companies to promote their products and countries.

He expressed the hope that this year’s tournament would be fiercely contested and wished all the participating teams success.

The club’s treasurer Candia Shepherd in brief remarks thanked Namilco for coming on board a third time and expressed the hope that the flour company will continue to support football development in Guyana.

She informed that last year, a gate prize was introduced when the tournament was held at the Guyana National Stadium and because of the success of that promotion, this year will see more gate prizes on offer to patrons.

Namilco’s Operations Manager Ralph Hemsingh said he and his family from Namilco are proud to be a part of the tournament and he is happy to see that Fruta Conquerors are making progress not only with their standard of play but also with the uplifting of their club facility in Tucville.

He said he is looking forward to seeing more progress at the facility in another year.

The other participating teams are: Buxton Stars, New Amsterdam United, BV/Triumph, Western Tigers, Fruta Conquerors, GFC, Seawall FC, Victoria Kings, Santos, Topp XX, GDF and Buxton United.

T&T thrive on youngsters and unity in Champions League
By Nagraj Gollapudi in Hyderabad
NOT everyone gets to room with Brian Lara. Not everyone gets to watch a Wimbledon final from the Royal Box. Not everyone gets to sit in the historic Long Room at Lord's.

Anyone who has done all that must be special. Adrian Barath did it all in the summer of 2007, several years after impressing Brian Lara during a net session with his father at the Queen's Park Oval. Barath was just 11 at the time, but Lara remembered - and remains a close confidant.

Barath, now 21, revealed Sunday why he is rated as one of the most promising emerging talents in the Caribbean. It had been drilled into his head, at the team meeting where he was told he would be playing his first Champions League game, not to lose his wicket during the Powerplay.

He followed those instructions and then went one better - his 63 off 41 balls set up T&T for a match-winning score of 213.

Barath and William Perkins raced away against the Eagles and brought up T&T's 50 in 19 minutes. Barath was the quieter partner but he had already hit two of his first ten balls for sixes. The openers added 64 runs in the Powerplay, more than any team has achieved so far in the tournament.

Once Perkins departed, Barath continued to play second fiddle, relatively speaking, as his new partner Lendl Simmons deposited his first ball over the straight boundary and raced to 16 off five balls.

Barath was not to be distracted, though, and he kept reminding himself to execute the basics of playing with a straight bat, watching the ball and believing in himself. When he had the chance, though, Barath put bowlers off by charging and playing expansive drives, like the couple that went for four in front of square against Ryan McLaren. His fifty came off only 34 balls.

"It was a matter of backing my ability for batting is all about confidence," Barath said. "I know it was my first game, but I've played a number of first-class matches for T&T already. It was just a different format but I had to just focus on the simple things." Lara would no doubt agree.

Barath wasn't the only one firing today; the shots came from several sources. After Barath reached his maiden half-century, Navin Stewart, also playing his first game, tore into the hapless Eagles bowlers. Dillon du Preez was carted for 27 runs in T&T's penultimate over of which 26 - three sixes and two fours - came off Stewart's long handle. The confidence of the younger and inexperienced players like Barath and Stewart, the only Tobago player in the XI, in their new roles was heartening for a T&T side considered outsiders when the tournament began.

Two weeks ago Dwayne Bravo, T&T's international star, received most of the attention but his contributions with the bat so far have been 0, 11, 1, 9 not out.

Instead, it's been the younger and more unheralded players who have delivered. Kieron Pollard emerged as a leader in the lower order with important cameos in each of the last three games, including a breathtaking 18-ball 54 against New South Wales, one of the best Twenty20 innings ever.

An important factor in T&T's successful run is the team's unity when faced with adversity, something the captain Daren Ganga has stressed throughout the competition.

The infectious team spirit in the T&T camp hasn't gone unnoticed either and they received praise from Somerset captain Justin Langer earlier in the day.

"I love T&T's spirit," Langer said. "I really enjoy the way Daren Ganga speaks in the press conference where he talks about unity within the squad. The most successful cricket teams have unity and T&T have that unity."

It has helped foster confidence within the team and, as a result, T&T's players have expressed themselves uninhibitedly on the field. Pollard did it with spectacular results in the previous game against NSW, and Barath and Stewart did it. (Cricinfo)

Mines retain BOSAI Inter-department title
DEFENDING champions Mines easily retained their title with a 4-1 victory over Plant Maintenance in the final of this year’s tournament which was played at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground last Saturday.

An Eze Percival double, along with strikes from Ceon Warner and Orlando Pique - all goals being scored in the second half, guided

his team to a come-from-behind victory, after Shawn Arthur found the back of the net for Plant Maintenance in the first half.

1In the third and fourth place match-up, General Services ensured Plant Operations were working effectively, when they serviced their goal area seven times while their custodian did not permit Plant Operations any chance to operate.

Hat-trick of goals from Travis Hinds and Wainewright Bethune, who both scored the first of their three goals in the first half which ended two-nil in favour of General Services, along with Marvin Marshall’s second half goal, sealed things off for the victors.

Mines’ Joseph Lewis ensured his team stayed on top of things in the competition, when he won the Manager’s penalty shoot-out from his other managerial competitors.

Ponting favours points system to stop ODI dead rubbers
THE reinvention of one-day cricket has been a hot topic of discussion over the past few months and Ricky Ponting, the Australian captain, has joined the debate by calling for a points system to give the format "significant meaning".

Speaking ahead of Australia's departure for India for a seven-match ODI series, Ponting gave the example of the 6-1 win over England recently as proof that dead rubbers hurt the game.

"The way that one-day cricket is played at the moment with one-off series like this … until there is a points system in place then it might get to the same sort of situation as it did in the UK," he said.

"We were 4-0 up after four games and all of a sudden there is talk of teams rotating players in and out and doing all sorts of things.

"So the important thing I think is we make sure that every game of 50-over cricket has some significant meaning."

The ICC is considering a trial splitting of one-day matches into two innings of 25 overs for each team, a proposal Sachin Tendulkar had mooted earlier.

Graeme Smith and Kumar Sangakkara felt the ICC Champions Trophy would be crucial in directing the future of the ODI as a viable format in international cricket.

Other trials in international cricket include hosting day-night Tests, which the England board plans for next summer if approved by the ICC.

Mitchell Johnson, the Australian all-rounder, backed 50-over cricket to survive the threat posed by Twenty20 cricket.

"Test cricket is number one for me but then it's followed by 50-over cricket," he said. "I prefer 50-over cricket (over Twenty20). I hope it doesn't die, because I love the game.” (Cricinfo)

South Africa to host Zimbabwe in two ODIs
SOUTH Africa will host Zimbabwe in two one-day internationals in November.
The series will be Zimbabwe's first international visit to their neighbours since 2005.

"Zimbabwe have a much stronger side than the last one to visit us," Cricket South Africa CEO Gerald Majola said.

"This was born out by their recent 4-1 victory over Kenya and the Proteas can expect some tough opposition.

"Part of our commitment to the International Cricket Council is to promote and advance cricket throughout the African continent."

The first match of the series is scheduled for November 8 in Benoni with the second on November 10 in Centurion.

The two games will provide the Proteas with match practice before England's tour of South Africa.

England will play four Tests, five one-dayers and two Twenty20 games against the Proteas with the first international match, a Twenty20 game, scheduled for November 13 in Johannesburg. (Eurosport)

The Rise And Rise Of 'Africa's Brazilians' Ghana
By Samm Audu, Goal.com
THE Black Star of Ghana is on the ascendancy, in politics, economy and lately football.

Nigerians would still remember that there was a time in the 70s when they played hosts to millions of Ghanaians, who fled their own country in search of a better life elsewhere.

The reverse is now the case as the former Gold Coast has become the destination of choice for many, including Nigerians.

Several major multi-national companies have relocated from Nigeria and the Ivory Coast to Ghana, which now offers a better environment to do business. Made in Ghana products are most sought after these days that recently Nigeria banned some of these products so as to save their own local industry from collapse.

Generally, Ghana has over the years worked hard at their shortcomings with great commitment that today the result is there for the rest of the world to see.

In a very politically excitable West Africa of coups and counter-coups, Ghana has proved to be a stable democracy which even their proud Nigerian counterparts now wish to emulate.

Less than a decade ago, football in Ghana was in tatters. Their main claim to fame was that they had won the Africa Cup of Nations five times, the last being in 1982.

The country jointly hosted the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria and barely managed to reach the quarter-finals. They would again reach the last eight of the Nations Cup in Mali only to be knocked out by perennial arch-rivals Nigeria.

So much was expected of the 'Golden Generation' to Mali - Sammy Adjei, John Paintsil, Michael Essien, John Mensah and Derek Boateng. They were players from the team who were beaten in the final of the 2001 FIFA World Youth Championship by hosts Argentina.

These players will go on to play pivotal roles by the time the Black Stars qualified for their first-ever World Cup in 2006. The Black Stars were the only African team to reach the second round of the tournament in Germany.

Three years on, the stars have again qualified for the World Cup, and this they did in great style by booking their ticket to South Africa 2010 with two rounds of matches to spare.

And a month after this qualification, the country again had great cause to throw another victory party after the Black Satellites made history as the first African team to win a FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Egypt.

The triumph in Egypt was most exciting because it brought to the fore several exciting prospects who now look headed for South Africa, along with their more famous and older colleagues.

Even when Ghana reached the second round of the last World Cup, the team lacked depth.

They did not have capable replacements for the top stars and so when the likes of Essien and Stephen Appiah were not available, the Black Stars struggled.

That would now not be the case going into the next World Cup as Ghana have over the past few months discovered some top quality players, who have already taken their place in the main squad.

In June, when the Black Stars had to do without the likes of Appiah and Sulley Muntari, the likes of Udinese's Kwadwo Asamoah and Agyeman Opoku stepped up to the party.

It is to the credit of Serbian coach, Milovan Rajevac, that he has given several of these youngsters chances to blossom at full international and they have taken their chances.

From the team to Egypt, skipper Dede Ayew, Samuel Inkoom, David Addy, Ransford Osei and Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu have already been capped at full international level.

The tournament's top star Dominic Adiyiah is expected to soon join this list as he could well be the answer of the Black Stars in front of goal, while central defender Jonathan Mensah, Mohammed Rabiu and Abeiku Quansah will also get their chance to shine with the Black Stars, sooner rather than later.

Ghana have long been dubbed 'Africa's Brazilians' in tribute to their ball skills and attractive passing game. And next year in South Africa, the Black Stars will be expected to add more credence to such a nickname, not just by the way they play, but by the results they achieve on the pitch.

If Ghana continue to take a chance on youth, they will be Africa's biggest hope at the 2010 World Cup. (Goal.com)

Kenneth DeAbreu table tennis league ongoing
THE Guyana Table Tennis Association’s (GTTA) Kenneth DeAbreu table tennis league continued last Saturday at the Malteenoes Sports Club with matches played in the B, C, D and E divisions.

Competition in Division B saw The Smiley Faces (Natalie Cummings and Remy Taitt) and Unstoppable (Nigel Bryan, Dwayne Gibson and Warren Hacksaw) win two games apiece as Smiley Faces beat Bubblegum Warriors (Brandon Baldie and Anthony Niles) 3-0 and The Bishops’ High School (Denzil Duff, Jamaal Duff and Chelsea Edghill) 3-2.

Unstoppable also took a go at the unfortunate duo, The Bishops’ High and Bubblegum Warrior, and won both encounters with a final score of 3-1.

The Snipers consisting Joel Alleyne and Hewley Griffith defeated Jody-Ann Blake and Xen Goliah’s team, known as, Halex by a 3-1 margin.

In Division C, Samuel Fraser and Joseph Johnson’s Terror Squad defeated Dragon Warriors, Dellion Mahadeo, Alistair Parks and Kyle Edghill, with a final score of 3-1 but took a turn for the worse as they lost 2-3 to Gaza (Jamaal Duff and Sunil Logan).

NP Electronics (Michael Vieira and Bruce Murray defeated NDR (Akiecia Nedd, Denzil Duff and Adielle Rosheuvel) 3-1.

Turbo TT, Dominators and Top Spin were the victors in Division E. The Dragon Warriors (Elishaba Johnson and Alistair Parks) lost to Turbo TT (Brandon Gomes and Sachin Panday) 1-3

Dominators (Chelsea Edghill and Priscilla Greaves) beat KRS (Kyle Edghill and Stefan Corlette) 3-0 and Top Spin (Carl Handy and Zane Rogers ) defeated Edgles (Raymond Seebarran, Gerard Budhan and Shannan Ganga) 3-0.

In Division D, the Business Entities, Corporation, and Government Agencies category, Nigel Supermarket (Christopher Franklin and Joseph Johnson) defeated Western Union (Hewley Griffith and Lisa Lewis) 3-1 while NP Electronics (Michael Vieira and Bruce Murray beat Bank of Guyana (Carlyle Bowman and Leonardo Butcher) 3-0

The tournament will continue this Saturday at the Malteenoes Sports Club starting at 16:30 h.

2009 Mackeson League football ...
Double-header at GFC ground tonight
THE Ansa McAl-sponsored 2009 Mackeson East Coast Demerara Premier League football tournament continues today at the GFC ground, Bourda.

Over $800 000 has been pumped into this year’s tournament while a total of eight teams are involved in the tournament. Ogle United have come in for Black Stallion who were relegated after finishing at the bottom last year.

The other teams are: Golden Stars, BV/Triumph United, Ann’s Grove United, Mahaica Determinators, Victoria Kings, Bakewell Buxton Stars and Plaisance United.

Last year’s champion Buxton United opted not to take part in the league and focussed more on the GFF National Super League.

From 17:00 h Golden Stars will tackle Bakewell Buxton Stars, while from 19:00 h Ann’s Grove United will battle with Victoria Kings in the feature game.

In the first encounter Golden Stars will be led by Randy King and he will get support from Kwesi Halley, Jermaine Spencer and Seon Sargeant.

Buxton will be led by Sherwin Griffith, and will get valuable assistance from Bobby Barnwell and Tyrone Warren.

Buxton Stars have one point from one game after drawing nil-all with Plaisance in their first game; Golden Stars on the other hand will be playing their first game of the league. Mahaica Determinators have have points from two matches.

They thumped Ogle 4-1 in their first game, but lost 3-1 to Ann’s Grove in their second game; Ogle have two defeats from 2 games they were also beaten 4-0 by BV/Triumph United.

In the feature game Victoria Kings will be looking to redeem themselves after suffering four defeats in the National Super League.

The Kings will be looking to win this year’s League - a position they secured for eight straight years until they were dethroned in 2007.

Kings will be captained by National Under-20 Calvin De Souza. He will be supported by Andrew Holder, Kurt Adams, Kwesi De Souza, Donald Lutchman, Orin Elias and Rashleigh Morrison. The defence will be controlled by Shawn Samuels and Samuel Blackett; Ron Collins will do duties in the goal. Ann’s Grove, on the other hand, will seek to surprise and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

The boys from ‘Punters’ are known for their fitness and should give Kings a rough night. Ann’s Grove will be led by Dwayne Rogers, Levin Adams and will receive support from National Under-20 midfielder Kevin Barry; Helton Adams will perform duties in the goal.

Teams:
Matches Played Points
BV/Triumph United 1 3
Ann’s Grove 1 3
Mahaica Determinators 2 3
Buxton Stars 1 1
Plaisance 1 1
Golden Stars 0 0
Victoria Kings 0 0
Ogle 2 0

Champions League T20 first semi-final…
NSW versus Victoria sets sights on bigger bash
NEW South Wales versus Victoria in Delhi is a strange proposition if you're an Australian cricket fan.

Back in Australia, the Champions League Twenty20 has been shown on a digital TV channel that not everyone has access to, so it's hard to judge the level of interest from the public.

But there's enough in this clash to suggest an intense contest even if the turnout is likely to be far less than a packed SCG would throw up.

NSW, the champions of Australia's Twenty20 Big Bash, were the first team from Group B to secure their passage to the next phase, with points carried forward to the second round of the competition.

They were joined by Victoria, arguably Australia's best Twenty20 side, having won the Big Bash for three consecutive years until this year's final.

The prospect of an all-Australian final was shot when Delhi Daredevils beat Cobras in a low-scorer in Delhi, which means today’s contestants will play on a slow-and-low track instead of the batsman-friendly Hyderabad surface.

The pitch at the Feroz Shah Kotla hasn't been encouraging for batsmen - nine were bowled in the last league match - and NSW captain Simon Katich had earlier spoken of how keen the team was to leave Delhi. In that regard, NSW's pace attack will be harder to handle.

Brett Lee, Doug Bollinger, Stuart Clark and Nathan Hauritz share the ball in that order when NSW take the field and, as Eagles, Sussex and Somerset found out, they can be a handful. Victoria have been the form team every year in Australia, but it is NSW who have the edge here by virtue of their top order and international-class bowling attack.

Even without Brad Haddin, Michael Clarke and Nathan Bracken, NSW can still field almost an entire XI that has played for Australia.

Both are long-time rivals, being the two most-populated Australian states, and there has always been a "healthy' Melbourne-Sydney rivalry in Australia.

In the past, Victorian fans have always been a bit envious of how many NSW players get selected for Australia; in fact, there was an old joke that when you made your debut for NSW, they also handed you a Baggy Green in a brown paper bag.

That attitude isn't quite as pronounced - as the presence of Cameron White, now Australia's Twenty20 vice-captain, and Peter Siddle, the ICC's Emerging Player-of-the-Year, will testify to. It all adds to an intriguing all-Australian classic. (Cricinfo)