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Education Minister to work to resolve UG issue
Minister of Education Shaik Baksh will be working with the Administration of the University of Guyana, the Council and other relevant stakeholders to resolve outstanding issues.
This announcement was made by Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon during his weekly post-Cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President yesterday.
“Cabinet noted the increased tensions and the destabilising actions being played out at the University of Guyana, as Dr. James Rose takes on his renewed responsibilities as Vice Chancellor,” Dr. Luncheon said.
Dr. Luncheon noted that Cabinet voiced expectations that the revision of the University’s New Strategic Plan would benefit from inputs of new engagements among the stakeholders and also from a commitment of the newly appointed Council to cultivate consensus on a progressive way forward for the institution.
He said, “Cabinet noted however, the undeserved impact on the student population that flowed from unresolved conflicts. Particular concerns the students faced were, the abandoned convocation and also the unilateral withdrawal of services by the commuting tutorial staff at the Berbice Campus.”
The convocation which was to be held this week has been postponed as the Academic Board has refused to complete the academic profiles for graduating students until it settles a number of issues with the Council.
This is affecting approximately 1,300 students who have already completed their course of studies.
Meanwhile, other issues include the withdrawal of services of Turkeyen lecturers from the university’s Tain Campus.(GINA)
Government will address salary increase for Public Servants
Public Officers may still benefit from increases in wages and salary for this year even if an agreement is not reached between Government and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU).
Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon in response to questions from the media yesterday at his post-Cabinet press briefing said, “These are our employees, in the absence of an agreement with the Union (GPSU) this Administration will find it impossible not to address wages and salaries increases for Public Officers.”
Dr. Luncheon pointed out that Government and Unions representing other Government employees have been able to reach agreement and are now working together for the benefit of all concerned.
Referring to the multi-year agreement signed between Government and the Guyana Teachers Union, the Cabinet Secretary said, “Government, GTU and the teachers are working constructively on the basis of the agreement and finding opportunity to deal with current issues leading to agreed positions.”
He further stated that increases given to teachers had exceeded that which was stated in the agreement. He said that based on feedback from the staff in the Office of the President, the majority of Public Officers would welcome Government’s intervention if an agreement is not reached before year-end.
Teachers and members of the Joint Services will benefit from a nine percent salary increase for this year.
(GINA)
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Deepavali message from President Bharrat Jagdeo
May Deepavali usher in joy, peace and happiness
On behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, I extend Deepavali greetings to all Guyanese, especially our Hindu brothers and sisters.
Deepavali, celebrated on the darkest night of the Hindu calendar, characterizes the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. The story of the festival is symbolic of what we are experiencing in society, where adversities and challenges abound, but with sustained determination they are being overcome.
Guyanese of all walks of life celebrate Deepavali, one of the most beautiful Hindu festivals. The lighting of the diyas is a way of paying obeisance to God for attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace, valour and fame. And as Guyanese seek out this illumination on Deepavali evening, I sincerely hope that they would transfer that brightness to enlighten their own lives.
We are living in an exciting and challenging era and in a world which is becoming more competitive and global. As such, we are expected to be united in all our efforts to realize maximum benefits for our country and her people. Problems will always confront us, but with our indomitable will and courage, we will overcome every conceivable hindrance, find solutions, and advance the country further.
Guyana’s multiethnic character is always stimulating and enriching, and the festivals in Guyana have shown their wherewithal in infusing in our plural society the true spirit of togetherness.
It is my fervent hope that Deepavali 2007 strengthens the bond of friendship among our people, and inspires them all to work and build Guyana into a rich and economically viable nation.
As we observe Deepavali 2007, we must persist in reaching out to our brothers and sisters and devote our efforts toward progress, not only at the personal level, but for the development of our beautiful country.
May Deepavali usher in joy, peace and happiness.
Greene vows Police will fight fire with fire
ACTING Police Commissioner Henry Greene yesterday vowed that his officers will “fight fire with fire” if theirs and the lives of others are threatened by bandits.
He made the declaration yesterday while outlining plans to ensure citizens enjoy safe and merry 2007 Christmas holidays.
Speaking at the Police Officers Mess, Eve Leary, Georgetown, he explained that their intention is not to use force or brutality when making arrests but stressed that it will be used if the person being arrested is excessively aggressive.
“If the task requires force, then that is what we will resort to…if we do not do this, we will not be doing our job,” Greene asserted.
He lamented the practice, by certain sections of the media, to wrongfully criticise the diligent work of his officers.
“When the Police fail to take effective action, they face criticism…when they arrest the criminals or they escape or are killed during exchanges with the Police, we are still criticised.
“It seems as though we are between the devil and the deep blue sea. The Police must be given credit when it is due …the media is searching for cracks to criticise,” he commented.
However, Greene assured that the Police will not be daunted by that or any other action.
“There will be no let-up, protest or no protest, we will do what we have to do to save lives and properties,” he added.
Referring to protesting traffic offenders, Greene said their complaints on the recent increase in fines are ridiculous.
“If you don’t want to be fined, don’t break the law,” he advised them.
Greene observed that, since the raising of the monetary penalties, about 80 cases have been made daily and he said Chief Justice Carl Singh will be approached to establish a night court to dispose of them so they do not pile up.
PM FOR ALL
Manning at swearing-in: None need fear
(TRINIDAD EXPRESS) Prime Minister Patrick Manning has promised that those who did not support the People's National Movement (PNM) in Monday's general election would not be victimised by his new government.
Manning made the declaration yesterday, in his address after being sworn in as Prime Minister for the fourth time by President George Maxwell Richards, during an historic ceremony at Woodford Square, Port of Spain.
"The resources will be deployed for the benefit of all and together we shall all move over the next five years to make Trinidad and Tobago one of the best places on planet Earth," Manning said.
Manning, speaking after Richards in his address during yesterday's ceremony, called on all elected officials to take the lead in the healing now required, after what has been a hotly-contested election.
Manning echoed Richards's sentiments in his address, as he reiterated his call to the population on Saturday to put aside any differences that may have developed during the election campaign.
"And, therefore, none need fear. There will neither be victimisation nor alienation. This country belongs to all of us," Manning said to the thunderous applause of the large crowd who gathered to witness him being sworn in.
Many of those in the crowd wore red PNM jerseys in support in the ruling party, and a large section of those who stood at the front, close to the steel wire fencing that blocked the area where the swearing-in ceremony took place, were women.
Manning made it clear that his swearing-in ceremony at Woodford Square, the first in the nation's history, was an event for all the people of Trinidad and Tobago.
After his address, he spent about half an hour walking along the fencing, stretching his hands over it to shake hands with members of the public who attended the ceremony. He also walked along the iron fence of Woodford Square on Frederick Street and shook hands with those there. He also walked through the VIP area near the stage shaking hands and chatting.
Manning said during the election campaign, he had made two observations that he found "very striking" and which had brought him great satisfaction, the first of which was the number of young people who ardently supported the party's campaign.
US$350,000 sanitary landfill project among approved contracts
A CONTRACT worth US$350,000, to provide consultancy services for structuring and promotion of the new East Bank Demerara sanitary landfill site in the Local Government Sector, is among four to which Cabinet recently offered its no-objection.
Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon made the announcement at his weekly briefing yesterday at Office of the President.
Also approved was one, valued G$45.2M, in the Health Sector, for the supply and delivery of dental requirements and two, in the Finance Sector, for Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), with values of approximately G$30.6 M and G$22.8M, respectively, are for the procurement of equipment, including computer hardware.
Approval was also given for Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to get $74.8 M for printing forms for the house-to-house national registration exercise.
Jamaica Finance ministry robbed
Finance ministry robbed
$17 million was exhibit in case under investigation
JAMAICA OBSERVER - THE finance ministry last night confirmed the shocking discovery that at least $17 million is missing from a safe at its Financial Investigation Division (FID), prompting a decision to beef up security at the Heroes Circle offices in Kingston.
The money was being kept as an exhibit after it was seized from a person who had been under investigation, Finance Minister Audley Shaw and his deputy, Don Wehby, said.
Neither Shaw nor Wehby would give the name of the individual under investigation.
Shaw said the money was stolen between August and October this year and he suggested that investigators would start their search internally for the culprits, utilising lie detectors.
"We are taking this matter very seriously and polygraph tests will be conducted," the finance minister declared. "We now understand that it is not just one individual who is responsible for this heinous theft but a group acting in concert. I am now awaiting a detailed report on this matter from the financial secretary."
Shaw told the Observer he had since taken steps to ensure additional security measures at the Ministry of Finance in the future.
"I have issued instructions that all monies will now be held at the Bank of Jamaica's Nethersole Place headquarters for safekeeping," he added.
Wehby yesterday confirmed that an investigation had been launched into the theft, saying that the $17 million figure could go higher.
Investigators from the Police Fraud Squad were continuing their probe into the matter and Wehby is expected to brief journalists some time today after an update from the police.
"I must say, though, that something like this is very alarming. We are taking it very seriously," Wehby told the Observer.
President: Time for nation to heal
President George Maxwell Richards says the nation needs healing, and is urging elected members of Parliament to work for the betterment of the country.
"We need healing from the many bruises, some of them self-inflicted, which we have experienced and will continue to experience, if we fail to consider one another," Richards said yesterday.
In an address before he officially gave Prime Minister Patrick Manning his instrument of appointment at Woodford Square, Port of Spain, Richards said there were challenges and tasks at hand for elected representatives.
"These are the tasks in which all our elected representatives must lead, by constant example and by sensible collaboration, in and out of Parliament for the common good," Richards said.
"I look forward to seeing a gentler, caring people, working together for the betterment of ourselves, our families and our communities."
Richards said he looked forward to seeing accelerated advancement in the fulfilment of the Government's goals.
"All of our human resource, which is the greatest asset that we have, must experience the benefits that flow from the resources that are available to the country," he said.
In strong words of advice, Richards continued, "We must be more conscious of the environment and sensitive to our responsibility to preserve it, if we are to save ourselves from the disasters that result from the carelessness in that regard."
Referring to the historic swearing in of a Prime Minister at Woodford Square, Richards said, "This should signal a new way forward, whereby the people are invited to witness the taking of an oath to serve them. It is a symbol of the undertaking to serve, to which all those who have been elected, of whatever political persuasion, are expected to commit and this public declaration should resonate with us all."
He added, "Much has been achieved in our nation...and I am sure that, like me, you are looking forward to greater accomplishments in the future."
President urges Hindus to participate in sexual violence, child-protection consultations
-at launching of Diwali Galee
Head of State Bharrat Jagdeo Wednesday evening called on Hindus and other Guyanese to ensure that they participate fully in the ongoing consultations on Sexual Violence and Child Protection legislations currently being considered for passage by the National Assembly.
Photo saved in layout as: time to heal
The President’s call was made during his address to the gathering attending the launching of Diwali Galee at the Camp Street Avenue, Georgetown.
“You know how deeply our scriptures revere the role of women in the home and in society, and unfortunately in our country, despite the many legal protections that our women have, too many of them face the ravages of violence in the home, and we cannot be good Hindus, good citizens if we continue this practice, and if we don’t speak out against it,” President Jagdeo contended.
He added, “So, I ask all of you tonight to join the consultations on these Bills that are being conducted at this point in time. Have your voices heard so that we can, not just through legislation, but through our practices and through not being silent, fight this phenomenon in our society.”
The Head of State pointed out that it is only then that women would be placed in the role prescribed for them by the scriptures.
Touching on the issue of child-molestation, the President reminded that, ‘we all speak about our children being our diyas, leaders of our lives and leaders of the future’.
“They carry on many of our dreams…they will carry on our names, and it is necessary that our children have a happy life in their childhood. But that’s not possible too, if we don’t afford them, as a society, the kind of protection that they need,” President Jagdeo explained.
The President said however, that when he speaks about these things, he does not mean the adoption of European or American values alien to Guyana.
“I’m speaking about values that are core to our society, in our hearts and our scriptures. And therefore, we need to do something about it.”
In this regard President Jagdeo said there are too many paedophiles who leave the prisons and return to communities and molest children.
“We have many of our children facing incest in the homes. We have not just physical abuse, the usual punishment that we had in the past, but brutality against our children in many of the homes, and we have too many of our children in orphanages,” he noted.
The Head of State then gave a commitment that laws will be passed to ensure that every child in the country, on the street or in orphanages will be placed in a home.
“We’re strengthening the foster-care laws. We’re going to put a lot of money into this, and we’re also strengthening legislation so that they could be afforded the best type of protection and they can have a happy life,” the President reiterated.
President Jagdeo opined that Guyanese are lucky to live in a country with many different persons and different religions and races, and yet all have the wonderful opportunity to participate in the various cultures brought into the land.
“This (Diwali activity) is your contribution to Guyanese culture, so we’re very lucky about that, but we must also not just take this luck for granted. We must also do something in our own ways to ensure that this culture remains alive,” he said.
On this note, the President thanked the various groups that have been organizing the activities for Diwali celebrations over the years and for keeping the culture alive, especially through the constant teachings of Hinduism.
Lat evening’s Diwali Galee at Camp Street was the fourth and those attending were treated to numerous bhajans and dances.
Aslo attending the ceremony were Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh.
Caption: President Jagdeo with visitors to the Diwali Galee.
Pix saved in layout; hindus urged
GPL briefs Cabinet on successes, challenges
GUYANA Power & Light Inc. (GPL) is to heighten its focus on the introduction of renewable power, even as it is moving ahead with finalising the acquisition of emergency electricity and diesel generation.
Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon GPL informed of this when its officials updated Cabinet recently on operations and developments.
He said the GPL Administration provided details of its relentless efforts to cut losses in generation by addressing theft by residential, commercial and industrial customers and billing systems.
Luncheon said advanced methods of metering and the redesignation of distribution networks were identified as contributing to current successes.
However, notwithstanding those improvements, the rising cost of fuel imports which has more than quadrupled since 2006 is having a significant negative impact on the utility’s ability to manage its operations financially and address its growth projects, particularly the Rural Electrification Extension Programme, the Cabinet Secretary said.
Noting that Cabinet support for GPL’s effort is linked to progressively successful actions to curb losses at all levels and consistent movement on implementing the expansion of generation, Luncheon said the entity’s Administration insisted that implementation of the projections of growth in aggregate demand with access to the grid was, in the face of threats to financial viability, a source of concern.
Police outline anti-crime strategies for festive season
INCREASED patrols, raids and roadblocks are among the Police planned actions to stamp out illegal activities in ‘A’ Division during the approaching festive season, the Commander, Assistant Commissioner Paul Slowe announced yesterday.
He told representatives of the media, the Private Sector and other stakeholders, at the Police Officers Mess, Eve Leary, Georgetown, that similar comprehensive initiatives will be implemented in the other divisions.
Slowe said the strategies were devised on the basis of experiences gained during the successful hosting, by Guyana, of the Rio Summit and Cricket World Cup, this year and General Elections in this country last year.
The implementation begins November 15 and continues through January 15, with the aim of:
* minimising the incidence of criminal activities;
* reducing road accidents and traffic congestion;
* making the division a safer place and
* fostering greater public confidence in the Guyana Police Force.
Slowe said some of the methods that will be used include increasing patrols in vulnerable areas of the city and patrolling on river when necessary, placing of Police booths at strategic locations, using a mobile outpost, raiding, roadblocks and special operations.
Municipal markets, Agricola to Eccles and Kaneville to Grove, on East Bank Demerara, as well as Albouystown, East, West and North Ruimveldt in Georgetown are some of the areas to be given special attention, he said.
In addition, different areas have been divided into sectors and will be scrutinised for traffic breaches and other offences, Slowe explained.
He said booths will be placed at Croal Street (outside Demico House); Main and Quamina Streets; Water and Robb Streets; Water and Holmes Streets; Robb and Cummings Streets; Regent and Alexander Streets; Regent and Wellington Streets; Camp and Charlotte Streets; Saffon and James Streets and Waterloo Street (outside Globe Yard).
Those on Croal and Main and Quamina Streets will be in operation 24 hours daily while the remainder will operate from 07:00 h to 22:00 h, he said.
Slowe said the Police will be assisted by Community Policing Groups and the City Constabulary at the height of late shopping on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Meanwhile, Deputy Crime Chief Seelall Persaud said there has been a reduction of all major crimes from October 2006 to the same time this year, except for robbery with violence.
He said robbery with violence in 2006 increased by 6.7 per cent over the same period this year.
Otherwise, the reduction of serious crimes is due to heightened Police activities in information gathering and investigations as well as greater collaboration with the public and the high motivation of ranks, Persaud stated.
However, he acknowledged that the Buxton/Agricola gangs, the general influx of others, maintaining control during increased economic and social activities in the city remain among the challenges for the Police.
Deepavali Messages
Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sahba
Deepavali is observed on Amawasya (New Moon) in the month of Kartik. The word Deepavali means cluster of lights. The festival however is deeper in significance than the word suggests.
Deepavali is basically Lakshmi Puja. The Vedas describe the Goddess Maha Lakshmi Devi as the eternal source of fortune and abundance. Devotees at this time do homage to Her with reverence, love and affection. The intention is not to simply seek material gains, but equally spiritual exultation and bliss.
Maha Lakshmi, the Cosmic Queen who emerged from the churning of the ocean (Sagar Mathan) seated on a full blown lotus is the centre of worship and adoration at Deepavali time. Maha Lakshmi is the source of mineral wealth and the embodiment of eternal light. Padma and Kamla are other names for Lakshmi Devi, both names meaning lotus. The Lotus symbolises vegetative growth that has distilled life giving powers. Those who win Her grace are triumphant over all negative and adverse circumstances and therefore enjoy infinite life of bliss.
We must worship Lakshmi Devi in all Her dimensions to strengthen our spiritual power, which will make us triumphant against all obstacles. Negative actions are the roads to ruin. A wide and intelligent approach will bear the fruit of eternal success.
Hinduism has one of its cardinal principles the presence of the inner immortal light in us and it is mandatory for us to endeavour to recognise the presence of that light or the inner atma which will influence our spiritual evolution. Deepavali is deeply spiritual and creates the best atmosphere where the environment is illuminated and people greet and interact with each other keeping in mind the fundamental message of the festival. Deepavali has both a social aspect and a strong economic link. The commercial community prays to Lakshmi Mata so that they can enjoy greater economic advantages and prosperity. This is not confined to the industrialists; everyone seeks Lakshmi Mata’s blessings at this time.
Let the light of Deepavali burns infinitely, eliminating darkness in all its forms and fuse us in a bond of love, respect and unity.
Shubh Deepavali
Guyana Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha
Deepavali is a Sanskrit word meaning a cluster of lights. The festival is so called because of the illuminations that form an important feature of the celebrations. Festivals have always played a significant part in the Hindu life. The ancient festival of Deepavali, brought here by our foreparents, is dedicated to Maha Lakshmi – the divine mother, the Goddess of Light and Dispeller of Darkness, the bestower of material and spiritual wealth and moreover, the one who resides in the lotus flower.
Every Hindu festival has its religious and social aspects and Deepavali is no exception. Different legends are written to account for the origin of Deepavali and from these many lessons can be learnt from which a better community can evolve.
The story of a King named Narkasura is one which makes it clear that evil and callous rulers can and will enjoy power for a short span of time. King Narkasura used his position in the wicked interest of his own personal ends by making many princesses his captives and destroying the lives of many innocent persons. Anyone who dared to challenge Narkasura’s doings, suffered ruthless ejection from his Kingdom, but Lord Krishna whose manifestation on earth was to support righteousness and restore democracy brought the tyrannical regime of King Narkasura to and end when he slew the wicked and oppressive King.
Another story which coincides with the festival of Deepavali is the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya. Twenty days after Vijai Dashmi the wicked King Ravan was slayed by Lord Rama, the 7th manifestation of Divine power and on Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya the city which seemed deserted on account of his banishment for fourteen years was illuminated, covered with buntings and rows of little earthen diyas and all gladly and eagerly awaited the return of Lora Rama. Lord Rama’s victory over Ravan symbolises victory of good or evil, knowledge over ignorance, justice over injustice, light over darkness and dharma over adharma.
As we light up our light, meaningfully tonight, let us light up our spiritual and divine light also with lamps of kind words and deeds, loving thoughts and actions and rekindle and preserve our rich cultural and spiritual values. Let the light of our flickering and twinkling diyas burn brightly, dispelling, banishing and extinguishing from our lives’ path, all gloom, darkness and ignorance and ushering an atmosphere of enlightenment, peace and material and spiritual prosperity.
On this festive and joyous occasion of Deepvavali, the Guyana Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha, which to extend Happy Deepavali greetings to all Guyanese and in particular to all our Hindu brothers and sisters. Let us rekindle in ourselves the urgent need of turning away from the ruinous path of hatred. Let us all strive to attain full inner illumination and may the supreme light of lights enlighten our understanding.
May Deepavali 2007 brighten and enlighten us to move onwards and upwards, both materially and spiritually.
A Happy Deepavali to All
Georgetown Mayor Hamilton Green
On this delightful occasion, I extend on behalf of the Council, my wife, Jennifer, and on my own behalf, special greetings to our Hindu brothers and sisters and indeed to all Guyanese.
Deepavali, the festival of lights, is a time when we celebrate the essence of light. Light illuminates and dispel darkness. Metaphorically, light speaks to knowledge as darkness speaks to ignorance. Therefore, on this occasion let us pray that we be imbued with knowledge of our moral and spiritual responsibility not only to each other but also to our environment.
Deepavali provides a good opportunity for us to reflect upon our words and deeds towards our neighbours.
This is a good time to contemplate ways to connect the goodness and light within our inner selves, to the cleanliness of our surroundings.
Citizens, let us use this period to resolve in our hearts, to shun those dark attitudes, which adversely affect the integrity and welfare of our City and State, and embrace those principles, which are compatible with the sustainable development of our environment.
Let us allow that one divine light to illuminate our souls.
Happy Deepavali
Mr Patrick Yarde, Guyana Public Service Union
On behalf of the Executive Council and membership of the Guyana Public Service Union, I extend Diwali greetings to all Hindus throughout Guyana, particularly the members of the our Union.
We celebrate this occasion of the festival of lights on November 9, 2007 which is a national holiday in Guyana.
We desire that this festival serve as a light in the dark and gloomy tunnel, particularly in 2007, a year in which there have been enormous hardship on the population as a whole in various negative forms, coupled with unwarranted irrational, insensitivities and economic burdens and contribute to enlightenment, and inspire sensitivity, thoughtfulness, goodwill and a caring spirit and be a beacon for a change of course to bring the national ship to the shores of betterment and prosperity for all the people of our beloved nation.
People’s Progressive Party
The People’s Progressive Party extends best wishes to all Guyanese and the Hindu community in particular on the occasion of Diwali celebration.
The moral of the events behind the celebration is the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. We also believe that in the final analysis good always triumph over evil.
The festival of lights that brightens every corner reminds us that whatever is done in the dark eventually comes to light. This too has been proven by life.
Today Diwali reassures us that in the struggle to put an end to crimes and corruption, which the PPP has been fighting against in and out of government, our people will be victorious, for it is a noble cause.
Indian Arrival Committee
The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) wishes to extend greetings to all Guyanese, especially those who follow the philosophical teachings of Sanatan Dharma, which is called Hinduism by many, on the occasion of the festival of Deepavali the festival of lights. Diwali is the shortened form of Deepavali which is formed by the combining of words deepa, meaning light and avail, meaning a row.
It means a row of lights and indeed illumination forms its main attraction, Multi-coloured Rangoli forms, floral decorations and fireworks lend picturesqueness and grandeur to this festival which heralds joy, mirth and happiness in the coming year.
Diwali is celebrated on a grand scale in almost all the regions of Bharat (India) and is looked upon mainly as the beginning of the New Year. It is enthusiastically celebrated for five continuous days and each day has its significance with the number of the myths, legends and beliefs. In India it is considered auspicious for shopping, inaugurations of business deals, starting new themes characterise the celebration of the festival of Diwali. The first deals with the triumph of good over evil as told by the story of the destruction of Raavan, the king of Lanka by Shri Raama which is recorded in the Ramayana.
The second theme deals with the creation of the wealth and attainment of prosperity which devotees feel will be bestowed on them by their veneration of Lakshmi Maata or the mother Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
The IAC urges all Guyanese especially the Indo-Guyanese citizens to pay heed to these important messages brought to us on the occasion of Diwali and resist evil in all its forms and to work together co-operatively and harmoniously for the economic development and growth of Guyana and for the National Unity.
Shubh Deepavali from the IAC
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Fuel stop
The topic of bio-fuels has recently captured our attention and imagination , along with the potential discovery of fossil fuels. For many in the energy sector, oil might be the more lucrative of the two; but bio-fuel, for want of a better term, fuels our excitement at engaging in something new, something wonderful and without the baggage that comes with a dependency on fossil fuels these days.
Still, there are attendant issues related to the production of biofuel. Like any new technology, the production of bio-fuel will not be cheap or trouble-free, particularly in the beginning stages. Innovation, particularly in as technically sophisticated an area as producing cost-effective bio-fuel is concerned, has to necessarily be underwritten by massive investment.
With global players like the US, the EU and Brazil able to inject a greater amount of development funds into research that will ultimately benefit their economies, we have to find a balance between attracting foreign direct investment into the industry and developing an economically sustainable energy regime for Guyana.
Our bio-fuel industry will not develop in a vacuum. While the alternative energy industry is relatively new, it is an industry never-the-less and will be subject to the effects of competition as it develops.
Then there is the problem of limited growth. Guyana's potential for expansion of our ethanol production is constrained by the size of our coastal region, which provides the only suitable land for large-scale sugarcane farming. As a corollary, it is also conceivable therefore that the growth and expansion of our own bio-fuel industry will impact negatively on both our conservation efforts as well as our food security. Recently, Brazil, which has vast swathes of arable land that it has dedicated to ethanol production, came under fire from the EU for what Europe charges are unsustainable production policies. As EU Trade Commissioner, Peter Mandelson stated:
"Europeans won't pay a premium for biofuels if the ethanol in their cars is produced unsustainably by systematically burning fields after harvests. Or if it comes at the expense of rainforests."
Finally, the world is in a fuel crisis precisely because of the culture of consumption which has dominated the global agenda for decades. According to US geophysicist Marion King Hubbert, the man who created the Hubbert Peak Theory,
"Our principal constraints are cultural. During the last two centuries we have known nothing but exponential growth and in parallel we have evolved what amounts to an exponential-growth culture, a culture so heavily dependent upon the continuance of exponential growth for its stability that it is incapable of reckoning with problems of nongrowth."
Exploitative consumption of our natural resources is not a prerequisite for economic advancement or intellectual progress. Pre-industrial empires were built upon water, wind and fire and the philosophical foundations of today were established thousands of years before the advent of either the Internet or the Sport Utility Vehicle.
In the event of any future oil energy crisis, it is those economies which are less dependent on this culture of blind growth, and its necessary corollary of rabid consumption, which are going to best cope with what may well be an inevitable, sustained global recession.
Within the larger picture, the world has to move from a culture of unbridled excess, or even bridled excess for that matter, to one that takes into account the fact that the resources of the world are ultimately finite.
With specific reference to Guyana, the transition and finally adaptation to bio-fuel production and use, is not a panacea for our economic ills. It has to be considered within an overall development paradigm that also includes and stresses on better management of our natural resources, conservation of our natural environment, diversification of the national economy, a focus on the retention and recruitment of human skills, and investment in information and communication technology.
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Perceptions by Clousseau
Clousseau was asked a pointed question on what were his predictions for the future of Guyana. He responded by saying that he was not in the habit of making guesses or attempting predictions, but realistically with some assurance, symptoms are all around that point to happier days with vast development taking place.
He cautioned that we should not go overboard and start counting the chickens before they are hatched, because Clousseau sees no immediate returns, but certainly long-term rewards will be achieved so long as the government continues with prudent management of the ship of state.
However, he goes on to refer to ongoing development in the progress of the Bebrice Bridge; the state-of-the-art sugar factory; the culminating LEAP programme in Linden; the BEAMS educational project; the constant thrust into agriculture diversification; the steady advances in the health sector the overall attention to road expansion and rehabilitation, the continuing development in housing and availability of potable water, and the obvious improvement in the lives of our Amerindian citizens, all visual evidence of immediate development.
Clousseau emphasizes that there are less spectacular but effective sectors that entail more detailed and specific efforts like human resources and local government development, as well as routine needs to satisfy in the trade sector. What is important here is the recognition that these areas needed commitment and extra dedidcation for hard work.
Foreign Affairs, Home Affairs and Legal Affairs are all sectors that touch every day the lives of all our citizens and which are taken for granted, despite the serious nature involved in the maintenance of good governance.
But what of the future, the original question asked, Clousseau was reminded! Oh, that is the long-term development with even more exciting events of achievement to contemplate, but it will be slow and tedious work in store for all those who will be centrally involved in the process of making things happen.
Because of the magnitude and extent of development in the anticipated success in oil exploration, it is appropriate to thank our lucky stars that we were able to settle the dispute with Suriname with the recent UNCLOS award. However, caution is being urged in relations with Suriname. There is still an uneasiness with that neighbour to the east, whose government continues to mislead the nation on the true significance of the award and continues to mislead the nation on the true significance of the award and continues to pursue efforts of gaining favourable outcome by deliberately misinterpreting the true and factual coordinates resulting from the official demarcation. This apart, the reality of putting together the enormous capital to see the project to finality is still to be concluded, then the time-consuming effort of securing oil rigs, constructing drills platforms are extensive exercises that will take much time, but let’s leave this in the capable hands of CGX and other international investors.
Despite the appropriateness of having an oil refinery destined for Crab Island, here again there is still daunting work to be done in concluding agreement for the full financing necessary, and all the necessary work to build the refinery will take some considerable time.
Hydro power is yet another exciting projected development and Clousseau has some reservations about the stated cost of US$300M; his previous experience instructs him that a much higher level of investment will be needed, but yet this is in the works and it is hoped that everything will come through.
The Bauxite Industry is in very good hands with Russian expertise and financing through RUSAL; the future is bright.
In conclusion, Clousseau is most impressed with the competence of President Jagdeo and his Finance Minister to keep the country in a health economic state.
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Woman on passport fraud charges granted bail
SUSAN Persaud, 25, of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, has been charged on two counts of passport fraud.
She appeared before Magistrate Melissa Robertson-Ogle yesterday and pleaded not guilty.
Particulars of one offence said, on November 4, at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, with intent to defraud, she placed her photograph in a British passport.
The other charge alleged that, between November 1 and 3, with intent to defraud, that is to commit a forgery, she tendered the same British travel document.
Persaud was granted $85,000 bail on each of the charges until November 30.
Alleged robber charged with wounding
victim, intervening policeman
TWENTY-ONE YEAR OLD Joel John, of Lot 30 Success Street, Albouystown, has been charged following the Sunday night incident in which a robbery victim and an intervening policeman were wounded.
Before Magistrate Melissa Robertson-Ogle yesterday, the defendant faced charges of robbery under arms and unlawful wounding.
Particulars one offence, to which he also pleaded not guilty, said, on November 5, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Police Constable Prem Narine.
It was also alleged that the same day, being armed with an offensive weapon, John robbed Burchell Skeete of cellular phone worth $3,000 and other property with a total value of $13,300.
Police Corporal Sherwyn Matthews, prosecuting, told the Court Sheete was awaiting transportation on Lombard Street, also in Georgetown, when the defendant relieved him of his belongings.
The Prosecutor said John, who was armed with a knife inflicted several stab wounds on the victim, who has been hospitalised.
The defendant also wounded plain clothes policeman Narine who is on sick leave, Matthews said.
John was refused bail and remanded to prison until November 23.
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This needs to be said
I wish to bring to the attention of all Guyanese a fact that might have been too shameful, painful, and ugly for us to face: The problems of our country have their roots buried deep in the racial hatred we have for each other. The truth being unpleasant, we focus on trivialities. The systematic, conscious, and deliberate avoidance of this basic cause of our troubles has, for decades, been our preoccupation. There is no more time for prevarication. Let us face the facts now.
What are these facts? My African brothers and sisters feel that we have a right to be the rulers and masters of Guyana; and if we can’t be, then we will make the country ungovernable. Tacit encouragement will be given to lawless elements to hit selective targets to send a message to what we consider an Indian administration. (At this point, I expect my African brothers to be hopping mad. Like I said, the truth is sometimes too hot to handle.) We will not co-operate in any way to make this Indian Government look good. In fact, we will deliberately err by commission or omission in order to make the government appear inept and ineffective. We will also studiously highlight and embellish any mistakes made by this Indian administration.
I am a Guyanese of African ancestry. I know of the bitterness born of frustration – frustration that “we” are not in power any more; frustration that we are marginalized as the economic pie is being shared; frustration that the numerical superiority of the Indians will forever ensure their rulership of Guyana. I also know of the “shame” we feel at having to submit to the governance of an Indian administration. It is not in the nature of Guyanese of African descent to meekly bow to such humiliation. Yes, I know how it feels.
My Indian brothers and sisters also feel, with strong justification, that they have the legal right to be masters and rulers of Guyana. True! You have been fairly elected to be the government of Guyana. Voting along racial lines, you have triumphed because of the numerical strength of your race. But, as you can see, honest and transparent electoral victory has not translated into the smooth governance of Guyana.
I know that much racial hatred lie buried in Indian hearts also. I do not condemn you for this. I, too, remember your trials and tribulations when my African brothers and sisters were masters of our native land. I share your pain. I understand your bitterness.
But now Guyana demands that her children rise to a new level of awareness. I speak not to our political leaders. I am speaking to you, the ordinary people of this beautiful land. It is you who have to tell our leaders that you have had enough of this racial division. It is you who have shout loud and clear that you want a new day to dawn on this our fair country. It is you who have to demand that the hatchets be buried and the past be forgotten. It is you who have to say, “We want both our Indian and African brothers and sisters to hold hands and unite and govern this country together!” And when you do this, you will be transmuting the words of our national motto from mere rhetoric into flesh and blood reality: ONE PEOPLE, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY.
It is not easy for anyone to suddenly put aside and overcome decades of racial animosity, but we have no choice. The alternative is to let our country be further destroyed by racial hatred. Ordinary people achieve ordinary goals. I call on you to be an extraordinary Guyanese and let us together achieve the extraordinary goal of spreading racial harmony and peace throughout our nation. I ask that from this day onward, you consciously begin this task of inner transformation. “If you want to transform the world, begin by transforming yourself,” said a man of wisdom. Tell your husband, tell your wife, tell your children, tell your neighbours and friends, tell everyone you meet: “I no longer hate my African brothers and sisters! I no longer hate my Indian brothers and sisters!” Do this with sincerity, and you will be amazed at the transformation that will take place in your home, your community, and the entire country.
Perhaps no one has ever discussed this issue in such a blunt and direct way. I have no choice. The time for niceties has passed. It is time for us to examine our consciences and do the right thing. Deep in your heart, beyond the reaches of convenient excuses and self-serving objections, you know I am right. Let us move to a higher level of living, and let us take our country with us.
(In closing: I know that critics will emerge from the shadows and crawl out of rotting floor boards. When they do, ask yourself one question: Is their criticism aimed at promoting national racial unity, or are their words cleverly designed to promote the continued existence of national racial trauma? )
Wilbert M. Stephenson
493 Glenmore Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11207
Phone: 718-296-4023
No explanation for blackouts
It seems that we can solve or even try to solve every single problem we face as an entire nation---all except this age old problem of power blackouts. Berbicians for the past couple of weeks have been getting rolling blackouts throughout the day and various areas for several hours each afternoon way into the nighttime period.
To the moment, no official from the power company has come forward to the media or the customers to give an explanation to what is causing the power outages.
A cross section of villages, towns and settlements in East and West Berbice are faced with sometimes three, four and up to five periodic blackouts daily.
There were rumors that the power company is currently ‘hooking up’ its systems to the Skeldon Sugar Factory to generate more power to the grid, however, this is not so. Apparently, the company, once again is encountering problems with their engines. Those poor engines, which have worked years upon years, none being added to the power generation capacity, yet more customers are added to the power company’s grid.
Here are my questions for the company: Don’t you think it would be a good idea to inform your customers about the current problem? Has there been any consideration to publish load- shedding schedules in the newspapers, etc? Are there plans to acquire new sets either from Georgetown or overseas?
The company was doing so well throughout the past year. It is unfortunate that now, as the festive season is approaching, that this had to have happened.
One thing’s for sure: customers can expect the same amount of monies to pay on their light bills, although there were so much power outages.
Leon Jameson Suseran
Mighty strange, this protest
It is mighty strange, confusing to say the least, about this protest at Tain. On the one hand are the taxi drivers who raised their fares, not because they are unduly harassed by the traffic cops and the courts, not because of the agony and frustrations experienced at the relevant government offices, not because their efforts to comply with the law are beig frustrated by the unavailability of spare parts and bad roads, but simply because the penalties for bad driving and defective vehicles were increased.
On the other hand, what is more perplexing is that parents of the school children affected by the unjustified fare hike teamed up with the very drivers who are refusing to take their kids to school or are demanding full fares, thereby directly creating their increased financial hardships.
And on top of it all, the police who have been trying so hard to sell the spirit of respect, trust and cooperation based on service and protection, decided so irresponsibly to shoot tear gas among the people, without allowing enough time for their top brass and politicians to diffuse the situation. Have the police used tear gas in similar situations in other parts of the country?
There can be no excuse for what happened at Tain. The drivers acted unjustifiably without first allowing time to try to comply with the law. The parents acted ignorantly in joining with the wrong protesters. And the police acted too precipitately.
That having been said, what have we learned from this whole fiasco?
First, before enforcing a new law, a reasonable time should be allowed for the enforcement. In other words the enforcement of the increased penalties should have been phased in over a period of a few months, allowing for education and warnings of intended prosecution by traffic cops instead of swooping down on drivers like vultures.I would think that in the case of defective vehicles reasonable time is given the owner/operator to fix same without penalty imposed. Laws are made for the benefit of the society and its enforcement is only as good as the people's acceptance and willingness and ability to comply with them.
Secondly, the parents, despite their misguided action, do have a legitimate grouse. Commuting of School children should never be left to the mercy of the Hire Car drivers. In view of the hardship factors, the government should step in and re- introduce the big buses under contract to private owners- as was done in the old days. Of course a regulated low fare would be charged school children.
Finally, our politicians should really make more of an effort to be on the scene before things go haywire and out of control. Surely, local officials would know of an intended protest action before it happens. Its a small community where everybody knows everybody else.
Unless and until our Officials and politicians show understanding, respect and real appreciation for the welfare and well being of our people, incidents like these will continue or will spin out of control with disastrous consequences to all.
Shawn Mangru
Are the forces all bad?
While it is press freedom that has the Stabroek News every day lashing out at the security forces, it is sometimes overbearing that they can never find any good in the forces.
The issue of border security is something that the administration has publicly acknowledged is difficult to address due to several obstacles, including shortage of human resources.
Like many other countries which have gone the way of resorting to technology to defend their borders, the administration has indicated its interest to do likewise.
The government has also been making several efforts by working with their counterparts to address the issue of gun smuggling which obviously will affect both sides.
Just recently, I saw on the news there was a training programme for Immigration Officers on the same issue.
We should be thankful that despite our shortage of human resources both the Police and the Army have been patrolling the borders.
Erica Diesel
They need to abide by the law
The culture of protest seems to have taken hold of Guyanese across the country because ever so often you see people taking to the streets to protest against something which they feel is unfair. The most recent incident I have seen gracing the front pages of the newspapers is the protest action by drivers at Tain against the new fines which have been implemented by Government. This is absolutely ridiculous.
The solution to the problem is simple; if they do not want to have to pay the fines then all they need to do is abide by the Law. But it seems like they have no respect for the Law. When the bus drivers and conductors pack the busses like sardines, they do not care about the lives of the passengers which they would endanger; all they care about is the money. And although a passenger would get half of a seat, they still have to pay the full fare.
The mini-busses are built to accommodate a certain amount of people and when you go beyond that amount, the insurance company would not pay for damage to the other persons should that vehicle have an accident. Perhaps it is time that the passengers protest these unfair conditions and ask that Government re-introduce the big busses to Guyana. This would not only introduce competition in the public transportation sector, but it would also ensure that there is some amount of compliance.
Jennifer Jupiter
Re-examine the reasons
The residents of Berbice and other parts of the country who are protesting against the Police zero tolerance for traffic offences need to re examine the reasons for their protest action.
The laws that are being enforced were in place for decades. The Police had been very lenient with regards to the enforcement mainly, I suppose, because of the impractical fine of G$150. These minibus drivers and conductors had no incentive to up hold the law and this resulted in them overcrowding the buses, excessive speeding and all the other lawlessness that go with the culture.
While some parents may argue that they benefited from lower fares for their children, others, who would have lost their children in accidents, will say differently.
By joining the protest line what these persons are saying is that they support overloading and speeding on the road. I wonder if they are aware of that.
These parents who are on the streets need to set the right example for their children. They should stop themselves being used by ‘elements’ whose aim is to create confusion in our country. Commuters have nothing to lose from the zero tolerance campaign. The lawlessness on the roads must stop.
Edward Simon
Only GPSU can say
We are at that time again when the year is coming to an end an no agreement has been reached between Government and the GPSU with regards to increases for Public Servants.
The Teachers Union was able to reach agreement with Government last year on a multi-year wage package. What exactly went wrong with the GPSU negotiating team? Why it is that Government would want to see public servants in poverty when it is the Public Servants who implement Government’s programmes? Only the Leaders of GPSU can say.
The Teachers union was able to reach agreement with Government because their leaders were willing to put up a reasonable proposals. The GPSU’s inability to reach agreement with Government over the years is an indication of their inability to understand the negotiating process. Their need is to score political points.
The GPSU leaders are unrealistic in their demands and do not listen to reason. Their own workers do not support their industrial action whenever they decide to take that step. The leadership has hijacked the Union and is using it as a political tool whenever it suits them. Until the workers retake their union we will all continue to wait on Government’s generosity.
Jean Ramroop
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Hall and Gibbs to feature in Evening of Nostalgia at Pegasus
CRICKET fanatics will be in for some history tonight at the Le Meridien Pegasus Savannah Suite from 19:00 h when the Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira Sports Foundation hosts an Evening of Nostalgia with two West Indian Legends Sir Wesley ‘Winfield’ Hall and Lance Richard Gibbs.
The two former great West Indies cricketers will be speaking about their careers and will be asked questions by veteran cricket historian Dr Winston McGowan and Perreira.
Seventy-year-old Hall, who held many administrative positions for the West Indies Cricket Board, including manager of the regional team in the late 90s and president in 2001.
The lanky Barbadian fast bowler played in 48 Test matches for the West Indies, claiming 192 wickets at a satisfactory average of 26.38. He is also one of the Legends of the Allen Stanford 20/20.
Guyanese and West Indies off-spinner Lance Gibbs, who learnt his cricket from the established Demerara Cricket Club in Queenstown, represented West Indies in 79 Test matches and three ODIs.
He took 309 wickets with a fine average of 29.09, while he only collected two wickets in the shorter version but his presence in the winning team in the late ’50s to the early ’70s, was instrumental in the glory days of West Indies cricket. Gibbs is also one of the Stanford Legends.
Members of the public are also invited to attend the two-hour Evening of Nostalgia.
Codrington scores and Caledonia move to the top
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Guyanese striker Nigel Codrington scored to put a cork on a 3-1 victory for Caledonia AIA over Police FC in the Trinidad & Tobago Pro League on Wednesday at Larry Gomes Stadium.
Codrington tallied his third item for the season in the 89th minute to follow a brace from midfielder Abdullah Phillips which allowed the Morvant-based club to return to the top of the League by two points, ahead of San Juan Jabloteh, who were out of action and still have a match in hand.
The cops stunned Caledonia, when Adrian Nunez made the breakthrough in the first minute of the match.
The equaliser came for Caledonia six minutes into the second half, when Phillips converted, and he doubled his side’s lead six minutes from time with another vital strike.
The defeat means that Police, the newcomers in the League, will finish no higher than ninth in the standings when the competition comes to a close in the next few weeks.
Elsewhere, striker Christian Okonkwo of Nigeria assisted with the first and netted the second to lead North East Stars to an impressive 3-0 win over T&T Defence Force at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium.
At the same venue, Josimar Belgrave scored the winner to help Superstar Rangers edge United Petrotrin 2-1.
On Tuesday, W-Connection had condemned Tobago United to finish in their usual cellar position, when they took them out 3-0 at the Dwight Yorke Stadium.
Battle for top spot in GFA Cellink Plus Premier League continues today
... Alpha may take lead again
DEFENDING champions Alpha United can regain the top spot in the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Cellink Plus Premier League with a win over Police this evening, at the Georgetown Football Club ground, Bourda.
Alpha United are tied on 22 points with current leaders Pele, but the latter have a better goal difference. Police are on the opposite end of the spectrum in terms of points.
The feature clash of the evening pits sixth-placed Guyana Defence Force (GDF) against Santos (in the penultimate spot).
Meanwhile at 15:30 h in the curtain raiser Ann’s Grove play Mocha Champs in a group ‘A’ encounter of the Supligen Under-20 competition.
Two other Under-20 games are scheduled for the Tucville ground.
At 13:45 h in the opening encounter of a double-header Thomas United will engage Western Tigers in a group ‘A’ encounter followed by home-side Fruta Conquerors tackling Buxton in a group ‘B’ clash.
India appoint veteran Kumble as Test captain
By N.Ananthanarayanan
MOHALI, India (Reuters) - Veteran leg-spinner Anil Kumble was appointed India's Test captain yesterday, succeeding Rahul Dravid who quit the post in September.
The 37-year-old Kumble will lead the team in the home series against Pakistan which starts in New Delhi on November 22 after the selectors preferred him to wicketkeeper and one-day captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
"Anil Kumble has been appointed for the three Tests against Pakistan. There will be no vice-captain," senior board official Mohinder Pandove told a news conference.
Kumble, who has previously served as Test vice-captain, is the third highest wicket-taker with 566 Test scalps, behind Australia's Shane Warne and Sri Lankan Muttiah Muralitharan.
In 1999 the wrist-spinner became the second bowler after England's Jim Laker to take all 10 wickets in a Test innings, leading India to a series-levelling win over Pakistan in New Delhi.
India's selectors faced a dilemma when Sachin Tendulkar declined to return as captain after two previously unsuccessful terms, mainly to avoid putting extra pressure on his batting.
Dhoni, 26, has done well since being appointed one-day skipper in September.
He led India to their Twenty20 World Cup triumph in South Africa on his captaincy debut.
The home series with neighbours Pakistan will be followed by a tour of Australia before India host South Africa early next year.
First Test at the Gabba ...
Jaques hits maiden Test ton in Aussies’ 242 for three
By Brydon Coverdale
AFTER ten months of speculation over who would fill Australia's three vacant Test positions, Phil Jaques hinted that at least one of those spots is in safe hands. Jaques celebrated his first match as a full-time member of the side with a century as Australia fought off Muttiah Muralitharan's wiles to reach 242 for 3 at stumps.
Michael Hussey was on 28 and Michael Clarke had reached five at the close, leaving Sri Lanka to regret their decision to send Australia in on a Gabba pitch tinged with green. At least the predicted showers stayed away for most of the day - 75 minutes lost in the morning - and allowed Jaques to overcome his nervy start to settle into the opener's role with an even 100.
Although the bigger holes after Australia's Ashes triumph were left by Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath - Mitchell Johnson and Stuart MacGill will have their chance to prove their worth - the loss of Justin Langer could have been debilitating for the top order. But Jaques showed superb mental strength to register his first Test hundred before a slip in concentration let Muralitharan end his stay.
He never looked comfortable against Muralitharan, staying in his crease and defending, sometimes playing and missing, and edging two slick chances to fumbling slips fieldsmen.
When Jaques finally decided to advance Muralitharan made him look foolish, slowing his pace and pulling his length back, spinning it past the lunging Jaques who was easily stumped while sprawled well out of his crease.
Aside from that attempted slog, Jaques played a sensible innings after an overly cautious opening in which he failed to score until his 34th delivery. He gradually settled into his usual rhythm, punishing loose balls - and there were plenty from the fast bowlers - regularly rocking onto his back foot and cutting hard or driving through the off side.
His century came off 196 balls with a confident back-foot drive forward of point for four off Chaminda Vaas. The milestone had only just arrived when Muralitharan enjoyed a well-earned reward with his deception of Jaques, who was not the only batsman troubled by Muralitharan's efforts.
He made his first inroads into the nine wickets he required to overtake Shane Warne's Test record of 708 victims when he also had Ricky Ponting stumped with a sharp piece of work from Prasanna Jayawardene. After a lengthy spell over the wicket, Muralitharan moved around the wicket and it took only four balls for the angle to unnerve Ponting, who pushed at a straighter delivery angled across him and briefly dragged his foot just centimetres out of safe ground.
Ponting fell just short of his Test average, scoring 56, and it was a typical Ponting innings, punctuated by classical cover drives and a couple of lofted fours over mid-off from Muralitharan.
It took the brilliance of Muralitharan to remove Ponting after he and Jaques had brought the score to one for 183.
The pair dictated terms to Sri Lanka, not so much to Muralitharan but to the three-man seam attack of Vaas, Farveez Maharoof and Dilhara Fernando. Sri Lanka missed their fastest weapon, Lasith Malinga, who was overlooked to allow Maharoof into the side as they predicted sharp movement on the first morning.
Mahela Jayawardene played his part by winning the toss and choosing to field but after Jaques played out the first over from Vaas, the rain came and ate away an hour of the time Sri Lanka had hoped to use to earn an advantage. When play resumed Jaques was shaky but Matthew Hayden ensured Australia were not outfoxed.
Hayden's 43 included several typically aggressive strokes preceded by his walk at the bowler. However it was one of those shots that brought his downfall. Hayden advanced to Vaas and tried to drive over the bowler's head, but he skied the ball wide of the mid-off, Muralitharan, who ran 15 paces to his right at full speed to take an excellent catch.
It was the only wicket claimed by pace all day as the fast bowlers failed to help Muralitharan build pressure.
Fernando's efforts were particularly frustrating for Sri Lanka, as he achieved the treble of consistently spraying the ball too wide, too short and too full.
Maharoof was far less threatening than in the tour match against Queensland, when he claimed three victims in each innings, and Vaas extracted some movement early but had to settle for the sole wicket of Hayden.
The fieldsmen did not help Sri Lanka's cause either; Jayawardene and Chamara Silva both gave Jaques chances in the slips when he was in the 60s and Silva also spilled a tough opportunity off Jaques at cover. Play is set to begin half an hour early on day two - at 09:30 h local time - with Sri Lanka desperate for a slicker all-round effort if the weather allows. (Cricinfo)
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AUSTRALIA first innings
P. Jaques stp. Jayawardene b Muralitharan 100
M. Hayden c Muralitharan b Vaas 43
R. Ponting stp. Jayawardene 56
M. Hussey not out 28
M. Clarke not out 5
Extras: (b-4, lb-5, nb-1) 10
Total: (for three wickets, 76 overs) 242
Fall of wickets: 1-69, 2-183, 3-216.
Bowling: C.Vaas 10-4-44-1, F. Maharoof 21-6-48-0, D. Fernando 16-1-74-0, M. Muralitharan 23-3-67-2.
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Champion of Champions final tomorrow ...
Rose Hall Town, Albion battle for honours
By Vemen Walter
THE Area H Ground in the Township of Rose Hall is expected to come alive tomorrow when two powerhouses in local first division cricket, Rose Hall Town Windies Sports Bar and Albion Community Centre battle in the final of the 2007 Busta Champion of Champions 50 overs first division cricket competition.
With both Rose Hall Town and Albion suffering defeats at the hands of Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) in the semi-final and final respectively of the nationwide Neal and Massy 40- Over tournament recently, a keen tussle is anticipated as teams seek to salvage some pride, especially Albion, who have been dethroned as the champion club of Guyana.
Known for their fierce competitiveness, both teams boast several of the country’s top cricketers and having played top quality cricket all through the tournament that attracted the top eight teams in Berbice, it is very difficult to single out a favourite, especially with Rose Hall Town playing on home soil. However Albion may just have the edge, psychologically, having had the better in recent exchanges.
The last time the two teams met was in the Berbice Zone final of the 2007 Neal and Massy tournament, where Albion triumphed comfortably by six wickets in their own backyard.
Added to that, Rose Hall Town have failed to get past Albion on four previous occasions in the limited-over version of the game within the last 20 months.
However, the last time the arch rivals met in a Busta final was in the inaugural tournament in 2004, when Rose Hall Town came out victorious with an easy four-wicket win at Albion .
Since then, Rose Hall Town, the organisers of the competition that is sponsored by the Guyana Beverages Company, have also won in 2006, when they got past Young Warriors by two wickets at the Rose Hall Community Centre ground, in Canje.
Port Mourant, champions in 2005, is the only other team apart from Rose Hall Town to have won the Busta tournament.
With the availability of all of its top cricketers including the Crandon brothers, Esaun and Royston, the in-form Assad Fudadin and veteran Andre Percival, Rose Hall Town possesses a very formidable line-up with several other players who represented Guyana at the youth level.
Royston Crandon and his Guyana team mate Fudadin will spearhead the batting along with Percival and Esaun Crandon, the likes of Berbice senior inter-county selectee, wicketkeeper/batsman Delbert Hicks, Renwrick Batson, the dependable Khemraj Mahadeo and Michael Rengasami.
Esaun Crandon, together with fellow paceman Leyland Edwards, left-arm-spinner Ravi Narine and off-spinners Percival, Mahadeo, Royston Crandon and Troy Matheison are the men, Rose Hall Town will be banking on to do the trick for them with the ball.
Albion, on the other hand, will be without promising national Under- 19 all-rounder Jonathan Foo, one of four Albion players selected in the Guyana Under-17 team to tour Trinidad and Tobago shortly and are currently in encampment.
In spite of that, Albion are still a very powerful force with Guyana and West Indies batsmen Narsingh Deonarine and Sewnarine Chattergoon alongside Guyana Twenty/20 batsman Imran Khan, wicketkeeper/batsman Shastri Persaud, the exciting Ranga Lachigadu all capable of dominating the Rose Hall Town bowling.
But, as was clearly exhibited against GCC, less than a week ago, they certainly will have to improve on their shot selection, especially on a pitch that could be very unpredictable.
Pinch-hitter Doodnauth Lalbeharry, Michael Chinsammy and Davendra Bishoo could also make valuable contributions with the bat.
Albion’s bowling as usual will be based primarily on spin with leg-spinner Davindra Bishoo coupled with the left-arm-spin of Veerasammy Permaul and the off-spins of Michael Chinsammy, Ramnarine Chattergoon and Deonarine leading the way.
Medium-pacer Lalbeharry and the leg-spin of Sewnarine Chatttergoon will provide backups.
The winning team will take home a trophy and $100 000 with the runner-up pocketing $50 000.
Several other incentives for outstanding performances in the tournament will also be given out.
The action, which will be carried live on NCN Radio, gets under way at 09:30 h with umpires Abdul Gafur and Samuel Whyte.
Teams: Rose Hall Town Esaun Crandon (captain), Delbert Hicks, Renwrick Batson, Assad Fudadin, Royston Crandon, Khemraj Mahadeo, Andre Percival, Michael Rengasami, Jason Sinclair Troy Matheison, Ravi Narine, Eon Hooper and Leyland Edwards. Hilbert Foster is the manager.
Albion - Sewnarine Chattergoon (captain), Narsingh Deonarine, Ramnarine Chattergoon Doodnauth Lalbeharry, Imran Khan, Ranga Lachigadu, Shastri Persaud, Davendra Bishoo, Michael Chinsammy, Veerasammy Permaul, Heman Rabindradat, Asraf Ghanny, Ganesh Deodat. The manager is Ramcoomar Dudnauth.
Bond puts Kiwis on top in Johannesburg Test
By Telford Vice
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (Reuters) - Four wickets by express bowler Shane Bond gave New Zealand the upper hand on the opening day of the first Test against South Africa yesterday.
New Zealand reached the close on 41 for two after dismissing South Africa, who won the toss and chose to bat, for 226.
"It's good to be picking up wickets," Bond told a news conference after snapping up four for 73. "We weren't sure what the wicket was going to do and we were probably going to have a bat if we had won the toss.
"But we soon saw it was moving around quite a lot. It was a good toss to lose."
Medium pacer Chris Martin, who had two catches dropped, supported Bond well and took three for 67.
Opener Herschelle Gibbs top-scored for South Africa with 63.
The hosts got off to the worst possible start when captain Graeme Smith attempted to leave a delivery from Martin in the second over and was bowled off the edge of his bat for one.
Hashim Amla scored 12 before Bond had him caught behind by Brendon McCullum with a ball that bounced steeply and straightened after pitching.
DROPPED CATCHES
Both of Martin's dropped catches were offered shortly before lunch by Jacques Kallis, who was spilled on 23 by Michael Papps at third slip and on 27 by Iain O'Brien at fine leg.
The errors did not prove costly as Kallis drove at the first delivery after lunch, by medium pacer O'Brien, and was caught behind by McCullum for 29.
South Africa were reduced to 141 for five an hour before tea when Gibbs was caught by Fleming at first slip off Martin.
AB de Villiers stood firm for 33 while Mark Boucher (43) nursed the hosts past 200.
New Zealand lost their openers in the first 12 overs. Paceman Makhaya Ntini had Papps caught by de Villiers at third slip for two before Dale Steyn trapped Craig Cumming lbw for 12.
Former captain Stephen Fleming, batting with a dislocated thumb, was unbeaten on 22 with nightwatchman Bond nought not out at the other end.
South Africa coach Mickey Arthur said he hoped a deteriorating pitch would work in his team's favour.
"There is decent weather forecast for the next two days and we're expecting the cracks to open up quite big and for the wicket to deteriorate," said Arthur.
"We think in the fourth innings the wicket will be at its worst."
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SOUTH AFRICA first innings
G. Smith b Martin 1
H. Gibbs c Flening b Martin 63
H. Amla c McCullum b Bond 12
J. Kallis c McCullum b O'Brien 29
A. Prince c Fleming b Bond 1
AB de Villiers c Oram b Bond 33
M. Boucher c Papps b Vettori 43
A. Nel c McCullum b Bond 15
P. Harris lbw b Vettori 3
D. Steyn c McCullum b Martin 13
M. Ntini not out 0
Extras: (lb-6, w-1, nb-6) 13
Total: (all out, 74.3 overs) 226
Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-20, 3-73, 4-92, 5-141, 6-162, 7-182, 8-195, 9-219.
Bowling: Bond 17-1-73-4 (nb-3, w-1), Martin 17.3-3-67-3, Oram 12-3-31-0, O'Brien 10-4-23-1, Vettori 18-6-26-2 (nb-3).
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NEW ZEALAND innings
C. Cumming lbw b Steyn 12
M. Papps c de Villiers b Ntini 2
S. Fleming not out 22
S. Bond not out 0
Extras: (lb-4, nb-1) 5
Total: (for two wickets, 13 overs) 41
Fall of wickets: 1-16, 2-40.
Bowling: Steyn 6-1-15-1, Ntini 4-2-10-1, Nel 3-0-12-0.
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Younis’ majestic 117 powers Pakistan to win
MOHALI, India (Reuters) - Pakistan vice-captain Younis Khan hit a majestic 117 to power the team to a thrilling four-wicket win over India with a ball to spare in the second one-day international yesterday.
Younis hit nine fours and two sixes and anchored the innings with a superb 102-run fifth-wicket partnership with Misbal-ul Haq (49) to spur Pakistan to 322 for six in 49.5 overs chasing India's 321 for nine.
It was Pakistan's highest successful one-day run chase, improving upon the 319 for seven they achieved against India on their 2005 tour.
Younis and Misbah were bowled in quick succession with 39 runs needed off 3.2 overs but Shahid Afridi hammered 29 not out from 14 balls to set up the win.
Sachin Tendulkar had scored a masterly 99 for India after the hosts chose to bat first in the day-night game.
The 34-year-old batsman hit 14 fours and a six off 91 balls and dominated a 173-run second-wicket partnership with left-hander Gautam Gambhir, who hit 57.
Pakistan lost wickets at steady intervals after their task was made tougher by their poor effort on the field, conceding 41 extras.
However, Afridi hit three fours in a row to take 17 runs off left-arm Zaheer Khan's 47th over and another 11 runs the next over to leave just six runs to win in the final over.
India won the first game by five wickets. The third match will be played in Kanpur on Sunday.
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INDIA innings
S. Ganguly b Akhtar 6
S. Tendulkar c Akmal b Gul 99
G. Gambhir c Afridi b Gul 57
V. Sehwag b Afridi 25
Y. Singh c Gul b Tanvir 34
M. Dhoni c Akmal b Akhtar 4
R. Uthappa lbw b Tanvir 0
I. Pathan c Yousuf b Akhtar 7
H. Singh not out 38
Z. Khan run-out 9
R.P. Singh not out 1
Extras: (lb-7, nb-3, w-31) 41
Total: (nine wickets, 50 overs) 321
Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-179, 3-186, 4-239, 5-259, 6-260, 7-266, 8-278, 9-311.
Bowling: Akhtar 10-1-42-3 (w-11 nb-1), Gul 10-2-56-2 (w-8), Tanvir 10-0-56-2 (w-3 nb-1), Iftikhar 7-0-64-0 (w-3), Malik 3-0-31-0 (w-1 nb-1), Afridi 10-0-65-1 (w-5).
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PAKISTAN innings
S. Butt b Pathan 37
K. Akmal c Y. Singh b R. Singh 13
Y. Khan b Khan 117
M. Yousuf stp. Dhoni b Harbhajan 12
S. Malik c Pathan b Harbhajan 25
M. Ul-Haq b R. Singh 49
S. Afridi not out 29
S. Tanvir not out 14
Extras (lb-9, w-16, nb-1) 26
Total (six wickets, 49.5 overs) 322
Fall of wickets: 1-38, 2-81, 3-105, 4-174, 5-276, 6-283.
Bowling: Z. Khan 10-0-70-1 (w-3), R. Singh 10-0-59-2 (nb-1, w-6), I. Pathan 9.5-0-53-1 (w-3), S. Ganguly 9-0-55-0 (w-2), Harbhajan Singh 10-0-65-2 (w-2), S. Tendulkar 1-0-11-0.
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Tendulkar's nineties jinx
AFTER being dismissed in the nineties just ten times in his first 17 years of one-day cricket, the jinx has struck Sachin Tendulkar five times over the last five months.
Three of those knocks have been 99s, which makes Tendulkar the only batsman to be dismissed at that score thrice.
He has fallen victim to the Nervous Nineties 15 times in ODIs, easily a record. Nathan Astle, Aravinda de Silva and Grant Flower have managed it nine times, though each was unbeaten on a couple of occasions.
It was also the fifth time Tendulkar fell in the nineties against Pakistan; the other teams who have dismissed him in the nineties are England, South Africa and Sri Lanka (three times each) and Australia (once).
Tendulkar's continual struggle to get past the nineties also means that he has now failed to get to a hundred in his last 26 ODIs - his last century was against West Indies in Vadodara in January 2007.
It's his second-longest stretch without a hundred since he scored his first one - he went 32 games without one after he scored his 12th.
The lack of three-figure scores hasn't affected his batting average, though, since he has scored 11 fifties in those 26 games, helping him maintain a healthy average of 44.92 during this period. (Cricinfo)
German federation plays down Haas poison rumour
By Iain Rogers
BERLIN, Germany (Reuters) - The German tennis federation (DTB) believes there is no medical evidence to support a rumour that Tommy Haas was poisoned during Germany's Davis Cup semi-final defeat by Russia in Moscow in September.
German Davis Cup doubles player Alexander Waske was quoted in German media on Wednesday as saying an unnamed Russian had told him in Moscow that Haas had been poisoned.
DTB spokesman Oliver Quante said on Thursday that Haas had confirmed he would travel to New York for hair and blood tests to see if there was any truth to the rumour.
However, he said that German team doctor Erich Rembeck had noted there was no medical evidence to support the claim. A senior Russian tennis official called the poisoning story "complete rubbish".
"There is no medical reason that justifies further, targeted tests with regard to poisoning," Quante said.
"As an association, we must rely on facts in judging and assessing the situation and not on speculation," he added.
"Therefore, because we have no evidence of poisoning and because we do not know how reliable the informant is, we must assume that it's no more than speculation."
Haas, Germany's number one player, was beaten in straight sets on the opening day of the match and was unable to play in the reverse singles on Sunday because of a case of gastro-enteritis.
"I had never in my life felt so dreadful and I was really starting to get scared," Haas was quoted as saying in yesterday's Bild newspaper.
Russia won the tie 3-2 with victories in both the final day's singles rubbers.
"We lost that weekend because the Russian team were better than we over the three days," Quante said, adding that the DTB was not considering challenging the result.
WEAKEST PLAYER
Alexander Katsnelson, general director of the Kremlin Cup who was responsible for organising the Davis Cup semi-final from the Russian side, told Reuters yesterday it was odd that the story had come out more than a month after the match.
"We don't take them (poison rumours) seriously. This is just usual stuff coming from a guy who lost," he said.
It would not have made sense for the Russians to poison Haas because he was Germany's weakest player in the tie, he added.
Haas was thrashed by Igor Andreev 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 in the opening singles rubber before being replaced by the 206th-ranked Philipp Petzschner for the reverse singles on the final day.
"Since he (Haas) arrived in Moscow and began training it was evident he was not in good shape physically, he was huffing and puffing on the court," Katsnelson said.
He added that it was possible Haas had suffered food poisoning "if he had eaten something somewhere".
"I can categorically say the food at the venue was of the best quality," he said. "We had the same catering company preparing food for both teams, so Haas can't blame the organisers for any of his problems."
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) is investigating the rumour, ITF spokeswoman Barbara Travers said yesterday.
ICC chief hopes for amicable solution to media boycott
MUMBAI, India (Reuters) - International Cricket Council (ICC) chief executive Malcolm Speed hopes the rights dispute involving Cricket Australia (CA) and leading international news agencies will be resolved amicably.
Reuters, Associated Press and Agence France-Presse are boycotting the first Test between Australia and Sri Lanka in Brisbane, which started yesterday, after organisers demanded payment for the right to distribute photographs from the event.
"I would hope that the issue can be resolved amicably and that those agencies that have not been accredited can then be accredited," Speed told a news conference yesterday.
The row is the second major rights dispute to hit international sports organisers in two months following a high-profile clash in the build-up to rugby's World Cup.
"I think it is a very complicated issue," Speed said. "I think the stance that Cricket Australia has taken is being firm."
The three agencies said the decision by Cricket Australia to control the rights and demand a payment threatened their integrity.
"It is one of those issues time will tell," Speed said. "Other sports have been through this. Cricket has dealt with this before."
The row follows the dispute in September between media and the International Rugby Board (IRB) which threatened coverage of the rugby World Cup.
The IRB tried to impose restrictions on media, limiting photos and video on the Internet.
This prompted the news agencies and a 40-strong world news media coalition to boycott the build-up to the World Cup. An agreement was reached hours before the opening match.
Younis dedicates century to Woolmer
By N.Ananthanarayanan
MOHALI, India (Reuters) - Vice-captain Younis Khan dedicated his match-winning 117 in the second one-dayer against India yesterday to Pakistan's late coach Bob Woolmer.
Younis anchored the innings as Pakistan recorded their highest successful one-day run chase to win with a ball to spare and level the five-match series 1-1.
His third one-day hundred lifted the visitors to 322 for six after India totalled 321 for nine.
"The situation required such a knock," Younis told reporters. "Today I tried hard and it worked and I can say it is special.
"I would like to dedicate this innings to Bob Woolmer, especially the way he used to work with me."
Younis, named man-of-the-match, put on 102 for the fifth wicket with Misbah-ul Haq (49).
When the centurion was out in the 46th over, Shahid Afridi took Pakistan over the finishing line with 29 not out off 14 balls.
Woolmer died a day after Pakistan's shock first-round elimination at the World Cup in the Caribbean in March.
Sharapova and Ivanovic through to WTA semis
By Simon Baskett
MADRID, Spain (Reuters) - Maria Sharapova secured her place in the semi-finals of the WTA Championships yesterday after fighting her way back from a set down to overpower world number two Svetlana Kuznetsova 5-7, 6-2, 6-2.
Sharapova, who won the prestigious end-of-season event in 2004 but whose season has been disrupted by injury, recovered from a slow start to produce some top class tennis, giving her Russian compatriot the run-around at the Madrid Arena.
"She hurt me in the first set but I got hold of myself and stayed tough and positive which was really good," said Sharapova.
Sharapova's victory means that Serbia's Ana Ivanovic will join her in the semi-finals from the red group. The two players go head-to-head today to decide who will go through as group winner.
World number one Justin Henin had already booked her place from the yellow group but there was no letting up from the Belgian in her final round-robin match as she demolished a shell-shocked Marion Bartoli 6-0, 6-0 in 57 minutes.
Bartoli, who stepped into the event after Serena Williams withdrew because of a knee injury during her opening match on Wednesday, beat Henin in the semi-finals of Wimbledon this year.
HEAVIEST DEFEAT
But she was never given a chance to settle as Henin blew her away with some sublime tennis to inflict the heaviest ever defeat in the 35-year history of the end-of-season Championships and ensure she topped her group.
"It was a great one, almost everything was perfect tonight," said defending champion Henin. "I showed lots of determination and wanted to get my revenge."
Sharapova, who has been struggling with a shoulder injury in the latter part of the season, was edged out by the hard-running Kuznetsova in the first set.
But she found her rhythm in the second and started stretching Kuznetsova around the court with some heavy ground strokes, hitting back with breaks in the fifth and seventh games.
In the third set, a Kuznetsova double fault gifted Sharapova three break points in the fifth game which she took at the first opportunity with a brilliant backhand cross-court winner and she broke again in the seventh on her way to a confident victory.
"I gave everything, but Maria was just better and played much better than her ranking," said Kuznetsova. "I'm disappointed but it is the best eight players in the world."
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