TOP STORY

President gets warm welcome in Linden
by Joe Chapman and Abigail Kippins
THE ailing bauxite industry at the Linden Mining Enterprise (Linmine) "will survive in spite of the difficulties it faces for marketing its products", President Bharrat Jagdeo assured yesterday.

He stressed the point when he met top management and non-management workers at the Watooka Club House as he continued a tour of communities following his re-election at the March 19 elections.

Mr Jagdeo said he was extremely pleased to visit the mining town again.

After being formally greeted by Linmine's Chief Executive Officer, Mr Horace James, the President noted the warm welcome he got and said the bauxite company cannot continue to be on the "holding mode".

He also hinted that the Linden Power Company's performance is under scrutiny for its power generation especially with the bauxite industry.

President Jagdeo was warmly greeted by residents of the Wismar area before he was escorted to Mackenzie via boat where he met vendors and other residents in the vicinity of the municipal market.

The residents crowded around him to raise their concerns and asked for quick actions to better their lives in the community.

The President said efforts are being made to improve the community, including an improved water supply to the town.

"Water is (the government's) responsibility; we will look at that and we also have to look at the extension of power and roads which are very important...we have to start working now", President Jagdeo said.

He noted that there is a heavy cost to installing all the necessary infrastructure but efforts will be made to put these in place.

In terms of housing, the President expressed his disappointment at the slow pace of applications for house lots and the distribution of land titles. He said this will be looked into.

Some residents said they are eagerly awaiting the President's next visit since they have several other community problems to raise and discuss.

The President said a way must be found to move the bauxite industry forward and he intends to capitalise on the skills of the workers within the industry to charter a course forward when he returns within a month to get their varying views on what must be done to change the trend of things in Linmine and Linden.

The Head of State made it clear that "the political season is over and I have to get back with renewed vigour to the task of development".

He also said that politics does not solve problems and there were many concerns that affect people.

These, he said, mainly include better health care, better housing and water (facilities) and all these issues affect the quality of life which politics does not solve.

He zeroed in on Linmine's problems with "capitalisation" while noting that there other problems which are interwoven.

One is the fact that there is the decision to keep the employment level up at Linmine and he remarked that if the industry was privately owned, there would have been steps to have the employment level down.

Linmine, according to a top bauxite official, employs some 1,300 workers and based on information given to President Jagdeo by another source close to the

industry, the Linden operations at best would need between 700 to 800 employees.

Mr Jagdeo said, "because of the social consideration I know that Linden itself has not been able to be generating jobs, so we have had to keep the employment level up and so that also to some extent makes you uncompetitive".

This led to another sore area in the town of power generation which was de-linked by the government in 1998 to the Linden Power Company through its parent Company, Texas Ohio Energy of the United States which has not lived up to expectations.

Formerly, Linmine produced its own power for the community and its mining and bauxite plant operations which depend heavily on electricity. Linmine could not rehabilitate the facility and this led to its privatisation.

President Jagdeo told workers, "we have a situation with the power which is becoming increasingly worrying because at some time in the future we may have to consider taking power; we have to consider that."

"We are not pleased with what is taking place as regards the power; it is affecting our ability to produce and I can't allow that situation to continue much longer."

Touching on the joint venture efforts by the government in its quest for a partnership deal for the bauxite industry, the President said a number of efforts were made to get this process done.

He noted the way forward was to get as a partner an investor that has some element of marketing.

It should also be one that uses bauxite as an end product which will be linking the uses of bauxite to products to the investment or production aspect and so far, after three attempts on the market, both Linmine and the Berbice Mining Enterprise (Bermine) failed to attract an investor and the due diligence on some offers proved not to be in the industry's best interest.

President Jagdeo reminded those present that he wanted to get to the bottom of what has been affecting the bauxite industry over the years and was interested in the facts, if any time was being wasted on resources and if that was so, it must stop.

He said that would be the main reason he was looking forward to meeting again both the top line management and the main players on the floor level of the bauxite industry.

The President promised to visit Linden by next month with other government officials to give residents of that community the opportunity to raise issues of concern and have them addressed.

Officials of the regional body are also to be at that meeting and would be involved in the discussions, the President said.

Several issues were raised with him when he walked through the town yesterday meeting the people but he said he could not address all at that time and promised to return for at least two days next month to listen to and find meaningful solutions for the problems.

Mr Jagdeo has also visited several communities along the East Coast Demerara, including Plaisance and Beterverwagting, where he met residents and engaged them in healthy discussions as he listened to their various concerns.

Housing problems, the need for infrastructural developments and limited job opportunities were among some of the other issues raised when he visited the mining town yesterday.

Following his meeting with residents at the Watooka Club House, the President visited the East Montgomery mine where he was given a brief explanation of its operations.

Workers raised concern about the resuscitation of the old machinery but the President suggested that these be replaced with new equipment which will be discussed with the relevant authorities.

Warning shots fired during funeral procession incident

MOURNERS knocked over police barricades and stoned the PPP/C Freedom House headquarters and the residence of President Bharrat Jagdeo yesterday as thousands turned out for the funeral of shot vendor Donna McKinnon.

Although organisers pleaded for discipline during the procession before the throngs left the 1763 Monument Square in Georgetown after the funeral service, a section broke off from the arranged route, threw aside police barriers on Robb Street determined to march past the PPP/C headquarters on the same street.

Police said McKinnon's body was found on Robb Street, Georgetown last week Monday when the massive fire razed almost a block of stores on Regent and Robb streets and investigations were continuing into how she died.

PPP/C officials said Freedom House came under attack from some in the procession who stoned it.

Some among the mourners also stoned the residence of Mr Jagdeo as they passed by and guards fired warning shots in the air, police confirmed.

Four men were also spotted trying to jump the western fence of the compound of the President's house in Queenstown, an official said.

Although much of the procession and service was orderly and peaceful, a group attacked and robbed passengers in a Number 63 bus at Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara where McKinnon was buried late yesterday.

In a statement yesterday, police said that at 17:30 hrs last week Monday, the body of McKinnon, 43, was found in Robb Street with gunshot wounds.

Police said substantial enquiries have been conducted in the area and so far persons living and working in the area have been questioned.

"These include persons associated with the nearby Lodge Hall, a television station and a nearby political party. No eyewitnesses to the discovery or placement of the dead body has come forward to give any assistance", the statement said.

It said the Police Force has made an approach and is awaiting the results of a request to have an independent foreign pathologist to assist them in the investigation.

The Police are also offering a reward of $250,000 to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and preferment of a charge or charges against the person or persons involved in the shooting.

"The Police would also wish to have information which can be of assistance in relation to the shooting or placement of the body.

"Enquiries are also being conducted in the unlawful shooting of Ragnauth Ragoobar, age 27, which occurred on Monday, April 9, 2001 between 14:00 and 14:50 hours at James and Non Pariel streets, Albouystown. Ragoobar was shot dead at his premises", police said.

"Members of the public who might have any information on these incidents are requested to assist by passing such information to the Police on any of the following telephone numbers: (22-68869; 22-53650; 22-61326; 22 61389; 22-67476; 22-52317; 22-53052; 22-62069; 22-52700; 22-56411), or to the nearest Police Station.

"We would wish to assure members of the public that such information would be treated with the strictest confidence."

Police confirmed that a car was set on fire and the driver reportedly assaulted after an incident Tuesday night at the 1763 Monument Square where a wake was being kept for McKinnon.

The car was reportedly owned by a miner and police said they are investigating the incident.

As the body of McKinnon was about to be buried at her hometown Golden Grove well after sunset, things turned sour when the back windscreen of a Number 63 bus was smashed and occupants of the vehicle hurt and reportedly robbed of their possessions.

This caused a build-up of traffic on the already massively congested roadway with vehicles crisscrossed, creating a virtual traffic jam.

It was about 18:45 hrs when the casket eventually arrived in front of the home of McKinnon's parents at Golden Grove and things had continued to go well.

But as the casket was about to be taken to the cemetery, events turned ugly, and the Number 63 bus en route to Berbice was reportedly attacked and occupants robbed.

The occupants of the vehicle which was on the public road near the Golden Grove Market, appeared to have been travelling from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri to Berbice, and were reportedly relieved of items they had.

But since there were only about two police ranks (both outriders) on hand, merely to direct traffic, it took some time before an investigation could be undertaken.

Persons who had accompanied the cortege from Georgetown roundly condemned the incident and clearly had no part in it.

There was a three-hour programme at the 1763 Monument Square, chaired by Mr. Archie Poole, representative of the Justice for Jermaine Committee.

The eulogy was read by daughter of the deceased, Ms Shaundell Solomon who referred to her mother as a "Straight Up person."

Leader of the main Opposition People's National Congress Reform (PNC/R), Mr. Desmond Hoyte gave the final message to the gathering.

Mr. Hoyte noted: "A hard working Guyanese woman has been cut down in the prime of her life, and tragically taken away from her family to whom she was the pillar of support. She was only 43."

He said that ironically, McKinnon was seeking refuge from the confusion created by "irresponsible elements" of the police force.

"The absence of any meaningful action by the authorities to bring the perpetrators of the crime to justice; the deafening silence of this atrocity, by an otherwise vocal civil society, and the senseless behaviour of those in government, must be noted by our citizens", he said.

Hoyte noted that, history however, has its lesson for the silence.

He said the question which must now be answered is, "Who killed Donna McKinnon?"

"Is it only the assassin, or is it the system that promotes victimisation, discrimination and marginalisation of our communities, or is it also the system that encourages lawlessness by some sections of the Police Force that thrive on brutally assaulting our citizens?"

"Donna McKinnon," he said, "has now become a symbol of our struggles for freedom from the yoke of oppression, discrimination, victimisation and marginalisation."

Hoyte said, "Guyana cannot prosper unless there is acceptance and demonstration of the fact that Guyana must be for all Guyanese."

He said no public relations programme can wish the inequities in "our system" away.

Among those reading tributes were representatives of vendors, the Justice for Jermaine Committee (JJC), the Guyana Youth and Student Movement (GYSM), youth arm of the PNC/R; the African Cultural Development Association, the National Congress of Women and the PNC/R.

McKinnon's casket was placed for viewing under a yellow and white canopy above which the 1763 Monument towered.

Throughout the programme order was maintained and the Chairman repeatedly insisted that it should be an incident-free day, asserting: "D for Donna and D for Discipline."

Some of the scores of banners and placards carried by mourners read, "We must have Justice"; "If no Justice, No Peace"; "Police Brutality Must Stop".

High above the stage was a huge red banner, "Donna Mc Kinnon Must not Die in Vain; We demand Justice for Donna".

The service concluded around 15:00 hrs with the singing of "We Shall overcome".

The casket draped in the flag of the PNC/R was taken away on a Canter truck on which were McKinnon's sons and daughters.

Leaving the square, the large chanting throngs marched west into Brickdam, turning north into Avenue of the Republic in front of the law courts, with the intention of proceeding north past the Bank of Guyana.

But as the cortege approached the junction of Avenue of the Republic and Robb Street, acting on a request from the children of the deceased, the procession turned east and marched up Robb Street past Freedom House.

There were reports that a woman was injured in the frenzy when the warning shots were fired near the President's residence but police said this could not be confirmed.

President for Summit of the Americas
PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo will be attending the third Summit of the Americas to be held in Quebec City, Canada, which begins tomorrow and ends on Sunday.

A statement from the Office of the President yesterday said that in President Jagdeo's absence Prime Minister Sam Hinds will perform the duties of President while Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Mr Reepu Daman Persaud will carry out the functions of Prime Minister.

The summit will address the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) process, which Guyana has supported since the first summit in Miami in 1994.

According to the Office of the President, Guyana will advance its case for the need to ensure that mechanisms are put in place to ensure full and effective participation of smaller economies in the FTAA process.

"Guyana supports strongly the goals of the Summit; the preservation and strengthening of democracy and the promotion of good governance; economic integration and free trade; the eradication of poverty and discrimination and the practice of sustainable development," the statement said.

According to the office, President Jagdeo said, "We paid close attention to the formulation of the Summit's Plan of Action."

"The many themes stated are relevant to our development, more particularly the nexus between democracy and human development. I intend to highlight the importance of strengthening democracy, especially those emerging democracies if the FTAA process is to really move forward."

While at the Summit of the Americas, President Jagdeo will hold bilateral discussions with his counterparts from across the hemisphere.

Additionally, President Jagdeo will be part of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) delegation of leaders meeting United States President Mr George W. Bush.

President Jagdeo will be accompanied to the summit by the Minister of Foreign Trade and International Cooperation, Mr Clement Rohee and Guyana's National Coordinator for the Summit and the Director, Department of the Americas and Asia, Ms Elizabeth Harper.

Nations in the Western Hemisphere that turn their backs on democracy can expect to be excluded from the Free Trade Area of the Americas, senior Canadian officials said Tuesday.

The hard line marks the first time government officials have made such a clear link between participation in the proposed FTAA and sustained democracy.

Senior officials said the 34 "sherpas", or advance representatives from hemispheric countries, had agreed last weekend in Quebec City to reinforce a so-called democratic charter, to be unveiled this Sunday, in a way that nations breaking away from democracy will be isolated and kicked out of any free trade agreement.

"The democracy clause includes the Free Trade of the Americas. If a country is to abandon a democratic regime, the clause will be triggered for the whole process," one Canadian official said in a news briefing from Ottawa.

"It is, in a sense, the passport for future summit participation," he added.

Once completed, the FTAA will link nearly 800 million people, or about 15 per cent of the world's population.

The region produced more than $11.4 trillion in goods and services in 1999 and about $2.7 trillion in cross-border trade.

Trade officials have set a target date of Jan. 1, 2005, for creating the world's largest free trade zone, stretching from Canada to Chile.

The summit is expected to send a "very firm" and "important signal" on democracy to Latin America nations, Canadian officials said.

"It is a strong message to send to the hemisphere," one senior official said. "If you don't belong to the democratic family, you are not in the club."

Dictatorship may largely be a thing of the recent past but democracy is still far from being firmly rooted in nations such as Haiti and Venezuela.

Ecuador and Paraguay had military uprisings in the past 15 months and scandals forced new elections in Peru.

Colombia is mired in its fourth decade of civil war and peasant movements in Bolivia and Brazil often boil over in violent protests.

The Canadian officials said that leaders could hold a special meeting this weekend or make a declaration on democracy in Haiti and the peace process in Colombia.

The officials said hemispheric leaders would be consulted before a country was kicked out of the Americas "club".

They added that the Organisation of American States' executive council would take any final decision.

"The OAS is dealing with the political questions of the hemisphere," one official added.

New aircraft for GDF
THE maritime surveillance capabilities of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) are to be significantly boosted with the signing last evening of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the GDF and a Chinese Corporation, for the acquisition of a Y-12 light transport aircraft.

The aircraft which can carry 19 passengers and has a payload allowance of 1,700 kilograms is being made available by the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC).

The agreement was signed by Chief of Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Michael Atherly and CATIC Vice President, Mr Wang Dawei, at a simple ceremony in Atherly's office, Camp Ayangana, Georgetown.

On hand was a small group of Chinese officials and senior GDF officers.

Brigadier Atherly who observed a flight demonstration of the aircraft at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri yesterday, remarked at the signing ceremony that the MOU sets out the basic terms and conditions under which the aircraft is being purchased.

The aircraft will, however, remain in the safekeeping of the GDF until all aspects of the agreement have been concluded, he said.

Though he declined to disclose the cost of the aircraft, Atherly said it was acquired under a "reasonable financial arrangement."

He noted that the Chinese will conduct minor training for the GDF pilots and other technical staff who will be involved with the aircraft.

With capabilities similar to those of the Twin Otter and well beyond those of an Islander, the Y12 is well suited for the rough airstrips in the hinterland, and can be configured to satisfy both the commercial and military role of the GDF, officials said.

In brief remarks, Mr Dawei said he was happy to have reached a primary deal for the purchase of the aircraft to serve the national economy and defence of Guyana.

Meanwhile, a senior GDF official said the aircraft which leaves for Ecuador to participate in another flight demonstration before returning here, is being marketed around the region.

Other countries have already begun accepting delivery or are in the process of making arrangements for purchase, the official said.

The acquisition of the aircraft is all part of the Government's plan for recapitalisation the GDF.

Last week, the Guyana and United States governments also concretised an agreement for the transfer of three 44-ft patrol boats from the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), to the Coast Guard Unit of GDF.

Those vessels should be here by July, Commander-in-Chief of SOUTHCOM, General Peter Pace said before departing after a two-day visit.

He noted too that while there was no in-depth discussion on the provision of a helicopter, the issue was raised in discussion with Atherly. (WENDELLA DAVIDSON)

NEWS

Sawh satisfied with measures to prevent cattle diseases
by Amanda Wilson
MINISTER of Fisheries, Crops and Livestock, Mr Satyadeow Sawh yesterday visited the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri and expressed satisfaction with the systems implemented against Foot and Mouth disease and Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) or Mad Cow disease.

The tour of the main port of entry in Guyana by the Minister was to afford him a "first hand look" at the measures being implemented in accordance with the Regional Strategy created last month at a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) veterinary conference.

Minister Sawh toured the Immigration and Customs sections and was also present when passengers from two incoming flights were taken through the steps.

The Government Minister was accompanied by senior officials within his Ministry who were Mr Bhowan Balkarran, Permanent Secretary; Dr Steve Surujbally, Advisor to the Minister; Chief Crop and Livestock Officer, Mr John Clowes and Senior Veterinary Officer, Dr Kenrick Eliaz.

Speaking to the media at the end of the tour, Sawh said that he was satisfied with the operation. He urged airport personnel to maintain the standard they have achieved.

The Minister reiterated that the systems are at the facility to ensure that Guyana remains free of both diseases presently threatening the United Kingdom and other European countries.

Guyana is expected to be certified free of Foot and Mouth disease by the World Health Organisation for Animal Health (Office International des Epizooties) (OIE) next month, the Minister noted.

The OIE is the international body recognised by the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

The team also held discussions with personnel including airport Manager Mr P. Lynch, Customs Officer Mr Marlon Phillips, and Dorret Jones, a Ministry of Agriculture representative

For the benefit of passengers, posters highlighting banned products and the various steps being implemented at the airport are placed at strategic points.

All incoming passengers are required to step on foot bath mats soaked with 10 per cent chlorine. They are also to declare banned products.

Clothing belonging to visitors from the United Kingdom and European countries will also be sprayed with a chemical.

Yesterday, for the first time, foot bath trays were taken to the stairway of aircraft. According Clowes, the trays are refreshed daily.

Asked what happens with products that are seized from passengers, Clowes explained that they are disposed under strict conditions at a nearby incinerator.

Clowes noted that additional staff from the Ministry of Fisheries, Crops and Livestock have been deployed at the airport to ensure that steps to prevent the diseases are carried out properly.

He also disclosed that similar systems are in place at Moleson Creek, Corentyne, and at Lethem in Region Nine.

The Foot and Mouth disease only affects livestock including cattle, sheep and swine. Once infected, animals must be destroyed immediately by burning in order to prevent the spread of the disease.

Mad Cow disease can affect humans and is spread through contaminated meat, human protein, animal products and animal feeds of animal origin. It can also be carried on clothing, utensils, shoes and luggage.

Representatives of the various sections at the airport all said passengers have been cooperating fully with them and that no problems have been encountered so far.

Sports clubs in Region Three
benefit from YCI
SEVERAL youth clubs in Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) were given a boost following the presentation of a quantity of sports equipment under the President's Youth Choice Initiative (YCI).

Western Hogg Island Primary School Teacher, Mr. Irfan Khan, representing Sports Officer Mr. Jewan Dookie, noted at a recent ceremony that the availability of the sports equipment indicates the President Bharrat Jagdeo's concern for the total development of youths.

Khan said that sports in several riverain communities has been dormant over the years, but with the youth clubs now equipped there will be an increase in sporting activities.

Echoing similar sentiments with regards to the YCI, Mr. Rakesh Ramsamujh, President of the 38-member lower Bonasika Stalwart Youth and Sports Club explained that sporting activities will now be conducted in an organised manner among the various clubs in the communities.

President Jagdeo has allocated $50M for the development of youth projects in the Region. Among the projects earmarked for development are poultry rearing, rehabilitation of play-fields, purchase of farming equipment, rehabilitation of community centres and acquisition of text books.

Clubs that benefited from sports equipment are Karia Karia, Troolie Island, Hogg Island and Lower Bonasika.

Presentations were made by Regional Vice-Chairman, Mr. Ramenaught Bisram, Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Mohamed Ishmael and Regional Councillor, Mr. Essau Dookie.
(Guyana Information Services)

Let us protect our roads
THIS truck was seen on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway trying to enter a yard. The overload does more damage than larger vehicles in which the weight is better distributed over more axles. The Ministry of Public Works and Communications wishes to advise road-users that trucks such as the one pictured here do a lot of damage to roads.

Following GPSU charges...
PSI to mount international mission here
THE Inter-American Regional Economic Committee (IAMREC) of Public Services International (PSI) has undertaken to arrange "a mission of International Trade Unionist and Organisation" to Guyana.

It would be to assist in resolving a dispute Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) claims it has with the Government of Guyana.

The mandate was given at an April 10 to 12 IAMREC meeting held in Washington D.C., where GPSU was represented by its President, Mr Patrick Yarde.

Yarde, also a member of the PSI Executive Board, complained, at the forum in the United States, that the Government here "continues to pursue a policy of confrontation with GPSU".

He said the most recent action was articulated in a Public Service Ministry (PSM) circular issued by Nanda K. Gopaul, Permanent Secretary, Public Service Management, Office of the President.

According to Yarde, the document attempted to restrict the trade union and constitutional rights of Public Service workers.

The preamble to an "emergency" resolution, tabled by GPU and unanimously passed by the Washington gathering, charged that elements of the local Police Force have been repeatedly compromised by use of unlawful practices to threaten, assault, brutalise and shoot workers peacefully protesting to call attention to abuses to which they are exposed.

The motion condemned all unlawful acts perpetuated "by any agent of the Guyana Government" while acting on the Government's behalf and demands an immediate cessation and, where necessary, correction of all such action.

It seriously urged "a positive response to the repeated efforts at conciliation to bring a conclusion to a course of action that can have no victor but assures the prolonged suffering of the Guyanese citizens who, instead, deserve to be protected," the GPSU statement disclosed.

GPSU is the main PSI affliate in this country and Yarde is its Executive Board member responsible for the Caribbean region.

ISSUES IN HEALTH
Food safety and food-borne illness
FOOD safety is an increasingly important public health issue. Governments all over the world are intensifying their efforts to improve food safety. These efforts are in response to an increasing number of food safety problems and rising consumer concerns.

Food-borne illnesses are defined as diseases, usually either infectious or toxic in nature, caused by agents that enter the body through the ingestion of food. Every person is at risk of food borne illness.

Food-borne diseases are a widespread and growing public health problem, both in developed and developing countries.

* The global incidence of food-borne disease is difficult to estimate, but it has been reported that in 1998 alone, 2.2 million people, including 1.8 million children, died from diarrhoeal diseases. A great proportion of these cases can be attributed to contamination of food and drinking water. Additionally, diarrhoea is a major cause of malnutrition in infants and young children.

* Industrialised countries, the percentage of people suffering from food-borne diseases each year has been reported to be up to 30 per cent. In the United States of America, for example, around 76 million cases of food-borne diseases, resulting in 325 000 hospitalisations and 5 000 deaths, are estimated to occur each year.

* While less documented, developing countries bear the brunt of the problem due to the presence of a wide range of food-borne diseases, including those caused by parasites. The high prevalence of diarrhoeal diseases in many developing countries suggests major underlying food safety problems.

* While most food-borne diseases are sporadic and often not reported, food-borne disease outbreaks may take on massive proportions. For example, in 1994, an outbreak of salmonellosis due to contaminated ice cream occurred in the USA, affecting an estimated 224 000 persons. In 1988, an outbreak of hepatitis A, resulting from the consumption of contaminated clams, affected some 300 000 individuals in China.

Major Food-borne diseases from Micro-organisms
* Salmonellosis is a major problem in industrialised countries. Salmonellosis is caused by the Salmonella bacteria and symptoms are fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Examples of foods involved in outbreaks of salmonellosis are eggs, poultry and other meats, raw milk and chocolate.

* Campylobacteriosis is a widespread infection. It is caused by certain species of Campylobacer bacteria and in some countries, the reported number of cases surpasses the incidence of salmonellosis. Food-borne cases are mainly caused by foods such as raw milk, raw or undercooked poultry and drinking water. Acute health effects of campylobacteriosis include severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea and diarrhoea. On two to ten per cent of cases the infection may lead to chronic health problems, including reactive arthritis and neurological disorders.

* Infections due to enterohaemorrhagic (causing internal bleeding) E.coli, e.g. E.coli O157, and listeriosis are important food-borne diseases which have emerged over the last decades. Although their incidence is relatively low, their severe and sometimes fatal health consequences, particularly among infants, children and the elderly, make them among the most serious food-borne infections.

Pathogenic Escherichia coli strains, such as E.coli O157, which produce a potent (vero-) toxin cause haemorrhagic infections in the colon, resulting in bloody diarrhoea or life-threatening complications such as kidney failure. E.coli O157 outbreaks have been mainly related to beef, but sprouts, lettuce and juice have also caused outbreaks.

Listeria monocytogenes is the cause of listeriosis which has a fatality rate of up to 30 per cent. The most frequent effects are meningitis and miscarriage or meningitis of the foetus or new-born. Many types of foods have been implicated in listeriosis cases. Often, a long refrigeration period seems to have contributed to outbreaks.

* Cholera is a major public health problem in developing countries, causing enormous economic losses. The disease is caused by Vibrio cholerae, a bacterium. In addition to water, contaminated foods can be the vehicle of infection. Different foods, including rice, vegetables, millet gruel and various types of seafood have been implicated in outbreaks of cholera. Symptoms, including abdominal pain, vomiting and profuse watery diarrhoea, may led to severe dehydration and possibly death, unless fluid and salt are replaced.

Other Food Safety Problem
Some major examples are:
* Naturally occurring toxins, such as mycotoxins, marine biotoxins, cyanogenic glycosides and toxins occurring in poisonous mushrooms, periodically cause severe intoxications. Mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin and ochratoxin A, are found at measurable levels in many staple foods; the health implications of long-term exposure of such toxins are poorly understood.

* Unconventional agents such as prions, associated with cattle suffering from bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE or `mad cow disease'), are suspected to cause new variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease in humans. Consumption of meat products is a potential route to transmission of prions to humans.

* Persistant Organic Pollutants (POPs): Dioxins and PCBs( polychlorinated biphenyls) exist in the environment and in the human body,. Dioxins are unwanted by-products of industrial processes, especially waste incineration. Exposure to POPs may result in a wide variety of adverse effects in humans.

* Metals, such as lead and mercury, cause neurological damage, in infants and children. Exposure to cadmium can also cause kidney damage, usually seen in the elderly. These (and POPs) may contaminate food through pollution of air, water and soil.

Cost of food-borne diseases
* Food contamination creates an enormous social and economic burden on communities and their health systems. In the USA, diseases caused by the major pathogens alone are estimated to cost up to US$37.1B annually in medical costs and lost productivity. The re-emergence of cholera in Peru in 1991 resulted in the loss of US$700M in fish and fishery product exports.

Challenges and developments in Food Safety
* The safety of food derived from biotechnology needs to be carefully assessed. To provide the scientific basis for decisions regarding human health, new methods and policies to assess such food need to be developed and agreed upon internationally. The assessment should consider health benefits as well as possible negative health implications. Crops modified to resist pests, foods with allergens removed or food with an increase of essential nutrients are possible examples of the former, while anti-microbial markets in some genetically modified foods have been suggested to be an example of the latter.

The weighing of potential risks and benefits is an important aspect of assessment of foods derived from biotechnology that has not received much attention in the past. Likewise, clear communication of the basis for safety assessment in this area in generally lacking at national and international levels.

* If not properly monitored and assessed, changes in animal husbandry practices, including feeding, may have serious implications for food safety. For example, changes in the production process of ruminant borne and meat meal used as a feed supplement for cattle might have played a role in the emergence of BSE.

* Adding low levels of antibiotics to animal feed in order to increase growth rate has raised concern about the transfer of antibiotic resistance to human pathogens from this practice.

* Modern intensive agricultural practices contribute to increasing the availability of affordable foodstuffs and the use of food additives can improve the quality and safety of the food supply. However, appropriate controls are necessary to ensure their proper and safe use. Pre-market review and approval followed by continuous monitoring are necessary to ensure the safe use of pesticides, veterinary drugs and food additives.

* Other challenges, which need to be addressed to help ensure food safety, include the globalisation of trade in food, urbanisation, changes in lifestyles, international travel, environmental pollution and natural and man-made disasters. The food production chain has become more complex, providing greater opportunities for contamination and growth of pathogens. Many outbreaks of food-borne diseases that were once contained within a small community may now take on global dimensions.

Future Directions for Food Safety at the World Health Organisation
In partnership with other stakeholders, WHO is developing policies that will further promote the safety of food. These policies will cover the entire food chain from production to consumption and will make use if different types of expertise.

Future work if the WHO Food Safety Programme will include strengthening food safety systems, promoting good manufacturing practices and educating retailers and consumers about appropriate food handling. Education of consumers and training of food handlers in safe food handling is one of the most critical interventions in the prevention of food-borne illnesses.

* WHO is promoting in-country laboratory-based surveillance of priority food-borne diseases, as well as the monitoring of pathogens in food. In cooperation with its member states, WHO is working to support the development of internationally agreed-upon guidelines for data collection in countries. WHO is also compiling outbreak and surveillance databases, and is broadening its epidemic surveillance capacity to include food-borne disease outbreaks.

* WHO is expanding its global network of participating institutions to monitor chemical contamination of the food supply, particularly in developing countries.

* WHO is undertaking an important an important new initiative to strengthen the scientific basis of food safety activities through the establishment of a WHO/FAO expert advisory body to assess microbiological risks in food.

* WHO is increasing its involvement in the work of the FAO/WHO codex Alimentarius Commission, whose standards, guidelines and recommendations are regarded as the international reference for food safety requirements by the World Trade Organisation.

* Biotechnology has become a major public issue in developed as well as developing countries. WHO will support member states in providing the scientific basis for health-related decisions regarding food derived from biotechnology. WHO, jointly with FAO, will convene a series of expert consultations to assess the safety and nutritional aspects of foods derived from genetically modified plants, micro-organisms and animals. (WHO Fact Sheet)

Reward offered for stolen lap-top
A BRITISH Voluntary Service Officer (VSO) attached to the Ministry of Education is asking for the public's assistance in finding his lap-top computer which was stolen Tuesday evening.

Phillip Carey's black and silver `Toshiba' satellite computer #6725DVD was stolen at around 21:00 hrs from the VSO residence, Queen's College Compound, Georgetown.

The computer contains vital information compiled during field trips and Carey is offering a reward for its safe return.

Persons with information are asked to call telephone numbers - 225-6723, 223-7326 or 225-7629 or visit the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD), Kingston, Georgetown.
Attempt to burn St George's Cathedral deplorable
- President
PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo has condemned the attempt to burn down the world famous St. George's Cathedral in Georgetown in the current unrest since the March 19 elections.

Fire was set to the cathedral early last Thursday morning but it was put out by alert parishioners of the Anglican church who were passing by.

The attempt to torch the Cathedral, regarded as among the world's tallest wooden buildings, was met with outrage among church leaders, members of civil society and other Guyanese.

During a visit to two villages along the East Coast Demerara Tuesday afternoon, the President condemned this attempt which could have been a catastrophic end to a National Heritage.

"That is one of the worst things people can do...to burn down the St George's Cathedral," Mr Jagdeo told residents of Plaisance and Beterverwagting.

The President was at the time continuing his visits to various communities in his committed effort at urging residents not to be provoked into taking action that can lead to an escalation of tensions along racial lines.

He also urged residents in several communities along the East Coast during his visits which began on Saturday to protect not only their personal homes and properties but also schools, churches and other public buildings from being destroyed.

Several fires of suspicious origin were set to buildings in Georgetown last week amid anti-government street protests by mainly supporters of the opposition People's National Congress/Reform (PNC/R).

One devastating fire last week Monday gutted almost an entire block in Georgetown and witnesses said it was deliberately set.

Another fire gutted the old GRL building on Water and Holmes streets in the early morning hours of Thursday last.

It was while the fire was sweeping through the GRL building that the attempt was made to burn down St George's Cathedral a few blocks away.

"Look at the fire in Georgetown, look at how many people are out of jobs; people of all races...this is an integrated country and it's not like South Africa or one of the islands...", President Jagdeo said.

He pointed out that a lot of people have lost their jobs, many of them Afro-Guyanese and supporters of the PNC/R.

The President also noted that a lot of race-hate and inciteful speeches and rumours are being constantly peddled by persons in society and on television.

He said he has also been hearing quite frequently people actually urging others to clash in terms of racism.

But according to President Jagdeo, "everyone, every single Guyanese, will lose in a race clash in this country".

He pointed out that racial incitement is breaking the laws and will harm the whole country.

"All you need in this country are a few well planted rumours and a few orchestrated situations for people to fight."

"We have to be careful that it does not seem as a race issue because it's not," President Jagdeo said.

Businessman beaten, shot in robbery
by Stacey Davidson
A BUSINESSMAN was yesterday recovering in hospital after bandits attacked him, dealt him several blows to his head and shot him before fleeing with about $260,000 in cash and jewellery.

Sixty-five-year-old Lincoln Persaud, also known as 'Paddy Man', who operates a business selling cooking gas, rice and paddy at his home at Lot 1, Melanie Damishana public road, East Coast Demerara, was attacked Tuesday night and was yesterday with head injuries in the St Joseph's Mercy Hospital.

He was reportedly taking saline and was vomiting, according to relatives.

The businessman who lived alone, was shot in the left arm and beaten by the robbers, who gained entry through his bedroom slide window which was open, by using an iron gate to climb on to an adjoining building at the front of the house.

Persaud's nephew, Mr Sugrim Persaud who owns Sugrim's Realty, and his wife Sadeeka Rohit-Persaud were visiting him when the bandits struck at about mid-night.

Relating the ordeal which lasted for about 35 minutes, Sugrim said the family was looking at 'Square Talk', the television programme hosted by Kwame McKoy which finished at about 11:00 hrs, and they retired to bed shortly afterwards.

He said he was awakened by shouts from his uncle, calling his name, and as he quickly opened his bedroom door he was greeted by one of the bandits, with a gun pointing to his head.

The realtor said he and his wife were escorted to the uncle's bedroom and ordered to lie face down, as the three bandits demanded local and foreign currency and jewellery.

By that time, they had dealt the elderly Persaud several blows to his head with a baton and he was bleeding profusely.

The man kept on screaming to his neighbours for help, but no one came to their assistance, while the robbers kept demanding more money.

"Yuh gat mo' money, bring the foreign currency", they commanded the elderly man, and when he replied in the negative, they kicked him about his body, the nephew reported.

The bandits had already fired about eight shots in the ear, according to Sugrim.

While the bandits were searching the house for money which was found stashed under his mattress, Mr Persaud managed to drag himself out of the room and picked up an empty vodka bottle which was nearby and hit one of the bandits, who made his escape down the inner stairway, while the others jumped through the bedroom window.

While trying to defend himself, one of the bandits shouted: "Look, the so and so fat man getting away".

As the bandits made their escape, another shot was fired in the yard.

The watchman for the premises was chopped on his hand, last week, reportedly by bandits. He had not been at work since then.

The bedroom which the uncle occupied was ransacked, and there were blood stains on pieces of clothing scattered about the room yesterday.

Sugrim said they are very traumatised and would need counselling.

He said he and his wife decided to spend some time with his uncle, to "cool out" because of the tension that gripped the city recently.

They live in Georgetown.

The realtor moved all his household and office equipment to his uncle's place, because he said he was threatened recently, and he feared for his life.

Mr Lincoln Persaud's son, Ron Persaud owns Action Tyre located in Croal Street; another son, Nash Persaud is the owner of Special Auto in South Road while his daughter, Kamini Seejattan is the proprietress of Speedrite Auto, at Annandale, East Coast Demerara.

Prime Minister visits robbery victims

PRIME Minister Sam Hinds yesterday extended condolences to the bereaved family of Sophia businessman Steve Chow-en whose wife was killed when bandits ravaged their home on Monday night.

Police are hunting the bandits that terrorised the family and Mr Hinds promised that the government will render some form of assistance to the family.

"We will have to talk to the family and find out what kind of assistance would be appropriate and would be welcome in these circumstances", he explained.

While he visited the residence yesterday, Mr Hinds said he was deeply moved when he learnt about how Chow-en had established his business and how he is being affected now.

"I feel particularly sad to know that people who have been working hard to make an honest living, and providing a service to their community, such tragedy could happen to them", he said.

The Prime Minister said he hoped that the businessman would not be totally heartbroken but in time he would be able to pick up his life again and continue.

Chow-en started his business at Samaroo Street, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, more than two years by providing a transportation service, by horse-drawn cart, to people who were taking in building materials and other things in the area.

He had since established a grocery shop that eventually bloomed into a general store.

Chow-en said he was attacked by bandits and shot during last year, but still had the courage to continue doing business in the area, despite inadequate police protection there.

He is loved by many people in the community, one resident said.

She reported that all of Chow-en's customers who visited him after the tragedy, broke down in tears.

Chow-en could not indicate how or when his business will take off again but said there is tremendous encouragement from his customers.

He said he is now most concerned about taking care of his motherless children.

His wife, Bebiwatie Tikchand, 38, was shot in the right side of her abdomen and died at the Georgetown Hospital where she was rushed by hire car after the attack.

Bebiwatie was the mother of Ryan, seven; Amanda, four; Mikey, three; and 12-year-old Rochelle, who lives in Canada.

The children were sleeping when the bandits attacked.

Chow-en said the attack was fierce and even though it was met with much resistance and alarm by the family, the robbers persisted and entered his premises.

The gang robbed the family of about $300,000 in cash.

After the ordeal, Steve said he went into the shop where he saw his wife lying on the floor, weeping in pain and saying, "I got shot and I am going to die".

Bebiwatie was rushed to the Georgetown Hospital where she died.

Sabha condemns hostile actions
THE Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha yesterday said it joins with "all right thinking, law abiding and decent citizens in calling for an end to violence, arson and all other forms of behaviour, which provoke breaches of the peace and mayhem" in the country.

In a statement, the organisation said "the arson and violence directed at Indian Guyanese in the aftermath of the general elections that by all accounts were free, fair and transparent and reflected the free will of the Guyanese people, are cause for deep sadness and concern.

"The Sabha is of the view that these actions can only lead to irreparable damage and are virtually self-destructive. The organisation cannot ignore the role of those tele-activists on Channel Nine who wantonly incite hostility and breaches of the law and calls for appropriate actions to be taken by the law enforcement agencies.

"The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha strongly condemns these actions and calls on the perpetrators to bring an end to them and allow normalcy to return," the statement said.

Rohee invites Bill Gates to visit Guyana
MINISTER of Foreign Trade and International Cooperation, Mr. Clement Rohee has invited MICROSOFT boss, Mr. Bill Gates to visit Guyana.

In a letter to Gates, Rohee referred to a speech Gates had made at a recent international conference held under the theme 'Creating Digital Dividends' in which Gates posed the question `do people have a clear view of what it means to live on US$1 per day?'

Rohee told Gates that for a country like Guyana to overcome poverty and under-development, the basics in respect of information technology must be placed at its disposal. He referred to two fundamental but inter-related and mutual factors - the power of information technology and the power to use information technology.

It was in this context that Rohee issued the invitation to Gates to visit Guyana to have a first hand understanding of the uphill task faced by Guyana to overcome poverty and under-development.

In his response, Gates thanked Rohee for the invitation and expressed "heartfelt encouragement in addressing these issues in Guyana".

However, Gates told Rohee that his many commitments "did not allow a visit at this time."

Rohee has since responded to Gates suggesting other options to him until such time when the visit could be realised.

City Council to meet Stabroek stallholders today
THE Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown will meet all stallholders of the Stabroek Market today at 16:00 hrs at the market.

The purpose of the meeting is to update stallholders on the progress of the plan to rehabilitate the market under Phase One of the Urban Development Programme, the council said.

This plan includes repairs to the roof; rewiring and replacing and/or refurbishing other electrical installations; constructing a new sanitary block and rehabilitating the existing one.

The works are likely to cause substantial dislocation of stalls and other vending operations in and on the immediate periphery of the facility.

The council said it is, therefore, necessary for it to solicit the understanding and cooperation of those who are likely to be affected.

West Demerara groups plan march, rally
THE West Demerara Committee for Peace and Democracy will stage a march and rally on Sunday.

Church groups, religious bodies, non-governmental and social organisations are expected to assemble at the Vreed-en-Hoop junction at 09:30 hrs, where they will be addressed by community leaders and religious heads.

The organisation, in a statement, called on all Guyanese to unite and move the country towards future prosperity to ensure that there is self-confidence among all.

Participants will assemble at two points - Pappy Street, West Coast Demerara and Malgre-Tout, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara.

Singh to brief Guyanese in Britain
GUYANA's High Commissioner to London, Mr. Laleshwar Singh has convened a meeting at the Guyana High Commission tomorrow to further update Guyanese nationals, organisations, the media and others on all developments in Guyana following the March 19 elections.

The issues earmarked for discussion are the ruling of the Chief Justice regarding an injunction filed to prevent the swearing-in of the President; recent disturbances; imminent dialogue between President Bharrat Jagdeo and Mr. Desmond Hoyte; and the appointment of the new Cabinet.

The Commission said the format of the meeting would allow for full participation by those invited.

Finance Minister slams TV host over fabrication
FINANCE Minister Sasenarine Kowlessar has slammed the host and guests of the television talk-show programme `Straight Up' and the owner of NBTV Channel Nine and has urged them to end their campaign of spreading lies and rumours about officials of the governing People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

Kowlessar, in a statement yesterday, refuted a claim by a guest on the programme Monday who said that 17 acres of land had been advertised in the Official Gazette to be passed to him (Kowlessar).

The Minister said this statement, which was made by Ms Deborah Backer, an Attorney-at-Law and a member of the opposition People's National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) is "libelous and is a fabrication".

"In the Official Gazette of the 17 March 2001, Lot 131 part of Block `I' Plantation Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara comprising an area of `0.258 (or just about a quarter) of an acre was advertised to be passed to me," Minister Kowlessar explained.

According to Kowlessar, Lot 131 is part of a larger area, known as Block `I'. "It is Block `I' Goedverwagting that is 17.3981 acres. Lot 131 is not 17.3981 acres but 0.258 of an acre," he pointed out.

He said Ms Backer, as an attorney-at-law, was expected to understand what was published in the Official Gazette.

Kowlessar said she "insulted her profession when she misrepresented this important public document".

"In case Ms Backer finds it difficult to understand what was published in the Official Gazette, I wish to refer the attorney-at-law to the law firm - Hughes, Fields and Stoby - commissioned by the government to handle legal arrangements concerning the transfer of plots for housing development," Kowlessar offered in his statement.

The Finance Minister also pointed out that the plot of land was purchased by him on May 21, 1988 when he was a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Management, University of Guyana.

"This was some time before I became a Minister," he noted.

EDITORIAL

Firm message from Quebec
NATIONS in the Western Hemisphere that turn their backs on democracy can expect to be excluded from the Free Trade Area of the Americas, senior Canadian officials said ahead of this weekend's Summit of the Americas in Quebec City, Canada.

According to the Reuters news agency, the hard line marks the first time government officials have made such a clear link between participation in the proposed Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) and sustained democracy.

Senior officials said the 34 advance representatives from hemispheric countries had agreed last weekend in Quebec City to reinforce a so-called democratic charter, to be unveiled this Sunday, in a way that nations breaking away from democracy will be isolated and kicked out of any free trade agreement.

"The democracy clause includes the Free Trade of the Americas. If a country is to abandon a democratic regime, the clause will be triggered for the whole process," one Canadian official said in a news briefing from Ottawa.

"It is, in a sense, the passport for future summit participation," he added.

Those here who watch with apprehension the travails that this young democracy has been enduring since Guyana returned to the fold of democratic nations in October 1992, can take heart at this firm message from Quebec.

Canada, which is hosting the summit, was among the major western donors that helped Guyana back on the path of democracy and has continued to play a key role in the economic restructuring with the British and American governments.

It is clear that they are keeping a close eye on the developments here since the March 19 elections which were internationally endorsed and at which the government of President Bharrat Jagdeo was returned to office.

In a joint statement, the three governments urged an end to the violence and intimidation that flared in Georgetown last week and said problems must be resolved through peaceful means.

They said they "are deeply concerned about the painful and disturbing events in Georgetown and its environs during recent days."

Noting that violence and intimidation from any quarter do not solve problems, the three governments said these "must be resolved through peaceful means within a framework of respect for human rights and the rule of law".

"There is much international goodwill for Guyana and great respect for its efforts to achieve strength through diversity", they noted and we expect they will insist on an adherence by all groups here to the tenets of democracy.

Guyana has already drawn the threats to democracy from the violence and intimidation to the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Commonwealth and President Jagdeo who is due to be in Quebec for the summit, is expected to brief fellow leaders on the situation here.

We have no doubt that he could expect full support from his colleagues for his continuing efforts to ensure democracy prevails in this country.

The summit is expected to send a "very firm" and "important signal" on democracy to Latin America nations, Canadian officials said.

"It is a strong message to send to the hemisphere," one senior official said.

"If you don't belong to the democratic family, you are not in the club."

This is indeed a firm and welcome message from Quebec.

FEATURES

IN-THE-COURTS

Three remanded on larceny, break and enter charges
PRINCIPAL Magistrate Juliet Holder-Allen yesterday remanded three men to prison after they pleaded not guilty to charges involving theft.

One of the trio, Michael Persaud, of Lot 41 Seaforth Street, Campbellville, is charged with simple larceny.

Particulars of the offence said he stole a $4,000 birdcage belonging to Amarnauth Singh on April 11.

Persaud will be back in Court tomorrow but the other two defendants, Terrence Downer and Selwyn Gill (no addresses given), would remain incarcerated until April 23.

They are accused of breaking and entering the Chest Clinic, on Orange Walk, Bourda, also in Georgetown and stealing a washing sink worth $15,000, property of the Mayor and City Council.

Police said a guard, who raised the alarm that led to their arrest, was making routine checks on April 10 when he saw Downer leaving the building through a window as Gill stood outside with the booty.

One more fruits thief imprisoned
ONE more fruits thief was imprisoned yesterday by Principal Magistrate Juliet Holder-Allen.

Jamel Willie, 29, of Lot 22 First Avenue, Bartica, Essequibo, was sentenced to two months in jail.

He pleaded guilty to praedial larceny, admitting the theft of mangoes worth $1,000 from a tree belonging to Frank Edwards.

Willie claimed he sought permission from someone else in the shop owner's yard before he began to pick and was arrested when he triggered a security alarm system.

Narcotic, larceny defendants refused bail
DEFENDANT in a narcotic case, Royston Abrams, 26, of Lot 25 David Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was also refused bail yesterday during the call-over in front of Principal Magistrate Juliet Holder-Allen.

Abrams shared the same fate as Romeo Roopnarine, of Lot 39 Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara, who made a first appearance, as well.

Abrams pleaded not guilty to being in possession of 30 grammes cannabis (marijuana) for the purpose of trafficking on April 16.

Roopnarine denied a larceny from the person charge which said he stole a $50,000 gold chain from Claire Kendall on April 15.

Police said the virtual complainant was standing on Duncan Street, in the city, too, when the remanded prisoner snatched the jewel but was apprehended with it by a nearby security guard.

Both Abrams and Roopnarine will be back in Court April 20.

LETTERS

Strange studied silence
I HAVE read with interest the comments by the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mr. Owen Arthur, the Opposition Leader of Trinidad, Mr. Patrick Manning and the CARICOM Secretariat.

Each one accepted the results of the March 19 election in Guyana and has recognised the Presidency of Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

What I find strange is the studied silence of Mr. Desmond Hoyte, who has not yet accused them of meddling in the internal affairs of Guyana. I wonder why?

Mr. Nigel Hughes has attacked the President for expressing his view that Justice La Bennett was wrong in making orders for the release of prisoners held in custody by the Police.

He was very vociferous in his defence of the Judge and on the `Evening News' TV newscast on which his wife is an anchor, we learnt that Julia Johnson was a legal luminary. She quoted extensively from Halsbury's in defence of the Judge.

No one seemed anxious to review the facts on which the judge based her judgement.

The detained persons were blocking the gates of the Presidential complex. One of the persons detained was a lawyer who it is presumed knows the law.

The law stipulates that it is a criminal offence for anyone to block a street or the entrance to property - moreso the entrance to the Office of the President.

Mr. Corbin was arrested when he decided to lie down on the bridge in contempt of the request of the police to assist to get the crowd to clear the entrance.

Julia Johnson did not relate those facts. She did not say that the arrest of Corbin was lawful.

And she did not quote Mr Halsbury as to whether in any other part of the world a judge has released persons taken into lawful custody within three or four hours of an application made on behalf of persons arrested just about two hours before.

What is redeeming, however, is the expeditious manner in which Justice La Bennett dealt with the matter.

She has set the pattern for Judges to act quickly and not keep litigants waiting for years to have their matters determined, and another three to five years before the Judge can produce in writing his or her reasons for the decision.

Let us hope also that Mr. Hughes and Ms Johnson find the time to also condemn those talk show hosts who every night violate the rights of citizens, preaching racism and violence and sedition.

News reporters seem impotent to report news of those who are beaten and brutalised unless they can identify with the People's National Congress (PNC).

What does Mr. Halsbury say about victims or violence?
NYRON ALLY

Time to talk
PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo has again towered over the forces of destruction and division.

His visits to communities affected by the unrest, burning and violence show his compassion and willingness to be with the people in difficult times.

The President is also offering leadership and demonstrating his willingness to explain the current situation and point out that it is not an ethnic conflict.

This shows how much he cares about Guyana.

While Mr. Hoyte and others preach division, `slow fire' and `more fire' the President is calling for a return to calm, respect among Guyanese and getting back to the task of nation building.

I urge Mr. Hoyte and others to go to the communities and appeal for calm, explain the current situation and urge their supporters to support peace and development and stop all destructive acts.

It's time to talk and an end to burning.
WILLIAM JAMES

Law enforcement bodies acting professionally
TALK is cheap, in fact very cheap.

Those who are not mandated with the task of running the affairs of the country can "mouth off" what they feel without considering the repercussions.

Recently, I saw a letter in the newspapers calling on the government to take action or resign.

I think what is meant is that orders must be given to shoot all the protesters, including those who are non-violent.

This is not to say that the actions of the mobs, hooligans and criminals who are part of the protest and are beating, robbing and burning do not deserve appropriate treatment.

But the punishment must fit the crime.

To say that the government isn't doing anything is a callous statement.

The letter writer and others must understand that the law enforcement bodies are acting professionally.

Furthermore, it must be understood that the greater number of ranks in the law enforcement bodies support the People's National Congress (PNC).

Yet, they have acted professionally and on the side of the people of Guyana.

Those who say the government isn't doing enough are falling into the PNC trap of wanting to pit the major races against each other in a violent confrontation.

Instead of "mouthing off", these elements should support the vast majority of Guyanese and the law enforcement agents in their request to restore normalcy and maintain law and order in our country.
TIMOTHY PAUL

The people have spoken through the ballot box
IDEAS about power sharing abound in Guyana.

It is the last means of some political players to enter public office.

The majority of the nation through the casting of free ballots, has made a clear choice about whom they think is best to govern the state.

But the right to cast a meaningful vote, the most basic of democratic principles which was withheld from the people for 28 stultifying years under the PNC government, is now being threatened by unscrupulous politicians who believe that their will transcends the will of the people.

Perhaps this is a good time for Mr. Vishnu Bisram to conduct one of his national polls which in the past has demonstrated acceptable accuracy and has gained much respect and credibility among objective observers.

It is time for the people to clearly say whether they want the current government to include a PNC component or whether the party should accept the national edict that the PNC's believed "constituency" is best represented by that party through the National Assembly.

Guyana, when the PNC was finally voted out of office in 1992, was regarded as being poorer than Haiti.

This alone demonstrates the ineptitude of the PNC government in matters of national development.

There were also too many instances of abuse of power, corruption and downright debauchery during the PNC's 28-year reign, too many to expound upon here.

But these instances have been well documented in various other media.

One needs only to read the book "Justice" by the respected Jesuit Priest Fr. Andrew Morrison to get a clear idea of how debased the PNC was while in office.

But if one thought that the PNC in power represented the worst a nation could endure they should take stock of the party's policies when out of office.

"Irresponsibility" cannot begin to describe their attitude, but there is no need to convince this nation of the PNC's detrimental behaviour; we are already enduring the plague of the continually degrading actions by many PNC supporters.

Now, despite their track record in government and their disreputable image both at home and abroad, the PNC still has the gall to insist that the party has a responsibility to be part of a government.

This absurdity defies reason!

The only thing the PNC has earned through its supporters are seats in the National Assembly.

The party has not convinced the majority of the electorate that it is worthy of being a government, that is why the party received less than half of the national vote in an election which was internationally supervised and impartially observed.

The PNC must realise that the people have spoken through the ballot box and they must now desist from further pestering the nation with requests to be in the government.

National rejection in this case is a clear signal that the party must clean up their act.

Instead, with the usual arrogant effrontery, the PNC ignored the message amplified by the elections and instead of tidying up their constituency and gaining a modicum of respectability they have embarked on a campaign of "slow fire" and "mo fire."

This campaign, together with the specious allegations of "marginalisation," village revolts, intimidation, terror, and brigandry make up the weapons brought to bear against the citizenry in an effort to bully them into giving in to the demands.

If one is to follow the PNC's rationale then the United States' Al Gore (whose electoral race with George W. Bush was much closer than the PNC/R's was with the

PPP/C) should be demanding to form an important part of Bush's administration.

The current campaign of terrorism which accompanies the demands for power not gained through an election is an effort devised to cheat democracy.

It must stop.
JUSTIN DEFREITAS

Call to pull ads from TV station
TALK show hosts on Channel 9 TV spew racist remarks relentlessly thereby causing untold damage to the Guyanese society.

Despite numerous calls by decent-minded Guyanese on the owners of this station to take corrective action to stop these `hosts' from causing further damage, the owners of this station have shown total reluctance to stop this madness.

It is time all decent-minded Guyanese take matters into their own hands. Advertisers should pull their ads immediately from this station.

If they do not heed this call, then Guyanese should stop supporting those businesses that advertise on Channel 9.

Hopefully this course of action will force the owners of this TV station to recognise their civic responsibility to the nation.
F. SINGH

Merchants should move base
AS A Guyanese/Canadian, in my point of view and that of Pastor Samaroo, all those merchants who suffered from the fire should move to East Coast Demerara.

They will need a wharf which is not too difficult to do.

They will have our help in Canada and the U.S.

We have started to discuss this problem of the shameful acts of burning and violence going on in Guyana and to look more closely how this help can be done.
GUYANESE/CANADIAN

SPORTS

Under-15 cricketers return
THE National Under-15 team, who placed second in the just-concluded regional Under-19 tournament in Trinidad and Tobago, returned home early yesterday morning from the twin-island republic.

Photographer Mike Norville was on hand to catch the players, manager and coach at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri.

Here, they pose for a photo opportunity with Minister of Fisheries, Crops and Livestock, Satyadeow Sawh. Coach Albert Smith is at extreme right while manager S.K. Singh is second from left (back row), two places from the minister.

W.I. make three changes for final Test ...
Garrick set to make debut at Sabina Park
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CANA) - West Indies selectors last evening named opening batsman Leon Garrick for his Test debut among three changes to their team for the fifth and final Cable & Wireless Test against South Africa, starting at Sabina Park today.

Garrick earns his spot after a splendid knock of 174 for Jamaica in their drawn two-day match against South Africa last weekend.

He replaces Wavell Hinds while batsman Marlon Samuels and fast bowler Cameron Cuffy return in place of Ramnaresh Sarwan and Neil McGarrell.

Garrick, who was only drafted into the squad yesterday, will get his first Test chance, partnering his Jamaican compatriot, Chris Gayle, at the top of the batting order.

Garrick forced Chairman of Selectors Michael Findlay and company to notice him on Monday, when he belted a dazzling unbeaten 174 for Jamaica in their two-day match with South Africa at Jarrett Park, in Jamaica's tourism capital Montego Bay.

Before that, he scored 801 runs for Jamaica in the Busta Cup to finish third in the aggregates behind Guyana and West Indies captain Carl Hooper and fellow Jamaican Chris Gayle.

West Indies manager Ricky Skerritt, in an interview with CANA on Tuesday, said that the century scored by Garrick was made at an appropriate time.

"When you are asked to score runs, that's what you should do. I am not a selector, but I think he did what was asked of him," the West Indies manager said.

Garrick, before the start of the Busta Cup season told CANA in an interview that he wanted to score heavily in the regional competition, so that he could nudge the selectors and win a place on the West Indies team against South Africa.

Garrick then declined to set himself a target, but said that he wanted to fully demonstrate his ability to bat.

Team:
Carl Hooper (captain), Chris Gayle, Leon Garrick, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Marlon Samuels, Brian Lara, Ridley Jacobs, Mervyn Dillon, Dinanath Ramnarine, Cameron Cuffy and Courtney Walsh.

Emergency fielders: Wavell Hinds, Ramnaresh Sarwan and Neil McGarrell.

Lower numbers for CABA c'ships starting today
ST GEORGE'S, Grenada, (CANA) - The organisers of the 2001 Caribbean Amateur Boxing Association (CABA) Championships are reporting a decrease in the number of participants for the three-day event starting today.

President of the Grenada Amateur Athletic Association (GABA), Emmanuel Roberts, said Trinidad and Tobago have withdrawn from this year's tournament and some countries have reduced their number of boxers. Roberts did not give reasons for this development but remains optimistic about the success of the championships.

"Tuesday) we received a flurry of information from teams about their travel itinerary, some indicated that they have reduced the size of their teams," he said.

Initially the GABA was catering for more than 250 boxers for the tournament but the latest count puts the total between 150 and 160 boxers.

Thirteen countries including defending champions Guyana are vying for championship honours.

The other participating territories are hosts Grenada, Aruba, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Cayman Islands, French Guiana, Jamaica, Martinique, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and US Virgin Islands.

Jamaica were the first to arrive, settling into the Spice Isle on Sunday.

The other participating countries were expected yesterday.

Improved performance for Goddards table tennis team
GUYANA'S six-player table tennis team returned home Tuesday after an improved performance in the Goddards International tournament staged in Barbados recently.

The touring party under manager/coach Sydney Christophe, captured three titles - Boys' Under-14, Boys' Under-17 and Girls' Under-17, and were runners-up in five divisions.

In fact, the Boys' Under-17 and Girls' Under-17 finals were all-Guyana affairs, with Christopher Franklyn beating Jonathan Sankar for the Boys' title and Vida Moore defeating Jody Ann Blake for the Girls'.

The Under-14 title was won by Zach Gonsalves, a title Guyana had been claiming for some years and the only one last year's team captured.

Three more countries participated this year - power house Jamaica, Puerto Rico and Aruba. The five countries from last year are Guyana, hosts Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, St Lucia and Grenada.

When Chronicle Sport asked the players about the tournament, Franklyn said: "It was really good."

Manager/Coach Christophe yesterday told Chronicle Sport: "The standard was very good for the juniors. This is probably the cream of the Caribbean. It is a good nursery for Caribbean players. Guyana have been performing well in these tournaments."

The former Caribbean champion disclosed that the Guyana players were weak in the doubles competition - although they reached the finals, they failed to take any.

However, Christophe described the team's overall performance as "excellent".

"Their experience from last year served them well because they came up against some of the same opponents," Christophe said.

The coach said the training carried out during their preparation did them well.

"We focused on the mental aspect because in some cases, they were mentally weak," Christophe said.

Christophe also acknowledged that the spate of recent tournaments was good for the players, especially the COURTS competition which assisted players to get "match ready".

The coach had special thanks for members of the Guyana Table Tennis Association and coaches Linden Johnson and Joel Wilburg who worked exceedingly hard to prepare the team.

Assistance for the trip came from Ministry of Finance, National Sports Commission, Metro Office & Computer Supplies, Transport & Harbours Department.

The next international outing the team will be aiming for will be the USA Open in July, then the Junior Caribbean Championships in Trinidad & Tobago, July/August. (Frederick Halley)

NBA Tuesday results
NEW YORK, (Reuters) - Results of Tuesday's National Basketball Association games (home team in CAPS):

TORONTO 94 Detroit 92 (OT)

ATLANTA 122 Washington 119

MIAMI 91 Milwaukee 89

Chicago 100 NEW JERSEY 94

Philadelphia 111 INDIANA 105 (OT)

HOUSTON 114 Minnesota 87

UTAH 97 LA Clippers 92

San Antonio 99 PORTLAND 93

LA LAKERS 108 Denver 91

Windwards name U-19 team for West Indies c'ships
CASTRIES, St Lucia, (CANA) - Windward Islands cricket selectors have named a 14-member Windward Islands cricket squad to defend their title at this year's West Indies Under-19 cricket tournament.

The team was announced following Monday's completion of the 2001 Windward Islands Under-19 cricket tournament which Dominica won with 24 points.

The Windwards team includes five Grenadians, three St Lucians, three Dominicans and three from St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

The squad comprises: Sergio Fedee, Darren Sammy, Gaspar Prospere (SLU); Liam Sebastien, Cozier Charles, Shane Shillingford (DOM); Alston Bobb, Mohammed Lavia, Kashaka Cupid (SVG) and Emron Peters, Daniel Smith, Garvin Roberts, Marlon Henry and Dennis George (GRN).

Four reserves also named were - Aaron St Hilaire of Grenada, Gairy Mathurin of St Lucia, Ezekiel Francis of Dominica and Emile Anthony of SVG.

No captain or vice-captain was announced but SVG captain Alston Bobb has been tipped for the job, with St Lucian all-rounder Darren Sammy as vice-captain.

Vince Carter gives Raptors' seedings a boost
NEW YORK, USA (Reuters) - A Vince Carter clutch shot with 7.6 seconds remaining in overtime on Tuesday gave the Toronto Raptors a shot at the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference.

Carter's 15-footer from the left side lifted the playoff-bound Raptors to a 94-92 victory over the Detroit Pistons.

The win improved Toronto to 46-35, one game behind the New York Knicks.

If the Raptors defeat the Washington Wizards and the Knicks lose to the Pistons on Wednesday, Toronto will get the No. 4 seed - and home-court advantage in the first round of the play-offs.

Carter scored 21 points for the Raptors, who had six players in double figures and overcame 35.5 per cent (33-of-93) shooting to gain a four-game split of the season series with their Great Lakes neighbours.

In Atlanta, the Hawks erased a 15-point deficit by scoring 42 points in the fourth quarter and closed their worst season in franchise history with a 122-119 victory over the Wizards, who tied a franchise mark with their 62nd loss.

Washington appeared to be in control, opening a 101-86 lead early in the fourth quarter. But the Hawks wiped out the deficit with a 19-0 run, holding the Wizards scoreless for more than four minutes.

In Miami, Alonzo Mourning scored off an inbounds pass from Dan Majerle with two-tenths of a second to play as the Miami Heat clinched the third seed in the Eastern Conference with a 91-89 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.

With the score tied at 89-89, Milwaukee had the ball with 15 seconds left and set up for one shot.

Ray Allen went baseline on Miami forward Anthony Mason but missed a long jumper and Mourning grabbed the rebound with 1.2 seconds left.

Miami called time-out and took the inbounds on the left side at mid-court. The Heat set a back screen for Mourning, who popped wide open under the basket, caught the feed from Majerle and dunked. The Bucks' last chance was waved off after the buzzer.

In New Jersey, the Nets finished the season just like they opened it - with a loss.

Rookie A.J. Guyton scored a season-high 24 points as the Chicago Bulls handed the Nets a 100-94 setback in their last game of a disappointing campaign.

The Bulls (14-67) won for just the fourth time in 40 road games. They finish their season at Philadelphia on Wednesday.

Chicago led 55-40 late in the second quarter on a jumper by rookie Marcus Fizer. It took a 55-44 advantage into the break. In Indianapolis, Jumaine Jones had career-highs of 26 points and 13 rebounds as he led the Philadelphia 76ers to a 111-105 overtime victory over the Indiana Pacers, who had a season-high seven-game winning streak snapped.

Jones, a second-year swingman, made four 3-pointers. The first three came during a surge late in the third quarter that cut a 15-point deficit to 75-72 entering the fourth period. The last one came with 3:06 left in the extra session and gave the 76ers the lead for good.

In Houston, Hakeem Olajuwon collected 24 points, nine rebounds and six assists as the Rockets routed the playoff-bound Minnesota Timberwolves 114-87 in their regular season finale.

In Portland, a depleted San Antonio Spurs were good enough to beat the Rasheed Wallace-less Portland Trail Blazers.

Tim Duncan scored 18 points and grabbed eight rebounds as the Spurs handed the Trail Blazers their third straight defeat, 99-93.

The loss dropped reeling Portland to the seventh seed in the Western Conference, where it will face the Pacific Division champions in the first round.

In Salt Lake City, the Utah Jazz will have home-court advantage for the first round of the play-offs after Karl Malone scored 34 points and the Jazz rallied for a 97-92 victory over the improving Clippers.

The win improved Utah to 53-28 and wrapped up fourth place in the Western Conference. The Jazz, who have made the post-season 18 straight years, will face the Dallas Mavericks, who are in the play-offs for the first time since 1990.

Guyana's de Groot in Canadian squad
TORONTO, Canada, (CANA) - Canadian-born Guyanese opening batsman Nicholas de Groot has arrived here to prepare for the International Cricket Council (ICC) trophy tournament for Associate members in the Greater Toronto Area between June 28 and July 17.

de Groot has been included in the national 14-member party which will travel to Sri Lanka later this month for an eight-match practice series.

Born in North York in October 1975, de Groot returned to Guyana as an infant. He has however visited Toronto frequently, and just two years ago represented Toronto & District Cricket Association (TDCA) premier league side West Indians in a few matches.

de Groot, who made his first-class debut for Guyana in 1995 and captained the side briefly in 1999, is happy to be representing the country of his birth.

"When the Canadian Cricket Association (CCA) approached me a few months ago, I was thrilled at the idea that they thought I could help them," said de Groot.

"Now that I am part of the Canadian team, I will do my best to help them qualify for the next World Cup," he said.

The top three teams in the 24-team ICC trophy tournament will advance to the 2003 World Cup finals in South Africa.

Barbadian all-rounder Joe Harris, who is recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon injury he suffered in January, will lead the Canadian side on the tour of Sri Lanka and also in the ICC trophy tournament.

Two ex-West Indies youth players, Jamaican-born Viv Sailsman and Barbadian George Codrington, were omitted from the squad named to prepare for the tournament.

Ragoonath is Under-15s Most Valuable Player
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CANA) - Aaron Ragoonath, Trinidad and Tobago Under-15 cricket captain, was voted the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for his team at the West Indies Regional Under-15 prize awards ceremony Tuesday night at the Angostura Lounge in Laventille.

The right-handed batsman had an aggregate of 223 runs, including the highest score in the tournament - 113 against the Windward Islands at the Queen's Park Oval.

Ragoonath's century was one of two registered in the competition, the other was scored by Guyana's Zaheer Saffie against Jamaica at the Queen's Park Oval in a final round fixture.

Also in winners' row was TT's off-spinner Rishi Bachan who copped the prize for the most wickets in the tournament.

Bachan captured 13 wickets which equalled the previous best held by fellow countryman Richard Kelly in 1996 in Guyana.

The function was attended by Sports Minister Manohar Ramsaran who urged the youngsters to use this platform to launch their cricket career.

Trinidad and Tobago captured the championship for the second consecutive year, winning all of their five matches.

Honour Roll:

Champions: Trinidad and Tobago; Runner-up - Guyana; Most Outstanding Wicketkeeper Tyson Tull (Guyana); Best Fieldsman - Xavier Marshall Jamaica) ; Best Batsman - Aaron Ragoonath (Trinidad and Tobago); Best Bowler - Rishi Bachan (Trinidad and Tobago).

Most Valuable Players: Renaldo Parris (Barbados), Xavier Marshall (Jamaica), Lindel Richardson (Leeward Islands), Aaron Ragoonath (Trinidad and Tobago), Zaheer Saffie (Guyana), Jovan Samuel (Windward Islands). Final Points Standings:

Trinidad and Tobago 10 points, Guyana 8, Barbados 6, Windward Islands 4, Leeward Islands 2, Jamaica 0.

Strict rules don't worry me, says Rogge
By Adrian Warner
LONDON, England (Reuters) - Touted IOC presidential candidate Jacques Rogge said yesterday he was not worried by controversial, strict rules introduced in this year's race for the most powerful job in world sport.

The guidelines, which ban candidates from holding meetings to promote their campaigns and stop them from fund-raising or buying International Olympic Committee (IOC) members dinner, have been described by one top IOC leader as "just silly".

But former Olympic yachtsman Rogge, one of three heavyweight candidates taking part in the IOC presidency vote in July, said: "I always decided to have a low-budget campaign, a personal budget. It comes out of my own pocket.

"I decided not to go for raising funds. I decided not to hop from one capital to another around the globe (visiting IOC members). I meet colleagues at regular meetings and I speak to them," he said in an interview with Reuters.

He added: "I want my campaign always to be a dignified one, full of respect for my competitors. So these rules do not create any problem for me."

Belgian surgeon Rogge, South Korean politician Kim Un-yong and Canadian lawyer Dick Pound are the three main contenders in the vote on July 16 in Moscow when Juan Antonio Samaranch will retire after 21 years as IOC president.

Former U.S. rower Anita DeFrantz and Hungary's ex-fencer Pal Schmitt are also taking part in the race, which officially began on Tuesday, but are regarded as outsiders.

The IOC's ethics commission, set up after the biggest corruption scandal in Olympic history in 1998 and 1999, put the guidelines in place in a bid to create a level playing field.

None of the candidates is allowed to receive financial or material support from a third party. Candidates who step out of line will receive a public warning which could prove damaging.

IOC members are not allowed to say in public for whom they plan to vote. The rules have annoyed some of them because they believe they are too tough.

OLYMPIC VISITS
Samaranch launched the campaign on Tuesday by speaking out against the return of visits by IOC members to cities bidding for the Games.

Kim has already said in his campaign literature that he is in favour of bringing back the visits which were banned after the Salt Lake City corruption scandal in 1998 and 1999. But in the Kim plan, the IOC would pay for them - not the cities.

The ex-United Nations General Assembly delegate told a news conference in Athens yesterday: "With visits you can choose better. Reading papers and visiting are two different things."

IOC members have been banned from visiting the 2008 Summer Games candidate cities - Beijing, Osaka, Toronto, Istanbul and Paris - before selecting one of them on July 13 in Moscow, just three days before the presidency vote.

After delivering a speech to a London conference on sports business, Rogge said he wanted to talk to all the IOC members before making his views known on the subject. Rogge does not plan to publish his campaign programme until June.

But the Belgian chief said the present bans were due to be reviewed after the 2008 decision anyway.

"I will publish my programme when I have spoken to everyone," he said. "I can't tell you where the members stand at the moment .... My personal position is very clear. I have never visited any candidate city. For me it is not a need.

"(But) I can understand someone else feels the need and I respect that. The visits were the origin of many problems.

"I say, first we have to see whether the IOC by a majority wants visits or not. If the members decide that visits are needed then we should not forget the lessons of the past and make sure there is no temptation or no reason for corruption.

"The best way, in that eventuality, is for the IOC to organise the visits themselves and leave nothing to the bidding committee."

FIFA in contingency rights plans as Blatter goes to Japan
By Steve Keating
ZURICH, (Reuters) - FIFA's emergency committee drew up a list of contingency plans yesterday as world soccer's governing body prepared for the possible bankruptcy of the company holding its World Cup marketing and television rights.

And in a chance to reassure broadcasters, FIFA president Sepp Blatter will be in Japan next week to discuss the situation. With International Sports Media and Marketing (ISMM) ordered into bankruptcy proceedings by a Swiss court, FIFA moved quickly yesterday at a rare meeting of its emergency committee.

It ratified the creation of an independent marketing company (FIFA Marketing) for the 2002 World Cup, co-hosted by Japan and South Korea, and paved the way for the smooth transition of television rights.

ISL Worldwide, a subsidiary of the ISMM Group, which holds the television rights to the 2002 and 2006 World Cups for countries outside Europe, could see those rights awarded to the Kirch group should the company fail. Kirch currently owns the rights for Europe and the United States.

Blatter will travel to Japan next Tuesday and discuss the problems with anxious broadcasters while sponsors will be invited to attend a briefing later in the month at the world governing body's Zurich headquarters.

"Our sponsors are a bit upset about the situation," admitted FIFA general secretary Michel Zen-Ruffinen at the end of a tense three-hour meeting that also included the discussion of stadium security following the tragic deaths of 43 people at a soccer match in South Africa.

"They want to know what's going on. We've assured them that we are going to protect their interests.

"As you can imagine between the human tragedy and a very difficult financial situation of our partner we did not have a very nice meeting.

"But we hope by the decisions taken this morning that the situation is brought back under FIFA control, especially regarding the ISL situation, which is very important, given the short time between now and the next competition - the Confederations Cup in May and the start of the FIFA World Cup next year."

REQUEST REJECTED
Zen-Ruffinen said FIFA was forced into convene its first emergency committee meeting since 1995 after the Swiss court on April 10 rejected a request by ISMM for a three-month delay in the proceedings to allow the company time to sort out its financial problems. ISMM has appealed the ruling.

Swiss-based ISMM - who through ISL also holds the marketing rights to the ATP Masters series, the 2002 Asian Games and this year's athletics world championships - has announced extensive restructuring of the company and its operations in order to fend off bankruptcy.

ISMM's problems stem from an aggressive expansion policy and greater losses than expected in parts of their portfolio, most notably in the first year of their 10-year, $1.2 billion deal to market the Tennis Masters Series.

FIFA will now await the outcome of the complaint and appeal submitted against the bankruptcy court judge's verdict before taking any further action.

"You have to understand that this is a very complex issue," said Zen-Ruffinen. "There are some actions pending following the decision by a judge last week and there is an appeal pending.

"These are matters of which we absolutely have no control. "The emergency committee was not in position to take a formal decision not knowing what the court decides.

"Before knowing what the decision will be, FIFA cannot make a decision ... that is absolutely clear."

Zen-Ruffinen assured that ISMM's financial problems would not have any impact on the organisation of the next year's World Cup.

"In our opinion these problems will not affect the World Cup," said Zen-Ruffinen. "We considered various scenarios that could occur.

"All the hypotheses that were discussed led us to believe that there would be no influence on the World Cup itself."

End of the line in sight for Walsh
By Neil Manthorp
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (Reuters) - Cricket's leading Test wicket-taker Courtney Walsh looks set to bow out in front of his home fans in the fifth and final Test between West Indies and South Africa starting today.

The series may already be `dead', following South Africa's 82-run victory in Antigua which gave them an unassailable 2-0 lead, but there is still enough at stake for local aficionados to predict a full house at Sabina Park.

If only to pay tribute to one of cricket's all-time greats, Jamaicans are likely to make sure the series does not end with a whimper.

With a record 513 Test wickets to his name, one final, emotional farewell awaits Walsh on his home ground.

"When I made the announcement that I would tour Australia, I indicated that I'd be keen to finish at home and at that point in time I was told the last Test (against South Africa) was in Jamaica. That has not changed," Walsh said before this series.

It is also believed that Walsh will confirm his retirement only when the Test is over, in the knowledge the match could become virtually irrelevant amid the wave of emotional goodbyes and tributes.

SEAM ATTACK
It is also extremely unlikely after the selection of left-arm spinner Neil McGarrell for the Antigua Test, that West Indies will again go into a Test match with just two frontline seamers.

As a result, Walsh and Mervyn Dillon are almost certain to be joined by Cameron Cuffy, who bowled well in the third Test in Barbados.

The West Indies selectors have resisted the temptation to tinker further with the 13-man squad used in Antigua, with McGarrell and Marlon Samuels the men likely to miss out on the final 11.

Despite top-order batsman Wavell Hinds being under pressure for his position, Leon Garrick's unbeaten 174 against South Africa in a two-day game over the Easter weekend in Montego Bay failed to force a change in the opening combination.

South Africa are likely to make one enforced change after spinner Nicky Boje's departure for corrective surgery to his left shoulder. Fellow left-armer Paul Adams appears to be the logical replacement.

DONALD RETURNS
Pacemen Allan Donald will also return to the side in place of all-rounder Justin Kemp, who played in Antigua while Donald nursed a strained hamstring.

"I'm fit and raring to go. There's everything to play for, we can't afford to take the foot off the pedal now," said Donald.

"We've got to have the same intensity as we had in the first four Tests and win it (the series) 3-0."

All-rounder Jacques Kallis, who has enjoyed his best series ever with the ball, agrees with his team-mate.

"We proved in 1998-99, when we were 4-0 up, that we wanted to win 5-0 - and we did. There's no way we're letting up now," said Kallis.

If South Africa win then captain Shaun Pollock, already only the seventh man to lead a team to a series win in the Caribbean, will equal the West Indies' worst ever defeat on home soil. The record is held by Ian Johnson, who led Australia to a 3-0 triumph in the 1954-55 series.

Teams:

West Indies (probable): Wavell Hinds, Chris Gayle, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Brian Lara, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Carl Hooper (captain), Ridley Jacobs, Dinanath Ramnarine, Mervyn Dillon, Cameron Cuffy, Courtney Walsh.

South Africa: Gary Kirsten, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Daryll Cullinan, Neil McKenzie, Mark Boucher, Lance Klusener, Shaun Pollock (captain), Allan Donald, Paul Adams, Makhaya Ntini.

Beleaguered Brazil soccer team in hotel controversy
By Brian Homewood
RIO DE JANEIRO, (Reuters) - Brazil's beleaguered national team, which has reached one of the lowest ebbs in its history, has run into more controversy, this time over the choice of accommodation for next week's World Cup qualifier at home to Peru.

Coach Emerson Leao has raised eyebrows by turning his back on the national federation's state-of-the-art training camp near Rio de Janeiro for a hotel-farm outside Sao Paulo which belongs to a close friend.

Leao, whose team suffered a stunning 1-0 World Cup qualifying defeat to Ecuador last month, defended the decision, saying: "It's an excellent location. It would be absurd to not use it simply because it belongs to a friend."

But critics have branded the choice as inappropriate at a time when the Brazilian Congress is alleging suspected mismanagement, dubious business deals and corruption in the country's national sport.

"Even though he denies being anything more than a friend of the hotel owner which will host the national team, he has created suspicions," said newspaper columnist Juca Kfouri, an outspoken critic of the Brazilian soccer establishment.

"Why the hotel of a friend? Did he search for the best deal? Were there other choices?"

Brazilian journalists who have visited both sites says the one chosen by Leao pales compared with the one owned by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

In particular, the CBF's camp boasts one of the world's most sophisticated gyms while the farm chosen by Leao does not have one at all.

A CBF director, who asked not to be named, told the Estado de Sao Paulo newspaper: "It's like a guy who owns a sophisticated wardrobe and turns up for a formal event dressed in jeans and tennis shoes."

Brazil, who have dropped to third in the South American World Cup qualifying group after losing three times in 11 games, desperately need a good win next Wednesday in Sao Paulo.

Defeat could leave them in serious danger of failing to qualify for the 2002 finals - and ending their proud record of being the only country to have played at every World Cup tournament.

Leao is due to name his squad tomorrow.

He has already caused a stir by keeping quiet over the list of foreign-based players, which has to be named officially 14 days before the match but which, in an unprecedented move, has not been made public.

There is widespread speculation that Leao will drop former World Player-of-the-Year Rivaldo after a series of lacklustre performances which culminated in the Barcelona player being substituted against Ecuador.

Some feel Leao may ignore all of Brazil's European-based stars altogether and pick only those who play their club football locally.

South Africa going for another win
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CANA) - Shaun Pollock's South Africa cricket team, already 2-0 up in the Cable & Wireless Test series, seek to punch more holes into the West Indies aggregation, as the fifth and final Test starts today on a good-looking Sabina Park ground.

South Africa, having already taken the historic Sir Vivian Richards Trophy, symbol of supremacy between the two teams, are also looking to take advantage of a home team that is seemingly turning losing into an acceptable habit these days.

There is no change to the West Indies 13-man squad that lost the fourth Test at the Antigua Recreation Ground in St John's, and therefore there is likely to be few, if any change to the losing 11.

The West Indies team management said it would announce the team shortly before the start of play, but sources say that pacer Cameron Cuffy, who had anything but a dazzling return to Test cricket during the third match at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, could get back the place from the man who replaced him, leg-spinner Neil McGarrell.

The well-rolled Sabina Park pitch is likely to assist the pacers early in the match and the West Indies are weighing their chances of playing their second successive match with just two fast bowlers - veteran Courtney Walsh and Mervyn Dillon, who seems fully recovered from the hand injury he sustained in the fourth Test.

World bowling record holder Walsh, who is widely expected to end his illustrious Test career in this match, will be spurred on by the Jamaica crowd, although there has been glaring loss of support for the West Indies team collectively.

Walsh, the first man to take 500 wickets, has been the West Indies' leading bowler in the series with 20 victims and had indicated that the present series would be his last, despite unconfirmed reports that he is being asked by team officials to tour with the team to Zimbabwe in June.

There is a faint possibility that the West Indies could also bring back middle-order batsman Marlon Samuels, who prepared himself with an efficient 84 against South Africa in the two-day tour game at Jarrett Park, Montego Bay last weekend.

Samuels, cricket analysts believe, was badly used in the team as the number three batsman, coming after his two relatively inexperienced countrymen Chris Gayle and Wavell Hinds, who have themselves found runs hard to come by, following decent starts.

The two will start the innings again, followed in the order by the experienced Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Brian Lara.

Samuels and Ramnaresh Sarwan will vie for the number five position, but there is no uncertainty over captain Carl Hooper's place and that of vice-captain Ridley Jacobs, the only West Indian to have scored a Test century against South Africa.

South Africa will likely make one change to their winning aggregation, with pacer Allan Donald, fully recovered from injury, returning to fill the position left vacant by spinning all-rounder Nicky Boje's departure, on injury ground, to his homeland.

The South Africans have played good cricket throughout, with the batting, showing a lot of depth and the bowling delivering when required to.

Opener Gary Kirsten, who belted a stylish century in the first Test in Guyana, has since lost form, but his opening partner Herschelle Gibbs has been in good nick, thus guaranteeing the visitors a good measure of stability.

Series leading run-getter Daryll Cullinan, Jacques Kallis, Neil McKenzie, Mark Boucher and Lance Klusener have all had their troubled times with the bowling, particularly that of wrist-spinner Dinanath Ramnarine, but have maintained a cohesion that has done the team wonders.

Captain Pollock, whose bowling has not been as staggering as it can be, has been making up with the bat.

The West Indies have not been able to cope with the bowling firepower, and things will not be made easier by Donald's return.

Teams:

West Indies - Carl Hooper (captain), Chris Gayle, Wavell Hinds, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Brian Lara, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Marlon Samuels, Ridley Jacobs, Mervyn Dillon, Neil McGarrell, Dinanath Ramnarine, Cameron Cuffy, Courtney Walsh.

South Africa - Shaun Pollock (captain), Gary Kirsten, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Daryll Cullinan, Neil McKenzie, Mark Boucher, Lance Klusener, Justin Kemp, Allan Donald, Makhaya Ntini, Andre Nel, Boeta Dippenaar, Roger Telemachus, Paul Adams.

Green light for Goddards tournament
By Ezra Stuart
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CANA) - The Goddards Enterprises Junior International table tennis tournament, which celebrated its 10th anniversary at the Easter weekend, has been given the green light by four coaches from the participating countries.

Guyanese Sydney Christophe, Jamaican Sandra Riettie, Barbadian Rawle Alleyne and Trinidadian Verna Edwards, who were in charge of teams from their respective countries, all noted the standard of play was very high this year.

Christophe, a southpaw, who dominated the sport in Guyana at the national level in the 1980s and 1990s, said he was extremely pleased with Guyana's showing at the championships which is open to under-17 boys and girls from the region.

"I think we have performed well. I must give credit to my players especially (Jonathan) Sankar, (Christopher) Franklin, Vida (Moore), who won the Girls' Under-17 and even Zack Gonsalves, who won the Boys' Under-14," Christophe said.

"We came and expected to do well as always and we carried out our task," added Christophe.

He said his main disappointment was that Guyana, who swept the Under-17 Boys' and Girls' singles titles, reached all the finals of the doubles but came away without a title.

"I think Barbados played better doubles (and) we will have to look at that area," Christophe noted.

"We see a definite improvement in the standard of play especially among the boys. Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, they have some good boys and I think the standard is rising generally," added Christophe.

According to Barbados' national coach Alleyne, the host country maintained the standard it set last year.

"All in all, it was a good performance from our players .... They improved a lot. These were the `B' team players last year and now they came up on the `A' team and they did well," Alleyne said.

"The tournament is basically the best junior tournament in the Caribbean. It is the nursery for future champions for us and also for some of the other Caribbean countries," Alleyne said.

He noted that the standard this year was "high" with Puerto Rico returning, Guyana fielding a strong outfit as well as Trinidad and Tobago.

"The consistency of some of the junior players goes way beyond their years and I hope that continues," Alleyne said.

Riettie was disappointed with Jamaica's sixth position in the team competition after finishing second last year.

"Basically, the team did not perform to the standard that they should have. It was disappointing," Riettie said.

"Our players have a lot of areas to work on. Services, return of services, foot movement, they are weak there, third ball attack, basically their all-round game," Riettie said.

The Jamaica national player however admitted the exposure would be beneficial to the players.

"They are young and they have certainly gained a lot from coming to this championship because they have identified their weaknesses, which is a plus," Riettie said.

"If you can come to a tournament and identify your weakness and your strong points, when you go back to your country and work on it, that's a plus going anywhere," Riettie noted.

"It (championship) was of a high standard and I am pleased to see so many young players here, the Under-12, the Under-14 in particular which is an area I am working on in Jamaica," Riettie observed.

"If a country like Guyana can bring so many young players and Trinidad and Tobago, it augurs well for the sport, showing that the sport is now picking up a bit," Riettie added.

Edwards, a long-serving Trinidad and Tobago national player, whose two daughters Aleena and Astra and sons Andrew and Aaron have all participated in the tournament, noted it was the first time she had come over for the Goddards.

"To me, the performance was one of the best. Unfortunate for us, our doubles was weak but the boys really carried the strength in the singles because they both won the singles in straight sets," Edwards said.

"From what I see, the standard was very high and it augurs well for the Caribbean, more so the English-speaking Caribbean because in the Latin-American region, they dominate the Caribbean tournaments.

"It is in good hands because the standard is really good. As a player playing in the Caribbean myself, you can see there is certainly a nursery coming out of the Goddards tournament.

"The tennis can only grow from strength to strength here," Edwards said.

Government pledges more support for sports
ST GEORGE'S, Grenada, (CANA) - The Grenada government has pledged to provide more support for sports in the wake of an all-time best performance by national athletes at the 30th Junior CARIFTA Games in Barbados.

Grenada finished behind Jamaica in the CARIFTA standings with 17 medals - eight gold, seven silver and two bronze medals.

Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell told a meeting of representatives of national sporting associations that the recent performance by the young people is encouraging and government will be providing more incentives.

Dr Mitchell believes that the initiative taken by government to construct new facilities is being rewarded.

"Based on the performance of our young people in most of the sporting disciplines, we will certainly provide further incentives for the population to continue to support our sports in every sense," the Prime Minister said.

The CARIFTA performance by Grenada has been hailed as heroic and the Grenada Amateur Athletic Association (GAAA) has received congratulations for their development programme.

President of the GAAA, Charles George, told the athletes that they should be proud of the quality of medals they have returned with.

"Officially you came second. As far as I am concerned you came first. When you compare the size of Jamaica to the number of medals they won you did yourself proud," George said.

Meantime, the Ministry of Sports is attempting to improve the organisational structure of sporting federations.

At a meeting with national associations on Tuesday, a draft policy guidelines for national federations was presented.

Copa tournament moved out of Miami
MIAMI, Florida (Reuters) - Organisers of the Copa Caribe football tournament have cancelled plans to play in Miami next month because of visa problems, effectively putting an end to local officials' concern there might be protests if the Cuban national team qualified for the matches.

The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) had scheduled the Copa Caribe semifinals and finals for May 25 and 27 in the Orange Bowl in Little Havana, the heart of Miami's Cuban exile community.

But the regional governing body, the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), issued a statement on Tuesday saying the matches had been moved to Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, because of the difficulty obtaining some 200 U.S. visas for the eight quarter-finalist teams in time.

Several Cuban American city officials had said last week they feared civil unrest if the Cuban national team qualified to play in Miami, recalling the melee that broke out in the streets of Little Havana last year when federal agents removed Cuban shipwreck survivor Elian Gonzalez from his relatives' home.

Some anti-communist Cuban exiles passionately oppose any relationship with Cuba, including musicians or athletes from the island, while President Fidel Castro is in power.

Although prominent exile leaders said there was no reason to fear violence, City Manager Carlos Gimenez said he could not guarantee the safety of fans or players if the Cuban side were to play in Miami and had advised tournament organisers that "the Orange Bowl was probably not the best place to play."

Despite those concerns, the soccer confederation said the decision to move the games to Trinidad had nothing to do with pressure from Miami officials.

"A combination of complex logistical issues - of which the possibility of Cuba qualifying for the finals is the least - has caused the finals of the Copa Caribe to be rescheduled from Miami," the organisers said in a statement.

The announcement drew scepticism from some soccer fans who had hoped to see teams such as Jamaica and Haiti play in Miami.

"It's really ridiculous what they are saying, because we know it is not true," former Haitian national team member ZeNono Baptiste told the Miami Herald.

"It's all politics. They have been advised to play at other places. That statement was clear."