SECURITY FORCES in Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago were last night engaged in round-the-clock cooperation with United States authorities probing a terrorist bombing plot at JFK International Airport in New York involving four West Indians. The quartet of alleged bomb plotters, said by United States Justice Department officials to have "links with al Qaeda", have been identified as Russell Defreitas, Guyanese-born American citizen, Abdul Kadir, a former parliamentarian in Guyana, Kareem Ibrahim, of Trinidad, and Tobago and Abdul Nur, of Guyana.
Beyond confirming cooperation with United States authorities and the arrests of Kadir and Ibrahim, both Police Commissioners, Henry Greene of Guyana and Trevor Paul of Trinidad and Tobago, said they could not provide details at this time of the alleged criminal offences of those now in custody.
In a brief statement, the Guyana Government said it was in possession of "the shocking news" of the reported involvement of three Guyanese in the bombing plot. As a partner in the global fight against terrorism, it said, Guyana would "cooperate fully"in the investigations under way. Intelligence personnel in the United States were successful in foiling the massive bombing plot with the collaboration of an informant of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) who had been unsuspectingly recruited by Defreitas. The FBI agent was able to produce secretly taped conversations he had with Defreitas, the alleged mastermind of the attack.
Sunday 3 June 2007
Terror cell's 'airport attack plan'.
Federal authorities say they have broken up a suspected Muslim terrorist cell planning a "chilling" attack to destroy John F. Kennedy International Airport. They say the plot was intended to kill thousands of people and trigger an economic catastrophe by blowing up a jet fuel artery that runs through populous residential New York neighbourhoods.
Three men, one of them a former member of Guyana's parliament, were arrested and one was being sought in Trinidad as part of a plot that authorities said they had been tracked for more than a year and was foiled in the planning stages. "The devastation that would be caused had this plot succeeded is just unthinkable," US Attorney Roslynn Mauskopf said at a news conference, calling it "one of the most chilling plots imaginable".
In an indictment charging the four men, one of them is quoted as saying the foiled plot would "cause greater destruction than in the September 11 attacks", destroying the airport, killing several thousand people and destroying parts of New York's borough of Queens, where the line runs underground. One of the suspects, Russell Defreitas, a US citizen from the South American country of Guyana and former JFK air cargo employee, said the airport named for the assassinated president was targeted because it is a symbol that would put "the whole country in mourning". "It's like you can kill the man twice," said Defreitas, 63, who first hatched his plan more than a decade ago when he worked as a cargo handler for a service company, according to the indictment. Authorities said the men were motivated by hatred toward the US, Israel and the West. Despite their efforts, the men never obtained any explosives, authorities said.
Defreitas was charged in federal court in Brooklyn, where he was held pending a bail hearing on Wednesday. Two other men, Abdul Kadir of Guyana and Kareem Ibrahim of Trinidad, were in custody in Trinidad, a Caribbean island. A fourth man, Abdel Nur of Guyana, was still being sought in Trinidad. Trevor Paul, the top police official in Trinidad and Tobago, said Kadir and Ibrahim would likely be extradited to the US after court hearings in Trinidad.
ONE TIME A GUYANESE MAKE INTERNATIONAL HEADLINES...AND IT'S ALL TO DO WITH TRYING TO BLOW UP JFK !?!
Three men, one of them a former member of Guyana's parliament, were arrested and one was being sought in Trinidad as part of a plot that authorities said they had been tracked for more than a year and was foiled in the planning stages. "The devastation that would be caused had this plot succeeded is just unthinkable," US Attorney Roslynn Mauskopf said at a news conference, calling it "one of the most chilling plots imaginable".
In an indictment charging the four men, one of them is quoted as saying the foiled plot would "cause greater destruction than in the September 11 attacks", destroying the airport, killing several thousand people and destroying parts of New York's borough of Queens, where the line runs underground. One of the suspects, Russell Defreitas, a US citizen from the South American country of Guyana and former JFK air cargo employee, said the airport named for the assassinated president was targeted because it is a symbol that would put "the whole country in mourning". "It's like you can kill the man twice," said Defreitas, 63, who first hatched his plan more than a decade ago when he worked as a cargo handler for a service company, according to the indictment. Authorities said the men were motivated by hatred toward the US, Israel and the West. Despite their efforts, the men never obtained any explosives, authorities said.
Defreitas was charged in federal court in Brooklyn, where he was held pending a bail hearing on Wednesday. Two other men, Abdul Kadir of Guyana and Kareem Ibrahim of Trinidad, were in custody in Trinidad, a Caribbean island. A fourth man, Abdel Nur of Guyana, was still being sought in Trinidad. Trevor Paul, the top police official in Trinidad and Tobago, said Kadir and Ibrahim would likely be extradited to the US after court hearings in Trinidad.
ONE TIME A GUYANESE MAKE INTERNATIONAL HEADLINES...AND IT'S ALL TO DO WITH TRYING TO BLOW UP JFK !?!
Three held over JFK airport plot.
Three people were arrested and one other was being sought in connection to a plan to set off explosives at John F Kennedy International Airport in New York, officials said. The plot, which never got past the planning stages, did not involve aeroplanes or passenger terminals, according to the officials. The gang was not thought to have got hold of any explosives.
The arrests were made in connection with a plan to set off explosives in a fuel line that feeds John F Kennedy International Airport and runs through residential areas, officials close to the investigation said. The pipeline takes fuel from a depot in Linden, New Jersey, to the airport. Other lines service LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport.
The suspects in New York are believed to include a Guyanese man who used to work at the airport and was arrested in New York City. Two other suspects were apprehended in Trinidad. Investigators were seeking a fourth suspect in Trinidad. The plotters are believed to have conducted surveillance on giant jet fuel tanks at JFK and the pipeline. They had taken surveillance video of the targets back to Trinidad to review, an official said.
The arrests mark the latest in a series of alleged homegrown terrorism plots targeting high-profile American landmarks.
A year ago, seven men were arrested in what officials called the early stages of a plot to blow up the Sears Tower in Chicago and destroy FBI offices and other buildings. A month later, authorities broke up a plot to bomb underwater New York City train tunnels to flood lower Manhattan. And six people were arrested a month ago in an alleged plot to unleash a bloody rampage on Fort Dix in New Jersey.
The arrests were made in connection with a plan to set off explosives in a fuel line that feeds John F Kennedy International Airport and runs through residential areas, officials close to the investigation said. The pipeline takes fuel from a depot in Linden, New Jersey, to the airport. Other lines service LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport.
The suspects in New York are believed to include a Guyanese man who used to work at the airport and was arrested in New York City. Two other suspects were apprehended in Trinidad. Investigators were seeking a fourth suspect in Trinidad. The plotters are believed to have conducted surveillance on giant jet fuel tanks at JFK and the pipeline. They had taken surveillance video of the targets back to Trinidad to review, an official said.
The arrests mark the latest in a series of alleged homegrown terrorism plots targeting high-profile American landmarks.
A year ago, seven men were arrested in what officials called the early stages of a plot to blow up the Sears Tower in Chicago and destroy FBI offices and other buildings. A month later, authorities broke up a plot to bomb underwater New York City train tunnels to flood lower Manhattan. And six people were arrested a month ago in an alleged plot to unleash a bloody rampage on Fort Dix in New Jersey.
Wednesday 30 May 2007
41st Independence celebration funday.
ON MONDAY May 28th, the 41st Independence celebration fun day took place at Crystal Palace in South London, UK.
The temperature was 48F. It rained non-stop all the previous day and night and continued throughout the day. The winds at times seemed to be hurricane force. They were certainly strong enough to blow over the display stands until they were anchored down with all the wonderful food and merchandise on sale.In spite of this inclement weather, the show had to go on and, true to form the organisers and volunteers were setting up for the day of fun by 6 am.
The patrons started to arrive at 11 am and in spite of the weather there was a reasonable turnout.One lady told me all she wanted to do was stay in the warmth of her home but, when she thought of the dedication and hard work of the organisers she had to come out and support their efforts. I was very touched by this as I feel this sentiment was shared by many of the people who attended.
The planned events took place in this wintry weather with the children taking part in rain coats instead of a nice shorts and T shirts. A great day was had by all who attended. While Guyanese people can come out in this weather to share and enjoy their diversity, the organisers can stand up, take a bow and be so proud of their achievements.
So, a big thank you to the organisers, a thank you to “Michael” who provided the music free of charge for the Guyana Tourist promotion stall but, most of all, thank you the Guyanese people and supporters who showed the great love and pride held for their country time after time. Without them, the show would never go on.
Guyana has so much to offer -- the diversity of food, music, dance and the list goes on. I continue to experience and enjoy all.
PATSY DOWNEY
IRISH
Well done Aunty Patsy. You even beat John Mair to it...hahaha.
The temperature was 48F. It rained non-stop all the previous day and night and continued throughout the day. The winds at times seemed to be hurricane force. They were certainly strong enough to blow over the display stands until they were anchored down with all the wonderful food and merchandise on sale.In spite of this inclement weather, the show had to go on and, true to form the organisers and volunteers were setting up for the day of fun by 6 am.
The patrons started to arrive at 11 am and in spite of the weather there was a reasonable turnout.One lady told me all she wanted to do was stay in the warmth of her home but, when she thought of the dedication and hard work of the organisers she had to come out and support their efforts. I was very touched by this as I feel this sentiment was shared by many of the people who attended.
The planned events took place in this wintry weather with the children taking part in rain coats instead of a nice shorts and T shirts. A great day was had by all who attended. While Guyanese people can come out in this weather to share and enjoy their diversity, the organisers can stand up, take a bow and be so proud of their achievements.
So, a big thank you to the organisers, a thank you to “Michael” who provided the music free of charge for the Guyana Tourist promotion stall but, most of all, thank you the Guyanese people and supporters who showed the great love and pride held for their country time after time. Without them, the show would never go on.
Guyana has so much to offer -- the diversity of food, music, dance and the list goes on. I continue to experience and enjoy all.
PATSY DOWNEY
IRISH
Well done Aunty Patsy. You even beat John Mair to it...hahaha.
UK Minister of Culture calls on President.
PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo on Monday received a courtesy call from Guyanese Minister of Culture in the British Parliament, David Lammy, at his official State House residence. Mr. Lammy is on an official four-day visit to Guyana, the Government Information Agency (GINA) said.
The agency reported that the minister, who has known President Jagdeo for several years, noted that Guyana has always been near his heart and this has prompted him to engage President Jagdeo in several discussions on ways he can represent Guyana in the UK. “Guyana matters to me and my family and it was good to see the President again and to talk about this country that we all love,” Minister Lammy said.
GINA said that at the completion of his official visit to Guyana, Lammy, who is accompanied by his wife Nicola, will travel to Venezuela to discuss official matters pertaining to the United Kingdom.
There they go again...leaving me out.
Boo Hoo Hoo !?!
The agency reported that the minister, who has known President Jagdeo for several years, noted that Guyana has always been near his heart and this has prompted him to engage President Jagdeo in several discussions on ways he can represent Guyana in the UK. “Guyana matters to me and my family and it was good to see the President again and to talk about this country that we all love,” Minister Lammy said.
GINA said that at the completion of his official visit to Guyana, Lammy, who is accompanied by his wife Nicola, will travel to Venezuela to discuss official matters pertaining to the United Kingdom.
There they go again...leaving me out.
Boo Hoo Hoo !?!
Two dismissed as airport management moves against corruption.
Guyana Chronicle
MANAGEMENT of Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation said yesterday that irregular activities and other forms of corruption will not be tolerated. All such reports should be immediately forwarded to Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation or the Police for necessary investigation and action,”it advised the public in a release. The release said the airport management recently dismissed two persons following investigations into reported irregularities. It said: “On May 15, an employee from a private security agency demanded money from a passenger who was carrying frozen fish in his suitcase.
The person complained to another security officer and the allegation was immediately investigated and found to be true. The money was retrieved and returned to the passenger before the flight departed Cheddi Jagan International Airport. The services of the guilty employee were terminated with immediate effect.
In a separate incident, an employee of a ground handling company was also dismissed for demanding money from an arriving passenger.”
The airport management can be contacted at:
Airport Operations Manager – 261-2038 or mskhan@cajairport.gy.com
Deputy Manager Airport Operations – 261-2300 or akelmann@cjairport.gy.com
Airport Duty Officer 261-2281 or 624-7022 (available 24 hours)
Ooooo...now we're getting somewhere !!!
MANAGEMENT of Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation said yesterday that irregular activities and other forms of corruption will not be tolerated. All such reports should be immediately forwarded to Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation or the Police for necessary investigation and action,”it advised the public in a release. The release said the airport management recently dismissed two persons following investigations into reported irregularities. It said: “On May 15, an employee from a private security agency demanded money from a passenger who was carrying frozen fish in his suitcase.
The person complained to another security officer and the allegation was immediately investigated and found to be true. The money was retrieved and returned to the passenger before the flight departed Cheddi Jagan International Airport. The services of the guilty employee were terminated with immediate effect.
In a separate incident, an employee of a ground handling company was also dismissed for demanding money from an arriving passenger.”
The airport management can be contacted at:
Airport Operations Manager – 261-2038 or mskhan@cajairport.gy.com
Deputy Manager Airport Operations – 261-2300 or akelmann@cjairport.gy.com
Airport Duty Officer 261-2281 or 624-7022 (available 24 hours)
Ooooo...now we're getting somewhere !!!
FLOOD WATCH ON !
Guyana Chronicle
CHAIRMAN of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Mr. Ravi Narine yesterday reported a half-inch drop in the water level in the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) as authorities continued a close flood watch in the current rainy season. In an invited comment, he said that at 16:30h yesterday, there was a half-inch drop in the water level in the EDWC, with the average level varying from 57.8 inches to about 55.2 inches in various sections of the conservancy. He said the average water level throughout the conservancy yesterday afternoon was 56.87 inches. Narine also assured that “at this point in time, there is no need to discharge water from the conservancy through the Maduni”, adding that all water from the conservancy continues to be discharged through the Demerara River.
President Bharrat Jagdeo on Monday expressed concern at the alarming rise in the water level in the conservancy, and called on all Guyanese to keep a very close watch and take all necessary flood precautions during this rainy season. The President noted that at the start of the rainy season, water in the conservancy was kept at a very low level – somewhere around 55 inches (GD) - since heavy rainfall was expected. The water level by Monday had risen to 58GD and President Jagdeo told reporters this level in the conservancy is “starting to worry us significantly”. We were expecting heavy rainfall so we kept the conservancy level very low but we were criticised for keeping the conservancy so low; people said that the dam would cave in if we keep the conservancy so low - somewhere around 55 GD (but) we are already at 58 GD and that is getting to a level where it is starting to worry us significantly,” the President said.
Narine yesterday assured that “round-the-clock” inspection of the conservancy dam was ongoing by more than 100 persons, and the integrity of the dam seemed to be “intact”. He also noted that some 20,000 sandbags had been deployed and stockpiled as part of a contingency plan to shore up the dam in case of any emergency. Narine also pointed out that the water level is still high in the upper reaches of the Mahaica and Mahaicony areas, especially Moraikabai. A technical team flew over the dam Monday and President Jagdeo said a “close watch” was being kept over the conservancy.
Persistent rains that began last week and the forecast for continued heavy downpours have triggered a close flood watch along the coast, and Mr. Jagdeo indicated that this state of heightened alertness has further increased with the rise in the water level at the conservancy.
We have experienced unusual amounts of rainfall over the past several days (and) for the past ten days or so, we have an aggregate amount - when you look at all the stations in the hinterland and here on the coast - of about 100 inches of rainfall,” he said. We are very concerned about the possibility of flooding in many areas; we have already seen, in many of the coastal villages, accumulation of water,” he said. However, this water seems to be running off as the tide changes and we have most of the kokers operational, so we have had a fairly decent flow-off from the coastal villages with the exception of some persistently problematic areas, ” the President said. We have already started experiencing difficulties in the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary areas…where the water levels have increased significantly in the rivers as the water comes from the backlands running to the coast. And this is leading to some problems of flooding in some of these riverain areas.” We expect this to worsen, frankly speaking, because the rain is still falling in the hinterland areas and that water has to find its way out to the Atlantic,” he said.
President Jagdeo said he has since asked the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to go out into the affected communities and prepare a report for him so that the government can decide if other types of interventions are needed, outside of the Drainage and Irrigation (D&I) interventions that were made. I would urge people to take all necessary precautions because with that volume of water flowing down the rivers, it could overtop some of the embankments that we have along the sides of the rivers.” While acknowledging that he is pleased with the empoldering work that was done, President Jagdeo said even this might not be enough if the water levels continue to rise. He assured that committed efforts are being made to manage the accumulation of water and keep the system working effectively. President Jagdeo noted that while the coast has been fairly dry and there has been a fairly decent flow-off of water from the coastal villages, his “biggest worry” at the moment is the hinterland areas. We have a significant amount of rain falling to the south of the city and while many people say they are not seeing the rains…that is because the rain is falling in the deep hinterland areas.” Unfortunately, that water has to run down through the rivers down to the sea and has to pass through many riverain areas. So what we are experiencing now is some difficulties in places like Lethem where the Takutu River is swollen and in Moraikabai were there are problems with high water,” the President said.
He also urged persons to refrain from tampering with flood-control structures, as was done with some parts of the Crown Dam.
CHAIRMAN of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Mr. Ravi Narine yesterday reported a half-inch drop in the water level in the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) as authorities continued a close flood watch in the current rainy season. In an invited comment, he said that at 16:30h yesterday, there was a half-inch drop in the water level in the EDWC, with the average level varying from 57.8 inches to about 55.2 inches in various sections of the conservancy. He said the average water level throughout the conservancy yesterday afternoon was 56.87 inches. Narine also assured that “at this point in time, there is no need to discharge water from the conservancy through the Maduni”, adding that all water from the conservancy continues to be discharged through the Demerara River.
President Bharrat Jagdeo on Monday expressed concern at the alarming rise in the water level in the conservancy, and called on all Guyanese to keep a very close watch and take all necessary flood precautions during this rainy season. The President noted that at the start of the rainy season, water in the conservancy was kept at a very low level – somewhere around 55 inches (GD) - since heavy rainfall was expected. The water level by Monday had risen to 58GD and President Jagdeo told reporters this level in the conservancy is “starting to worry us significantly”. We were expecting heavy rainfall so we kept the conservancy level very low but we were criticised for keeping the conservancy so low; people said that the dam would cave in if we keep the conservancy so low - somewhere around 55 GD (but) we are already at 58 GD and that is getting to a level where it is starting to worry us significantly,” the President said.
Narine yesterday assured that “round-the-clock” inspection of the conservancy dam was ongoing by more than 100 persons, and the integrity of the dam seemed to be “intact”. He also noted that some 20,000 sandbags had been deployed and stockpiled as part of a contingency plan to shore up the dam in case of any emergency. Narine also pointed out that the water level is still high in the upper reaches of the Mahaica and Mahaicony areas, especially Moraikabai. A technical team flew over the dam Monday and President Jagdeo said a “close watch” was being kept over the conservancy.
Persistent rains that began last week and the forecast for continued heavy downpours have triggered a close flood watch along the coast, and Mr. Jagdeo indicated that this state of heightened alertness has further increased with the rise in the water level at the conservancy.
We have experienced unusual amounts of rainfall over the past several days (and) for the past ten days or so, we have an aggregate amount - when you look at all the stations in the hinterland and here on the coast - of about 100 inches of rainfall,” he said. We are very concerned about the possibility of flooding in many areas; we have already seen, in many of the coastal villages, accumulation of water,” he said. However, this water seems to be running off as the tide changes and we have most of the kokers operational, so we have had a fairly decent flow-off from the coastal villages with the exception of some persistently problematic areas, ” the President said. We have already started experiencing difficulties in the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary areas…where the water levels have increased significantly in the rivers as the water comes from the backlands running to the coast. And this is leading to some problems of flooding in some of these riverain areas.” We expect this to worsen, frankly speaking, because the rain is still falling in the hinterland areas and that water has to find its way out to the Atlantic,” he said.
President Jagdeo said he has since asked the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to go out into the affected communities and prepare a report for him so that the government can decide if other types of interventions are needed, outside of the Drainage and Irrigation (D&I) interventions that were made. I would urge people to take all necessary precautions because with that volume of water flowing down the rivers, it could overtop some of the embankments that we have along the sides of the rivers.” While acknowledging that he is pleased with the empoldering work that was done, President Jagdeo said even this might not be enough if the water levels continue to rise. He assured that committed efforts are being made to manage the accumulation of water and keep the system working effectively. President Jagdeo noted that while the coast has been fairly dry and there has been a fairly decent flow-off of water from the coastal villages, his “biggest worry” at the moment is the hinterland areas. We have a significant amount of rain falling to the south of the city and while many people say they are not seeing the rains…that is because the rain is falling in the deep hinterland areas.” Unfortunately, that water has to run down through the rivers down to the sea and has to pass through many riverain areas. So what we are experiencing now is some difficulties in places like Lethem where the Takutu River is swollen and in Moraikabai were there are problems with high water,” the President said.
He also urged persons to refrain from tampering with flood-control structures, as was done with some parts of the Crown Dam.
Digicel launches BlackBerry here !!!
Guyana Chronicle
DIGICEL yesterday announced the launch of an innovative suite of BlackBerry smart-phones to its mobile customers here and the Guyanese market in general. At the media launch of the handsets at Le Meridien Pegasus Hotel in Georgetown, Chief Executive Officer of Digicel Guyana, Mr. Tim Bahrani said there is definitely a market for BlackBerry in this country and the introduction here of the “unique BlackBerry experience” is long overdue.
We are always looking at ways to expand our handset range so that it allows customers to benefit fully from cutting-edge wireless technology (and) Digicel is proud to be adding three BlackBerry smart-phones to our suite of handsets,” he told reporters. According to him, Digicel is the first operator in Guyana to introduce the BlackBerry wireless solution.
The BlackBerry Pearl, BlackBerry 8700 and the BlackBerry 7130 were the smart-phones launched yesterday and are now available on the market.The BlackBerry Pearl is loaded with features and offers everything you want from a smart-phone and the wireless advantage you only get from a BlackBerry,” Bahrani posited.The Blackberry Pearl delivers the full experience that users have come to love, along with powerful new media features such as a digital camera, MP3 player and video maker in what Bahrani said is “an amazingly small, light and stylish design”. Noting that the BlackBerry is “definitely one of those new innovations”, he declared that “multi-tasking has never been so easy!” Bahrani also believes there is a substantial market for BlackBerry handsets in Guyana. He said large corporations and companies like Banks DIH have already signaled their intention of having their senior managers use the BlackBerry smart-phones. Bahrani also asserted that “the BlackBerry experience you will get here is not dependent on the Americas II (Cable)”, used by its main competitor – the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company Limited (GT&T) and which was damaged off the coast of French Guiana recently.
Ms Lori Mulder, a Senior Manager at Research In Motion Limited (RIM) – the company that partners Digicel to bring BlackBerry to markets in countries around the world - said “RIM is proud to partner Digicel in bringing BlackBerry to Guyana for the very first time.” It is an absolute pleasure for me to be here with Digicel in Guyana; I had the privilege of being part of bringing BlackBerry to Digicel back in 2005 and it has been very exciting for me to watch Digicel’s growth over the last few years,” she told reporters. According to her, “BlackBerry is a total communications solution that improves the quality of life for businesses and individuals.”
Digicel Marketing Director Mr. Richard Gill said the handsets will range in price from between $55,000 to $65,000, while the BlackBerry service will be sold in ‘packages’ ranging from $10,000 to $17,000 per month. According to him, the cost of these packages depends on several things, including the number of free-minutes in each package and the kinds of added features in those packages. Gill said Digicel is committed to bringing “innovation into the marketplace” and to offer customers in Guyana the "best and most up-to-date service".
This is amazing.
It is a massive step forward for Guyana it terms of business solutions. Considering the size of our nation it is great to bring in technology that even the Russians can seem to get going !?!
DIGICEL yesterday announced the launch of an innovative suite of BlackBerry smart-phones to its mobile customers here and the Guyanese market in general. At the media launch of the handsets at Le Meridien Pegasus Hotel in Georgetown, Chief Executive Officer of Digicel Guyana, Mr. Tim Bahrani said there is definitely a market for BlackBerry in this country and the introduction here of the “unique BlackBerry experience” is long overdue.
We are always looking at ways to expand our handset range so that it allows customers to benefit fully from cutting-edge wireless technology (and) Digicel is proud to be adding three BlackBerry smart-phones to our suite of handsets,” he told reporters. According to him, Digicel is the first operator in Guyana to introduce the BlackBerry wireless solution.
The BlackBerry Pearl, BlackBerry 8700 and the BlackBerry 7130 were the smart-phones launched yesterday and are now available on the market.The BlackBerry Pearl is loaded with features and offers everything you want from a smart-phone and the wireless advantage you only get from a BlackBerry,” Bahrani posited.The Blackberry Pearl delivers the full experience that users have come to love, along with powerful new media features such as a digital camera, MP3 player and video maker in what Bahrani said is “an amazingly small, light and stylish design”. Noting that the BlackBerry is “definitely one of those new innovations”, he declared that “multi-tasking has never been so easy!” Bahrani also believes there is a substantial market for BlackBerry handsets in Guyana. He said large corporations and companies like Banks DIH have already signaled their intention of having their senior managers use the BlackBerry smart-phones. Bahrani also asserted that “the BlackBerry experience you will get here is not dependent on the Americas II (Cable)”, used by its main competitor – the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company Limited (GT&T) and which was damaged off the coast of French Guiana recently.
Ms Lori Mulder, a Senior Manager at Research In Motion Limited (RIM) – the company that partners Digicel to bring BlackBerry to markets in countries around the world - said “RIM is proud to partner Digicel in bringing BlackBerry to Guyana for the very first time.” It is an absolute pleasure for me to be here with Digicel in Guyana; I had the privilege of being part of bringing BlackBerry to Digicel back in 2005 and it has been very exciting for me to watch Digicel’s growth over the last few years,” she told reporters. According to her, “BlackBerry is a total communications solution that improves the quality of life for businesses and individuals.”
Digicel Marketing Director Mr. Richard Gill said the handsets will range in price from between $55,000 to $65,000, while the BlackBerry service will be sold in ‘packages’ ranging from $10,000 to $17,000 per month. According to him, the cost of these packages depends on several things, including the number of free-minutes in each package and the kinds of added features in those packages. Gill said Digicel is committed to bringing “innovation into the marketplace” and to offer customers in Guyana the "best and most up-to-date service".
This is amazing.
It is a massive step forward for Guyana it terms of business solutions. Considering the size of our nation it is great to bring in technology that even the Russians can seem to get going !?!
Monday 21 May 2007
Traffic lights in operation at three city junctions
(Stabroek News)
Traffic lights have been commissioned and are operable at three city junctions, Vlissengen Road/Regent Street, Regent/Camp Streets and Camp/Robb Streets,
and road users are being asked to comply with the traffic signals, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported yesterday.
Installation of traffic lights at 50 critical city junctions is being done under a US$2.1 million initiative by the governments of Guyana and India to ease traffic congestion in Georgetown. Minister of Transport and Hydraulics Robeson Benn, Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee and other officials of both ministries yesterday checked out the traffic lights which were in operation, GINA said. According to Benn, the traffic lights are an overdue development and citizens should exercise discipline and understanding to familiarize themselves with the new system that will create better traffic management and road safety. He noted that 'observations' of the lights will determine the need for adjustments to the countdown time for change of signals for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The system is adjustable, he added.
Meanwhile, routine programmes explaining the features and functions of the new lights will be conducted via television, radio and newspapers upon installation of traffic light at each junction, GINA reported. This is part of the ministry's public awareness and education campaign to familiarize road users with the new features. According to GINA, traffic safety engineer Kadri Parris has explained that the lights have various modern features to indicate five phases of movements for vehicular and pedestrian traffic. However, it has been observed that some persons are not au fait with the system and as a result are crossing the road irresponsibly.
GINA quoted Parris as saying that "These pedestrians' pelicans are in place to ensure the safety of our pedestrians who are the most vulnerable road users in the country and to ensure that they can travel safely."
Additionally, the lights have a countdown time which would indicate to drivers when the signals are about to change. Another feature includes directional arrows instead of the normal green lights, which are more user-friendly, particularly for motorists and cyclists. Regarding the solar panels installed at each junction, safety mechanisms are being explored to ensure their security. Meantime, persons are being urged to desist from attempting to steal or remove the panels as they will face charges for tampering with public property, GINA stated.
Traffic lights have been commissioned and are operable at three city junctions, Vlissengen Road/Regent Street, Regent/Camp Streets and Camp/Robb Streets,
and road users are being asked to comply with the traffic signals, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported yesterday.
Installation of traffic lights at 50 critical city junctions is being done under a US$2.1 million initiative by the governments of Guyana and India to ease traffic congestion in Georgetown. Minister of Transport and Hydraulics Robeson Benn, Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee and other officials of both ministries yesterday checked out the traffic lights which were in operation, GINA said. According to Benn, the traffic lights are an overdue development and citizens should exercise discipline and understanding to familiarize themselves with the new system that will create better traffic management and road safety. He noted that 'observations' of the lights will determine the need for adjustments to the countdown time for change of signals for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The system is adjustable, he added.
Meanwhile, routine programmes explaining the features and functions of the new lights will be conducted via television, radio and newspapers upon installation of traffic light at each junction, GINA reported. This is part of the ministry's public awareness and education campaign to familiarize road users with the new features. According to GINA, traffic safety engineer Kadri Parris has explained that the lights have various modern features to indicate five phases of movements for vehicular and pedestrian traffic. However, it has been observed that some persons are not au fait with the system and as a result are crossing the road irresponsibly.
GINA quoted Parris as saying that "These pedestrians' pelicans are in place to ensure the safety of our pedestrians who are the most vulnerable road users in the country and to ensure that they can travel safely."
Additionally, the lights have a countdown time which would indicate to drivers when the signals are about to change. Another feature includes directional arrows instead of the normal green lights, which are more user-friendly, particularly for motorists and cyclists. Regarding the solar panels installed at each junction, safety mechanisms are being explored to ensure their security. Meantime, persons are being urged to desist from attempting to steal or remove the panels as they will face charges for tampering with public property, GINA stated.
New steps to crush drugs via post !!!
(Stabroek News)
The Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) is introducing measures to reduce and ultimately prevent narcotics and prohibited substance from being sent by post.
A press release from the GPOC yesterday stated that the postal service had been plagued by the attempts of "drug" dealers to send their illicit and or prohibited substances via the mail.
As such, the release said, measures will be introduced in an effort to significantly reduce attempts by these "drug" dealers. The release said that with immediate effect, senders of parcels, Express Mail Service (EMS) packets and any other packet which must be inspected by Postal Officers as well as Customs Officers will have to produce proof of address which would by any utility bill and an acceptable means of identification.
Senders of these packets and parcels must also sign a declaration which advises that the police, CANU, and or any related official will be called in if any illicit or prohibited substance is found in any packet or parcel which was posted or is in the process of being posted, the release said.
So what will they be doing different ???
They usually open international mail to check if there is anything of value to steal. Guyana internal mail I guess is ok. Seems at least that the drugs are getting through ok !?!
The Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) is introducing measures to reduce and ultimately prevent narcotics and prohibited substance from being sent by post.
A press release from the GPOC yesterday stated that the postal service had been plagued by the attempts of "drug" dealers to send their illicit and or prohibited substances via the mail.
As such, the release said, measures will be introduced in an effort to significantly reduce attempts by these "drug" dealers. The release said that with immediate effect, senders of parcels, Express Mail Service (EMS) packets and any other packet which must be inspected by Postal Officers as well as Customs Officers will have to produce proof of address which would by any utility bill and an acceptable means of identification.
Senders of these packets and parcels must also sign a declaration which advises that the police, CANU, and or any related official will be called in if any illicit or prohibited substance is found in any packet or parcel which was posted or is in the process of being posted, the release said.
So what will they be doing different ???
They usually open international mail to check if there is anything of value to steal. Guyana internal mail I guess is ok. Seems at least that the drugs are getting through ok !?!
Saturday 5 May 2007
In a message to mark Arrival Day today, President Bharrat Jagdeo pointed to the rich legacy of Guyana's plural, multi-cultural society and declared that it is time that "we give sober reflection on the significance of immigration and indentureship." The President then urged, "Let us show a greater sense of purpose and maturity and more mutual respect, tolerance, appreciation and understanding of each other as we commemorate Arrival Day." Jagdeo also observed that the slave riots and the indenture system served as a clear historical bond that have cemented the alliances among all groups throughout Guyana.
He said that over the years the month of May is generally regarded and widely celebrated as Immigration Month in Guyana because it was during this time that the first batch of Portuguese (1835), East Indians (1838) and the liberated Africans (1841) arrived as indentured laborers in the then colony of British Guiana. As a result, substantial numbers of immigrants came from these same sources. In addition to these immigrants the country was also the recipient of Europeans, Chinese and Barbadian immigrants. According to Jagdeo, this immigration might not have seen the light of day were it not for the numerous slave riots in Guyana, Jamaica, Barbados and Antigua, which not only presented the ingredients for the Abolition of Slavery Act of 1834 but catalyzed the concoction of the Indenture System.
During the immediate post-emancipation era of `crisis, experimentation and change' immigration was seen as the answer to the much feared labour problems of the plantocracy and the consequential threat to the survival of the sugar industry. Through the combined efforts of these immigration schemes, Jagdeo said, the Guyana society was provided with over 340,000 indentured labourers during the period 1834-1917. The President noted that the immigrants' overall contribution to Guyana is phenomenal since they ensured the survival and expansion of the sugar industry in the nineteenth century in the face of tremendous odds.
The immigrants also aided the rise and development of villages, peasantry and economic diversification in general. Moreover, their cultural impact is pronounced and lasting, especially in the areas of religion, festivals, folklore, dress, language, dancing, music and food, he added.
He said that over the years the month of May is generally regarded and widely celebrated as Immigration Month in Guyana because it was during this time that the first batch of Portuguese (1835), East Indians (1838) and the liberated Africans (1841) arrived as indentured laborers in the then colony of British Guiana. As a result, substantial numbers of immigrants came from these same sources. In addition to these immigrants the country was also the recipient of Europeans, Chinese and Barbadian immigrants. According to Jagdeo, this immigration might not have seen the light of day were it not for the numerous slave riots in Guyana, Jamaica, Barbados and Antigua, which not only presented the ingredients for the Abolition of Slavery Act of 1834 but catalyzed the concoction of the Indenture System.
During the immediate post-emancipation era of `crisis, experimentation and change' immigration was seen as the answer to the much feared labour problems of the plantocracy and the consequential threat to the survival of the sugar industry. Through the combined efforts of these immigration schemes, Jagdeo said, the Guyana society was provided with over 340,000 indentured labourers during the period 1834-1917. The President noted that the immigrants' overall contribution to Guyana is phenomenal since they ensured the survival and expansion of the sugar industry in the nineteenth century in the face of tremendous odds.
The immigrants also aided the rise and development of villages, peasantry and economic diversification in general. Moreover, their cultural impact is pronounced and lasting, especially in the areas of religion, festivals, folklore, dress, language, dancing, music and food, he added.
Gunmen rob Kitty post office -$2M snatched (Stab)
Gunmen yesterday morning carted off close to two million dollars in yet another robbery at the Kitty Post Office, located a mere 200 metres away from the Kitty Police Station. No one from the post office was willing to offer a comment on the incident and Stabroek News could not contact the Post Master General.
Police in a statement yesterday said that bandits escaped with $1, 975,900. According to the police, investigations have so far revealed that two employees were at the time in the building: Postal Clerk Nicola Fogenay and Post Master Christopher Bowen. The suspects entered the post office and got into the inner office through an open door where they pointed a gun at Fogenay. They then took her into the Post Master's Office and ordered Bowen to open two safes from which they stole $1,775,900 and $200,000 respectively. They later tied up the workers and fled in a car, which was waiting a short distance away.
Armed robberies at the Kitty Post Office, located on Alexander and Pike streets have been frequent, dating back from November 2005 when three armed bandits robbed the office of some $500,000 and a quantity of stamps. The robbers then had escaped in a waiting motorcar.
The robbery had occurred around 7:30 am. The post office was open for business when the men entered the building. They stuck up several employees and ordered them to lie on the floor and demanded that the Post Master open a safe from which they stole a quantity the cash and stamps. While escaping, they also robbed a female employee of three gold rings and then escaped in a motorcar.
Then in April last year a female employee of the said post office was shot in the thigh when a gunman robbed the office shortly after it opened for the day.
Post Office Corporation Chairman Juan Edghill had said then that the robberies had prompted adjustments in the security system, including changes in the counter arrangement and other internal systems. Edghill had also called on residents who might have information to come forward, since the men were unmasked. A number of other post offices across the city and country have been set upon by bandits and cash stolen. A postal official was shot in one such recent attack in Berbice where a payroll was snatched.
200 HUNDRED YARDS !?!
Actually I usually float around Kitty a lot when i'm there and I know their roughly that distance apart if not less. If that was the UK, US or Canada, there would have been armed police there in less than a minute. Why can't Guyana have the same urgency as we do ???
Police in a statement yesterday said that bandits escaped with $1, 975,900. According to the police, investigations have so far revealed that two employees were at the time in the building: Postal Clerk Nicola Fogenay and Post Master Christopher Bowen. The suspects entered the post office and got into the inner office through an open door where they pointed a gun at Fogenay. They then took her into the Post Master's Office and ordered Bowen to open two safes from which they stole $1,775,900 and $200,000 respectively. They later tied up the workers and fled in a car, which was waiting a short distance away.
Armed robberies at the Kitty Post Office, located on Alexander and Pike streets have been frequent, dating back from November 2005 when three armed bandits robbed the office of some $500,000 and a quantity of stamps. The robbers then had escaped in a waiting motorcar.
The robbery had occurred around 7:30 am. The post office was open for business when the men entered the building. They stuck up several employees and ordered them to lie on the floor and demanded that the Post Master open a safe from which they stole a quantity the cash and stamps. While escaping, they also robbed a female employee of three gold rings and then escaped in a motorcar.
Then in April last year a female employee of the said post office was shot in the thigh when a gunman robbed the office shortly after it opened for the day.
Post Office Corporation Chairman Juan Edghill had said then that the robberies had prompted adjustments in the security system, including changes in the counter arrangement and other internal systems. Edghill had also called on residents who might have information to come forward, since the men were unmasked. A number of other post offices across the city and country have been set upon by bandits and cash stolen. A postal official was shot in one such recent attack in Berbice where a payroll was snatched.
200 HUNDRED YARDS !?!
Actually I usually float around Kitty a lot when i'm there and I know their roughly that distance apart if not less. If that was the UK, US or Canada, there would have been armed police there in less than a minute. Why can't Guyana have the same urgency as we do ???
Tuesday 1 May 2007
'Guyanese Mafia' get their own 'Who's Who'
By John Mair in London
The moniker--invented by me--has stuck. 'The Guyanese Mafia' are now well and truly established in the British and Guyanese public consciousness. They are also high up in British Society--especially in the public sphere. Now they are to get their own 'Who's Who' and be immortalised in print forever. The book Guyanese Achievers UK is about to be published in the UK; it will be launched with a glittering reception at the Guyana High Commission, graced by the High Commissioner himself, in London on June 1.
The man behind it all is rather self-effacing. Seventy-two-year-old Vidur Dindayal is a retired architect who has made this his life's work over the last three years. Dindayal who emigrated from Rosignol to London 45 years ago. has chronicled the rise and rise of the 'Mafia' through a series of 60 portraits of the 'achievers'-- from Baroness Amos to Lord Waheed Alli, from Professor David Dabydeen to Professor Cynthia Pine, from Keith Waithe to the late Rudolph Dunbar all thriving in a variety of fields. These sons and daughters of the Land of Six Waters and races have thrived in their adopted land or in some cases their homeland. Dindayal, who himself rose up from being a clerk to being an architect for the Greater London Council acknowledges the 'Mafia,' though recalcitrant in using the term, and their common heritage. "Guyanese migrants, by and large, have done well wherever they have settled. This book... is particularly aimed at celebrating the achievements of Guyanese who have settled here in the UK, their country of domicile. Given the small Guyanese population in the UK they have done well," he says in his preface.
Readers of the Stabroek News will be well aware of the major players on the Guyanese Mafia' stage. They will also remember the mild media storm over the 'Mafia' appellation too. Dindayal has been unstinting in his research with due credit paid to the Stabroek News and to this author for the spadework done on this subject and for his 'Guyanese achiever gene' typology. "Factors which perhaps contribute to the drive to achieve are that most Guyanese share in common a background of: modest means, an educational system with strict discipline in which we are expected to obtain top marks, where achievers are highly valued, as is respect for elders in the family and in the community, and a strong sense of belonging to the larger community, be it a village, the sugar plantation, or a part of town."
The 'Guyanese Mafia' have long ago arrived in the UK. So much so that now they are being replaced by the 'Young mafia'. Dindayal is their Boswell. The book, Guyanese Achievers UK By Vidur Dindayal, is published by Trafford Press ISBN number 1-4251-0542-4 costs US$36.52 US or 21 pounds sterling and is available on the internet at www.trafford. com/6-2300teh Net proceeds will go to charities in Guyana.
Hmmm...maybe that 'Young Mafia' includes me. Not sure if I could get around with a label saying 'Mafia' on it !!!
Awww hell, I can always dream !?!
The moniker--invented by me--has stuck. 'The Guyanese Mafia' are now well and truly established in the British and Guyanese public consciousness. They are also high up in British Society--especially in the public sphere. Now they are to get their own 'Who's Who' and be immortalised in print forever. The book Guyanese Achievers UK is about to be published in the UK; it will be launched with a glittering reception at the Guyana High Commission, graced by the High Commissioner himself, in London on June 1.
The man behind it all is rather self-effacing. Seventy-two-year-old Vidur Dindayal is a retired architect who has made this his life's work over the last three years. Dindayal who emigrated from Rosignol to London 45 years ago. has chronicled the rise and rise of the 'Mafia' through a series of 60 portraits of the 'achievers'-- from Baroness Amos to Lord Waheed Alli, from Professor David Dabydeen to Professor Cynthia Pine, from Keith Waithe to the late Rudolph Dunbar all thriving in a variety of fields. These sons and daughters of the Land of Six Waters and races have thrived in their adopted land or in some cases their homeland. Dindayal, who himself rose up from being a clerk to being an architect for the Greater London Council acknowledges the 'Mafia,' though recalcitrant in using the term, and their common heritage. "Guyanese migrants, by and large, have done well wherever they have settled. This book... is particularly aimed at celebrating the achievements of Guyanese who have settled here in the UK, their country of domicile. Given the small Guyanese population in the UK they have done well," he says in his preface.
Readers of the Stabroek News will be well aware of the major players on the Guyanese Mafia' stage. They will also remember the mild media storm over the 'Mafia' appellation too. Dindayal has been unstinting in his research with due credit paid to the Stabroek News and to this author for the spadework done on this subject and for his 'Guyanese achiever gene' typology. "Factors which perhaps contribute to the drive to achieve are that most Guyanese share in common a background of: modest means, an educational system with strict discipline in which we are expected to obtain top marks, where achievers are highly valued, as is respect for elders in the family and in the community, and a strong sense of belonging to the larger community, be it a village, the sugar plantation, or a part of town."
The 'Guyanese Mafia' have long ago arrived in the UK. So much so that now they are being replaced by the 'Young mafia'. Dindayal is their Boswell. The book, Guyanese Achievers UK By Vidur Dindayal, is published by Trafford Press ISBN number 1-4251-0542-4 costs US$36.52 US or 21 pounds sterling and is available on the internet at www.trafford. com/6-2300teh Net proceeds will go to charities in Guyana.
Hmmm...maybe that 'Young Mafia' includes me. Not sure if I could get around with a label saying 'Mafia' on it !!!
Awww hell, I can always dream !?!
Monday 30 April 2007
Sarwan becomes seventh Guyanese to captain West Indies
A NIMBLE, Chaplinesque right-hander, Ramnaresh Ronnie Sarwan was yesterday confirmed by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) as the man to take over as captain from Brian Lara, who quit international cricket last week. Being entrusted with the arduous task of taking West Indies cricket forward, `Sars’, as he is familiarly called by team-mates and close friends, becomes the seventh Guyanese cricketer to captain the West Indies.
Sarwan is following in the footsteps of his illustrious compatriots Maurius `Pacheco’ Fernandes, Rohan Bholalall Kanhai, Clive Hubert Lloyd, Alvin Isaac Kallicharran, Carl Llewellyn Hooper and Shivnarine Chanderpaul.
Brought up in Wakenaam, Essequibo, Sarwan made his first-class debut for Guyana at age 16 and his Test debut in 2000 against Pakistan at age 19. After Sarwan’s his first Test innings of 84 not out against Pakistan, the former England captain Ted Dexter was moved to predict a Test average of more than 50 - an unfair millstone to hang around any young player's neck. But on his first tour, to England in 2000, Sarwan lived up to the hype by topping the averages. His footwork, which seemed to require no early trigger movements, was strikingly confident and precise. It was a surprise when he then produced a horror run of three runs in five innings in Australia, but against India in 2001-02 he was back to his composed best.
Sarwan, who took over as Brian Lara's vice-captain in March 2003, required 28 matches and 49 innings to post his maiden Test century, 119 in December of 2002 - and even then it came against the less-than-mighty Bangladeshis. But, as the likes of Graham Gooch and Steve Waugh can testify, the first time is often the hardest, and since then, his batting has achieved a greater level of consistency.
A dream series against South Africa in 2003-04, where he averaged nearly a 100 runs a Test, was followed by a lean run against England. But he battled on, and returned to form in a stunning manner with an unbeaten 261 against Bangladesh in June. Then came the England tour in 2004 where he began and ended the tour on a low note, but was prolific in the middle. However, West Indian fortunes were on the ascendency in one-dayers as they reached the finals of the NatWest Series and then won the ICC Champions Trophy with Sarwan playing a big hand in both tournaments.
However, he was one of the players involved in the contract dispute between with WICB and missed the first Test against South Africa in 2005. On his return he scored attractive runs, but was again overlooked for the captaincy when it was handed back to Brian Lara. He didn't fare well with the bat in the 2006-07 season, averaging just 25.90 in 13 games he played till the end of the Champions Trophy. In a shocking gesture, he was dropped from the second Test against Pakistan in the away series in November. He returned for the third Test and sustained a foot injury which kept him out of the one-dayers against Pakistan and the tour of India.
More misery was in store when he was sidelined for three weeks after suffering a hand injury in February 2007 while batting for Guyana.
Wooo hooo...something to celebrate...finally !!!
Although I think we should really drop the name 'Sars' just incase people get the wrong idea. Like..."The West Indies team is coming to England with Sars"...or..."Sars has been a big factor in the West Indies team over the past few months".
Sarwan is following in the footsteps of his illustrious compatriots Maurius `Pacheco’ Fernandes, Rohan Bholalall Kanhai, Clive Hubert Lloyd, Alvin Isaac Kallicharran, Carl Llewellyn Hooper and Shivnarine Chanderpaul.
Brought up in Wakenaam, Essequibo, Sarwan made his first-class debut for Guyana at age 16 and his Test debut in 2000 against Pakistan at age 19. After Sarwan’s his first Test innings of 84 not out against Pakistan, the former England captain Ted Dexter was moved to predict a Test average of more than 50 - an unfair millstone to hang around any young player's neck. But on his first tour, to England in 2000, Sarwan lived up to the hype by topping the averages. His footwork, which seemed to require no early trigger movements, was strikingly confident and precise. It was a surprise when he then produced a horror run of three runs in five innings in Australia, but against India in 2001-02 he was back to his composed best.
Sarwan, who took over as Brian Lara's vice-captain in March 2003, required 28 matches and 49 innings to post his maiden Test century, 119 in December of 2002 - and even then it came against the less-than-mighty Bangladeshis. But, as the likes of Graham Gooch and Steve Waugh can testify, the first time is often the hardest, and since then, his batting has achieved a greater level of consistency.
A dream series against South Africa in 2003-04, where he averaged nearly a 100 runs a Test, was followed by a lean run against England. But he battled on, and returned to form in a stunning manner with an unbeaten 261 against Bangladesh in June. Then came the England tour in 2004 where he began and ended the tour on a low note, but was prolific in the middle. However, West Indian fortunes were on the ascendency in one-dayers as they reached the finals of the NatWest Series and then won the ICC Champions Trophy with Sarwan playing a big hand in both tournaments.
However, he was one of the players involved in the contract dispute between with WICB and missed the first Test against South Africa in 2005. On his return he scored attractive runs, but was again overlooked for the captaincy when it was handed back to Brian Lara. He didn't fare well with the bat in the 2006-07 season, averaging just 25.90 in 13 games he played till the end of the Champions Trophy. In a shocking gesture, he was dropped from the second Test against Pakistan in the away series in November. He returned for the third Test and sustained a foot injury which kept him out of the one-dayers against Pakistan and the tour of India.
More misery was in store when he was sidelined for three weeks after suffering a hand injury in February 2007 while batting for Guyana.
Wooo hooo...something to celebrate...finally !!!
Although I think we should really drop the name 'Sars' just incase people get the wrong idea. Like..."The West Indies team is coming to England with Sars"...or..."Sars has been a big factor in the West Indies team over the past few months".
GMC holds ‘pineapple’ affair (GC + GINA)
Established to help boost the country’s local products, the Guyana Marketing Corporation’s new facility, the Guyana Shop and Marketing Information Centre Saturday held a pineapple promotion. The Robb and Alexander streets Centre is aimed at facilitating and coordinating development of non-traditional agricultural produce and products for export and improving on services offered by the GMC. Its ‘pineapple affair’ was held to highlight the many products and delicacies made from the succulent fruit. Farmers showcased and sold their pineapple jams, jellies, wine, and other delicacies, as well as rubbing alcohol all made from pineapple.
According to General Manager of GMC Nizam Hassan, “Through this activity we hope that more persons will be aware of the agriculture products and produce in Guyana.” Hassan said that this is the first external activity since the new shop was launched last month and noted that several other promotions are planned for the months ahead. He explained that since its launch, the new facility has been doing very well. “We saw lots of overseas Guyanese, tourists and visitors during the Cricket World Cup period.”Farmers expressed satisfaction at the initiative by the GMC, noting that it is an activity which must continue. They also urged Guyanese to support the local agriculture sector and subsequently the growth of the country’s economy.
The Guyana Shop currently has more than 400 varied local items for sale to the public. It will make market information and contact more accessible to guide clients on current market trends and demand at the global level. Market agents will provide guidance for possible linkages between farmers and prospective buyers/exporters. “This Guyana Shop initiative aims to promote only products made and grown in Guyana, and will also conduct retail sales as secondary focus. Officers will do whatever is necessary to promote export and the facility will provide information to curtail market failures,” Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud said at the shop’s launching in March. GMC plays an instrumental role in the export of non-traditional produce to Barbados, Antigua and St. Lucia. The corporation is currently working to develop a similar link with Trinidad and Tobago. It was through the GMC that market linkages were formed with buyers from the United States for peppers, plantain and corn flour.
According to General Manager of GMC Nizam Hassan, “Through this activity we hope that more persons will be aware of the agriculture products and produce in Guyana.” Hassan said that this is the first external activity since the new shop was launched last month and noted that several other promotions are planned for the months ahead. He explained that since its launch, the new facility has been doing very well. “We saw lots of overseas Guyanese, tourists and visitors during the Cricket World Cup period.”Farmers expressed satisfaction at the initiative by the GMC, noting that it is an activity which must continue. They also urged Guyanese to support the local agriculture sector and subsequently the growth of the country’s economy.
The Guyana Shop currently has more than 400 varied local items for sale to the public. It will make market information and contact more accessible to guide clients on current market trends and demand at the global level. Market agents will provide guidance for possible linkages between farmers and prospective buyers/exporters. “This Guyana Shop initiative aims to promote only products made and grown in Guyana, and will also conduct retail sales as secondary focus. Officers will do whatever is necessary to promote export and the facility will provide information to curtail market failures,” Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud said at the shop’s launching in March. GMC plays an instrumental role in the export of non-traditional produce to Barbados, Antigua and St. Lucia. The corporation is currently working to develop a similar link with Trinidad and Tobago. It was through the GMC that market linkages were formed with buyers from the United States for peppers, plantain and corn flour.
Ivanoff Blue Vodka launching at Charity
Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) is set to launch its Ivanoff Blue Vodka today at Charity along the Essequibo Coast. A press release from the company said the vodka, which was introduced last year, was introduced to the 'Cinderella County' last Monday and it hopes that the coming launch will attract "vodka drinkers" all the way from the Pomeroon. The event will be hosted at the Purple Heart Hotel and Bar at 3 pm.
DDL said the premium vodka has grown in the Demerara market since last year and is expected to hit the shelves in the two new areas shortly. This vodka is the latest product the company has manufactured. The company said the drink is a "clear, triple distilled spirit with the smoothest of taste with more clarity than other vodkas." It added that the vodka has "an impeccable nose and a very pure fineness with a soft palate, it swirls beautifully on the rocks or as a mixture" with orange juice.
So what their really saying is..."We've used all this fancy language to describe the vodka".
What we should say is..."It will cost you more"
DDL said the premium vodka has grown in the Demerara market since last year and is expected to hit the shelves in the two new areas shortly. This vodka is the latest product the company has manufactured. The company said the drink is a "clear, triple distilled spirit with the smoothest of taste with more clarity than other vodkas." It added that the vodka has "an impeccable nose and a very pure fineness with a soft palate, it swirls beautifully on the rocks or as a mixture" with orange juice.
So what their really saying is..."We've used all this fancy language to describe the vodka".
What we should say is..."It will cost you more"
No VAT on milk, except flavoured - GRA
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is calling on importers, wholesalers and retailers not to charge VAT on milk, regardless of the brand and added vitamins, except where the milk is flavoured. The GRA reiterated in a press release on Friday that only unflavoured cow's milk and milk powder are not liable to the Value Added Tax (VAT).
Schedule 1, paragraph 2 (q) (v) of the VAT Act zero-rates "cow's milk and milk powder, but not including other milk such as flavoured milk."
The VAT department has re-emphasised that no VAT is to be charged on cow's milk whether in boxes, cans or bags, once it is not flavoured milk (strawberry, banana, chocolate etc.). The position adopted by the GRA is that evaporated milk, liquid cow's milk inclusive of Ultra High Tempera-ture (UHT) milk and fully or partially skimmed milk are forms of cow's milk and, as such, along with powdered milk (skim and full-cream) are zero- rated. The department stated that while most milk including evaporated and UHT milk go through a process to reduce the fat content, prolong shelf-life or in some instances, where naturally occurring vitamins (A,D,E and K) have been lost through the reduction of fat, to reintroduce such vitamins, they are essentially cow's milk. Condensed milk, on the contrary, falls into the category of flavoured milk and is therefore subject to VAT.
"Importers, wholesalers and retailers are being urged by the GRA not to charge VAT on milk, regardless of the brand and added vitamins, except where the milk is flavoured."
The GRA added that it remains committed to working with stakeholders to ensure VAT is effective and that there is maximum compliance with the law so that Guyanese can enjoy the real benefits of VAT. Persons who have VAT queries may write to the Commissioner, VAT and Excise Tax Department, for clarification. Distribution Services Limited (DSL) in a letter in the April 28 edition of Stabroek News said it had written to the GRA on the matter of certain milks since January 4 and had not gotten a response. DSL said it had been forced to pay VAT in the meanwhile on certain non-flavoured milks and had protested over this.
Schedule 1, paragraph 2 (q) (v) of the VAT Act zero-rates "cow's milk and milk powder, but not including other milk such as flavoured milk."
The VAT department has re-emphasised that no VAT is to be charged on cow's milk whether in boxes, cans or bags, once it is not flavoured milk (strawberry, banana, chocolate etc.). The position adopted by the GRA is that evaporated milk, liquid cow's milk inclusive of Ultra High Tempera-ture (UHT) milk and fully or partially skimmed milk are forms of cow's milk and, as such, along with powdered milk (skim and full-cream) are zero- rated. The department stated that while most milk including evaporated and UHT milk go through a process to reduce the fat content, prolong shelf-life or in some instances, where naturally occurring vitamins (A,D,E and K) have been lost through the reduction of fat, to reintroduce such vitamins, they are essentially cow's milk. Condensed milk, on the contrary, falls into the category of flavoured milk and is therefore subject to VAT.
"Importers, wholesalers and retailers are being urged by the GRA not to charge VAT on milk, regardless of the brand and added vitamins, except where the milk is flavoured."
The GRA added that it remains committed to working with stakeholders to ensure VAT is effective and that there is maximum compliance with the law so that Guyanese can enjoy the real benefits of VAT. Persons who have VAT queries may write to the Commissioner, VAT and Excise Tax Department, for clarification. Distribution Services Limited (DSL) in a letter in the April 28 edition of Stabroek News said it had written to the GRA on the matter of certain milks since January 4 and had not gotten a response. DSL said it had been forced to pay VAT in the meanwhile on certain non-flavoured milks and had protested over this.
'Old Higue murder'
Up to press time, the woman who was beaten to death in the village of Bare Root on the East Coast Demerara after residents said she was an 'Old Higue' was still unidentified and three persons are now in custody over the murder.
Stabroek News understands that while a woman who was arrested by the police following the murder was released two other persons were taken into custody. A man had been held on Saturday. The incident demonstrated how deeply held superstitious beliefs could result in murder and yesterday many residents pondered and quarrelled over the incident.
The woman was found at the corner of a road on Saturday morning and police said that there were marks of violence about her body. A post-mortem examination is expected to be done. Stabroek News was told on Saturday that the woman was beaten with a manicole broom (made of fronds from the manicole palm) and left at the side of the road and the body was later removed by the police. There were conflicting reports as to why and how the woman met her death but one report said that residents believed that the woman had sucked blood from a baby leaving a mark on the child's chest. Another report said that two men had called out to the woman as they thought it was a person they knew and instead of an answer they were greeted by a snarling sound. The men then called residents out. Residents surrounded the woman and threw rice around her while some threw kerosene and tried to burn her.
When Stabroek News visited the village yesterday none of the residents whom this newspaper spoke to reported seeing any of the above. They also said they did not witness how the woman met her death as by the time they arrived on the scene she was already dead. Some residents did not want to speak to this newspaper on the issue. What was apparent from those persons speaking to this newspaper was that many persons believe that 'Old Higue' exists and there are deeply held superstitious beliefs.
One young man told this newspaper that he has seen 'Old Higues' many times before. He said before the village became so populated he would see these things. "But I can't really seh wah happen hay yesterday (Saturday) because I wasn't deh suh I can't comment. But I know `Old Higue' deh," he said. Another woman, who was with her two children, told this newspaper that she is a firm believer that 'Old Higue' is a part of the world. "Me mother always tell we about it, and she use to tell we when `Old Higue' sucking you girl child you does know", the woman said as she held on to the hand of her daughter. She said since she moved into the area she has never had an encounter but she knew it was around because of what was happening with her child. She said she was not at home yesterday morning but when she returned she heard of the incident and feels that it was the same 'Old Higue' that has been sucking her daughter. "`Old Higue' have to dead and I believe if she was an `Old Higue' she had to dead," the woman said firmly.
One young man said no one gives life so they should not take it. "But you think about it this way if you wake up and see a `Old Higue' sucking you baby what you go do? You have to do something you ent go stand up and watch it do dat to you child." But when it was pointed out to him that the woman was not killed in a house but rather on the road corner he declined to make any further comment. He said his cell phone had just alarmed when he heard noise in the street and upon investigating he saw people in the street running towards the back. When he decided to follow he saw the woman lying on the street. Yesterday, the house where the child, who was reportedly attacked, lived was locked up and no one next door would comment on the issue. One woman who lives not far from the house said she did not come out until in the morning and she saw the woman dead. She does not believe in `Old Higue' but pointed out that "all kind a thing" exist in the world. She is not afraid of what transpired about a stone's throw away from her home but said her daughter is scared. A woman, who said she is of the Rastafarian faith, said she would not have gone to see the body as the woman is unclean and she wanted no unclean being next to her. "If she is a `Old Higue' she had to go, we don't want dem kinda a thing in this place," she said while eating her bowl of chowmein with a piece of chicken on top.
An elderly woman in the area was the only person who was not in agreement with what transpired. She was very angry at the way the woman met her death and said she did not believe in the existence of `Old Higue'. "If deh say she suck a child then where is the child? Bring the child out and let we see," the woman said. She said as far as she is concerned the woman must have been of unsound mind and she may have wandered into the village. She could not understand how people in the village could have pounced upon such a hapless person and beat her to death. "I don't believe in that and I don't believe she was any `Old Higue'. They were wrong, they should not have killed the woman. They could have chased her out of the village," the woman said. She said she did not investigate the issue but was told about it.
As this newspaper was leaving the village a youth shouted, "Stabroek News, tell dah story good you know she was a `Old Higue' and she had to dead." Some of the older folks in the village refused to speak to this newspaper and even dissuaded some younger ones who were inclined to speak from doing so.
The police are continuing their investigation.
According to local legend, an `Old Higue' is an evil spirit, usually a woman, who changes into a ball of fire and sucks the blood of people.
She must remove her skin in order to perform this act. She can be stopped by grains of rice, which she is apparently forced to count and by being beaten with a manicole broom.
Stabroek News understands that while a woman who was arrested by the police following the murder was released two other persons were taken into custody. A man had been held on Saturday. The incident demonstrated how deeply held superstitious beliefs could result in murder and yesterday many residents pondered and quarrelled over the incident.
The woman was found at the corner of a road on Saturday morning and police said that there were marks of violence about her body. A post-mortem examination is expected to be done. Stabroek News was told on Saturday that the woman was beaten with a manicole broom (made of fronds from the manicole palm) and left at the side of the road and the body was later removed by the police. There were conflicting reports as to why and how the woman met her death but one report said that residents believed that the woman had sucked blood from a baby leaving a mark on the child's chest. Another report said that two men had called out to the woman as they thought it was a person they knew and instead of an answer they were greeted by a snarling sound. The men then called residents out. Residents surrounded the woman and threw rice around her while some threw kerosene and tried to burn her.
When Stabroek News visited the village yesterday none of the residents whom this newspaper spoke to reported seeing any of the above. They also said they did not witness how the woman met her death as by the time they arrived on the scene she was already dead. Some residents did not want to speak to this newspaper on the issue. What was apparent from those persons speaking to this newspaper was that many persons believe that 'Old Higue' exists and there are deeply held superstitious beliefs.
One young man told this newspaper that he has seen 'Old Higues' many times before. He said before the village became so populated he would see these things. "But I can't really seh wah happen hay yesterday (Saturday) because I wasn't deh suh I can't comment. But I know `Old Higue' deh," he said. Another woman, who was with her two children, told this newspaper that she is a firm believer that 'Old Higue' is a part of the world. "Me mother always tell we about it, and she use to tell we when `Old Higue' sucking you girl child you does know", the woman said as she held on to the hand of her daughter. She said since she moved into the area she has never had an encounter but she knew it was around because of what was happening with her child. She said she was not at home yesterday morning but when she returned she heard of the incident and feels that it was the same 'Old Higue' that has been sucking her daughter. "`Old Higue' have to dead and I believe if she was an `Old Higue' she had to dead," the woman said firmly.
One young man said no one gives life so they should not take it. "But you think about it this way if you wake up and see a `Old Higue' sucking you baby what you go do? You have to do something you ent go stand up and watch it do dat to you child." But when it was pointed out to him that the woman was not killed in a house but rather on the road corner he declined to make any further comment. He said his cell phone had just alarmed when he heard noise in the street and upon investigating he saw people in the street running towards the back. When he decided to follow he saw the woman lying on the street. Yesterday, the house where the child, who was reportedly attacked, lived was locked up and no one next door would comment on the issue. One woman who lives not far from the house said she did not come out until in the morning and she saw the woman dead. She does not believe in `Old Higue' but pointed out that "all kind a thing" exist in the world. She is not afraid of what transpired about a stone's throw away from her home but said her daughter is scared. A woman, who said she is of the Rastafarian faith, said she would not have gone to see the body as the woman is unclean and she wanted no unclean being next to her. "If she is a `Old Higue' she had to go, we don't want dem kinda a thing in this place," she said while eating her bowl of chowmein with a piece of chicken on top.
An elderly woman in the area was the only person who was not in agreement with what transpired. She was very angry at the way the woman met her death and said she did not believe in the existence of `Old Higue'. "If deh say she suck a child then where is the child? Bring the child out and let we see," the woman said. She said as far as she is concerned the woman must have been of unsound mind and she may have wandered into the village. She could not understand how people in the village could have pounced upon such a hapless person and beat her to death. "I don't believe in that and I don't believe she was any `Old Higue'. They were wrong, they should not have killed the woman. They could have chased her out of the village," the woman said. She said she did not investigate the issue but was told about it.
As this newspaper was leaving the village a youth shouted, "Stabroek News, tell dah story good you know she was a `Old Higue' and she had to dead." Some of the older folks in the village refused to speak to this newspaper and even dissuaded some younger ones who were inclined to speak from doing so.
The police are continuing their investigation.
According to local legend, an `Old Higue' is an evil spirit, usually a woman, who changes into a ball of fire and sucks the blood of people.
She must remove her skin in order to perform this act. She can be stopped by grains of rice, which she is apparently forced to count and by being beaten with a manicole broom.
Saturday 21 April 2007
Machine readable passports closer
Four officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Immigration Department of the Guyana Police Force would be heading to Canada this weekend to finalise arrangements with Canadian Bank Note (CBN) for the printing of the country's Caricom machine readable passports.
Some 500,000 are expected to be printed initially under a US$3 million contract by CBN.
The four officials, to be led by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs Angela Johnson, would include Deputy Chief Immigration Officer George Vyphuis, an information technology expert from the Guyana Police Force and an immigration officer.
According to Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee the machine readable passports would be in the country by July.
On the return of the officials, Rohee said, the Ministry of Home Affairs would embark on a massive public awareness campaign to alert the public on the phasing in of the new passports and the phasing out of the old ones and what would be expected of them in relation to acquiring the new passports.
Though he did not say what the price for a new passport would be when asked, Rohee said it was expected that the cost of procuring one would be much more than for the current passports in use. The new passports would also not be renewable.
Last December President Bharrat Jagdeo had told the media that the equipment for the machine readable passports was only a part of a larger project that would involve an integrated, secure system of record keeping.
The other parts of the contract would include records of births and deaths, Guyana Elections Commission data, as well as having licence and revenue and criminal records in one integrated system.
This system, Jagdeo had said, should help the government to better administer the country, to cut down on corruption and to track down criminal elements through an integrated module for fingerprint matching.
CBN has printed machine readable passports for Jamaica and Suriname.
Some 500,000 are expected to be printed initially under a US$3 million contract by CBN.
The four officials, to be led by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs Angela Johnson, would include Deputy Chief Immigration Officer George Vyphuis, an information technology expert from the Guyana Police Force and an immigration officer.
According to Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee the machine readable passports would be in the country by July.
On the return of the officials, Rohee said, the Ministry of Home Affairs would embark on a massive public awareness campaign to alert the public on the phasing in of the new passports and the phasing out of the old ones and what would be expected of them in relation to acquiring the new passports.
Though he did not say what the price for a new passport would be when asked, Rohee said it was expected that the cost of procuring one would be much more than for the current passports in use. The new passports would also not be renewable.
Last December President Bharrat Jagdeo had told the media that the equipment for the machine readable passports was only a part of a larger project that would involve an integrated, secure system of record keeping.
The other parts of the contract would include records of births and deaths, Guyana Elections Commission data, as well as having licence and revenue and criminal records in one integrated system.
This system, Jagdeo had said, should help the government to better administer the country, to cut down on corruption and to track down criminal elements through an integrated module for fingerprint matching.
CBN has printed machine readable passports for Jamaica and Suriname.
Star names pay tribute to Lara
Cricket's leading figures have paid tribute to Brian Lara as he prepares to play the final match of his illustrious international career against England on Saturday.
The inspirational left-hander will play his final innings in the World Cup Super Eight match at the Kensington Oval to bring his glittering career to a close after scoring 11,953 Test runs and 10,387 one-day international runs.
New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming is a self-confessed admirer of Lara's talents and reflected: "He's been a wonderful player and a wonderful ambassador to the game as well, I think. He's played the game in a very good spirit but done it in an entertaining way. I heard him say he wanted to be an entertainer - he was all that and more."
He added: "He was a player who created interest in New Zealand and around the world, so he brought more players to the game. For a left-hander (like me) he was inspirational to watch and play against and it's sad to see him go."
Australian captain Ricky Ponting believes Lara's achievements have been all the more remarkable for having to carry an under-performing West Indies side virtually single-handed over the last five years.
"The thing a lot of people don't think much about with Brian Lara, is that he's basically had the weight of that whole team on his shoulders for the best part of 10 years now and had to carry their batting and win them games almost by himself," said Ponting.
"That sort of pressure going into every game, for him to be able stand up and perform is something that should never be overlooked. I've always thought he and Sachin (Tendulkar) have been the two greatest batsmen I've ever played against, probably for different reasons.
"Brian has got the ability to turn it on when he wants and take an attack apart and Sachin has been the most technically correct player I've seen."
During Lara's career he has claimed the individual Test world record twice, hit 34 Test hundreds at an average of 52 and 19 one-day international centuries.
About time too. Time to hand over control to the Guyanese !!!
The inspirational left-hander will play his final innings in the World Cup Super Eight match at the Kensington Oval to bring his glittering career to a close after scoring 11,953 Test runs and 10,387 one-day international runs.
New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming is a self-confessed admirer of Lara's talents and reflected: "He's been a wonderful player and a wonderful ambassador to the game as well, I think. He's played the game in a very good spirit but done it in an entertaining way. I heard him say he wanted to be an entertainer - he was all that and more."
He added: "He was a player who created interest in New Zealand and around the world, so he brought more players to the game. For a left-hander (like me) he was inspirational to watch and play against and it's sad to see him go."
Australian captain Ricky Ponting believes Lara's achievements have been all the more remarkable for having to carry an under-performing West Indies side virtually single-handed over the last five years.
"The thing a lot of people don't think much about with Brian Lara, is that he's basically had the weight of that whole team on his shoulders for the best part of 10 years now and had to carry their batting and win them games almost by himself," said Ponting.
"That sort of pressure going into every game, for him to be able stand up and perform is something that should never be overlooked. I've always thought he and Sachin (Tendulkar) have been the two greatest batsmen I've ever played against, probably for different reasons.
"Brian has got the ability to turn it on when he wants and take an attack apart and Sachin has been the most technically correct player I've seen."
During Lara's career he has claimed the individual Test world record twice, hit 34 Test hundreds at an average of 52 and 19 one-day international centuries.
About time too. Time to hand over control to the Guyanese !!!
Friday 20 April 2007
Caricom Single Domestic Space visas in place till May 15
Caricom says the Single Domestic Space visas issued for the Cricket World Cup (CWC) matches will remain in place until May 15.
In a press release Deputy Prime Minister of Barbados and Chairman of the Caricom Security Sub-Committee Mia Mottley said "The Caricom visa has been an effective mechanism that has played a great role in helping us feel more at ease while the world looks on at USA" The visa is one of the key measures put in place to ensure a safe and secure environment during the CWC 2007. Air and sea passengers travelling between Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago now do so with minimal delays at the immigration counter.
Yeah...dream on...coming from Guyana ???
Expect queues, Barbados doesn't like Guyanese...remember !!!
Caricom said as of Sunday 37,664 visas have been issued to persons after stringent screening procedures. As a result, 732 applications have so far been denied. The issuance of visas has been done in concert with an Advance Passenger Information System which has helped in the close monitoring of visitor movements into and within the region.
With heightened interest in the closing phases of the CWC 2007, Caricom diplomatic missions have been mobilised to respond promptly to visa applications and the Help Desk at the Port-of-Spain based Caricom Implementing Agency for Crime and Security remains open 24 hours per day every day.
In a press release Deputy Prime Minister of Barbados and Chairman of the Caricom Security Sub-Committee Mia Mottley said "The Caricom visa has been an effective mechanism that has played a great role in helping us feel more at ease while the world looks on at USA" The visa is one of the key measures put in place to ensure a safe and secure environment during the CWC 2007. Air and sea passengers travelling between Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago now do so with minimal delays at the immigration counter.
Yeah...dream on...coming from Guyana ???
Expect queues, Barbados doesn't like Guyanese...remember !!!
Caricom said as of Sunday 37,664 visas have been issued to persons after stringent screening procedures. As a result, 732 applications have so far been denied. The issuance of visas has been done in concert with an Advance Passenger Information System which has helped in the close monitoring of visitor movements into and within the region.
With heightened interest in the closing phases of the CWC 2007, Caricom diplomatic missions have been mobilised to respond promptly to visa applications and the Help Desk at the Port-of-Spain based Caricom Implementing Agency for Crime and Security remains open 24 hours per day every day.
No water this weekend !!!
Guyana Water Incorporated is advising all Georgetown customers of a service disruption during the upcoming weekend.
This is due to critical maintenance works at our Shelter Belt Water Treatment Plant, a notice from GWI said yesterday.
The period of disruption is from 8 pm tomorrow, April 21, to 9am on Sunday, April 22.
GWI apologises for any inconvenience that may occur, the notice said.
This is really taking the mickey now...cutting the water for a weekend !!! Don't GWI know to carry out maintenance work when Guyana is sleeping that way not affecting too many people. Do it little by little not all in one great big chunk.
The land of many waters without a supply...great !?!
This is due to critical maintenance works at our Shelter Belt Water Treatment Plant, a notice from GWI said yesterday.
The period of disruption is from 8 pm tomorrow, April 21, to 9am on Sunday, April 22.
GWI apologises for any inconvenience that may occur, the notice said.
This is really taking the mickey now...cutting the water for a weekend !!! Don't GWI know to carry out maintenance work when Guyana is sleeping that way not affecting too many people. Do it little by little not all in one great big chunk.
The land of many waters without a supply...great !?!
Systems in place to deal with heavy rainfall predicted for May-June
By Mark Ramotar (Guyana Chronicle)
CABINET Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon yesterday assured that the Government is fully prepared and have systems in place to deal with a possible flood situation during the upcoming May-June rainy season.
This assurance came in the wake of projections there might be higher than usual tides and a 40% upsurge over the average rainfall during the May-June season.
Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President, Luncheon said the most recent projections on the weather conditions in the Western Hemisphere, based on likely events in the Pacific, suggest an increased intensity and duration of rainfall.
He said the impact of this on Guyana could see “as much as 40% upsurge over the average rainfall patterns in the May-June season”.
“Also to be anticipated are higher tides than usual,” Luncheon said, adding that these projections were brought to the attention of Cabinet at its meeting this week by Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud.
He said Minister Persaud also advised Cabinet about the “heightened attention” being paid by state agencies and departments in response to these revelations.
“Cabinet monitoring bodies remain activated and based on the results of the recent rehearsal exercise, surveillance activity of the most vulnerable areas have been strengthened mostly through improvements in communications, observations and measurements,” Luncheon told reporters.
He said work is also continuing apace to advance the operational and the response capabilities of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC).
In this regard, he said the Timehri Warehouse is fully staffed and up-and-running with supplies and equipment for emergencies, evacuations and shelter management, while the Thomas Lands Hatchery now maintains a small stock of supplies as it houses the staff of the CDC.
“Thanks to support from the United States Government, the regional body CEDERA and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), a well trained national complement of disaster-response functionaries have been put in place,” Luncheon assured.
Luncheon said, too, that the Government is awaiting the report from the Venezuelan team that carried out a technical study here a few months ago with regard to the dredging of the Pomeroon, Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary rivers .
Luncheon acknowledged that the lessons learnt from the 2005 and 2006 floods in Guyana have forced the government into “making better preparations”.
He noted that while there is still a “small window to do quite a bit more preparatory work, a tremendous amount of preparatory work has already been done.”
In January 2005, torrential rains caused serious flooding along the coastal region, the most densely populated area of Guyana.
As a result, the Government declared Regions 3 (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), Region 4 (Demerara/Mahaica) and Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) disaster areas.
The coastal stretch between the capital Georgetown and Mahaica on the East Bank of the Demerara River was particularly hit.
The flooding affected around 290,000 people, around 39% of Guyana’s population, and was described as the greatest disaster to hit Guyana in the last century.
CABINET Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon yesterday assured that the Government is fully prepared and have systems in place to deal with a possible flood situation during the upcoming May-June rainy season.
This assurance came in the wake of projections there might be higher than usual tides and a 40% upsurge over the average rainfall during the May-June season.
Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing at the Office of the President, Luncheon said the most recent projections on the weather conditions in the Western Hemisphere, based on likely events in the Pacific, suggest an increased intensity and duration of rainfall.
He said the impact of this on Guyana could see “as much as 40% upsurge over the average rainfall patterns in the May-June season”.
“Also to be anticipated are higher tides than usual,” Luncheon said, adding that these projections were brought to the attention of Cabinet at its meeting this week by Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud.
He said Minister Persaud also advised Cabinet about the “heightened attention” being paid by state agencies and departments in response to these revelations.
“Cabinet monitoring bodies remain activated and based on the results of the recent rehearsal exercise, surveillance activity of the most vulnerable areas have been strengthened mostly through improvements in communications, observations and measurements,” Luncheon told reporters.
He said work is also continuing apace to advance the operational and the response capabilities of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC).
In this regard, he said the Timehri Warehouse is fully staffed and up-and-running with supplies and equipment for emergencies, evacuations and shelter management, while the Thomas Lands Hatchery now maintains a small stock of supplies as it houses the staff of the CDC.
“Thanks to support from the United States Government, the regional body CEDERA and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), a well trained national complement of disaster-response functionaries have been put in place,” Luncheon assured.
Luncheon said, too, that the Government is awaiting the report from the Venezuelan team that carried out a technical study here a few months ago with regard to the dredging of the Pomeroon, Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary rivers .
Luncheon acknowledged that the lessons learnt from the 2005 and 2006 floods in Guyana have forced the government into “making better preparations”.
He noted that while there is still a “small window to do quite a bit more preparatory work, a tremendous amount of preparatory work has already been done.”
In January 2005, torrential rains caused serious flooding along the coastal region, the most densely populated area of Guyana.
As a result, the Government declared Regions 3 (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), Region 4 (Demerara/Mahaica) and Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) disaster areas.
The coastal stretch between the capital Georgetown and Mahaica on the East Bank of the Demerara River was particularly hit.
The flooding affected around 290,000 people, around 39% of Guyana’s population, and was described as the greatest disaster to hit Guyana in the last century.
Why do we not have simple banking ?
Over the past year there have been several high profile robberies in Guyana.
Why is it that we are unable to put a simple bank payroll system in place and halt all the millions going missing ?
Employees should be offered simple "cash card" accounts to get them started and on a nominated day or date every month wages are transferred from the employer to the employee. Raise the amount of ATM's around the city (and believe me, there are not enough) and bob's your uncle, we drive away from a paper source economy (cash) towards a safer banking and plastic economy (accounts and cards).
If Demerara Bank can bring in such a big thing like internet banking for it's customers, why is it even government ministries are being held up ?!?
The list just keeps getting longer and these are just the ones we know...
Demerara Oxygen Company Limited (DOCOL), yesterday, $5M in cash, along with cellphones and jewellery.
Ministry of Human Services on Tuesday, $4M.
Toolsie Persaud in December 2006, $10M
Muneshwer’s Hardware Ltd, in June 2006, $30M.
We want to attract the "big boys" to Guyana, if they hear that they would have to pay employees cash they would run a mile. The ministry of finance should be on top of of the banks to put a system in place and if they need help just ask.
Why is it that we are unable to put a simple bank payroll system in place and halt all the millions going missing ?
Employees should be offered simple "cash card" accounts to get them started and on a nominated day or date every month wages are transferred from the employer to the employee. Raise the amount of ATM's around the city (and believe me, there are not enough) and bob's your uncle, we drive away from a paper source economy (cash) towards a safer banking and plastic economy (accounts and cards).
If Demerara Bank can bring in such a big thing like internet banking for it's customers, why is it even government ministries are being held up ?!?
The list just keeps getting longer and these are just the ones we know...
Demerara Oxygen Company Limited (DOCOL), yesterday, $5M in cash, along with cellphones and jewellery.
Ministry of Human Services on Tuesday, $4M.
Toolsie Persaud in December 2006, $10M
Muneshwer’s Hardware Ltd, in June 2006, $30M.
We want to attract the "big boys" to Guyana, if they hear that they would have to pay employees cash they would run a mile. The ministry of finance should be on top of of the banks to put a system in place and if they need help just ask.
Sunday 15 April 2007
Buildings At Providence Stadium
Outside the Stadium by the North West Stand
Left to Right
1. Players Pavillion
2. Cameras, Third Umpire and Match Ref
3. VIP's at the Bottom and Sky Boxes at the Top
Media Centre
Score Board/Grounds Keeper Building with Temporary Screen for Replays and Third Umpire Desisions
Stands at Providence Stadium
North West Stand
(Best place to sit...you can avoid the sun here)
South West Stand
(Gets sun mostly in the Morning)
South East Stand
(Gets sun mostly in the Afternoon)
North East Grass Mound
(No shade, not the best place to sit)
Party Stand
(No shade again, not very big and no party)
Saturday 14 April 2007
Boo Hoo...I'm back !!!
Well ladies and gents around the world, I am finally back to boring old London.
The past three and a half weeks in Guyana have been brilliant. Didn't want to come back and even shed a tear or two as the plane was leaving. (Big softy aren't I ?).
Watched cricket in the stadium till I got fed up...seem to back the under dogs and they seem to keep losing. (One team coming to mind as well...WASTE INDIES).
The past three and a half weeks in Guyana have been brilliant. Didn't want to come back and even shed a tear or two as the plane was leaving. (Big softy aren't I ?).
Watched cricket in the stadium till I got fed up...seem to back the under dogs and they seem to keep losing. (One team coming to mind as well...WASTE INDIES).
Sunday 1 April 2007
Let down at Providence Stadium !!!
Today was not about the cricket in Guyana. Today was all about making MONEY from those people who do not have it !!!
For the past TWO matches I went into the stadium with my big Guyana flag nailed to a mop stick. For both matches I was on the big screen and went on TV around the world representing Guyana as the only person flying the Golden Arrowhead.
Today for the West Indies match verses Sri Lanka the guy at security said that I wasn't allowed although I did see people with BIGGER poles than I had. I went only to fly the national flag and to watch some cricket. How can it be one set of rules for some people and another set of rules for others ???
For the past TWO matches I went into the stadium with my big Guyana flag nailed to a mop stick. For both matches I was on the big screen and went on TV around the world representing Guyana as the only person flying the Golden Arrowhead.
Today for the West Indies match verses Sri Lanka the guy at security said that I wasn't allowed although I did see people with BIGGER poles than I had. I went only to fly the national flag and to watch some cricket. How can it be one set of rules for some people and another set of rules for others ???
Thursday 29 March 2007
G'day from Guyana
Well ladies and gents, here I am a week later. Guyana is hot as usual and on some days wet as well. It knew cricket was coming !?!
Providence Stadium was nice but it wasn't home...not like Bourda. Too much exposed space. The atomsphere was bad, just like Arsenal's new home in North London. Crowd was only about 5200, so that left about 10000 spare seats. (It's all about the money for the ICC and not about the people who have a true love for the game)
I went down to the game yesterday with SA v SL. Good day out overall but was let down when it came to seating. I booked US$25 seats at the match only to find out when I got there we were sitting on the grass mound and not in the stand. (If the ICC had done the seating plans properly we wouldn't of been there. My old man can't sit on the grass he's in his seventies for God sakes and had enough trouble trying to get him round the ground).
Couple of guys from the CWC VIBES crew were very helpful and we got him over into the seated area. I don't want to think about tomorrows match with Eng v Ire because I have got those $25 seats again and when I checked the tickets last night it said those dreaded words "GRASS MOUND".
I also forgot to take the camera with me yesterday, so no pictures...sorry. But on the plus side I hope everyone saw me in the UK. I was on the cameras yesterday for a good five seconds. (Good looking guy with a red Arsenal shirt and a massive Guyana flag on a pole...only one in the ground).
Internet place is just round the corner from us so I can report a lot more.
Providence Stadium was nice but it wasn't home...not like Bourda. Too much exposed space. The atomsphere was bad, just like Arsenal's new home in North London. Crowd was only about 5200, so that left about 10000 spare seats. (It's all about the money for the ICC and not about the people who have a true love for the game)
I went down to the game yesterday with SA v SL. Good day out overall but was let down when it came to seating. I booked US$25 seats at the match only to find out when I got there we were sitting on the grass mound and not in the stand. (If the ICC had done the seating plans properly we wouldn't of been there. My old man can't sit on the grass he's in his seventies for God sakes and had enough trouble trying to get him round the ground).
Couple of guys from the CWC VIBES crew were very helpful and we got him over into the seated area. I don't want to think about tomorrows match with Eng v Ire because I have got those $25 seats again and when I checked the tickets last night it said those dreaded words "GRASS MOUND".
I also forgot to take the camera with me yesterday, so no pictures...sorry. But on the plus side I hope everyone saw me in the UK. I was on the cameras yesterday for a good five seconds. (Good looking guy with a red Arsenal shirt and a massive Guyana flag on a pole...only one in the ground).
Internet place is just round the corner from us so I can report a lot more.
Tuesday 20 March 2007
Reporting From Guyana
I'll try my best to post and report from Guyana whilst I'm there. It may be every couple of days it may be once a week but I'll try. Mr Khan at Guyana Chronicle will try to be of assistance to me but as you all know computer resources are limited. Will also get lots of pictures for you guys that didn't go.
Ruff over and out
Ruff over and out
Guyana Countdown
First match in Guyana - 7 days to go (and by the time most of you guys read this I'll be on the plane)
Guyana Countdown
First match in Guyana - 8 days to go (and last day in the cold)
IF YOUR WATCHING THE CRICKET FROM GUYANA LOOKOUT FOR ME !?!
I'M THE ARSENAL SHIRT WEARING, GUYANA FLAG WAVING MAD MAN...HOPE TO BE SEEN ON SKY SPORTS A LOT.
IF YOUR WATCHING THE CRICKET FROM GUYANA LOOKOUT FOR ME !?!
I'M THE ARSENAL SHIRT WEARING, GUYANA FLAG WAVING MAD MAN...HOPE TO BE SEEN ON SKY SPORTS A LOT.
Monday 19 March 2007
Bring on West Indies - Irish skipper
Ireland captain Trent Johnston set his sights on collecting the West Indies' scalp after his boys dumped mighty Pakistan from the ICC Cricket World Cup yesterday.
Ireland, playing in its first ICC Cricket World Cup, defeated the 1992 world champion and one of the game's superpowers, by seven wickets at Sabina Park in one the greatest sensations in the history of the sport.
"We'll take on the West Indies with confidence and give a good performance," said Australia-born Johnston, who hit a huge six to seal the win in the 43rd over as his side chased down 133 and then went to hospital for treatment to an injured shoulder. "We will give it 100 percent and be very competitive."
Steady on boys. We would love to have you in Guyana but we're not going to lay down.
Actually, scratch that...we might get over confident and collapse !?!
Ireland, playing in its first ICC Cricket World Cup, defeated the 1992 world champion and one of the game's superpowers, by seven wickets at Sabina Park in one the greatest sensations in the history of the sport.
"We'll take on the West Indies with confidence and give a good performance," said Australia-born Johnston, who hit a huge six to seal the win in the 43rd over as his side chased down 133 and then went to hospital for treatment to an injured shoulder. "We will give it 100 percent and be very competitive."
Steady on boys. We would love to have you in Guyana but we're not going to lay down.
Actually, scratch that...we might get over confident and collapse !?!
Bob Woolmer dead
Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer died Sunday, he was 58.
Woolmer was taken to hospital after he was found unconscious in his hotel room, according to officials. "We have taken Bob Woolmer to the hospital and he is in the emergency ward. We don't know anything more at the moment," Pakistan team media manager Pervez Mir said, according to the Pakistan paper, The News.
A later flash confirmed that he was dead. "Doctors have pronounced Bob Woolmer dead. Bob has passed away and it is very shocking news to all of the team and the team management". "Bob's family and wife were informed by the management about his condition when he was brought to hospital."
Pakistan were knocked out of the ICC Cricket World Cup on Saturday after a shock three-wicket defeat to Ireland. Woolmer was last seen in public when he addressed the post-match media conference at the Sabina Park ground. Ironically, he talked of the stresses of the coaching job. "Doing it internationally, it takes a toll on you, the endless travelling and the non-stop living out of hotels."
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Bob Woolmer's family. He was a great coach and behind many West Indies downfalls over the years.
Woolmer was taken to hospital after he was found unconscious in his hotel room, according to officials. "We have taken Bob Woolmer to the hospital and he is in the emergency ward. We don't know anything more at the moment," Pakistan team media manager Pervez Mir said, according to the Pakistan paper, The News.
A later flash confirmed that he was dead. "Doctors have pronounced Bob Woolmer dead. Bob has passed away and it is very shocking news to all of the team and the team management". "Bob's family and wife were informed by the management about his condition when he was brought to hospital."
Pakistan were knocked out of the ICC Cricket World Cup on Saturday after a shock three-wicket defeat to Ireland. Woolmer was last seen in public when he addressed the post-match media conference at the Sabina Park ground. Ironically, he talked of the stresses of the coaching job. "Doing it internationally, it takes a toll on you, the endless travelling and the non-stop living out of hotels."
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Bob Woolmer's family. He was a great coach and behind many West Indies downfalls over the years.
Sunday 18 March 2007
Revise Guyana CWC Matches
SUPER 8's (This could be any team in the mix)
Lookin' good for Guyana !!!
Wed 28 - A2 v B1 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - SA v SL)
Fri 30 - D1 v C2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - WI v Eng)
APRIL
Sun 1 - D2 v B1 - Guyana - SS2, 2pm
(Poss - Ire v SL)
Tue 3 - D1 v A2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - WI v SA)
Sat 7 - B2 v A2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Ind v SA)
Mon 9 - D1 v C1 - Guyana - SS2, 1pm
(Poss - WI v NZ)
Lookin' good for Guyana !!!
Wed 28 - A2 v B1 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - SA v SL)
Fri 30 - D1 v C2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - WI v Eng)
APRIL
Sun 1 - D2 v B1 - Guyana - SS2, 2pm
(Poss - Ire v SL)
Tue 3 - D1 v A2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - WI v SA)
Sat 7 - B2 v A2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Ind v SA)
Mon 9 - D1 v C1 - Guyana - SS2, 1pm
(Poss - WI v NZ)
Saturday 17 March 2007
Ireland in Guyana ???
Now by my reckoning the D2 match that will be played in Guyana will hopefully see the Irish play their Super 8 match. On the other hand, it could well be Zimbabwe who play in Guyana if Pakistan carry on their dismal form but this is how I see the group finishing...
West Indies (W3-D0-L0)
Ireland (W1-D1-L1)
Pakistan (W1-D0-L2)
Zimbabwe (W0-D1_L2)
All we can do now is pray for the Irish boys and hope Pakistan beat Zimbabwe !!!
West Indies (W3-D0-L0)
Ireland (W1-D1-L1)
Pakistan (W1-D0-L2)
Zimbabwe (W0-D1_L2)
All we can do now is pray for the Irish boys and hope Pakistan beat Zimbabwe !!!
Guyana - Stadium Coin
The Bank of Guyana yesterday said that on Monday it will release a commemorative coin to mark the opening of the cricket stadium at Providence.
IDB writes off Guyana US$467M debt
THE Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) yesterday made the long-awaited announcement that its Board of Governors has approved a 100% debt write-off for Guyana on the US$467M loan balances outstanding as of December 31, 2004, from its Fund for Special Operations (FSO).
Guyana, along with Bolivia, Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua, benefited from the historic 100% debt write-off by the IDB, which totalled some US$4.4 billion, the bank announced yesterday.
Under an agreement endorsed by governors of its 47 member countries, the IDB will forgive about US$3.4 billion in principal payments and US$1 billion of future interest payments owed by the five countries, and which totalled about US$4.4 billion.
Guyana, along with Bolivia, Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua, benefited from the historic 100% debt write-off by the IDB, which totalled some US$4.4 billion, the bank announced yesterday.
Under an agreement endorsed by governors of its 47 member countries, the IDB will forgive about US$3.4 billion in principal payments and US$1 billion of future interest payments owed by the five countries, and which totalled about US$4.4 billion.
My Ogle dream coming true.
THE opening of the Ogle airport terminal to accommodate regional flights closed the $400M first phase of the expansion project and paves the way for the second phase which will cost some $600M with major grant financing from the European Commission, Chairman Mr. Michael Correia said yesterday.
President Bharrat Jagdeo hailed the five businessmen – Correia, Anthony Mekdeci, Beni Sankar, Mazahar Ally and Gerry Gouveia – for persevering in their vision for the Ogle airport, commending the private sector, as in the case of the Berbice River Bridge, for investing in public infrastructure. He said the Ogle expansion was “badly lacking” and the completion of the first phase represented “hard work”. The airport is now ready to accommodate the smaller regional airline operators that can provide direct linkages to the international airports in Cayenne, Boa Vista, Porto Ordaz and Paramaribo and to serve as a hub for through traffic from the Caribbean, Correia said at the opening of the terminal building. Upon completion of the second phase towards the end of 2008, Ogle located on the East Coast Demerara, five minutes away from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) headquarters and the Guyana International Conference Centre, will be ready to accommodate the airline operators from the Caribbean, potentially Caribbean Airlines, LIAT and American Eagle, Correia said.
Ogle has become the hub of all domestic air transport travel, serving as the base now for some eight operators maintaining a fleet of more than 30 aircraft transporting about 60,000 passengers and 3,000 tons of cargo per year, and representing an investment of about $3 billion in fixed assets, aircraft and equipment, Correia stated. Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary-General, Mr. Edwin Carrington said with the completion of a proposed five star hotel and a shopping mall, the East Coast corridor in the vicinity of CARICOM headquarters, his office and the conference centre could effectively become “the virtual Brussels of the Caribbean.”
The government is repairing the access road to the airport at a cost of $60M, President Jagdeo said. Correia said the Ogle expansion project is “emerging”. He said the first phase meets all the safety requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). These include the construction of a 2,000 feet long and 60 feet wide Class 1A runway built to international specifications, aircraft taxi and parking areas and the opening of the new terminal building today, housing customs, immigration, health and air traffic control. The present terminal building is designed to accommodate about 75,000 passengers per year, Correia stated.
The second phase will also further widen the taxiways and increase the size of the parking aprons. It will provide for additional drainage, fencing, and the installation of runway lights, as well as an improved navigation system and the upgrade of the fire service. “What, we believe, makes this entire development unique is the partnership between the operators of Ogle Airport, the Government of Guyana and CARICOM,” Correia said. He said it was the government and CARICOM that facilitated the European Commission approving a grant of 1.5M Euros for the second phase, representing two thirds of the total cost. “Guyana benefits from the establishment of a second national airport with permanent, immovable infrastructure, built, financed and managed by private investors, supported and regulated by the government,” he said. The second phase will further widen the runway to 100 ft and increase its length to 4,000 ft complying with ICAO’s Class 2C requirements. It will accommodate aircraft such as the Twin Turbo Prop Dash 8, 300 and include the expansion of this terminal to accommodate the movement of 150,000 passengers per year.
President Jagdeo assured the private sector of the government’s continued support and urged the Ogle investors to work to make the airport viable and profitable, and thus pave the way for further expansion. Mr. Carrington said the transformation of Ogle into a regional airport with easy access to Georgetown opens up “limitless” possibilities for investors and tourism.
Woo Hoooo...finally we're getting somewhere !!!
Get ready for Ogle International Airport !!!
Friday 16 March 2007
Thursday 15 March 2007
Wednesday 14 March 2007
STOP THE PRESS !!!!
BOTTLED WATER ALLOWED IN FOR ICC CWC 2007 MATCHES
In a move to ensure that all spectators attending ICC Cricket World Cup matches are well hydrated, the CWC Security Directorate and the ICC have approved the bringing of bottled water into match venues, with immediate effect.
However, as a security measure, all bottle tops must be removed at the point of entry into every stadium.
ICC CWC WI 2007 Inc. says this decision was taken with “security and medical considerations in mind and with a view to making sure fans have access to as much water as possible while enjoying the cricket in the Caribbean’s tropical environs. Water will not be permitted in any other types of containers and no liquid other than water will be allowed in plastic bottles.
“This is strictly a health matter and not a question of CWC’s safety and security policies being relaxed. We have been monitoring the weather forecasts throughout the region and the temperatures and humidity are projected to be high.
“The health of all persons at the stadia is of critical importance and keeping well hydrated is a major factor,” noted Dr. Marion Bullock DuCasse, Chair of CWC’s Medical, Health & Anti-Doping Directorate.
CWC 2007, she added, will continue its ongoing assessment of this situation throughout the tournament.
WHAT WAS THE OLD EXPRESSION...IF YOU CAN'T TAKE THE HEAT THEN GET OUT OF THE SUN !!!
WELL DONE TO EVERYONE WHO CAMPAIGNED FOR THE ICC TO BACK DOWN OFF THEIR HIGH HORSES (THEY SAY "assessment of this situation", I SAY BULL).
In a move to ensure that all spectators attending ICC Cricket World Cup matches are well hydrated, the CWC Security Directorate and the ICC have approved the bringing of bottled water into match venues, with immediate effect.
However, as a security measure, all bottle tops must be removed at the point of entry into every stadium.
ICC CWC WI 2007 Inc. says this decision was taken with “security and medical considerations in mind and with a view to making sure fans have access to as much water as possible while enjoying the cricket in the Caribbean’s tropical environs. Water will not be permitted in any other types of containers and no liquid other than water will be allowed in plastic bottles.
“This is strictly a health matter and not a question of CWC’s safety and security policies being relaxed. We have been monitoring the weather forecasts throughout the region and the temperatures and humidity are projected to be high.
“The health of all persons at the stadia is of critical importance and keeping well hydrated is a major factor,” noted Dr. Marion Bullock DuCasse, Chair of CWC’s Medical, Health & Anti-Doping Directorate.
CWC 2007, she added, will continue its ongoing assessment of this situation throughout the tournament.
WHAT WAS THE OLD EXPRESSION...IF YOU CAN'T TAKE THE HEAT THEN GET OUT OF THE SUN !!!
WELL DONE TO EVERYONE WHO CAMPAIGNED FOR THE ICC TO BACK DOWN OFF THEIR HIGH HORSES (THEY SAY "assessment of this situation", I SAY BULL).
Let's Revise the Fixtures
SUPER 8's (This could be any team in the mix)
Lookin' good for Guyana !!!
Tue 27 - D2 v A1 - Antigua - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Pak v Aus or SA)
Wed 28 - A2 v B1 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Aus or SA v Ind or SL)
Thu 29 - D2 v C1 - Antigua - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Pak v Eng or NZ)
Fri 30 - D1 v C2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - WI v Eng or NZ)
Sat 31 - A1 v B2 - Antigua - SS2, 2pm
(Poss - Aus or SA v Ind or SL)
APRIL
Sun 1 - D2 v B1 - Guyana - SS2, 2pm
(Poss - Pak v Ind or SL)
Mon 2 - B2 v C1 - Antigua - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Ind or SL v Eng or NZ)
Tue 3 - D1 v A2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - WI v Aus or SA)
Wed 4 - C2 v B1 - Antigua - SS1, 2pm***
(Poss - Eng or NZ v Ind or SL)
Sat 7 - B2 v A2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Ind or SL v Aus or SA)
Sun 8 - A1 v C2 - Antigua - SS1, 1pm
(Poss - Aus or SA v Eng or NZ)
Mon 9 - D1 v C1 - Guyana - SS2, 1pm
(Poss - WI v Eng or NZ)
Lookin' good for Guyana !!!
Tue 27 - D2 v A1 - Antigua - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Pak v Aus or SA)
Wed 28 - A2 v B1 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Aus or SA v Ind or SL)
Thu 29 - D2 v C1 - Antigua - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Pak v Eng or NZ)
Fri 30 - D1 v C2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - WI v Eng or NZ)
Sat 31 - A1 v B2 - Antigua - SS2, 2pm
(Poss - Aus or SA v Ind or SL)
APRIL
Sun 1 - D2 v B1 - Guyana - SS2, 2pm
(Poss - Pak v Ind or SL)
Mon 2 - B2 v C1 - Antigua - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Ind or SL v Eng or NZ)
Tue 3 - D1 v A2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - WI v Aus or SA)
Wed 4 - C2 v B1 - Antigua - SS1, 2pm***
(Poss - Eng or NZ v Ind or SL)
Sat 7 - B2 v A2 - Guyana - SS1, 2pm
(Poss - Ind or SL v Aus or SA)
Sun 8 - A1 v C2 - Antigua - SS1, 1pm
(Poss - Aus or SA v Eng or NZ)
Mon 9 - D1 v C1 - Guyana - SS2, 1pm
(Poss - WI v Eng or NZ)
National Stadium (13/3/07)
Still a lot of orange around though. Can't see them being able to cover it up in 14 days (unless they borrow the grass from National Park).
CWC Minority Report
Editor (Guyana Chronicle)
A FEW months ago, it was verboten almost to mention anything negative or even too critical regarding Guyana’s preparations for hosting the CWC 2007 Super Eight matches – it was virtually guaranteed that the stadium would be ready, the city would be clean, the visitors would come in droves, there would be adequate accommodation, and the West Indies would have trounced all their opponents.
Today, even as the green light has been given for Guyana’s hosting of its scheduled matches, some red flags are popping up.
While some of these have been noted recently in the press, yesterday’s article in this paper “Guyana last lap for CWC”, confirms that all may not be well come the end of this month. The most remarkable of revelation concerns the accommodation for the visitors.
Over the past year, Guyana’s accommodation industry has seen an unprecedented boom in construction. Yet there is no way that the existing hotels, including those with little work left to be done, can accommodate some “20-30,000 cricket fans”. In light of this fact, it is curious that only a small fraction of the registered bed and breakfast rooms have been booked. Then there is the element of poor ticket sales. While the “cultural mentality” of Guyanese may be a factor in the lack of sales of the cheaper tickets, the socioeconomic reality of Guyana – where the cheapest ticket represents a decent chunk or all of the average monthly paycheque – can also be a likely factor as well. And supposing that Guyanese are tardy in purchasing their tickets – why is it that the tickets are not being booked by overseas visitors? Taken together, the two elements of unsold tickets and unbooked rooms seem to indicate that the actual number of arrivals may be less than projected. Finally, there is the question of preparation. Surely for an event some two years or more in the making, 48 hours is not the sort of window period that can be construed as comfortable.
It is true that a successful hosting of the CWC matches has the potential of bringing unheralded positive recognition for Guyana – this is something our minuscule tourism marketing budget cannot do and which a sprinkling of annual international reports makes more difficult with each passing year. CWC offers the opportunity of the mass conversion of not only tens of thousands of foreign cricket fans, but to millions of viewers as well, to the beauty we have to offer here.
It is also true that the potential direct socio-economic impact would be tremendous. If we were to assume that some 20,000 fans were to spend on average US$1,000 each on food, accommodation, transportation, entertainment et cetera, that would amount to a US$20 million injection into the local economy within that two week period. And the long term benefits, provided that the visitors enjoyed their stay, wouldn’t be too bad either. That said, the simple fact of the hosting of the event cannot be seen as a panacea for the very problems associated with it.
It is perhaps time that, our best hopes and expectations notwithstanding, we are presented with a detailed minority report on the status of Guyana’s preparation of CWC 2007.
A FEW months ago, it was verboten almost to mention anything negative or even too critical regarding Guyana’s preparations for hosting the CWC 2007 Super Eight matches – it was virtually guaranteed that the stadium would be ready, the city would be clean, the visitors would come in droves, there would be adequate accommodation, and the West Indies would have trounced all their opponents.
Today, even as the green light has been given for Guyana’s hosting of its scheduled matches, some red flags are popping up.
While some of these have been noted recently in the press, yesterday’s article in this paper “Guyana last lap for CWC”, confirms that all may not be well come the end of this month. The most remarkable of revelation concerns the accommodation for the visitors.
Over the past year, Guyana’s accommodation industry has seen an unprecedented boom in construction. Yet there is no way that the existing hotels, including those with little work left to be done, can accommodate some “20-30,000 cricket fans”. In light of this fact, it is curious that only a small fraction of the registered bed and breakfast rooms have been booked. Then there is the element of poor ticket sales. While the “cultural mentality” of Guyanese may be a factor in the lack of sales of the cheaper tickets, the socioeconomic reality of Guyana – where the cheapest ticket represents a decent chunk or all of the average monthly paycheque – can also be a likely factor as well. And supposing that Guyanese are tardy in purchasing their tickets – why is it that the tickets are not being booked by overseas visitors? Taken together, the two elements of unsold tickets and unbooked rooms seem to indicate that the actual number of arrivals may be less than projected. Finally, there is the question of preparation. Surely for an event some two years or more in the making, 48 hours is not the sort of window period that can be construed as comfortable.
It is true that a successful hosting of the CWC matches has the potential of bringing unheralded positive recognition for Guyana – this is something our minuscule tourism marketing budget cannot do and which a sprinkling of annual international reports makes more difficult with each passing year. CWC offers the opportunity of the mass conversion of not only tens of thousands of foreign cricket fans, but to millions of viewers as well, to the beauty we have to offer here.
It is also true that the potential direct socio-economic impact would be tremendous. If we were to assume that some 20,000 fans were to spend on average US$1,000 each on food, accommodation, transportation, entertainment et cetera, that would amount to a US$20 million injection into the local economy within that two week period. And the long term benefits, provided that the visitors enjoyed their stay, wouldn’t be too bad either. That said, the simple fact of the hosting of the event cannot be seen as a panacea for the very problems associated with it.
It is perhaps time that, our best hopes and expectations notwithstanding, we are presented with a detailed minority report on the status of Guyana’s preparation of CWC 2007.
Tuesday 13 March 2007
Pray for a good result today !!!
Pray, knowing that if we beat Pakistan today we will most probably finish top of group D. West Indies will then play 3 matches in Guyana (joy joy joy).
But then on the other hand we could lose to Ireland !!!
But then on the other hand we could lose to Ireland !!!
Guyana Exchange Rates
http://www.xe.com/ucc/convert.cgi
1 GBP = 388.517 GYD
1USD = 201.450 GYD
1CAD = 172.324 GYD
1 GYD = 1 GYD ... HA HA HA
I guess these are current market prices. The rates in Guyana will be a bit less.
1 GBP = 388.517 GYD
1USD = 201.450 GYD
1CAD = 172.324 GYD
1 GYD = 1 GYD ... HA HA HA
I guess these are current market prices. The rates in Guyana will be a bit less.
Monday 12 March 2007
CWC fans have their way !!!
Rum, beer, water smuggled into match venue
By Darryl Heeralal
TRUST in a Trini to find a scheme to beat the system every time.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) rules for the 2007 Cricket World Cup bans plastic bottles, tins and alcoholic drinks from the match venues, so fans grudgingly complied on the first day. Some threw away their beverages before entering the match and others chose to drink them.
When fans got into the venue and realised that all the food and drink prices, nuts and doubles included, were in US dollars, that was another story.
By yesterday's match between Pakistan and South Africa, we Trinis found the way to beat the rules. It was no longer rum, beer, water, juice and soft drinks in bottles and cans, but zip-lock bags. At the end of yesterday's games, some people were boasting how many bags of beer they drank and others how many bags of rum they had guzzled.
A couple of people also hid small plastic bottles of water and less sobering drinks in between their sandwiches and lunch boxes and were able to sneak pass the security checks. And for food, mostly everyone walked with their sandwiches and plastic bags filled with snacks. Even the nuts vendor hired an assistant to pass out nuts for him and collect money. Nutsmen are banned from throwing packs of nuts to their customers.
For those who preferred to buy lunch, they had to pay for the KFC in US dollars or the equivalent in our money - $35 for a dinner special and $25 for a snack pack. As early as 6 a.m., fans had started gathering at the gates for yesterday's game that was long sold out before the first ball was bowled.
President George Maxwell Richards and First Lady Dr Jean Ramjohn-Richards were at the ground for the first half of the day, while embattled Director of Public Prosecutions, Geoffrey Henderson, took in a couple of overs in the afternoon.
"The ICC could have all the rules they want but cricket is we thing and we going to enjoy we way. All we have to figure out now is how to sneak in iron and drum to make noise in the oval," one fan said at the end of yesterday's game at the Sir Frank Worrell Ground at UWI-Spec, St Augustine.
World Cup action kicks off in Trinidad with the first group match at the Queen's Park Oval on March 15.
Yall ain't seen nothing yet, wait till the games reach Guyana - Guyanese are the most resourceful people in the world, watch how they gun beat all them systems put in place fuh cheat em...hehehe wait an see.
By Darryl Heeralal
TRUST in a Trini to find a scheme to beat the system every time.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) rules for the 2007 Cricket World Cup bans plastic bottles, tins and alcoholic drinks from the match venues, so fans grudgingly complied on the first day. Some threw away their beverages before entering the match and others chose to drink them.
When fans got into the venue and realised that all the food and drink prices, nuts and doubles included, were in US dollars, that was another story.
By yesterday's match between Pakistan and South Africa, we Trinis found the way to beat the rules. It was no longer rum, beer, water, juice and soft drinks in bottles and cans, but zip-lock bags. At the end of yesterday's games, some people were boasting how many bags of beer they drank and others how many bags of rum they had guzzled.
A couple of people also hid small plastic bottles of water and less sobering drinks in between their sandwiches and lunch boxes and were able to sneak pass the security checks. And for food, mostly everyone walked with their sandwiches and plastic bags filled with snacks. Even the nuts vendor hired an assistant to pass out nuts for him and collect money. Nutsmen are banned from throwing packs of nuts to their customers.
For those who preferred to buy lunch, they had to pay for the KFC in US dollars or the equivalent in our money - $35 for a dinner special and $25 for a snack pack. As early as 6 a.m., fans had started gathering at the gates for yesterday's game that was long sold out before the first ball was bowled.
President George Maxwell Richards and First Lady Dr Jean Ramjohn-Richards were at the ground for the first half of the day, while embattled Director of Public Prosecutions, Geoffrey Henderson, took in a couple of overs in the afternoon.
"The ICC could have all the rules they want but cricket is we thing and we going to enjoy we way. All we have to figure out now is how to sneak in iron and drum to make noise in the oval," one fan said at the end of yesterday's game at the Sir Frank Worrell Ground at UWI-Spec, St Augustine.
World Cup action kicks off in Trinidad with the first group match at the Queen's Park Oval on March 15.
Yall ain't seen nothing yet, wait till the games reach Guyana - Guyanese are the most resourceful people in the world, watch how they gun beat all them systems put in place fuh cheat em...hehehe wait an see.
Sunday 11 March 2007
WANTED !!!
These two characters are wanted harden Guyanese batsmen. Over the past few years we have slowly watched their downwards spiral.
At the moment we suspect that they have been replaced in the team with rather bad clones as not to cause panic.
If anyone has seen these two gents, please send reports to the West Indies Cricket Board preferable before the World Cup starts on Tuesday
Lara fury after Windies collapse (BBC)
West Indies captain Brian Lara had some strong words for his players after their dismal nine-wicket defeat in the warm-up game against India in Jamaica.
The Windies capitulated to 85 all out within 26 overs and Lara said: "It's chronic the way we keep collapsing. "We have to do some serious talking about it. We need to bat a lot more professionally if we want to win. "If you want to be world champions you have to play consistently and we need to apply our minds." Despite his anger at his side's display Lara was happy to pay tribute to India's performance. "You must give India credit because they put the ball in the right areas and they reaped the rewards for it," he said.
India captain Rahul Dravid was keen to play down expectations after his side's easy victory.
"This win doesn't mean that we will turn up next time and win," he said. "Every game of one-day cricket is different. West Indies are a very good team, and I am sure that they will rebound, since they play well at home and have beaten us consistently here. "We see this victory as a good boost of confidence for us leading into the main competition." Dravid said the match emphasised the need for his side to be more flexible, since it was the fast bowlers who set up the win. "I do not think you can enter a World Cup with only one plan and every time you are going to use this one plan," he said. "I think it has to vary and you will see that teams will have to adapt to the different conditions and be flexible according to the situation. "We hope to do this and we think we have the players that can do it. "We have an idea in our minds about the kind of combinations we want to play, and the players we want to pick, but there are too many variables, so only time will tell."
HA HA HA...ABOUT TIME TOO !!!
The Windies capitulated to 85 all out within 26 overs and Lara said: "It's chronic the way we keep collapsing. "We have to do some serious talking about it. We need to bat a lot more professionally if we want to win. "If you want to be world champions you have to play consistently and we need to apply our minds." Despite his anger at his side's display Lara was happy to pay tribute to India's performance. "You must give India credit because they put the ball in the right areas and they reaped the rewards for it," he said.
India captain Rahul Dravid was keen to play down expectations after his side's easy victory.
"This win doesn't mean that we will turn up next time and win," he said. "Every game of one-day cricket is different. West Indies are a very good team, and I am sure that they will rebound, since they play well at home and have beaten us consistently here. "We see this victory as a good boost of confidence for us leading into the main competition." Dravid said the match emphasised the need for his side to be more flexible, since it was the fast bowlers who set up the win. "I do not think you can enter a World Cup with only one plan and every time you are going to use this one plan," he said. "I think it has to vary and you will see that teams will have to adapt to the different conditions and be flexible according to the situation. "We hope to do this and we think we have the players that can do it. "We have an idea in our minds about the kind of combinations we want to play, and the players we want to pick, but there are too many variables, so only time will tell."
HA HA HA...ABOUT TIME TOO !!!
No news is good news !!!
Well people...no real news to talk about from Guyana.
Overall slow day in Guyana anyway.
Overall slow day in Guyana anyway.
Saturday 10 March 2007
Not all traffic lights will be in place for world cup
By Heppilena Ferguson (Stabroek News)
The long awaited installation of new traffic lights at some 50 junctions across the city will not be finished in time for the cricket world cup games and the authorities may have to resort to giving priority to the route leading to the stadium at Providence. According to Public Works Minister Robeson Benn, the lights only arrived in the country yesterday and so were not yet in the hands of the relevant authorities. Most of the traffic lights in the city have been inoperable for several years now and the government had been recently urged to do something about this in time for the Rio Summit and the World Cup.
Speaking with Stabroek News yesterday, project engineer Kadri Parris said that as of now workmen have completed in excess of 85% of the road cuts for the purpose of placing conduits to allow cables for the traffic lights. He noted however the work was delayed to some extent for security reasons during last weekend when Guyana hosted the 19th Summit of the Rio Group. However he said the grounding of posts for the lights should start next week. The first world cup game will be played in Guyana on March 28 and hordes of tourists and cricket fans are expected to descend on the country prior to this. When asked whether the majority of lights could be up and running in time for the games, Parris said the project was on schedule and according to him its duration runs into the month of April. "So while we're working to expedite the process and see how fast we could finish, we have to ensure that we maintain engineering integrity," he explained. Parris said however that they have to decide to make those areas along the route to the stadium at Providence, priority areas.
When the installation deal was signed with the Indian firm CMS Traffic Systems Limited, the Government Information Agency (GINA) in a statement had said that the work was scheduled for substantial completion by February and "should be fully operable by March." The lights are being procured and installed under a US$2.1M line of credit from the Export-Import Bank of India under an agreement inked between the governments of Guyana and India on November 7. Traffic lights will be installed at intersections at Camp and Lamaha streets, Vlissengen Road and Homestretch Avenue, Church and Main streets, the East Coast Highway and Courida Street, the East Bank Highway and the Eccles access road, Mandela Avenue and Hunter Street and on the Ogle Airstrip road and the railway embankment road. Earlier in the year more than $240M was spent to plant 424 street lights from Better Hope to Golden Grove along the East Coast Demerara Highway. However, Carifesta Avenue which currently has no road lights had become a cause for concern for many.
Yesterday, Minister Benn said he was not sure whether anything could be done in that area at the moment and whether resources were available to put lights along that stretch of road.
Meanwhile, lights have also been installed from the Russian Embassy to Better Hope, along the Mahaica-Rosignol Highway, at the Mahaica and Mahaicony bridges and approaches, from Timehri to Republic Park, from the Ruimveldt Police Outpost to the Demerara Harbour Bridge and from the bridge to Vreed-en-Hoop and from the Kitty pump station to the Seawall Bandstand.
OK so most of out Christmas lights will not go up around town. We really needed the traffic lights to put a little colour and into GT after they white-washed the place.
Reports say they only arrived in Guyana yesterday !!!
The long awaited installation of new traffic lights at some 50 junctions across the city will not be finished in time for the cricket world cup games and the authorities may have to resort to giving priority to the route leading to the stadium at Providence. According to Public Works Minister Robeson Benn, the lights only arrived in the country yesterday and so were not yet in the hands of the relevant authorities. Most of the traffic lights in the city have been inoperable for several years now and the government had been recently urged to do something about this in time for the Rio Summit and the World Cup.
Speaking with Stabroek News yesterday, project engineer Kadri Parris said that as of now workmen have completed in excess of 85% of the road cuts for the purpose of placing conduits to allow cables for the traffic lights. He noted however the work was delayed to some extent for security reasons during last weekend when Guyana hosted the 19th Summit of the Rio Group. However he said the grounding of posts for the lights should start next week. The first world cup game will be played in Guyana on March 28 and hordes of tourists and cricket fans are expected to descend on the country prior to this. When asked whether the majority of lights could be up and running in time for the games, Parris said the project was on schedule and according to him its duration runs into the month of April. "So while we're working to expedite the process and see how fast we could finish, we have to ensure that we maintain engineering integrity," he explained. Parris said however that they have to decide to make those areas along the route to the stadium at Providence, priority areas.
When the installation deal was signed with the Indian firm CMS Traffic Systems Limited, the Government Information Agency (GINA) in a statement had said that the work was scheduled for substantial completion by February and "should be fully operable by March." The lights are being procured and installed under a US$2.1M line of credit from the Export-Import Bank of India under an agreement inked between the governments of Guyana and India on November 7. Traffic lights will be installed at intersections at Camp and Lamaha streets, Vlissengen Road and Homestretch Avenue, Church and Main streets, the East Coast Highway and Courida Street, the East Bank Highway and the Eccles access road, Mandela Avenue and Hunter Street and on the Ogle Airstrip road and the railway embankment road. Earlier in the year more than $240M was spent to plant 424 street lights from Better Hope to Golden Grove along the East Coast Demerara Highway. However, Carifesta Avenue which currently has no road lights had become a cause for concern for many.
Yesterday, Minister Benn said he was not sure whether anything could be done in that area at the moment and whether resources were available to put lights along that stretch of road.
Meanwhile, lights have also been installed from the Russian Embassy to Better Hope, along the Mahaica-Rosignol Highway, at the Mahaica and Mahaicony bridges and approaches, from Timehri to Republic Park, from the Ruimveldt Police Outpost to the Demerara Harbour Bridge and from the bridge to Vreed-en-Hoop and from the Kitty pump station to the Seawall Bandstand.
OK so most of out Christmas lights will not go up around town. We really needed the traffic lights to put a little colour and into GT after they white-washed the place.
Reports say they only arrived in Guyana yesterday !!!
Stadium more or less ready for Super Eight matches
By Miranda La Rose (Stabroek News)
The Guyana National Stadium at Providence is basically ready for the Super Eight world cup matches at month end and the eight-acre parking lot would be completed in time. Although the works on the extension of the four-lane highway from the Demerara Harbour Bridge to the stadium would not be completed in time for Cricket World Cup, it would be serviceable. Completion is now scheduled for mid-May.
Meanwhile, technical consultant at the stadium, Walter Willis foresees no problems for persons living on the East Bank Demerara commuting to and from their homes. However, the Police Traffic Department would be issuing guidelines and some form of identification to be on vehicles for access to some areas close to the stadium. This process is being worked out between the Guyana Local Organising Committee of the ICC CWC 2007 and the police. Asked about the status of the four-lane road from the Demerara Harbour Bridge to the stadium and at what stage of construction it would be for the Cricket World Cup matches to be held locally, Willis told the media yesterday that the Providence Bridge would be completed and the verges cleared of debris by March 22 for the ICC CWC West Indies 2007 Inc. to take over in full the stadium venue for the matches.
Asked why the work was so much behind schedule, Willis, the Ministry of Public Works project engineer, said that initially the extension of the four-lane road was scheduled to be completed by December 31, 2006. However, the contractor Seereeram Brothers in their initial proposal had scheduled the date of completion by March, 2007. Work on the Providence Bridge is to be substantially completed by March 22. Before the project began last June, the government "tried to get them to see how they could complete the project by the end of December," he said, adding that once the work had begun the completion was not possible by yearend for several reasons. The main reason, he said, was that in order to have the stadium completed by October 2006, the stadium project required the services of Seereeram Brothers to pave the access road so that the Indian Vice President would have had a good access (dirt) road for the dedication ceremony of the work done by the Indian contractor, Sharpoorji Pallonji. Following that there was the ICC CWC West Indies Inc venue tour on November 16, 2006 and to obtain a blue or green rating, this meant that the ring road around the stadium had to be completed or most of the work had to be substantially nearing completion. Again the services of Seereeram Brothers were used.
Following the November tour was the February 6 tour, which was a pivotal one, Willis said. In order to get the go-ahead to host the games, substantial work had to be completed on the car park and the access road had to be paved to an acceptable stage. "Again the services of Seereeram Brothers were used to get the access road completed to the stage where it is at so we could get the go-ahead to host the games," he said.
The ICC CWC West Indies Inc had required that all infrastructural works for the ICC CWC 2007 tournament be completed by December 31. Willis estimated that getting the access road completed and other infrastructural works in the stadium complex done took Seereeram Brothers off their own work site for about 50 days. "This is time we have to give back Seereeram Brothers to get back to completing the four-lane extension," he said.
"Another challenge" that impacted on the progress of the road, he said, was that the government asked for the Providence Bridge to be opened to traffic so as not to be embarrassed by traffic congestion when the dignitaries attending the Rio Summit were coming to and from Georgetown or when they moved about. Once the Rio Summit ended, work restarted. Most of the "permanent work" on the bridge and carriageway would be completed by March 22, Willis said. At present, the sub-contractor, Courtney Benn Construction Company along with Seereeram Brothers, and the Ministry of Public Works "are taking all the steps to have this bridge and main carriageway to the stadium completed for the first ball bowling on March 28."
He said, "We would like to have all the main civil works closed one week before so that the ICC CWC has some level of confidence that things are ready here and we don't have works going on while players and spectators are coming in from Timehri."
Committed labour - Force lacking
Noting that there were not many problems with technical and administrative staff, Willis said there were at times problems with the workmen on the ground and to get the work done on time, "we have been giving incentives to the sub-contractors who have met their targets." Over the last six months, he said, there had been no shortages of either cement aggregate or sand. "The thing we seem to suffer more from is a lack of a committed labour force." The contractors have indicated that by mid-May the extension would be completed. The work to be finished after the completion of the Super Eight Series would be the laying on of the second layer of asphalt. So far the work has remained within the US$3.5 million budget.
Answering questions, generally in terms of match readiness, Willis said much was in place. He said there was a good pitch and field for play, accommodation for players, officials, spectators, a good public address system, security cameras in place, and the security zoning fence was completed. The air conditioning unit, water supply and sewage disposal all looked as though they were in order and were said to be so. Willis said that in terms of government's work on the stadium, that was still behind in getting some of the drains completed. While the fencing was completed some gates are still to be installed. These works are expected to be completed by March 19.
Drainage
On the drainage of the field, he said that every time it rains the subsurface field and pitch drainage system goes into effect. He explained that as the water percolates through the sand, it is collected in the underground manifolds and drains in the peripheral concrete ring drains found around the field. He said that since the construction of the pitch with the underground drainage system began, it has performed well so far in the various stages of rainfall. Commenting on the completion of the parking lot, which would accommodate some 2,500 cars between the stadium and the Buddy's International Hotel, Willis said that the filling should be completed by today. There are three sub-contractors, including BK International and Mohamed Rahim and Sons. It is expected that they would complete all the works, including the cutting of earth drains and placing some culverts in the area within another week or two. The works are being executed at a cost of $35 million.
The Guyana National Stadium at Providence is basically ready for the Super Eight world cup matches at month end and the eight-acre parking lot would be completed in time. Although the works on the extension of the four-lane highway from the Demerara Harbour Bridge to the stadium would not be completed in time for Cricket World Cup, it would be serviceable. Completion is now scheduled for mid-May.
Meanwhile, technical consultant at the stadium, Walter Willis foresees no problems for persons living on the East Bank Demerara commuting to and from their homes. However, the Police Traffic Department would be issuing guidelines and some form of identification to be on vehicles for access to some areas close to the stadium. This process is being worked out between the Guyana Local Organising Committee of the ICC CWC 2007 and the police. Asked about the status of the four-lane road from the Demerara Harbour Bridge to the stadium and at what stage of construction it would be for the Cricket World Cup matches to be held locally, Willis told the media yesterday that the Providence Bridge would be completed and the verges cleared of debris by March 22 for the ICC CWC West Indies 2007 Inc. to take over in full the stadium venue for the matches.
Asked why the work was so much behind schedule, Willis, the Ministry of Public Works project engineer, said that initially the extension of the four-lane road was scheduled to be completed by December 31, 2006. However, the contractor Seereeram Brothers in their initial proposal had scheduled the date of completion by March, 2007. Work on the Providence Bridge is to be substantially completed by March 22. Before the project began last June, the government "tried to get them to see how they could complete the project by the end of December," he said, adding that once the work had begun the completion was not possible by yearend for several reasons. The main reason, he said, was that in order to have the stadium completed by October 2006, the stadium project required the services of Seereeram Brothers to pave the access road so that the Indian Vice President would have had a good access (dirt) road for the dedication ceremony of the work done by the Indian contractor, Sharpoorji Pallonji. Following that there was the ICC CWC West Indies Inc venue tour on November 16, 2006 and to obtain a blue or green rating, this meant that the ring road around the stadium had to be completed or most of the work had to be substantially nearing completion. Again the services of Seereeram Brothers were used.
Following the November tour was the February 6 tour, which was a pivotal one, Willis said. In order to get the go-ahead to host the games, substantial work had to be completed on the car park and the access road had to be paved to an acceptable stage. "Again the services of Seereeram Brothers were used to get the access road completed to the stage where it is at so we could get the go-ahead to host the games," he said.
The ICC CWC West Indies Inc had required that all infrastructural works for the ICC CWC 2007 tournament be completed by December 31. Willis estimated that getting the access road completed and other infrastructural works in the stadium complex done took Seereeram Brothers off their own work site for about 50 days. "This is time we have to give back Seereeram Brothers to get back to completing the four-lane extension," he said.
"Another challenge" that impacted on the progress of the road, he said, was that the government asked for the Providence Bridge to be opened to traffic so as not to be embarrassed by traffic congestion when the dignitaries attending the Rio Summit were coming to and from Georgetown or when they moved about. Once the Rio Summit ended, work restarted. Most of the "permanent work" on the bridge and carriageway would be completed by March 22, Willis said. At present, the sub-contractor, Courtney Benn Construction Company along with Seereeram Brothers, and the Ministry of Public Works "are taking all the steps to have this bridge and main carriageway to the stadium completed for the first ball bowling on March 28."
He said, "We would like to have all the main civil works closed one week before so that the ICC CWC has some level of confidence that things are ready here and we don't have works going on while players and spectators are coming in from Timehri."
Committed labour - Force lacking
Noting that there were not many problems with technical and administrative staff, Willis said there were at times problems with the workmen on the ground and to get the work done on time, "we have been giving incentives to the sub-contractors who have met their targets." Over the last six months, he said, there had been no shortages of either cement aggregate or sand. "The thing we seem to suffer more from is a lack of a committed labour force." The contractors have indicated that by mid-May the extension would be completed. The work to be finished after the completion of the Super Eight Series would be the laying on of the second layer of asphalt. So far the work has remained within the US$3.5 million budget.
Answering questions, generally in terms of match readiness, Willis said much was in place. He said there was a good pitch and field for play, accommodation for players, officials, spectators, a good public address system, security cameras in place, and the security zoning fence was completed. The air conditioning unit, water supply and sewage disposal all looked as though they were in order and were said to be so. Willis said that in terms of government's work on the stadium, that was still behind in getting some of the drains completed. While the fencing was completed some gates are still to be installed. These works are expected to be completed by March 19.
Drainage
On the drainage of the field, he said that every time it rains the subsurface field and pitch drainage system goes into effect. He explained that as the water percolates through the sand, it is collected in the underground manifolds and drains in the peripheral concrete ring drains found around the field. He said that since the construction of the pitch with the underground drainage system began, it has performed well so far in the various stages of rainfall. Commenting on the completion of the parking lot, which would accommodate some 2,500 cars between the stadium and the Buddy's International Hotel, Willis said that the filling should be completed by today. There are three sub-contractors, including BK International and Mohamed Rahim and Sons. It is expected that they would complete all the works, including the cutting of earth drains and placing some culverts in the area within another week or two. The works are being executed at a cost of $35 million.
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