Daily 19_09_23 no 214

Survey reveals significant financial knowledge gap in the ECCU - Pg 3

Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre achieves baby-friendly designation - Pg 4

ABLP, Dwayne George officially launch campaign but PM mum on by-election date - Pg 5

‘Time to put politics aside’: PM and Opposition Leader challenge each other to work together to address water supply issues - Pg 8

Antiguans and Barbudans urged to take advantage of Sargassum research funding - Pg 8

WHAT’S ON

September 20

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE IN GERMANY

The Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries will be hosting a Webinar to discuss scholarship opportunities for Antiguans and Barbudans available in Germany. The Webinar will be held on Wednesday, September 20, at 6pm, and will feature Ambassador to the UK and Germany, Her Excellency Karen Mae Hill, as well as Ministry of Education officials. The Webinar will provide all information needed to access DAAD scholarships. The credentials to access the webinar: Microsoft Teams – Meeting ID: 322 235 202 822. Access code: p2dcJ3. For more information, Tel: +1 268 562 7204; Mobile: +1 268 772 6209.

September 20

ST JOHN ASSOCIATION AGM

The St John Association of Antigua & Barbuda will be holding its Annual General Meeting at Government House on Wednesday, 20th September at 10am. All board members, committee members, volunteers and friends are invited.

Until September

21

VACANCIES AT OSEC

The following vacancies are available at the One Stop Employment Centre effective September 15, 2023: Boatbuilding Instructor; Chef (Restaurant); Cleaner (Restaurant); Clerical Assistant (Intern); Customer Service Clerk; Customer Service Representative/Cashier; Domestic Cleaner; Events & Experience Manager (Restaurant); Fish Attendant; Hair Stylist; Handyman (Maintenance); Housekeeping Manager (Hotel); Housekeeper/Maid; Internal Auditor (Hotel); Inventory Clerk; Labourer (Construction); Live-In Nanny; Mason (Construction); Maintenance Technician (Plumbing); Pool Technician; Professor Of Clinical Medicine; Programme Assistant; Receptionist (Watersports); Refrigeration Technician; Seamstress; Security Officer; Site Supervisor (Barbuda); Store Clerk; Tour Guide; Tractor Driver; Trained Preschool Teacher; Truck/Forklift Driver; and Waiter/Server/Grill Attendant. For more information about vacancies or how to register as a jobseeker, please contact the centre at 562-8533/4.

September 21 & 22

DEAN SMITHEN’S THANKSGIVING SERVICE & BANQUET

A special service of thanksgiving will be held on Thursday, 21st September at the Cathedral starting at 6pm to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of ordination of Dean Emeritus Rudolph Smithen to the sacred Priesthood. This will be followed by a banquet on Friday 22nd September starting at 7pm at Casa Palmadita. Tickets for the banquet are only $250 and can be purchased from at the following locations: Bishop’s Lodge Redcliffe Street; Glennettes Beauty Salon, Newgate Street; CECO Pharmacy, High Street; St John’s Pharmacy on Thames and St. Mary’s Street; or any committee member of the Deanery Office, 462-0820. All proceeds from both activities will go towards the Cathedral Restoration Fund.

Send your notices to The Daily Observer: dailyobserver@antiguaobserver.com

Affairs

Second Morning Edition of The Big Stories Sponsored by Caribbean Union Bank

7:45 a.m. – 8 a.m.

Good Morning Jojo

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Weekend Sporting Highlights

Voice Of the People

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Focusing On Hot Button Issues

Lunch Time Edition of The Big Stories Sponsored by North Coast Hardware

11:45 A.M. – 12 p.m.

Partly Cloudy with a 20 percent or slight chance of showers

Partly Cloudy with a 20 percent or slight chance of showers High: 34ºC/93ºF

Connecting With Dave Lester Payne

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Paddy “The Groit” Simon –September To Remember

Evolution Drive Time

4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Sessions in Steel

5 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

The fastest half hour on radio

Evening Edition of the Big Stories Sponsored by ACB Caribbean

5:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.

The most comprehensive round-up of the day’s news

OBITUARIES/ALMANAC

6 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Serpent in the Snakepit

8:30 p.m. – 11 p.m. Follow

@antiguaOMG

Survey reveals significant financial knowledge gap in the ECCU

By Elesha George Elesha.george@antiguaobserver.com

The Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) is grappling with a severe financial literacy deficit, as revealed by a comprehensive survey conducted jointly by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission and the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB).

The survey, launched in August 2022, has revealed that residents of the ECCU do not have an adequate understanding of the most effective ways to save, budget, invest or borrow money.

While the Eastern Caribbean boasts a more than 90 percent level of overall adult literacy, the financial literacy of its citizens is what ECCB Governor, Timothy Antoine described as being “lamentably low”.

The survey’s findings reveal a fundamental lack of knowledge regarding saving, budgeting, investing, and borrowing among ECCU residents. Consequently, many fall prey to scams, engage in high-interest hire purchases, and succumb to the pitfalls of payday loans.

“How do we explain the following persons falling for scams offering prizes for competitions for which they were never registered – that happens more often than we would like to believe; persons engaging in hire purchases, ignorant or indifferent to effective interest rates with some as high as 35 percent; the proliferation of payday loans which essentially means attempting to ride up on a down es-

calator – it’s a veritable debt trap,” the governor said.

According to the survey, 61 percent of the 7,000 participants had a basic level of understanding of finance and use of finance practices across the eight member states. In the ECCU, the financial literacy score ranged from 11.7 to 13.1 out of 20 points. The highest score was achieved by Anguilla and the lowest score was

achieved by Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. According to the central bank, the overall financial literacy scores suggest room for improvement across all elements of financial literacy, that is, financial attitude, knowledge and behaviour.

Amongst the survey’s key findings, more than two in five people or their households are unable to cope with and recover from nega-

tive financial shocks, should they occur. It indicated that respondents were illequipped to cope with and recover from financial shocks since over half of them indicated that they were not able to meet their living costs in the past 12 months. Further, over two in five individuals indicated that they would not be able to face a major expense today without borrowing from a financial institution or asking family or friends to help.

There is also a relatively high use of cash across the union with over 84 percent of use by respondents in St Vincent and the Grenadines. SVG also achieved the lowest scores in product awareness and financial attitude.

The survey’s findings extended beyond just understanding finances as more than two in five people in the ECCU are also not finan-

Attendees in Antigua gathered at the Sagicor Building where the local ECCB’s office is located to listen to the results of the financial literacy and inclusion survey. (Photos by Elesha George)

cially practical. According to Antoine, personal financial management such as budgeting and investing are being ignored because people are choosing to buy the things they want while “begging, family, friends and government for their needs”.

“Urgent action is needed to address financial literacy and inclusion in the ECCU,” Antoine stated, adding that there are “high credential persons” with multiple degrees who are clueless when it comes to managing their personal finances.

Moreover, personal financial management practices like budgeting and investing seem to be on the decline, with more individuals opting to buy what they desire while relying on family, friends, and government assistance for their basic needs. And those who invest invested in the regional and

international capital markets make up only one in 25 persons – 4 percent. Still, he said several persons are now taking high-risk investments in cryptos.

The survey also highlighted disparities in financial literacy based on income levels and internet access. Higher-income earners and internet users generally demonstrated higher financial literacy. Residents with a monthly income of $3,000 or more had the highest financial literacy score (13.7 out of 20).

There is a correlation between people who have access to the internet and those who do not. According to the survey results, Montserrat registered the widest gap in financial literacy scores between residents with internet access (13.0 out of 20) and those without internet access (8.8 out of 20).

The good news is financial awareness appears relatively high in the ECCU, with over 88 percent of respondents being aware of at least five of the 18 financial products listed, the survey showed that action lags behind. Only four in 10 individuals use financial accounts for electronic and debit card transactions, indicating a low adoption of modern payment systems. Many residents still rely on family or friends for financial assistance, even when such services are readily available from financial institutions.

The survey revealed that 76 percent of respondents made regular and recurring payments in the 12 months preceding the survey, yet 41.6 percent made at least one electronic payment in the same time period.

Director General of the

OECS Commission, Dr Didacus Jules said the survey results are crucial because they indicate the financial vulnerability of the region.

“This shared currency ties our economies together, making collective financial understanding even more crucial. When one of us thrives, we all benefit. Conversely, financial instability in one country can ripple through the entire union,” he remarked.

“When a significant number of individuals lack these skills our entire region can suffer from high debt levels, low savings and missed economic opportunities,” he noted.

The ECCB head has therefore issued urgent call to action to address the region’s financial literacy and inclusion challenges to ensure the prosperity and resilience of its member states.

Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre achieves baby-friendly designation

The country’s public hospital has officially been designated as ‘BabyFriendly’ after meeting necessary criteria in an assessment done by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).

The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) became the third hospital within the Organisation of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to achieve this designation, on September 17.

“They would have looked at the physical space, the maternity unit, the NICU [Neonatal Intensive Care Unit], antenatal classes, along with interviews of healthcare staff, non-medical staff, pregnant women, and newly delivered mothers,” Samantha Moitt, Chief Nutrition Officer at the Ministry of Health told Observer re-

cently.

The evaluation was done on behalf of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) which launched the Baby-

Friendly Hospital Initiative in 1991 with the aim of promoting, protecting and supporting breastfeeding.

Also, the list of requirements needed to secure a successful evaluation in-

cludes a National Infant and Child Feeding Policy (developed in Antigua and Barbuda in 2018), and training of healthcare and non-healthcare staff on the topic of breastfeeding and infant

The SLBMC became the third hospital in the Organisation of the Eastern Caribbean States to receive ‘BabyFriendly’ certification, on September 17 (file photo).

feeding.

According to Moitt, this is in addition to essential practices such as support for mothers after delivery with breastfeeding or infant-feeding and skin-to-skin contact with their baby.

Although the hospital has achieved the designation, Dr Shivon Belle-Jarvis, the

Head of the Pediatric Department, affirmed that efforts to ensure families are educated, training of clinical and auxiliary staff, and evaluation of policies and data collection will continue.

In addition, she spoke of plans to eventually get private healthcare facilities in Antigua, along with the hos-

pital in Barbuda certified as Baby-Friendly.

“We want to ensure that the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative is not limited to our government facilities. We want private facilities that offer newborn services and deliveries to also be certified … and also for Barbuda,” Dr Belle-Jarvis said.

Meanwhile, the ‘BabyFriendly’ designation requires birth centres to offer optimal care for infant feeding, ensure the nutritional needs of a baby are met regardless of whether babies are breastfed or formula-fed, and have policies in place to enhance bonding between mother and baby, Moitt added.

ABLP, Dwayne George officially launch campaign but PM mum on by-election date

By Robert A Emmanuel robert.emmanuel@antiguaobserver.com

The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) and its candidate, Senator Dwayne George, officially launched their by-election campaign in St Mary’s South on Sunday night.

Starting with a motorcade at 4:45pm and ending with a

political rally which started at 7:30pm, party supporters came out to rally around George in his bid to defeat his former allies, Kelvin ‘Shugy’ Simon and the United Progressive Party (UPP).

During his campaign launch, the newly-appointed Senator shared some of his and the ABLP’s plans for the area, including the construction of community centres

and the building of a music studio at the Urlings Primary School.

He also criticised the Opposition for not appreciating his talents and choosing Simon to represent the constituency.

“The best thing I have ever done in my life is to leave the UPP, to move away from those folks. Why? They are not caring or nurturing; in other words, they nah love poor people.”

Speeches made by the political leadership of the party focussed heavily on Senator George’s decision to cross the political divide weeks after publicly supporting Simon in his by-election bid.

St John’s City East MP and Information Minister Melford Nicholas said Senator George’s departure from the Opposition was similar to his own circumstances and he had been similarly embraced by Party supporters.

Photos from Sunday’s ABLP by-election campaign launch. (Observer media photos)

“I am one of the more recent representations of the Labour Party accepting even former adversaries and bringing them onboard and saying, ‘you can work with us, and provided that you are prepared to commit and to work to the ideals of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, we welcome you’,” MP Nicholas said.

St Paul MP and Chairman

of the ABLP, Chet Greene, argued that the leadership was not negligent in its decision to select Senator George as its candidate, stating that they had been polling the constituency prior to the announcement.

“The one thing consistent with the Labour Party is that we always recruit talent wherever and whenever we find it,” MP Greene stated.

Meanwhile, Senator Samantha Marshall said that her resignation as the St Mary’s South caretaker was made to ensure that we have “someone who has the full dedication and can bring this seat back to Labour”.

St Mary’s North MP Molwyn Joseph blamed the Opposition for slow population growth in Bolans and the lack of development in the con-

stituency.

“When you look at Bolans and Jennings, Crabbe Hill, Johnson’s Point, Urlings, and you examine the development in these areas, you cannot find anything that the UPP has done of significance to develop these communities,” he claimed.

However, with only five weeks to go before a by-election must be held in the con-

stituency, Prime Minister Gaston Browne remained tightlipped on its date.

He said that while Senator George had submitted his letter of resignation as a Senator to him, he had not yet signed off on the letter.

He also gave credit to the

Senator George for some of the infrastructural work that had been done since his appointment by the political party.

“And, you can see in just a matter of weeks on the job, and he is already delivering. Look at the infrastructure

work that it is taking place in this constituency; look at the quality of the representation coming from Dwayne George in the Senate,” he argued.

The by-election for St Mary’s South was triggered by the resignation of former MP Simon, thereby bypassing

an election petition against him.

Thus far, the Missing Link’s Nigel Bascus and the Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) Andrew Antonio have also stated their intention to contest the byelection.

‘Time to put politics aside’: PM and Opposition Leader challenge each other to work together to address water supply issues

By Robert A. Emmanuel robert.emmanuel@antiguaobserver.com

During the deliveries of two passionate speeches in the Parliament yesterday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Leader of the Opposition Jamale Pringle both called on the opposing party to work with them to address the longstanding issue of water production and distribution.

The issue of water has been a political football between the two parties in recent years with both of them blaming the other for not doing enough to address the issue.

The issue arose once again in Parliament on a debate over an amendment to

the September 2020 resolution where the government took on about EC $169 million of financial liability to allow the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) to improve utility infrastructure on the island.

Pringle said that while the issue of amending the resolution was uncontentious, the broader debate remained over the inadequate provision of water services.

“Let us stop playing the politics and accept that ‘hey, I cannot solve it’ and let us all come together to see how we can all come up with a solution.

“What I am proposed we do is to create an agency that deals with water production and leave APUA to deal with

the management of the distribution,” he said.

The Opposition Leader called for a bipartisan approach to come up with the best solution.

“I am quite sure, rather than installing their own [reverse osmosis] plant, hotels would be eager to invest in a fund where they don’t have to involved in the production of their own water and have that plant to maintain,” he said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Browne agreed with the Opposition Leader that there was a major issue in water distribution but noted that was also an issue with “indiscriminate” usage of water.

“Because water is artificially low in terms of its pricing, you find that our people

just use water indiscriminately. Now if we do not address the issue by having appropriate pricing, then it will be a moving target.

“So, no matter how many RO [Reverse Osmosis] plants we introduce into the country, people will continue their profligacy and I am raising this point to say that water prices must increase,” the Prime Minister argued.

He also claimed that he will extend a formal invitation to the Opposition to work with the Cabinet on developing solutions to these issues.

According to Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas, much of that funding had not been accessed by the government and the changes to the resolution will address it.

Antiguans and Barbudans urged to take advantage of Sargassum research funding

In a recent response to requests from Caribbean leaders, the United Kingdom has launched a call for research proposals on Sargassum seaweed, a release from the British Commission to Antigua and Barbuda has advised.

Recent influxes of Sargassum threatens the region’s marine ecosystems, economy, and public health. The UK invites partners to submit proposals for up to £300k (USD$374k) before 10th October.

The research should advance commercial, scalable, safe solutions to process, sink or store. Finding solutions to Sargassum influxes could be vital to the Caribbean’s sustainable development and climate resilience.

Resident British Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda, Ms Lindsy Thompson said, “We all appreciate the

awful effects the Sargassum has on people’s livelihoods and wellbeing and individuals or groups with brilliant ideas for research are encouraged to take advantage of this UK funding opportunity.”

More details on the Sargassum call for proposals are available here:

https://www.gov.uk/international-development-funding/caribbean-sargassum-ad vancing-commercial-scalableprocessing-or-storage

Meanwhile, in the run-up to COP28, and the 4th International Conference on SIDS in 2024, the UK Government continues to advocate on be-

half of SIDS. We are committed to building global consensus to support SIDS to address their unique vulnerabilities and to grow resilient economies. The UK is one of the leading actors to work for systems suited to small states, including in the GCF, where we are pushing to increase access to climate finance for SIDS. The UK is also supporting SIDS through our £500m (USD$624) Blue Planet Fund, including through initiatives such as our £36m (USD$45m) Sustainable Blue Economies programme.

The UK Government recognises that SIDS are global leaders in climate action and have a vital role in pressuring the big emitters to act. The UK is committed to delivering the promises of the Glasgow Climate Pact, including action on climate finance and addressing loss and damage.

Resident British Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda, Ms Lindsy Thompson

Sandals Foundation volunteers clear over 250 pounds of garbage from coastline

Close to 50 Sandals Foundation volunteers went out last weekend and cleared more than 250 pounds of garbage from the Dredge Bay coastline. Joining the world’s

largest volunteer mission, the effort brings welcome relief to the island’s marine ecosystem and the overall health of our beaches. (Photos courtesy Sandals Foundation)

Volunteers cleaning up Dredge Bay for International Coastal Clean Up Day 2023.

The real intervention Haiti needs (Part II) GUEST Opinion

Force won’t get to the root of the country’s crisis. But smart monetary policy will.

By Malick W Gachem

Restoring monetary sovereignty in Haiti is a big, open-ended challenge that will involve sacrifice on the part of wealthier, Western nations—above all, France and the United States.

The starting point should be the legitimate demands of the Haitian people themselves. A long line of Haitian intellectuals since the 19th century has highlighted and condemned the indemnity. In 2004, at the time of the bicentennial of Haiti’s independence, former Haitian President Jean-

Bertrand Aristide officially demanded that France restitute $21 billion to Haiti. That corresponds to the best estimate we have, based on conservative assumptions, of the double debt’s present-day economic cost to Haiti, including lost opportunities for domestic investment. (The New York Times project estimated that the actual economic cost may be as high as $115 billion.)

But France is not the only party with moral and historical obligations here. A consortium of public authorities and private financial entities that profited from the indemnity - led by the US Federal Reserve system, the Bank of France, Credit Mutuel (the European financial conglomerate that now owns and operates CIC), and Citibank - should make arrangements for a $21 billion fund to be held in es-

crow by the Bank of Haiti.

The Paris Club, an informal group of creditor nations, could provide a forum for France and the United States, together with Haiti, to determine who should pay what and the conditions that Haiti must satisfy before its treasury can receive the money. Those terms should be informed by consultation with Haiti’s leading civil society actors - currently embodied in the Montana Accord, a group that seeks to guide the country toward new elections. At minimum, holding free and fair national elections in a secure climate should be a prerequisite.

Writing a $21 billion check, however, will not come close to solving the country’s financial woes. France, the United States, and other responsible actors, both public and private, also

need to immediately open up a second front in the war on Haiti’s financial crisis with the strategic use of monetary and trade policy.

First, these actors urgently need to work together to deploy foreign exchange trading operations. Central banks use foreign exchange trading to influence exchange rates, selling one reserve currency to make another more valuable. In this case, central banks should coordinate efforts to strengthen the gourde relative to the dollar.

France, the United States, and other North Atlantic nations should also promote preferential trade agreements that benefit Haiti. Since a more valuable gourde will make Haitian exports to the United States more expensive, Haiti will need support in developing sufficient export capacity to

ease the pressures imposed by its severe imbalance of payments. The United States should renew and expand existing legislation, such as the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act and Haiti Economic Lift Program Act - two acts, set to expire in 2025, that buttress the Hait-

ian garment sector. There is also great potential to expand the North American market for Haitian agricultural products, including coffee and cacao beans.

Finally, Haiti needs complete and permanent debt relief. The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund led the way in cancel-

ing $1.2 billion of Haiti’s external public debt back in 2009, after many delays, and then again in 2010 after the devastating earthquake. As a result, the ratio of Haiti’s external public debt fell from around 19 percent in 2009 to around 9 percent in 2011. But it has since started to climb back up. Now, North Atlantic powers and international organisations should not only cancel Haiti’s debt, but also recognise that debt has far too ugly a history in Haiti to be used in financial relationships with the country going forward. This does not mean that Haiti should fall back on foreign aid in the form of grants. Instead, strengthening Haiti’s gourde should be the priority, since a Haitian currency with real

purchasing power will be able to exert the multiplier effects that North Atlantic currencies have long demonstrated as bank lending and consumer spending combine to stimulate economic activity.

Haiti needs genuine reconstruction, and these strategies can help the country find its financial footing as it seeks to rebuild its political institutions. A concerted international campaign to support Haiti’s financial sovereignty is the real intervention that Haiti needs - and possibly the only one. (Courtesy Foreign Policy) Thoughts and views expressed in guest opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Observer Newsco, its management or staff.

“Fuh hangle dis heat yah, me ah sell air candishan instead ah vegetable fram now arn!”

Meet the Executive of the National Youth Volunteer Corps

The purpose of the National Youth Volunteer Corps (NYVC) is to mobilise individuals who willingly

offer their time, skills and services to support a specific cause, organisation or community.

The NYVC, which falls under the Department of Youth Affairs, plays a vital role in various sectors: hu-

manitarian aid, community service, nonprofit and charitable organisations, as well as health, education, and environmental conservation.

Overall, the volunteer corps harnesses the power of individuals’ goodwill and collective efforts to address societal challenges, provide assistance where needed, and make a positive impact on communities and persons in need.

If you are interested in joining the NYVC, call 7813078/774-0958 for more information.

CALL 1-268-462-3920/21

President Jahmaal Frederick

Assistant Public Relations Officer Aja Ralph Marketing Manager Ava Ralph

Member of of the Constitution Committee Romario Hughes

Vice President Deborah Hatten Secretary Pia Nichols

Marketing Assitant Jamaal Kerr

Assistant Secretary Makkedah Lawrence

Public Relations Officer Ajante Fraser Treasurer Corzette Simon Project Manager Chrysean Jarvis

Acknowledging upcoming World Zero Emissions Day

written by barbudanGO

If one were to ask you, do you know what it means to lessen your carbon footprint? What would your answer be?

In a world booming with technology and new innovations, it’s easy to get lost in the idea of convenience and comfort. However, as humans, we may forget one small detail, we need 1.5 to stay alive.

How do we explain this that even a child would understand? Simply put, if we do not change our habits soon, we put ourselves at risk for our planet’s demise. Heatwaves are like new natural disasters. We suffer so much now. Just imagine

even more unbearable temperatures for longer periods throughout the year, the possible drastic changes to seasons, and so many more.

It’s easy to highlight the problem you say. So what solutions can we employ as mitigation measures? It’s simple! Just lessen your carbon footprint, but the question still lingers: how does one do so? Let us explore 6 ways we can lessen our carbon footprint!

As transportation is currently the number-one source of greenhouse gasses, reducing air travel can significantly decrease the amount of carbon dioxide emissions placed in our atmosphere. Just imagine eliminating just one roundtrip transatlantic flight could save us 1.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents per year. Living a carfree lifestyle can be difficult, however all destinations don’t require the use of a motor vehicle, substituting car trips with cycling, bus trips, train rides, or walking will be feasible. Using the air conditioning sparingly, adjusting tire pressure for better fuel economy, carpooling when possible, are ways to make your driving more efficient.

Planting trees is one sure way to correct the mistakes of deforestation; it is one of the significant causes of carbon emissions. In order to reduce our negative environmental impact, we must remember that trees absorb and store the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, but they can no longer absorb carbon once they are cut down. An inexpensive yet natural way to take climate

action is to simply plant more trees, for every tree that dies or is cut down let us replace it with three.

Switching to clean energy is another way to help reduce carbon emissions. Believe it or not there are other highly sustainable forms of energy, which allow for lower dependence on natural gas and resource harvesting. Examples of clean energy sources are solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal energy.

A simple change of diet can lower carbon emissions. How, you ask? Eating less red meat. For every gram of beef produced, over 220 grams of carbon dioxide are produced resulting in almost four percent of the total GHG emissions. Lowering carbon levels in our atmosphere can significantly reduce by eating more vegetarian diets and less meat consumption present.

Make your home more energy-efficient. The first thing you should do is consult with your local energy provider for ways to utilize renewable energy sources. The aim should be to reduce energy use in your everyday life by buying appliances that meet energy efficiency standards, using your air conditioning infrequently, turn off all lights and appliances when not in use and replacing lights with LED light bulbs.

World Zero Emissions Day will be acknowledged on September 21st, 2023. What ways do you think you can employ to lessen your carbon footprint and join the world on ZEDAY in ‘Giving Our Planet a Day Off.’

Our Neighbours

“Territory”: Dominican film wins Best Documentary at Canadian Film Festival

“Territory,” a short film focused on the indigenous people of the Eastern Caribbean island of Dominica - the Kalinago, wins Best Short Documentary at the 18th annual Caribbean Tales Film Festival (CTFF) and is the first submission by Director Jael Joseph to the festival, taking place in Toronto September 6-22, 2023. “Territory” tied for the title with “Negra, Yo Soy Bella,” a film by Puerto Rico’s Vashi Korin.

“To win on my first try, it’s just an incredible feeling and I dedicate this win to my late parents and the Kalinago people of Dominica, who are still navigating how to best protect and retain their culture, traditions and identity and whose trust and openness allowed me to share their stories.”

In her acceptance speech Jael thanked family friends, colleagues and mentors singling out CTFF founder, Frances-Ann Solomon from

whom she drew “inspiration and influence.”

CTFF celebrates the talents of established and emerging Caribbean and African filmmakers, presenting a multi-ethnic mix of exciting and dynamic films that showcase diverse and shared cultural stories. The 2023 submissions surrounded the theme Eco survivors bringing to focus the impact of climate change on Caribbean Small Island States (SIDS) and Canada.

Films selected into CTFF are reviewed by a programming committee (composed of film industry professionals- actors, producers, critics, tech), representing a mix of Caribbean islands, who determine winners in various categories.

For CTFF Festival Director, Diana Webley, “Territory” was awarded Best Short Documentary as it “provided a rare peek inside the Kalinago Territory in Dominica.”

“It is a film that reflects the current political situation and we wanted to shed light on it, she adds.”

Territory official poster

Director Jael Joseph

In “Territory,” Jael and her film crew spent 10 days following Anette Sanford, Samoza John and Natasha Green, descendants of the island’s first people, who gave their take on the individual and communal challenges they faced as residents of the 3,700 acre Kalinago Territory - an area on the island’s northeast that was ceded to the Kalinago 120 years ago. The film delves into the political struggles they face and focuses on the loss of their language and inability to use their land for economic development. The issues of the Kalinago were further juxtaposed against their recovery from Category 5 Hurricane Maria and the changes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The film also featured guest appearances by Kalinago Chief Lorenzo Sanford

and Hon Cozier Frederick, parliamentary representative for the area.

Jael, a media entrepreneur and communications consultant, who splits her time between Dominica and Canada, is a Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) graduate, and was inspired to create this film alongside her research paper entitled, “Territory: Commonalities between the Reclamation of the Kalinago Language and Connection to Land.” For the paper she interviewed over 25 persons and developed some of the interviews into a 10-minute podcast called “Woryijan; Kalinago women and Intersectionality.”

While the award also signifies a personal achievement, Jael sees its wider impact as a testament to the incredible power of story-

telling.

“It’s my hope that territory continues to serve as a beacon of the storytelling tradition, shining a light on untold narratives and fostering understanding and unity in our diverse world,” says Jael.

This experience has solidified her mission to champion the Kalinago people; and so far she has given support to events such as the Kalinago Spelling B competition through her brand Black Island Girl Multimedia, and has served as a vocal advocate for other initiatives within the community.

“I am really rooting for my Kalinago brothers and sisters,” says Jael. This documentary is just the start. I want to bring positive change to the community and commit to using my platforms to share their story

and to impact their lives for the better.”

“Territory” was funded with support from an anonymous donor as well as the proceeds of prize won from The Creative School’s 2022 Johnny Lombardi Award for Creative Endowment. The film can be viewed online till September 22nd as part of CTFF, and will be screened at more film festivals worldwide.

The CTFF Award ceremony was held on Sunday 17th September 2023 at the Studio Theatre Harbourfront Centre, Toronto. (OnTarget Comm ontargetda@gmail.co m)

Dominican Republic security forces stand guard on a border bridge between Dajabón, Dominican Republic, and Haiti, Thursday, September 14, 2023. (AP Photo/Ricardo Hernández)

Dominican Republic’s president stands resolute on closing all borders with Haiti

SANTO DOMINGO,

Dominican

Republic (AP)

— The president of the Dominican Republic on Sunday defended his decision to close air, sea, and land traffic with neighbouring Haiti in their dispute over the construction of a canal targeting a river that runs through both countries.

President Luis Abinader said in a televised speech that the border closures begun Friday will remain in place until construction is halted on the canal, which seeks to use water from the Massacre River to alleviate a drought in Haiti’s Maribaroux plain.

“We do not desire or seek confrontation, but we are confronting the uncontrollable people who keep Haiti insecure, and who, due to their private interests, now also conspire against the stability of their government

and the security of our water resources,” Abinader said during his brief speech, referring to gang violence that has engulfed Haiti.

Accusing Haiti of violat-

ing a 1929 treaty between both countries, he said that the Massacre River is a key resource for Dominican farmers and that construction could damage the envi-

ronment, including a wetland.

“The precedent of an irrigation project built unilaterally can lead to an escalation of constructions

Dominican Republic security forces stand guard on a border bridge between Dajabón, Dominican Republic, and Haiti, Thursday, September 14, 2023. (AP Photo/Ricardo Hernández)

that would destroy the river,” Abinader said.

The river is named after a bloody battle between French and Spanish colonis-

ers, and it was the site of a mass killing of Haitians by the Dominican army in 1937.

The full border shutdowns came four days

after Abinader announced that his administration had stopped issuing visas to Haitians and had closed the border near the northern

town of Dajabon.

He said it was important to raise awareness in the international community so it comes to Haiti’s aid.

TRINIDAD: Cop killed in ambush outside mini-mart, gun stolen

Special Reserve Police officer Charles Kublalsingh, who was on extended leave, was shot once in the chest with a 12-gauge shotgun less than three minutes after leaving his home on Saturday night. His attacker then stole his gun and car.

The 56-year-old, police said yesterday, had requested leave from duty after he became a witness in a murder case where one of his then superiors was charged. That matter is still ongoing.

Kublalsingh, who lived at Jackson Street, Curepe, was granted a firearm user’s licence due to threats he reported to his colleagues after he became a witness in the case.

Police reported that around 8.03 pm on Saturday, they received a report while on patrol of a shooting at Woodford Street, Curepe. When they arrived, they found men bundling Kublalsingh into a car to take him to hospital.

The officers escorted the car to hospital, where Kublalsingh was declared dead around 8.35 pm.

Police said Kublalsingh was returning to his silver Toyota Fielder wagon parked along Woodford Street after purchasing an item at a nearby mini-mart. While walking back to the car, however, a gunman approached him and shot him in the chest. He then took Kublalsingh’s Glock45 pistol and his car. The car was later found abandoned in Maracas, St Joseph.

When Guardian Media visited Kublalsingh’s relatives on Sunday, they said they were still grappling with the realisation that he was dead. They said he left home, promising his dog he was re-

turning soon. The dog has since been sleeping on his pillow, awaiting his master’s return.

“He was a good man,” was all one relative could muster up the strength to say.

Guardian Media left the home and journeyed for two minutes and 16 seconds to the spot where he was shot.

At the scene of the shooting, Homicide detectives were seen speaking with residents, hoping to piece together what transpired.

While Guardian Media was in the community, National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds was speaking on a radio programme on crime, murders and the detection rate. He stopped to offer his condolences to Kublalsingh’s relatives and colleagues.

“I want to extend condolences first to his family and to his community and I certainly want to extend condolences to Trinidad and Tobago Police Service because they would have lost a brother, a friend, a member and it traumatises them, not to the point of making them immobilised, but they do feel pain for their brother,” Hinds said.

Relatives said while Kublalsingh was on extended

personal leave, he was making preparations to return to the T&T Police Service as soon as possible.

This dedication to service is what president of the International Police Association, Snr Supt Curtis Bedford, recalled most about Kublalsingh.

In a telephone interview with Guardian Media, Bedford said Charles was member of the association for several years and was treasurer for many. He said at a function hosted by the associ-

NOTICE

TO: The Licensing Magistrate, Magistrate Court, King Obstinate Drive Grays Farm St. John’s Antigua

TO: The Magistrates’ District “A” District “A” Magistrates’ Court King Obstinate Drive Grays Farm St. John’s Antigua

TO: The Commissioner of Police Police Headquarters American Road St. John’s Antigua

I, GLENMORE SHEPPARD of Weatherill’s Estate, St. John’s, Antigua DO HEREBY give you notice that it is my intention to apply at the next session to be held on the 5th October, 2023 at the Magistrate Court, St. John’s for a Bottle Licence in respect of premises known as “King Progress” a store situate at Heritage Quay, St. John’s, Antigua pursuant to section 11 (3) of the Licensing (Intoxicating Liquor) Act Cap. 249 of the Laws of Antigua and Barbuda 1992 Revised Edition.

Dated the 13th day of September, 2023

Lenworth Johnson Attorney-At-Law for Glenmore Sheppard

ation to celebrate its recognition as an independent arm of the international body and no longer under the US, Kublalsingh was present.

He recalled Kublalsingh speaking with the adjutant of the SRPs in relation to his return to the service.

“I know Charles from when he was a security guard at Hillview College when I went there, and I became a police officer. Charles had desired to become a police officer and I assisted him in that,” Bedford said.

NOTICE

FORM P7: LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION

[Rule 15]

The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE

(Probate)

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

In the Estate of Leon Mackenzie Alexander Henry late of Clarks Hill, St. John’s, Antigua, deceased ADVERTISEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT SECOND PUBLICATION

TAKE NOTICE that an application has been filed by Isaac Cleofoster Henry of Clarks Hill, St. John’s, Antigua for a Grant of Letters of Administration to the applicant who is the brother of the deceased, the deceased having died intestate on the 6th day of December, 2022. Any person having an objection to the Grant of Letters to the Applicant shall file an objection within fourteen (14) days of the publication of this Notice.

Dated this 11th day of September, 2023

Charlesworth C. M. Tabor

Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant

Filed by Charlesworth C. M. Tabor, Attorney-at-Law whose address for service is Stapleton Lane, St. John’s, Antigua. Telephone: 4644306; Fax: 562-6964; Email: charleswortht@yahoo.com

Charles Kublalsingh

He added that Kublalsingh was promoted to corporal before he took leave, but as a temporary officer, he was on no-pay leave.

Kublalsingh, during his years, worked at the Municipal Police in San Juan and at the Praedial Larceny Squad, Bedford said.

“He was a distinguished member of the association for several years, serving as treasurer. He was well known and well regarded,” Bedford

said, adding that Kublalsingh was awarded the Service Through Friendship Award on several occasions.

(Guardian Media)

JAMAICA: ‘We are ready to rescue Jamaica,’ say PNP VPs

Oozing with confidence, the leadership of the People’s National Party (PNP) say they believe they have what it takes to again form the next Government.

Two PNP vice-presidents echoed this sentiment as they addressed the public session of the People’s National Party’s (PNP) 85th Annual Conference on Sunday at National Arena in Kingston.

According to Vice-President Ian Hayles, the PNP is united more than ever and is poised to form the next Gov-

NOTICE

To: The Chief Magistrate

The Licensing Magistrate Magistrate’s Court District “A”

Knuckle Block, Gray’s Farm St. John’s Antigua

The Magistrate of District “A” Magistrate’s Court

Knuckle Block, Gray’s Farm St. John’s Antigua

To: The Commissioner of Police Police Headquarters American Road St. John’s Antigua

We, Alan Dominic Noon and Carol Noon trading as Logan’s Gourmet Shop of Acacia Lane in the Parish of Saint John in the Island of Antigua

DO HEREBY GIVE YOU NOTICE that it is our intention to apply at the next special session of the Liquor Licensing Court to be held at the Magistrate’s Court, Grays Farm, St. John’s, Antigua on the 5th day of October, 2023 next ensuing, for a Bottle Licence in respect of my premises known as “Logan’s Gourmet Shop” situated at Friars Hill Road in the Parish of Saint John’s in the Island of Antigua.

DATED the 11th day of September, 2023

ernment.

“We are ready to rescue Jamaica under the leadership of the next prime minister of Jamaica, Comrade Mark Golding. We are ready to take the reins of Government once more,” he said as he strained to be heard above the loud, vuvuzela-blowing party supporters.

At the same time, recognising that this feat cannot be achieved without the required votes, Hayles humbly asked for the support of Comrades in electing the PNP to return to Government.

In driving home his point that the PNP will form the better Administration, Hayles mentioned a throng of issues marring the current Administration, including the back-toschool woes wherein “over 20,000 students are missing from school every single day”, schools are overcrowded, over 1000 teachers have resigned, and poor health care exists in the country which he said “is on a lifeline”.

Hayles further pointed to the difficulties of pensioners in rural Jamaica accessing their funds, the impact high imports are having on farmers, the water and road woes, crime, and the “sky-high” cost of living.

Much like the chorus of a song, after each point Hayles quipped, “That would never happen under the People’s National Party.”

He also argued that, according to the party’s polls, 60 per cent of Jamaicans have said the country is going in the wrong direction, which is indicative of poor leadership.

“This Government is bankrupt of ideas, this Government is bankrupt of a plan to rebuild Jamaica, and this Government is bankrupt of

the moral authority to lead this country. For several long years you’ve never had a seat at the table. For the last seven years the ‘haves’ have been having more and the ‘nots’ have been having less,” he said.

In the meantime, Hayles said that while there are people who have said that the PNP “nuh ready”, he argued that “history is on our side”, pointing to the several initiatives that were introduced when his party was in power, including maternity leave and the establishment of the National Health Fund (NHF) and the National Housing Trust.

“The PNP is ready. We live in hope, because our address is 89 New Hope Road. We live in hope. Time come for us to regain the state power of this country. Elect Mark Golding [as] the next prime minister of Jamaica.”

Meanwhile, another PNP vice-president, Senator Donna Scott Mottley, reiterated that the time has come to return the PNP to Government, especially as the country embarks on constitutional reform,

“Time come for the People’s National Party to lead

you into the new republic of Jamaica,” she said, noting that the programme of constitutional reform was started by Michael Manley in 1975 “because he said we had to leave the monarchy”.

“The promise which you will have to make to the PNP, the promise which you will have to make to the people, the promise which you will have to make to me, is that we, the PNP, shall be the first Government to be elected under a new republic. We the people, we the People’s National Party, are going to lead you into a building of a new nation. We the People’s National Party will lead you into the building of a new Jamaica where everyone matters; where every little boy and every little girl knows that they can aspire to the highest office in this country. We the People’s National Party will signal to everyone that under our leadership the principles of integrity and good governance will be restored. We the People’s National Party promise you that we will be a Government in whom you can place your trust,” she said. (Jamaica Observer)

PNP Vice-President Senator Donna Scott-Mottley watches as her fellow VP Ian Hayles makes his contribution at the conference Sunday. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Stacey-Ann Saunders-Osborne S. Saunders Osborne Legal S ervices Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant

WORLD VIEW

Americans freed from Iran in $6bn prisoner swap

IRAN, Theran (BBC)Five Americans jailed for years in Iran and widely regarded as hostages are on their way home to the United States.

The last pieces in a controversial swap mediated by Qatar fell into place when $6bn (£4.8bn) of Iranian funds held in South Korea reached banks in Doha.

It triggered the departure of the four American men and one woman in Tehran, who are also Iranian citizens, on a chartered flight to Qatar’s capital.

They were met by senior US officials and will be flown later to Washington.

The Americans include 51-year-old businessman Siamak Namazi, who has spent nearly eight years in Tehran’s notorious Evin prison, as well as businessman Emad Shargi, 59, and environmen-

talist Morad Tahbaz, 67, who also holds British nationality.

The US has said its citizens were imprisoned on baseless charges for political leverage.

In the first indication a deal was reached, they were moved in mid-August from Evin to a safe house in Tehran.

Five Iranians imprisoned in US jails, mainly on charges of violating US sanctions, are also being granted clemency as part of this swap. Not all of them are expected to return to Iran.

They have been named by Iran as Reza Sarhangpour, Kambiz Attar Kashani, Kaveh Lotfolah Afrasiabi, Mehrdad Moein Ansari and Amin Hasanzadeh.

“Today, five innocent Americans who were imprisoned in Iran are finally coming home,” US President Joe

Biden said after their plane landed in Doha.

He said all five had endured “years of agony, uncertainty, and suffering.”

Mr Biden also announced fresh US sanctions targeting the former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Iranian ministry of intelligence for what he said was their involvement in wrongful detentions.

Siamak Namazi said in a statement: “I would not be free today, if it wasn’t for all of you who didn’t allow the world to forget me.

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for being my voice when I could not speak for myself and for making sure I was heard when I mustered the

Missing F-35: US military asks for public’s help to find jet

UNITED STATES, Washington (BBC) - The US military has asked for the public’s help to locate one of its $100m (£80m) F-35B fighter jets after the pilot ejected from the aircraft.

It went missing on Sunday afternoon when the pilot was flying over the southern state of South Carolina.

The pilot, who has not been named, ejected and parachuted safely. He is in a stable condition in hospital.

Officials said the aircraft was involved in a “mishap”

but did not offer details of what that was.

It was left in autopilot mode when the pilot ejected, a spokesman at Joint Base Charleston told NBC News, adding that it may have been airborne for some time.

Officials said they were focusing their searches around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion, north of the city of Charleston.

The search area was based on the jet’s last known location.

Nancy Mace, a Republi-

can congresswoman for South Carolina, asked on X, formerly Twitter: “How in the hell do you lose an F-35?

“How is there not a tracking device and we’re asking the public to what, find a jet and turn it in?”

The aircraft is a stealth jet - meaning its airframe, sensors and systems are designed to operate undetected by enemy radar.

Joint Base Charleston posted its appeal for help on X. “Emergency response teams are still trying to locate the F-35,” it said.

strength to scream from behind the impenetrable walls of Evin Prison.”

He also praised President Biden for making “some incredibly difficult decisions to rescue us” and “ultimately putting the lives of American citizens above politics.”

NOTICE

Rule 15

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN SUPREME COURT IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Case No. ANUHPB2023/0241 (Probate)

In the Estate of Dwaine Cornel Looby late of Cedar Valley Gardens in the Parish of Saint John’s, Antigua

ADVERTISEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT SECOND PUBLICATION

TAKE NOTICE that an application has been filed by Debby Sandra Looby of Cedar Valley Gardens in the Parish of St. John’s in the State of Antigua and Barbuda, for a Grant of Letters of Administration to the Applicant who is the natural mother of the minor children who are two of the persons entitled to share in the estate of the said deceased and Bequanis J.S. Looby biological son of the deceased and the appointed CoAdministrator to protect the interest of the minor children of the deceased , the deceased having died intestate on the 20th November, 2022. Any person having an objection to the grant of Letters of Administration to the Applicant shall file an objection within fourteen (14) days of the publication of this Notice.

Dated this 14th day of September , 2023.

Filed by MICHAEL G. ARCHIBALD of Phillips, Phillips & Archibald Attorneys-at-law whose address for service is Upper St. Mary’s Street, in the Parish of Saint John’s in the State of Antigua and Barbuda, or email address: awarchibald@hotmail.com and Tel Nos are 268 462 0077 or 1 268 462-4129.

“These are some of the Americans who never gave up hope.” (Photo courtesy BBC)

GLOBE AT A GLANCE

RUSSIA - Russia has called on the International Court of Justice to throw out a case brought against it by Ukraine. Kyiv accuses Moscow of falsely using genocide law to justify its invasion. Russia

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION

TAKE NOTICE that sale by public auction on WEDNESDAY 16

AUGUST 2023 of the property of JULIAN CHARLES of Herberts in the parish of St. John which is recorded in the Register of Lands as REGISTRATION SECTION:

CENTRAL; BLOCK: 14

2029B; PARCEL: 174 has been cancelled.

maintains that it intervened in Ukraine to prevent a genocidal attack on ethnic Russians in the east. The court hearing in the Hague will not examine the legality of Russia’s invasion, but will instead consider whether the International Court is allowed to examine Ukraine’s claims. Ukraine says there was no risk of genocide in the east of the country, where it had been fighting Russian-backed forces since 2014.

It adds that the genocide treaty does not in any case permit an invasion to stop an alleged genocide. For its part, Russia describes Ukraine’s case as “hopelessly flawed” and says that what Kyiv really wants is a ruling on the rights and wrongs of Russia’s military action. Ukraine brought the case days after the Russian invasion on 24 February last year. (BBC)

CONGO-BRAZZAVILLE

- The government in CongoBrazzaville has denied reports of an attempted coup against President Denis Sassou Nguesso, who has been in power for 39 years. It follows rumours on social media that the military had been trying to oust the 79-year-old leader, who is currently in the US attending a UN summit with other world leaders. “The government denies this fake news,” Information Minister Thierry Moungalla said on Sunday, saying he wanted to reassure members of the public they could “go about their activities calmly.” There has been a wave of coups across Africa in recent months, mostly recently in neighbouring Gabon, where the military seized power in August. The Congolese leader is the third-longest serving president in Africa, after Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema and Cameroon’s Paul Biya. (BBC)

Teddy Santos-Licenced Auctioneer

UKRAINE - Ukraine’s generals say they have “broken through” Russia’s first line of defence in the south. Ukraine began its big counter-offensive in early June to push Russian forces back from land they seized. It attacked at three points along the 600-mile-plus (965km) frontline. The area to the south-east of the city of Zaporizhzhia is by far the most strategically important. Striking out in this direction towards the Sea of Azov, if successful, could cut off Russia’s supply lines that connect the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don to Crimea. There hasn’t been much progress on this front, except for the area around the villages of Robotyne and Verbove in the Zaporizhzhia region. If Ukraine can sever this main supply route then Russia will find it all but impossible to maintain its huge garrison in Crimea. Despite significant obstacles, there are now confirmed sightings of Ukrainian troops breaching Russia’s defensive structures along the southern front. We have verified nine social media videos along the frontline near Verbove. (BBC)

Newly crowned Diamond League double-sprint champion Shericka Jackson grateful after dominant 2023 season

“Grateful” was the dominant term used by Jamaican Shericka Jackson after bringing her phenomenal 2023 season to an end at the Diamond League Final at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene on Saturday and Sunday.

The 29-year-old entered the meet as the reigning Diamond trophy winner in the 200m and was aiming to defend that title as well as claim her maiden trophy in the 100m.

She did the latter on Friday, running 10.70 for victory. Saturday saw the two-time World Champion claim her second straight trophy in the 200m, running a meet record 21.57, her fourth straight time below 22 seconds, for a comfortable win.

Jackson mentioned after the 200m that winning both trophies has been among her goals for the past two seasons.

“Last year, I wrote on my goals that I want two Diamond League trophies and I didn’t get them. I wrote that again this year and now I’ve got it and I’m grateful. It’s the end of the season, I’m healthy and

Tsegay,

I’ve run some fast times so I’m definitely grateful,” she said.

Another of Jackson’s goals this season was to break Florence Griffith-Joyner’s longstanding world record of 21.34 set in 1988.

Despite not getting it done, Jackson was pleased with her work in 2023.

“I’m feeling good. I said it in a previous interview that If I don’t get it I’m okay but if I do get it it’s a plus. I didn’t get it this year and I’m okay and happy. I’m still grateful for being healthy and I was so consistent. I only ran 21.4 once last season and to be able to

run three this year, I’m feeling good,” she said.

Her consistency was indeed the most impressive part of her season in both the 100m and 200m.

In 14 100m races this season, Jackson ran faster than 10.8 six times including her personal best of 10.65 done to defend her Jamaican 100m title in July. Jackson also ran 10.72 for silver at the World Championships in Budapest.

In the half-lap event, Jackson ran 11 races with seven seeing her dip below 22 seconds.

In the last month alone, Jackson has run the 2nd, 4th and

8th fastest times in history with her 21.41 at the World Championships in Budapest, 21.48 at the Brussels Diamond League and 21.57 on Sunday. Jackson also owns the 3rd and 6th fastest times ever.

When asked about her thoughts about the upcoming Olympic year, Jackson said she just wants to enjoy her time off.

“Honestly, I haven’t put any thought into the Olympics yet. I just take it one season at a time. I’m healthy right now and I have probably six weeks break so I want to just enjoy that,” she said.

“I’ve been so focussed on doing well this season and now I want to focus on having my break and then I’ll go back to the drawing board,” she added.

Finally, Jackson described the 200m at the Budapest World Championships as the high point of her season.

“The 200m at the World Championships was really the high point of my season. I knew I was in pretty good shape but I didn’t know I was going to run that fast,” she said. (www.sportsmax.tv)

Duplantis smash world records at Diamond League finals in

World records from Gudaf Tsegay and Mondo Duplantis contributed to the Wanda Diamond League Final – held in Eugene on Saturday (16) and Sunday (17) –being the highest quality nonchampionship meeting in history based on competition performance ranking scores.

Along with the two senior world records* set in Eugene, there were also five Diamond League records, a world U20 record, nine area records, 14 meeting records and 14 world-leading marks, making the 2023 series final a highly memorable one.

In Eugene on Sunday, Duplantis returned to the scene of his 2022 world title and added a centimetre to the

world record he set earlier this year. In what was just his fourth jump of the competition, and in a series without any failures, he cleared 6.23m at the first time of asking.

Perhaps the biggest shock of the meeting, though, came from Tsegay, who took almost five seconds off Faith Kipyegon’s world record to win the 5000m in 14:00.21.

They were the latest standout performances in a 2023 track and field season where eight senior world records were set in individual track and field disciplines.

Kipyegon tore apart the record books in the middle of the season, setting world records for 1500m, 5000m and the mile. Ethiopia’s Lamecha Girma, meanwhile, set a 3000m steeplechase world record in Paris, while Ryan Crouser broke his own shot put world record in Los Angeles back in May. Little more

Eugene

than a week before winning the mile and 3000m double in Eugene, Jakob Ingebrigtsen set a world 2000m record in Brussels.

As was the case in Eugene, where most of the record-breaking marks came about from enthralling duels among the world’s best athletes, there will be more excitement in store on 1 October when the Latvian capital hosts the World Athletics Road Running Championships Riga 23 – the final global event of the year.

Kipyegon will have the opportunity to add a fourth world record to her 2023 tally as she contests the road mile for the first time. (www.sportsmax.tv)

The biggest shock of the meeting, though, came from Tsegay, who took almost five seconds off Faith Kipyegon’s world record to win the 5000m in 14:00.21.

Shericka Jackson after claiming 200m gold in at the World Championships in Budapest.

Hope’s magnificent century powers Guyana Amazon Warriors to record victory and eliminate Royals from playoffs

In a record-breaking spectacle, the Guyana Amazon Warriors delivered a commanding performance, securing an emphatic 88-run victory over the Barbados Royals in the 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) at Providence on a memorable Sunday evening.

Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, the Barbados Royals were met with sheer devastation as the Guyana Amazon Warriors wreaked havoc with their batting prowess. The star of the show was none other than Shai Hope, who etched his name in the annals of CPL history with a breathtaking century, the second-fastest ever, achieved in a mere 41 balls. This extraordinary display of batting propelled the Amazon Warriors to an imposing total of 226-7 after the allotted 20 overs, marking their highestever team score in the CPL.

Hope’s sensational innings was a masterclass in

boundary-hitting, comprising an astounding 17 boundaries. He received valuable support from Kevlon Anderson, who notched up a commendable 47 runs on his CPL debut. The late cameo by Shimron Hetmyer ensured that the Amazon Warriors finished on a high note, setting a formidable target for the Royals.

In response to the daunting task, the Barbados Royals encountered early setbacks as opener Rahkeem Cornwall

departed in the third over. The Amazon Warriors’ spinners, led by the crafty Gudakesh Motie and the wily Imran Tahir, capitalised on the situation, taking wickets at regular intervals and stifling the Royals’ run flow. The dismissals of Justin Greaves and Laurie Evans further compounded the Royals’ woes, reducing them to a precarious 42-3.

Rovman Powell’s departure, courtesy of Imran Tahir’s

bowling prowess, tilted the scales decisively in favor of the Amazon Warriors. Despite a valiant half-century from Rivaldo Clarke, the Royals struggled to maintain the required run rate. In the end, they could only muster a total of 138-6.

With this resounding victory, the Barbados Royals faced the unfortunate consequence of failing to qualify for the CPL playoffs, bringing their campaign to an end.

As the CPL moves into the playoff stage next week, the Guyana Amazon Warriors are set to clash with the Trinbago Knight Riders in Qualifier 1, while the Saint Lucia Kings will lock horns with the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Eliminator.

Final Scores: Guyana Amazon Warriors: 226-7 (Hope 106, Anderson 47; McCoy 2-36, Holder 2-50); Barbados Royals: 138-6 (Clarke 54, Brathwaite 18; Tahir 3-23, Motie 2-11). (www.sportsmax.tv)

Matko Miljevic: MLS sacks player after fake name and ban claims

Major League Soccer has terminated the contract of Montreal midfielder Matko Miljevic following claims he played for an amateur team under a fake name.

Widespread reports in Canada also alleged the player was banned indefinitely for punching an opponent while turning out for the local side.

He was “engaging in conduct detrimental to the league and violating his standard player agreement”, MLS said.

Montreal confirmed the

22-year-old American was no longer with the club.

Montreal head coach Hernan Losada last week confirmed an investigation was under way following the reports.

It was claimed Miljevic had played three games for a friend’s team in a Quebec amateur league - scoring six goals - after becoming frustrated with a lack of playing time at Montreal.

Miljevic made eight substitute appearances for Montreal this season. (BBC Sport)

With this resounding victory, the Barbados Royals faced the unfortunate consequence of failing to qualify for the CPL playoffs, bringing their campaign to an end.

Miljevic joined Montreal in August 2021 after leaving Argentine side Argentinos Juniors.

Marcellin misses century but propels Warriors to victory in tape ball competition

Bullets were then bowled out for just 97 runs in 12.1 overs. George top scored with 85 while Essan Warner chipped in with 28 both in a losing effort. Mervin Higgns was destructive with the ball, claiming five wickets for just seven runs in four overs.

Playing at the Antigua Grammar School (AGS), Kadeem Henry struck an unbeaten 78 as Buckleys 3J’s beat PEL Desi Boys by 10 wickets.

Alfred Jarvis (2/15) and Rodney Williams (2/21).

Buckley’s 3J’s then reached their target at 92 without loss in just 5.5 overs thanks mostly to Henry’s 78 not out. Kemar Christian was 11 not out.

In the other match contested Sunday, VIP defeated Strictly Business by 46 runs

By Neto Baptiste

Malique Marcellin fell just four runs short of a century but his 96 was instrumental in guiding the Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force Warriors to a comfortable 43 runs victory over PMS in the LL Supply Ltd

Island Boys Sports Club (IBSC) T20 Tape Ball Classic on Sunday.

Opting to bat at Powells after winning the toss, Warriors amassed a massive 251 all out in their 20 overs with Marcellin their best contributor with the bat. Theadore Benjamin chipped in with 26 while Edwin Jackson made 24. Derrick Benta was the pick of the bowlers for the opponents with a five-for, claiming his five wickets for 31 runs in just four overs.

PMS then had a half century from Peter Bellefonte who made 63 as they reached 208 for six in their allotted 20 overs.

Kenny Benjamin fell just four runs shy of a half century at 46 while Malinga Bruney made 44. T’ron Payne grabbed two wickets for 26 runs bowling for the victors.

Also at Powells, Tyone Williams Jr hit a top score of 85 to help guide Dredgers to a comfortable 99 runs win over Bullets.

Batting first, Dredgers posted 196 for seven in their 20 overs thanks largely to Williams’ exploits with the bat. Jared JnBaptiste was the pick of the bowlers for the opponents with three for 37 in four overs.

Andra Samuel and Kimani George both bagged two wickets.

Desi Boys were bowled out for just 87 runs. Demari Benta bagged four wickets for 21 runs in his four overs while there were two wickets each for

NOTICE

FORM P7: LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION [Rule 15]

The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE (Probate)

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

In the Estate of Grethlyn Viola Matthew late of 5 Burleigh Avenue, Wigston, Leicestershire, England, deceased

ADVERTISEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT FIRST PUBLICATION

TAKE NOTICE that an application has been filed by Joycelyn Vivien Matthew of 111 Bowhill Grove, Leicester, England for a Grant of Letters of Administration to the applicant who is the daughter of the deceased, the deceased having died intestate on the 31st day of January, 2015.

Any person having an objection to the Grant of Letters to the Applicant shall file an objection within fourteen (14) days of the publication of this Notice.

Dated this 18th day of September, 2023

Charlesworth C. M. Tabor Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant

Filed by Charlesworth C. M. Tabor, Attorney-at-Law whose address for service is Stapleton Lane, St. John’s, Antigua. Telephone: 4644306; Fax: 562-6964; Email: charleswortht@yahoo.com

Batting first, VIP posted 114 all out in 19.1 overs with Demitri Lucas top scoring with 29. Kadeem Josiah then bagged five for 17 in three overs while Shaquan Reifer snatched two for 22 as VIP bowled out Strictly Business for just 68 in 8.5 overs.

NOTICE

To: The Chief Magistrate

The Licensing Magistrate Magistrate’s Court District “A” Knuckle Block, Gray’s Farm St. John’s Antigua

The Magistrate of District “A” Magistrate’s Court Knuckle Block, Gray’s Farm St. John’s Antigua

To: The Commissioner of Police Police Headquarters American Road St. John’s Antigua

I, Albert Bento, Director of Quin Farara Wines & Spirits Ltd. with registered office at Leslie-Ann Brissett Legal Services, Suit No.4, Woods Center, Friars Hill Road in the Parish of Saint John in the Island of Antigua DO HEREBY GIVE YOU NOTICE that it is my intention to apply at the next special session of the Liquor Licensing Court to be held at the Magistrate’s Court, Grays Farm, St. John’s, Antigua on the 5th day of October, 2023 next ensuing, for a Retail Licence in respect of my premises known as “Quin Farara Wines & Spirits Ltd.” situated at Nugent Avenue in the Parish of Saint John’s in the Island of Antigua.

DATED the 11th day of September, 2023

Stacey-Ann Saunders-Osborne S. Saunders Osborne Legal Services

Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant

Mervin Higgins was Player of the Game for Dredgers against Bullets. He grabbed five wickets for just seven runs while making 20 runs in a winning effort.

Kadeem Josiah was Player of the Game for VIP vs Rackaman Construction Strictly Business. He claimed five wickets for 17 runs in his three overs.

Kadeem Henry struck eight fours and seven sixes on his way to 78 for Buckley’s 3J’s.

Malique Marcellin smashed 10 huge sixes and eight fours on his way to 96 for ABDF Wariors against PMS.

Young cyclists get good showings at Caribbean Cycling Championships

By Samuel Peters

Junior cyclist Tahje Browne pedalled his way to a top-five finish, while Jomarie King registered a top 10 finish at the Junior Caribbean Cycling Championships held in Santo Domingo over the weekend.

Both Browne’s Individual Time Trial (ITT) and Road Race performances displayed his impressive skills and determination which allowed him to finish in the fourth position.

Meanwhile, King performed admirably at his first international race event, finishing top 10 in the ITT.

Browne posted a time of 1:55.53 (one hour, 55 minutes and 53 seconds) to just miss a podium spot in the 15-16 age category. The race was captured by Dominican Republic’s

Leudy Luna in a time 1:55.50. Barbados’ Daniel Lashley was second (1:55.53) while Emir Nina Garcia grabbed bronze in a time of 1:55.53.

King clocked 1:55.53 in a photo finish with at least 10 other riders.

Both cyclists were accom-

panied by team manager St Clair Williams, and coach Omari King of Team Vipers who provided invaluable support to the youngsters.

As a way to express pride, the Antigua and Barbuda Cycling Federation posted on its official Facebook page, “Cele-

brating Our Junior Cyclists’ Triumph! We are bursting with pride as we share some incredible news from the Junior CCC Championship held in Santo Domingo! Our young talents, Tahje Browne and Jomarie King, have left an indelible mark.”

The federation commented that the cyclists’ dedication, hard work, and passion shone brightly on the international stage, saying “this is just the beginning of an exciting journey ahead”.

Additionally, the Federation urged the citizens of the twin-island nation to rally behind these outstanding athletes, encouraging them to participate in future competitions, as there will be many opportunities in the future for them to capitalise on given their progress.

NATURALISATION NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Flavio Siccardi of McKinnon’s, St. John’s, Antigua, is applying to the Minister for Naturalisation and that any person who knows any reason why Naturalisation should not be granted should send a written and signed statement of the facts to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs.

1986: One of the great physical feats in Test cricket came to an end. The heat and humidity of Madras got to Dean Jones, but only in a physical sense. During his epic innings of 210, he was overcome by nausea on the pitch. After it, he was put on an intravenous drip. Batting for eight and a half hours he scored Australia’s first Test double-century in India. Jones made a more modest 24 in the second innings, but every one of those runs was important: this was only the second tied Test in history.

1988: American diver Greg Louganis smashes his head on diving board dur-

ing the 3m springboard preliminaries at the Seoul Olympics; recovers to qualify for the final which he wins the following day.

2004: NFL Oakland Raider wide receiver Jerry Rice ends NFL streak of 274 consecutive games with a reception in a 1310 victory over Buffalo Bills.

2007: Yuvraj Singh became the second batter, after Herschelle Gibbs, to hit six sixes in an over in international cricket. The occasion was the World T20 encounter against England, the venue Kingsmead, Durban, and the bowler under the withering onslaught was Stuart Broad. Yuvraj, spurred by comments from Andrew

Flintoff before the penultimate over, launched the first ball over cow corner; the secondmeasured at 111 yards - disappeared over backward square leg; the third and fourth rocketed over extra cover and point; the fifth flew over midwicket; and the sixth six landed in the stands at longon. Yuvraj’s 12-ball half-century is a record in all forms of international cricket.

2007: MS Dhoni named Captain of Indian Cricket team for the first time for the ICC World Twenty20.

2015: Japan beats South Africa 34-32 in Brighton, England in the biggest upset in Rugby World Cup history.

1947: Jackie Robinson is named “Rookie of Year”.

1955: Cubs slugger Ernie Banks hits record fifth grand slam of season.

Tahje Browne.

Jomarie King.

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

The Horse Has Already Bolted: Clubs Warn Efforts To Derail FA’s Extraordinary Meeting Will Not Succeed

By Neto Baptiste

The horse has already bolted. This is the message from at least two clubs that are encouraging all members of the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA) to attend next month’s Extraordinary Congress at the Multipurpose and Exhibition Cultural Centre at Perry Bay.

Twenty-eight of the association’s member clubs are set to host the general gathering on October 1 after their request to the ABFA to convene the constitutionallydue meeting was reportedly ignored.

However, reports indicate that following an ‘emergency executive meeting’ held by the ABFA on Monday, efforts are being made to dissuade clubs from attending the gathering.

President of the Liberta Sports Club Kenneth Benjamin said any efforts to stop the meeting are in vain.

“The horse has already bolted, because if at first there is not a quorum, then 48 hours after the number of clubs that turn up, constitutionally they are legal. We’ve seen it before, but this time around according to the ABFA Constitution, if they don’t have a quorum on the first meeting then the second meeting which will be scheduled for 48 hours later, any number of clubs that turn up will make up the quorum [and] any decision made in that meeting will still be legally binding so the meeting can’t be stopped now, it is too late,” he said.

The clubs penned a letter to the FA in June this year requesting the meeting, but re-

portedly the FA never replied. The clubs have however issued a notice to all members that the meeting will be held on October 1.

Former national player and President of the Lion Hill Football Club, Ivor “Ninja” Luke said the current situation could have been avoided if the FA had simply yielded to the request of the clubs.

“I can’t see if 28 clubs and you need a quarter which is about 16 to write a letter and you must have the meeting within a month. So, if 28 clubs write a letter then how can you just decide you won’t respond. Now the Constitution goes on to tell you that if they [ABFA] do not respond then you [clubs] host the meeting yourselves, and rather than you [ABFA] reaching out — I don’t know if it’s because of the president’s present situation. I don’t even know who

messed up; and if all of them were aware of the letter — because as far as I am hearing, some executive members weren’t even aware of the letter — but if you messed up or somebody messed up, then come and hold them responsible,” he said.

Efforts to reach acting president of the ABFA Daryl Michael for comment proved futile while messages to his mobile number got no replies up to the time of going to press.

In the missive, the clubs pointed to Article 28.2 of the ABFA’s Constitution which they believe, gives them the authority to convene the meeting.

Article 28.2 reads: “If an Extraordinary Congress is not convened, the members who requested it may convene the congress themselves.”

Any decisions taken at said congress will stand.

Former national player and President of the Lion Hill Football Club, Ivor “Ninja” Luke.

President of the Liberta Sports Club, Kenneth Benjamin.