STAR Newspaper - 09 June 2018

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The Star (St.Lucia)

SATURDAY, JUNE 09, 2018

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DID KENNY ANTHONY TWICE REJECT EU ADVICE? Nothing Personal.

It’s Just Business.

H LUCIA t l T a N e I H A S & R S t U r O Spo June, 2018 Issue 05 | 9

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ISSUE 199

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09 JUNE 2018

ONWARD

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• Tel: (758) 450-0021 / 31 / 728 1000 • Fax: (758) 450-0092 • Email: info@bluewatersslu.com • Website: www.bluewatersslu.com

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A-M u s i n g s Musings are thoughts, the thoughtful kind. For the purpose of these articles, a-musings are thoughts that might amuse, entertain and even enlighten.

Paradise Found

By Michael Walker

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might have written about these things before but my memory insists that I write about them again. Halcyon Days in Vieux Fort was, for my family, paradise on earth. We had two kids, still have actually, except that they are both hovering around fifty years old; it’s amazing how they remain your children no matter how old they become.

The kids were free to roam the extensive compound. Our son loved table tennis, I remember, and years later former employees of the hotel remembered him whenever we met. We had friends, people who visited and revisited the resort from year to year; in some cases we are still in touch; in others, people have died, passed on.

There was Big John, the owner of a construction company in England and his lovely wife Sonya. They were quite wealthy, self-made of course, and had two absolutely gorgeous daughters and a son. The son became a racing driver I seem to remember.

Years later they, like us, built a home in the north. Unfortunately John died before he could really enjoy it.

Then there were Mike and Mary, Hungarian nobility who had fled their country, arrived in New York with only a dollar in their pocket, and become millionaires in real estate and the air-conditioning of skyscrapers. We visited them on Long Island but it was a sad occasion; their beloved Alsatian had just died

in Mike’s lap after years of service. They both smoked liked the proverbial chimneys and we lost them to lung cancer.

Teresa worked in the restaurant. She and Rudolph had two sons. After he was run down by a motorcyclist, she more or less lost her mind for a while. I met their sons years later—I think they were working in Soufriere—and it seems she got better. We spent time under the mango tree in their yard when we visited them at their home.

There was also a delightful young travel rep (she is still around so I will keep her name to myself) that I found absolutely adorable, but she never knew. She was staying in Laborie, I believe. Years later we ran into her several times but by then she was already married to a Saint Lucian businessman and had children of her own.

We used to love taking the double-decker bus to the Aqua Centre to the west of the town, where the water was free from seaweed.

Everything was so close by. We could leave the hotel and walk past the end of the runway to the fabulous beach opposite Maria Island without a care in the world; no harassment, no beggars, nothing to be concerned about.

Then, after almost 10 years of to-ing and fro-ing between Sweden and Vieux Fort, we decided to build our first house here. Despite the fact that the south of the island was the part we knew best, we chose to build in the north. I’ll never understand why. Things would perhaps have been very different if we had remained in the south. But who knows? What will be, will be. Kismet, I suppose.

I LOVE BEER PROMOTION DRAWS FIRST GRAND PRIZE WINNER

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ne lucky beer drinker is $10,000 richer! As the I Love Beer Under the Crown Promotion rolls on, the Windward & Leeward Brewery (WLBL) draws the name of the first of three grand prize winners.

“I love my beer!” exclaimed Mr. Adrian Medard, loyal Heineken drinker and winner of $10,000, as he

JUNE 09, 2018 THE STAR

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recalled just how he won his grand prize. “I’ve been collecting my stoppers every time I drink my beer at Auntie’s Place at Darling Road; I didn’t think that I would win.

But one of the bartenders encouraged me to fill in the form, and it was the only form I had. I walked into Du Boulay's and, jokingly, I said, I came for my SUV!”

Mr. Medard explained how shocked he was when his name was called and, as he received his $10,000 cheque from Sylvester Henry, Mainstream Brand Manager— through his excitement— he expressed his deep gratitude.

The I Love Beer Promotion seeks to reward loyal beer drinkers of Heineken, Guinness, Piton and Amstel with fabulous

PEARL CORNIBERT IS THE 2018 COURTS OECS READING CHAMPION

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ourts, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Gender Relations and Sustainable Development, hosted its ninth annual Courts OECS Schools Reading Competition on May 24, 2018 at Harbor Club in Rodney Bay. The six finalists representing their respective OECS islands competed for the coveted title of Courts OECS Reading Competition Champion and corresponding prize of $5,000 for themselves and $5,000 for their school.

The OECS Courts Competition Finals representatives were: Richelle Wilson from Antigua and Barbuda, Kenilee Smithee Baron from Dominica, Ayo Taylor of Grenada, Nazia Byron of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Pearl Cornibert from Saint Lucia and Jonniel Stowe of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The students were given two passages: the same narrative piece in the first segment and a past news piece from an island other than their own in the second segment.

The competition was regarded as highly competitive and successful by chief judge Mrs. Angela Mariatte, who praised Courts for its commitment to education through literacy across the OECS.

In the end, Pearl Cornibert, Saint Lucia’s representative and a student of the Eucharist Lewis

Pearl Cornibert emerges victorious over competitors from other islands at the Courts OECS Reading Competition.

Seventh Day Adventist School, was crowned Courts OECS Schools Reading Champion.

Runner-up Richelle Wilson walked away with $3,000 and, in third place, Kenilee Smithee Baron took home $2,000.

All other participants received $1,000 each plus prizes from other corporate sponsors.

weekly prizes such as instant cash, grocery vouchers, fuel vouchers, smart TVs, smartphones and more.

Mr. Medard’s name was drawn out of pile of thousands of entrants at Desole Band Launch in Roseau.

Two lucky grand prize winners, of a motorbike and a 2018 Subaru SUV, remain to be drawn; weekly prizes can be redeemed instantly.

Consumers still have an opportunity to be one of the lucky two grand prize winners. Collect six I Love Beer Crowns, of the same beer brand, and drop them off at any redemption centre along with an entry form.

Entries can be dropped off at: Cheaperz, Uptown Supermarket, Plante’s Place, Golden Apple, Twist 2 for 1, River Bank, Raphael Willie, Savers Mart, Mama Rosa, Raymond & Co., Marigourmet and Total Auto.

Entrants must be 18 and over to participate in the I Love Beer Promotion and are reminded to enjoy responsibly.

“Courts is committed to the development of the countries in which we operate by engaging the youth through educational initiatives like the schools reading competition,” stated Courts OECS Managing Director Mr. Vincent Gordon.

The company looks forward to hosting the tenth annual OECS finals.

Adrian Medard (left) wins $10,000 from a drink at Auntie's Place in Castries.

THE STAR

JUNE 09, 2018

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'DESIGNS BY NADIA' AND 'MÊME BÊTE' TO BE PART OF CARIBBEAN WE-XPORT PROGRAMME

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E-Xport is a programme of the Caribbean Export Development Agency implemented under the 11th European Development Fund (EDF), Regional Private Sector Development Programme (RPSDP) which seeks to increase employment creation, inclusiveness, particularly for youth, women and indigenous groups, and contribute to overall poverty reduction in CARIFORUM states.

The programme was designed to assist Caribbean businesswomen in export development with a view of increasing the exports of their products and services. WE-Xport will use a fourpronged approach towards strengthening the export capacity of women-owned firms. The four areas which form the pillars of the programme include Access to Finance, Access to Markets, Capacity Building and Advocacy.

The programme was launched on March 7 in Barbados, and two Saint Lucian firms were successful to become part of the group of 20 firms selected for the programme.

Trade Export Promotion Agency (TEPA) is one of the organisations from the region to champion the programme in Saint Lucia. TEPA's role involved first promoting the programme among women exporters and aspiring exporters and then providing on-the-ground support to the companies selected to partake. As such, TEPA has completed the first of the training workshops of the programme, i.e. Access to Finance.

Two Saint Lucian firms from the creative sector—Designs by Nadia and Même Bête—were successful and were selected to be part of the programme. TEPA's representative, along with the entrepreneurs from the selected firms, attended the two-day Access to Finance workshop in

Barbados from May 31 to June 1, 2018.

This workshop was jointly funded by the Caribbean Development Bank and is a key activity of the Access to Finance component of the Women Empowered through Export (WE-Xport) programme.

Taribba do Nascimiento of Même Bête, who will be celebrating ten years of business next year, said that all this support

was timely and would contribute to her goals of breaking the barriers of the fashion industry.

The element that stood out most for her from the workshop was the opportunity to network with her peers in the industry.

Taribba, visibly thankful and excited, said “Speaking with

other women, learning about their journeys, their mistakes and their success, that is how I learn; that is how I will grow."

Following the workshop, additional training and technical assistance will be provided to the entrepreneurs through coaching sessions for a period

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of six months.

The workshop was also geared towards enhancing the capacity of Business Support Organisations (BSOs) like TEPA, in delivering support to firms, specifically women-owned firms that want to secure funding for business expansion.

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DID EU GIFT COME WITH SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS?

The government claims it is exploring advice proffered by the funders of the OKEU project.

Will this result in the long awaited full operation of the pictured facility?

Joshua St. Aimee

J

ust months before the 2016 general elections, the government of Kenny Anthony hosted a $100,000 ceremony to mark the naming of the newly built, state-of-theart OKEU hospital in honour of the late Saint Lucian surgeon Dr. Owen King, father of Dr. Stephen King.

The hope was that the facility, funded by the EU to the tune of EC$160 million, would replace the ancient Victoria Hospital. Speaking at the ceremony on 21 February 2016, then EU ambassador Mr. Mikael Barford said: “The EU is currently supporting the government to develop strategies and policies for the sustainable financing of the health sector, and I know that the issue of economic viability of this hospital is foremost on the minds of bureaucrats and lay persons alike.”

He acknowledged that the health sector is normally painted as burdensome in

countries as “it requires too much from the government’s treasury while contributing little or nothing to the fund. However, the Owen King EU Hospital holds enormous potential to earn a considerable income and be self-sustaining.”

The ambassador then encouraged the Kenny Anthony government to be creative in its approach to income generation and suggested it might go the way of Public Private Partnership or a Service Level Agreement. An SLA, is a contract between a service provider and a customer that documents what services the provider will furnish—and defines the performance standards the provider is obligated to meet.

Mr. Barford proffered that PPP and SLA arrangements had “proven successful in other countries to open up the healthcare market and make it also attractive to insurance companies and tourists.”

In closing he appealed to the government to “make sure that the hospital is opened within a few months”.

Anticipating the day, the ambassador declared: “I can’t wait to take part in the opening.

All I need is for the prime minister to give me a date,” which he hoped would be within seven months of the naming ceremony.

Did the government reject the EU ambassador’s

O

suggestion? In an address to the nation in May, opposition leader Philip J Pierre revealed that when it came to local healthcare, privatization was never on the table and would never be considered.

He said: “The St. Lucia Labour Party government never, at any time, contemplated the

Mikael Barfod, former European Union Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.

divestment of public healthcare services to any private entity.”

For its part, the Allen Chastanet government has also stated it has no plan to privatize healthcare. According to the economic affairs minister, Mr. Guy Joseph, what is being explored is the option of a joint venture/PPP. In any case,

Mr. Joseph emphasized, “The government will always own the OKEU hospital. It will always remain the property of the government and the people of Saint Lucia.” Which would be in harmony with the EU tune that Barford sang at the ceremony that sunny Sunday morning in February 2016!

M&C Drugstore Health and Wellness Fair

n Friday June 15 M&C Drugstore will host its first Health and Wellness Fair. The fair will kick off at 10 a.m. on the William Peter Boulevard, Castries

The health fair is free and open to the public and will provide education on common chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, lupus and arthritis disease, COPD, depression, other mental health issues, dental health, breast cancer and medication advice. Free blood pressure and sugar screenings will be available.

Also, at the health fair, there will be services available to help you or a loved one manage these illnesses; you will be able to talk to physicians and other healthcare providers as well as

the different health associations. The health fair will advise on fitness programmes and personal training. There will also be a wide variety of free product sampling.

M&C Drugstore wants to increase the knowledge of the general public on the diseases plaguing our society in order to offer early solutions; also to sensitize and create awareness of the various health associations and organisations that exist within our communities and islandwide, and encourage persons to consume healthier foods and vitamins in support of long-term health management. For more information, you may call 758458-8146.

M&C Drugstore for a Healthier, Happier you.

THE STAR

JUNE 09, 2018

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MAN’S INHUMANITY TO MAN IS ALIVE AND WELL IN SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL ST. LUCIA! I n recent conversation with an old schoolmate, he brought up his run-ins with the police. He told me of the time his meeting with an evangelizing pastor had gone terribly awry. He was invited to the pastor’s headquarters, had been preached to, had discussed the intimacies of his relationship with the most high and had set out on his way. A few days later, police showed up at his job requesting information regarding his encounter with the pastor. He gave honest answers. Alas, it turned out my old schoolmate had been in the wrong place at the wrong time. The pastor had passed on his name and his work address to police investigating a robbery at the place of worship. The pastor claimed my old school friend was the only one who had been in the building when certain items went missing.

The young man was invited to accompany the police to Rodney Bay Police Station for further interrogation. Instead he found himself in a police cell.

He tried to remain calm. “I did nothing wrong,” he told himself, “everything will be all right.” Nearly a year later he was arrested and locked up a second time while gambling on some bleachers at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College during class down time. The cops showed up and drove two van loads of students to the Central Police Station in Castries.

Both episodes came to nothing. In the first instance nearly eight hours went by before my 20-year-old schoolmate was released; the police failed to discover the pastor’s stolen items at his place of residence.

Before setting him free, however, the police decided to cut his three-inch plaits with a pair of shears. “I can’t recall exactly what the officer said,” my friend told me, “but it was something expressing his prejudice against people with plaits.” He was sent away with an “ugly patch” to the top left of his head.

During the second incident, in a different station, the duty officer saw to it that the students spent a night in the cells “to teach us a lesson” my old schoolmate said. He also took the liberty of cutting the hair of some of the students. As he haphazardly scissored my former schoolmate’s hair, he seemed to be talking to himself: “I don’t like that nonsense on your head . . . look at that . . . look at that . . . you going to school and that’s what you have on your head?” My friend told me he “felt, violated but, if you retaliate, you will just make things worse. I had to brush it all under the table.”

When I conducted my own investigation of what I considered police abuse of their power, this was one officer’s uninterested reaction: “I am not aware of any such situations so I won’t be able to comment on that. We would first have to look into the incidents.”

The local police do not have the best history with “bongoed” tresses. The average reader would know Caribbean officers are notorious for cutting off the locs of Rastafarians who, for years, were targeted for their unconventional beliefs. The situation, I’m happy to say, has improved. The ill-treatment of my friend and his friends happened some five years ago. But every now and then we hear about police abuse of members of the Rasta fraternity. Ironically, my friend has never been a Rastafarian. He was persecuted simply because the police made personal, uninformed judgements of him and his hair. If I may be permitted a personal note: I remember going shopping with my mother, who has wavy to almost bone-straight hair, while my own hair enveloped my face, Afro-style. An acquaintance pulled her aside: “How can you have hair like that and give her that?” The interloper considered it fine to be wearing

artificially straightened tresses but would deny me my right to wear my own hair as I please. It seems to me high time we all understood the true meaning of freedom, that enslavement does not always involve chains!

--- Keryn Nelson

COMMENT 05

Believe it or not, Afros and locs are, for some, an invitation to abuse the power vested in them.

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Celebrate Your Dad with Tapas next Weekend!

apas on the Bay introduces a weekendlong celebration of fathers.

In the heart of Rodney Bay, well known for its delicious dinners, Tapas on the Bay, has prepared yet another exciting weekend of music experiences including a tribute to Saint Lucian Carnival.

On Friday June 15th, from 7:00pm, Rob Zii and Phyness will have you up on your feet and grooving after dinner.

The duo of saxophone and harmonious vocals spans a range of genres from reggae and blues to jazz and soul, and can be enjoyed every Friday evening this summer at Tapas.

Tapas then adds a dash of carnival flavour to spice up your life on Saturday June 16th with “The Story of Extempo and Calypso”, an evening of live music designed to relive various aspects of Calypso history. The action begins at 8:00p.m. and the night promises to be time well spent in the company of individuals all well known for their exceptional contribution to the art form. Experience Extempo performances by formidable entertainer and Extempo monarch Gilroy “Ezi” Hall, veteran Calypso and Soca Monarch Ignatius “Invader” Tisin and The Mighty Prince alongside Gene Lawrence whose riveting one-man shows give international audiences a unique perspective of the origins of Calypso. The evening will close with an Invader experience like you have never seen him before: “Invader Unplugged”.

Calypso is often referred to as a style of Afro-Caribbean music with West African Kaiso characteristics of percussive rhythmic beats, call-and-response patterns, extemporaneous singing and satire.

Extempo consists of a freestyle improvisation in song or in rhythmic dialogue on a given theme before an audience who themselves sometimes take turns to perform. It is naturally competitive as its spontaneous responses are judged by its creatively devised and comical staging.

Sunday June 17th is Father’s Day and from 10:00am Tapas’ signature breakfast selections can be enjoyed.

Choose from a traditional Saint Lucian breakfast, English breakfast, bacon and roasted banana waffles, fresh fruit, homemade pastry selections

and so much more. A special three-course lunch is available all day for EC$100. Enjoy the sweet sounds of Ronald “Boo” Hinkson from noon.

Boo, as he is well known across the island, has been making sweet music in his homeland, “simply beautiful” Saint Lucia, for more than three decades. Staying true to his jazz roots and West Indian culture, he couples his appreciation of the old masters with contemporary jazz and soca in his music and lyrics; and as a result his popularity continues to grow.

A weekend of great food and music in an ideally situated location awaits. Create memories for Dad that will last a lifetime. Walk-ins are welcome but reservations are strongly recommended. Make it a date and call 485-7189 to book your table today.

Windward and Leeward Brewery Limited Community Notice

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n an effort to improve the service quality and operational efficiency at Windward and Leeward Brewery Limited (WLBL), the company will be undertaking a waste desludging activity. This activity is scheduled to commence on June 9, 2018 and end on June 16, 2018.

This notice serves to inform all residents in close proximity to the brewery that this activity may lead to some inconveniences in the surrounding communities during the specified time.

The management and staff of WLBL thank you for your patience, understanding and continued support as we undertake this exercise.

THE STAR

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WE COME INTO THE WORLD WITH UNIQUE TALENTS Peter Josie

I

have lost count of the times I’ve heard it said: We come into the world bearing different, sometimes unique, gifts. While growing up, I observed how clumsy some children were at simple chores like tethering a sheep or at bat in a cricket game. Other kids could not pass a simple school test. I saw them as misfits, reasoning that if I could do a task, then anyone could. It took a while before I accepted that some people are better at certain disciplines than others. When, therefore, I read a piece of nonsense in a newspaper or hear some semiliterate talk-show host spewing his dirt, I hit my reject button and save myself having to process gibberish.

The late realization of unique, individual talent has come with a gut feeling for the credible. When some people relate to me a negative comment by a talk-show host, my quick retort is: Why do you listen to garbage and lies? Have you no better use for your time? I am aware that some persons view talk shows only as

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There’s a time for politics and a time for prayer and thanksgiving. This week the incumbent United Workers Party took an evening off to pray for the nation!

entertainment, others as political fixes—in the same way some use an early morning coffee or a cigarette. Political junkies have developed a craving for anything political; bogus or real, it matters little. Calypso lovers who look eagerly to a witty calypso during the carnival season are likewise afflicted. Thankfully, many more people thirst for simple truths and factual information regarding the social and economic development of our country. For such people, matters of importance are a priority. For example, how and why the government pursues a particular economic agenda is followed by many citizens. Such information begs the question of the role of the opposition in the social and economic development of the island.

The system of politics, as practised here, tends to leave the entire burden of improving the social and economic life of the citizenry in the hands of the government— the executive. The official opposition seeks often to add to the government’s difficulty by noisily opposing whatever the government proposes, including unfinished business left behind by the opposition when it was the government. Some politicians have perfected the art of opposing. They oppose even when there is nothing to oppose. Their minds seem programmed only to say no! Such minds are useless, even when in government, for their owners can see things only in a negative light.

The fear of being caught with their pants down, or their hands in places where

they don’t belong, leads them to raise their voices in false protest against everything that offers an opportunity for distraction. The United Workers Party has demonstrated little enthusiasm for opposing, unless against something egregious. The Labour Party, on the other hand, lives to oppose, leaving the impression that opposition is all it is capable of. The UWP says that it only knows how to work to develop the country.

The SLP is tongue-tied and ambivalent about its policy for job creation and economic growth.

In a climate where cheap talk flourishes, con artists and little minds are able to worm their way to the top of the propaganda pile. In that atmosphere, the government has little choice but to push back hard, exposing the cardboard horns and hollow criticisms. It’s not rocket science to explain how the government does what it does, and to what end. The ultimate goal of a straight and incorruptible government is to build sustainable and resilient economic growth, for all who

live in this country. To help attain this vision, it is proposed that the nation come together in prayer at least once a month on a determined day and time.

The intention is to ask for divine intervention to guide and protect those who lead and work for the nation. It is clear to those who can see that there are people who would stop at nothing in order to bring down a man who has been in office for only two years of his five-year term.

I recommend one of my favourite passages in the Bible as part of this monthly prayer event and suggest the first Monday of every month (before Cabinet meets) as a suitable time. Isaiah Chapter 40, verses 30 and 31 in Holy Writ reads: “Even those who are young grow weak; young men can fall exhausted. But those who trust in the Lord for help will find their strength renewed.

They will rise on wings like eagles; they will run and not get weary; they will walk and not grow weak.”

I am convinced that the parliamentary opposition needs prayers as much as the government. I believe more

things were wrought by prayer than the world realizes. So, I invite the nation also to pray for Her Majesty’s loyal opposition, and ask for divine intervention in their words and actions.

Pray also that they may be transformed to fit the role for which they have been elected to parliament.

In closing, may I remind you, dear reader, that the purpose of prayer is to instill in us our oneness with a spiritual God. We are made spiritually in God’s image and likeness.

Prayer is not an insistence; we do not say, “Listen Holy Spirit, I’m speaking to you.”

No, it’s an invocation: we say instead, “Speak, Holy Spirit, I’m listening.” The everlasting spiritual truth is that God is love.

And love sustains and supplies everything it has created. Our prayers are for ourselves and our fellows, not for God. They are meant to help attain our highest purpose in life. The unique gifts we bear are for one another—to make each other better, happier. They are a spiritual goodwill meant to heal our nation, and to stop those who wish to divide and destroy it!

THE STAR

JUNE 09, 2018

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Sexual Harassment is We Kolcha I

’m a “home girl” whatever that means. That’s what I’ve been called since my time at primary school. To this day I still get hit with: “You living in Gros Islet and I never see you!” There are several reasons for my apparent reclusiveness, one of them being I didn’t want stupid boys to trouble me. Over the past few years I have noticed that the regular catcalls have taken on a more conducive tone.

I get friendlier comments, good wishes, even blessings for the day. I have wondered what’s responsible for the change. Could it be that I now go out at the same time that well-mannered people

are about? Do I now attract less immature attention? I have considered the possibility that Saint Lucians have become classier, more civilized, what with all the stuff on social media about campaigns such as #MeToo. I was brought back to reality this week when a man, possibly a little younger than I, his face weirdly twisted, addressed me in the street: “I like it. You a nice height for a back shot.” The other man with him smiled as if in enthusiastic agreement. As rude as was that young man, he did not begin to compare with what an animal, that walked like a man, tossed at me the other morning: “Shabine, your skin so nice.

Your pussy must be nice same way. Come for me to lick it!”

The chorus of other drinking males around him exploded with sickening laughter. Some even clapped their hands deliriously.

The last mentioned two experiences underscored for me the serious problem in this country, of men with little respect for themselves, let alone women. Their disgusting behaviour is considered quite normal, at any rate a normal part of life in Saint Lucia.

The twinge of anxiety that a female feels before walking through a herd of predatory testosterone on the block, some would argue, is all part of our culture. Sadly many women

actually encourage the verbal assaults. They feel flattered. I’ve also considered the possibility that it makes young men feel, er, presidential, to address women in the street as they do.

Hopefully it never extends to grabbing them “by the pussy!"

Making matters worse is that I was too scared of what might follow if I told those two insulting men where to get off. Would I be physically attacked? Grabbed?

Abducted and raped? I was unaccompanied in both instances when the catcallers were encouraged by their male companions. It’s no wonder some women seem to enjoy the calls. Perhaps it’s their defence mechanism, to smile and

quickly move on.

When the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements exploded in world news, I initially thought: “Why did these women choose to speak up only now?”

It took me some time to notice that I had actually lived through the answer multiple times. If I had spoken up sooner, rather than later, I would I have been immediately shot down with: “Keep quiet, that’s our culture.

You can’t take these men seriously; that’s just how they are.”

I note the #MeToo women first came together before they famously retaliated. Will we Saint Lucian women ever think enough of ourselves to unite in our own interests—in

particular, against sexual harassment? I’m holding my breath. Will we come to realize that taking this stand will also be striking a blow against sexual and other abuses of children?

The Director of Human Services, Elizabeth Lewis, once revealed to me that the majority of child sexual abuse cases occur in the home, committed by men in the family. She also said that many victims’ parents withdraw their co-operation in cases of sexual crimes, before they reach the courts, which leaves Human Services hogtied.

---Claudia Eleibox

ST. LUCIAN FISHERMAN MAKES INTERNATIONAL WAVES THROUGH GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACILITY

E

stablished in 1992, the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) is a multilateral donor agency with the goal of tackling pressing environmental issues in countries across the globe.

Through its Small Grants Program (SGP), funding for over 18,000 projects in 124 countries has been established. Saint Lucia is one of the member countries, and last year a total of EC$3.51million was invested here, with 17 new projects being implemented. This brought the total investment in Saint Lucia as at 31 December, 2017 to EC$9.832 million.

On 1 June the fifth annual GEF SGP report for Saint Lucia was presented.

National Co-ordinator of GEF SGP Giles Romulus is pleased with the quality of work the organisation was able to accomplish last year but acknowledges there is still much room for growth.

“With the funding of 17 new projects in 2017,” he said, “that increased the number of projects we’ve funded between 2012 and 2017 to 74.

222 persons were employed last year through our projects, and that brought the total of employed persons to 1,021.”

In addition to employment, 865 persons also received training in apiculture, diving, coral reef monitoring and marketing, among other areas.

One area that needs to be improved, Giles said, is “the spatial spread”. The majority of implemented projects last year were on the west Coast, with two on the east Coast. “We have to do something about that.

Projects are now amalgamated in Soufriere and Canaries/Anse La Raye, and now the east coast has about four projects."

One project which stood out, centres on the remarkable story of a Laborie fisherman. An ecstatic Dr. Gale Rigobert gave insight into the internationally acclaimed project: five years ago, following a GEF meeting, a fisherman named Karlis Noel developed a plan for a desalination project in his community. The minister beamed as she spelled out the result: “It was the first generation prototype, solardriven, mobile and brine neutralizing system!”

A report from the Caribbean Public Health Agency to determine its efficiency concluded: “The desalination plant was very efficient. This

Left to right: Dr. Gale Rigobert, fisherman and entrepreneur Karlis Noel, Hon. Herold Stanislas and Giles Romulus, National Co-ordinator of GEF SGP,

self-sufficient system will provide water security for the village of Laborie.”

Far from Saint Lucia's shores, another island would soon be lining up for this invention. Nauru, with a population of approximately 10,000, suffers from a scarcity of adequate water

as a consequence of the underground water supply becoming unusable, thanks to salt-water intrusion.

International appeals were made by NGOs there for proposals to remedy the situation, and Mr. Noel submitted his suggestion.

"Ladies and gentlemen,”

said a dramatic Ms Rigobert, “it is now with great pleasure, honour and humility that I inform you that the fisherman’s proposal was selected for implementation in the Republic of Nauru!”

Education minister, Ms Rigobert added: “Mr. Noel is self-taught and did not

complete secondary school.”

An agreement has been signed, and designs for the project are now in the works. The minister hopes this achievement will be an incentive for our young people and nation to become more innovative.

--- Joshua St. Aimee

THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

JUNE 09, 2018

LOCAL

11

What did the Father of the Nation Sacrifice in the Name of Development?

Claudia Eleibox

A

lmost fifty years after the John Compton administration acquired lands owned by Jerome Joseph Montoute and his family, the matter will be taken for the third time to the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, on June 20, 2018. When Montoute died in 2010 at the age of 89, his daughter, Theodora Montoute, assumed his role in the fight for the family’s rightful compensation. But the story of Jerome Montoute’s land meanders in a heap of incompetence and negligence of a series of Saint Lucian governments.

Theodora has taken front stage but Montoute had eight other children that he thought he was able to care for with income from his fishing and livestock business. During the peak of his investments, at age 48, Montoute’s 32 acres of property were compulsorily acquired and sold in 1970 to Rodney Bay Limited by the Saint Lucia government.

Present day residents old enough to remember the occurrence say that Compton credited the development

by Rodney Bay Limited with eliminating mosquitoes and enhancing the area for touristic purposes.

Montoute had requested EC$1,110,780 from the government based on his land evaluation. According to a letter dated 18 March, 1970, George Odlum, at the time employed as Secretariat of the West Indies Associated States, responded: “As indicated in our negotiations I regret not being able to entertain your offer . . .

I can find no market evidence relating to the sales of similar or comparable lands which would support the quoted asking price.”

The family argues that the land was bought by Montoute’s grandfather in June 1881, from plantation owners when they were leaving the island. The estate was meant to remain in the family. Montoute’s property was inherited and he bought an additional, adjacent lot from his uncle. Further,

Montoute claimed concerning neighbouring property: “It was brought to our attention that Mr. Compton had paid these people much more for their small lot than he was offering me for much more land.”

After much resistence from Montoute, in March 1970 Premier John Compton agreed to compensate him with EC$50,000 plus 22 acres of crown lands at Beausejour at a reduced cost, plus free land preparation by the government so that he could relocate his livestock. But Montoute’s September 1, 1970 request to retain five unused acres of his original property—to which he was sentimentally attached— resulted in decades of waiting, countless negotiations, withdrawals of previous offers from the government and an unending exchange of letters and meetings.

Different administration leaders eventually had Montoute requesting compensation for 25.5 acres of land, a fishing net, six fishing canoes, about 300 sheep, 210 coconut trees, five ponds and cattle—only a percentage of his total property that was either damaged, lost or expropriated—adjunct to 28 years of interest by 1997. His total figure was $187,150 plus the land originally offered in Beausejour.

Like an Israelite who never made it to the Promised Land, Montoute had only received $40,000 from the government in the form of interest accumulated awaiting an agreement. On July 23, 2002 he also received a cheque for $126,906.69 as “an interim payment”. Twice the Kenny Anthony administration claimed that appointing a Board of Assessment was “too costly” to come to a settlement for Montoute’s rightful compensation. But according to Theodora Montoute’s open letter to the government in 2016, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court ruled in Montoute’s favour twice.

However, she said, “Despite the passage of 46+ years, the sizable financial outlay to ensure the retention of counsel, and Supreme Court judgments in 2008 and 2015 affirming

The Jerome Montoute Drive runs across the site of the beachfront property that once belonged to its namesake.

wrongful expropriation and concomitant undertaking to compensate him have gone unheeded.”

Almost eight years after his death, Jerome Montoute’s family awaits correction for what they claim was stolen from them, which would by now have accumulated 49 years of interest. A document prepared by Montoute’s eldest daughter—with information that governments supposedly claimed they could not find in time for local court proceedings in 2004—includes an introduction penned by Montoute explaining why he thought he was unfairly treated.

He was a staunch supporter of the St Lucia Labour Party and described himself as “the sacrificing Lamb in the Name of Development”.

In the document he stated that he had nowhere to place his animals, which resulted in them being lost, killed or stolen. He also mentioned being unable to fish when Moses Matalon was constructing the Pigeon Island Causeway. Montoute further claimed that several prominent politicians had badly disappointed him.

Jerome Montoute is still known in Gros Islet, Belle Vue and Cap Estate as “the man with all the sheep” and a

vibrant community spirit. His life changed forever in 1969 but his involvement with the people was never forgotten. The story of how he lost everything is well known to Gros Islet residents.

Some shared with this reporter memories of his sugarapplefilled estate, and of when he planted the tall pongola grass still evident today.

In 2016 the road from the Gros Islet Bridge up to The Landings Resort was named after Jerome Montoute. The aforementioned document was the basis for this decision by the Cabinet and town council. His daughter says the road runs through what was once his property. “I made sure they named it after him.”

Obviously referring to the Causeway that was named for Jamaican engineer Moses Matalon, she added: “They named other roads after people who were paid for their work.”

12 LOCAL

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JUNE 09, 2018 THE STAR

Forensic investigation concludes into Coolie Town deaths T

he bodies of all the victims in the Coolie Town incident have finally been released to their families, now that the forensic investigation has ended.

Director of Forensic

Science Services at the Forensic Lab, Fernanda Henry, revealed that the forensic investigation into the four suspicious deaths in Coolie Town has finally concluded.

In March, the Ministry

of Health stated that the four persons who died, plus ten other persons from the Coolie Town area who presented at the Victoria Hospital, may have ingested a toxic substance resembling strong rum.

At a joint meeting with officials from the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, the Ministry of Health and from Pathology, the Director of Forensic Science Services indicated the importance of determining the source and to understand what happened to the people who died, as well

GOVERNMENT OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF DOMINICA HOUSING RECOVERY PROJECT Introduction An urgent and critical issue confronting Dominica is the recovery of its housing sector in the wake of Hurricane Maria which struck the island in September 2017. The hurricane devastated the country’s infrastructure, communities and households, along with the main productive sectors – agriculture and tourism. Prior to Hurricane Maria, it was already established that the country’s development was challenged by the vulnerability of its population and economy to natural disasters, which can impose large costs on the country’s fragile economy. The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica has embarked upon a broad range of housing recovery strategies aimed at increasing structural resilience in the housing sector and the built environment, thus reducing the vulnerability of citizens and the economy to natural disasters.

Project Background The Commonwealth of Dominica has secured financing from the International Development Association (IDA) credit and a Crisis Response Window Grant for the Housing Recovery Project (HRP).

The HRP is one of the projects in the GoCD’s National Housing Repair and Reconstruction Programme portfolio. The HRP will contribute both to the recovery of housing for disaster-affected households and to improving the application of resilient building practices in the housing sector. The Project will finance support for housing recovery systems and capacity building, support for the reconstruction of houses, and project management and coordination. The project has a significant construction works component and other activities related to institutional strengthening and capacity building. It has been formulated in keeping with the GoCD’s National Housing Repair and Reconstruction Programme (NHRRP). The HRP is prepared as part of an overall development partner initiative to support medium- and long-term recovery in Dominica, and is part of a broader World Bank recovery portfolio comprised of two other operations: (i) an Emergency Agricultural Livelihoods and Climate Resilience Project; and (ii) an Additional Financing to the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project.

A stand-alone Project Implementation Unit (PIU) will be established under the Ministry of Housing and Lands (MoH) to be responsible for the timely implementation and execution of the HRP program.

The PIU will report directly to the Permanent Secretary (PS) of the MoH, and will liaise constantly with the technical divisions of the MoH and the Ministry of Planning and Development (MoP) as well as the Housing Task Force (HTF), responsible for overseeing sector recovery. In the implementation of the Program, the Project Manager and the PIU staff will have support from a team of international experts, who will form an Implementation Support Team (IST), housed in the Ministry of Finance. This IST

will have expertise in areas of World Bank procurement, social/ environmental safeguards and financial management, and will serve as a shared resource across all World Bank financed Projects in Dominica.

An essential component of the Project is the establishment of up to seven (7) Technical Assistance Centers (TACs) throughout the country to serve as satellite offices of the Physical Planning Division of the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and Investment (MoP). These TACs will be the primary interface between the public/eligible beneficiaries/contractors and the implementing agencies. The PIU will oversee the operations at the TACs while the TACs support the PIU in the collection of the demographic information required for administering eligibility under the project, for undertaking technical assessments and carrying out development control functions.

Positions for Recruitment The following positions are available for recruitment with the GoCD on the World Bank financed project:

• • • •

• • •

Project Manager Procurement and Contract Management Officer Financial Specialist Communications, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist Social Safeguard Specialist Environmental Specialist ESMF Consultancy

For more detail about terms and conditions, requirements and qualifications regarding each post, please refer to the following pages: • http://news.gov.dm/index.php/announcements •

http://dominica.gov.dm/

Expression of Interest Interested applicants whose qualifications and experience are in line with the Terms of Reference are invited to submit their CV and a letter of motivation / application stating suitability for the position on or before Friday 15th June 2018 to hrp@dominica. gov.dm (copy pssechousing@dominica.gov.dm) and 3 professional references.

Fred Esprit National Housing Coordinator, Ministry of Housing, Lands and Water Resource Management

Fernanda Henry, Director of Forensic Science Services at the Forensic Laboratory. She thanked family members of the deceased for their patience during the forensic investigation.

as those living.

“We brought everyone together today so that we could have some sort of closure from the forensic perspective. The investigation still continues so that the Ministry of Health, as well, can have some direction on how to treat patients if there are any outstanding or long-standing effects to the exposure. And so we updated everyone with respect to where we are on this particular issue and we wanted to let the public know, since we had issued something initially.”

She added that all four bodies have been released to the affected families now that the forensic investigation has concluded.

“From the pathologist end, we have since released the bodies because we kept them until the forensic results were available. So we have now released the bodies so the families can have closure in that respect but the criminal investigation, or the investigation, continues so we can determine a source and really have a good understanding of what happened and try to prevent it from happening again.”

She thanked the family members for their outstanding co-operation and patience from the beginning in March of this year up to the present: “From the initial meeting that we had with all of the agencies and we invited them, they came in willingly and they’ve been co-operative ever since. And we want to sincerely thank them. We understand that it was a very difficult time and they were not able to have proper burials for their loved ones until we were able to get a conclusion on the analyses. So we really want to thank them sincerely for being co-operative, for following up; they were very diligent with following up on the progress of the investigation. So we really want to express our thanks to them for that and we want to encourage Saint Lucians to follow suit.”

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force and the Ministry of Health reserved comment until the criminal investigation has concluded.

THE STAR

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Confucius: Of Words It (Or Why We And A No

S

House opposition leader Philip J. Pierre: Several months ago he promised to settle the matter of the meaning of “as soon as convenient” in the courts. Little has been heard on that in recent times!

omething I read or heard someone say on TV (rest assured it was not local television!) sent me searching for Henry Hazlitt. It turns out he was a self-taught economist who popularized the subject as a journalist and wrote a best-selling book about it: Economics in One Lesson. One esteemed critic declared it the best of Mr. Hazlitt’s seventeen books, “unstinting in its praise of free markets. In the simplest language, rarely citing statistics, he laid out what he called the fallacies of regulating economic activity—like trying, for example, to raise wage levels through minimum wage laws or union bargaining.”

Mr. Hazlitt, who died at age 98, having lived seven years in a hospital, also wrote: “Fallacies when they have reached the popular stage, become anonymous anyway.

The subtleties or obscurities to be found in the authors responsible for propagating them are washed off.” According to his New York Times obituary, Hazlitt’s earlier mentioned 222-page book sold more than 600,000 copies.

Considered by several

current luminaries “one of the most brilliant intellectuals of our century,” Henry Hazlitt also published in 1916 the tutorial Thinking As A Science, from which I’ve lifted the following: “A man with a scant vocabulary will almost certainly be a weak thinker. The richer and more copious one’s vocabulary, and the greater one’s awareness of fine distinctions and subtle nuances of meaning, the more fertile and precise is likely to be one’s thinking. Knowledge of things and knowledge of the words for them grow together. If you do not know the words, you can hardly know the thing.”

I recalled the above-quoted passage on Wednesday as Calixte George—not to be confused with the erudite former president of the Saint Lucia Senate, who was at different times responsible for the Kenny Anthony government’s agriculture, communications and the police portfolios—sought for the second consecutive time to verbally wrestle Timothy Poleon into the dirt of local politics. It seems Calixte George, Kenny Anthony’s once upon a time political attaché and speechwriter, was far from satisfied with his performance on Tuesday’s Newsspin and so he called the following day, determined

THE STAR

COMMENT

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JUNE 09, 2018

15

us: Without Knowing The Force It’s Impossible To Know More!

We’re Still At War Over St. Jude Nonexistent Deputy Speaker)

to set the record according to his needs—or the needs of his party. In all events, on Wednesday he was Poleon’s first caller. And straightaway he let Poleon know words had “legal meanings”—and conceivably illegal meanings. He neglected to proffer supporting details but it soon was apparent what else was on his mind when he referenced my own comments immediately following his unsettled match with Timothy Poleon the day before.

Three or four days earlier I had challenged via Poleon’s lunchtime program a public statement by the opposition MP Moses JnBaptiste that sought to attach what I considered a self-serving meaning to simple words publicly spoken by the EU’s Mr. Mikael Barford at the naming of the Owen King EU Hospital on Sunday 21 February 2016, in particular: “The health sector is often viewed as a burden on a given country, as it requires too much from the government’s treasury while contributing little or nothing to the fund. However, the quality of the facility, equipment and staff of the Owen King EU Hospital holds enormous potential for the hospital to earn a considerable income and be self-sustaining. I encourage the

government to be creative in its approach to income generation of the hospital. Public Private Sector Partnerships and Service Level Agreements have proven successful in other countries to open up the healthcare market and make it also attractive to insurance companies and tourists. In my view, whatever options government chooses should not add an undue burden or restrict access to service to those most in need.” At least twice during his address Mr. Barford said he looked forward to the opening of the hospital before September 2016!

While MP Baptiste did not deny Mr. Barford had spoken the words I cited, he nevertheless dismissed them as a mere suggestion from the funders of the hospital, to be given serious consideration or to be outright rejected—and by all the evidence it seems the Kenny Anthony administration had chosen the second option. As for me, I had heard in the words of the EU delegation head a sound recommendation, not lightly arrived at. Barford was not altogether unfamiliar with our healthcare needs and the economic quicksand that threatens us. As I say, the reason I called Poleon on Tuesday was to remind him and his listeners that both the House opposition and the Saint Lucia Medical & Dental Association, as of one voice, had made absolutely clear their feelings about the government’s announcement that it was seriously considering the EU’s PPP recommendation. Finally,

I confessed to Poleon that it was hardly surprising that the opposition party would seek to give a convenient twist to the lapidary words of Mr. Barford.

Have they not been stubbornly seeking, for more than two years, to persuade different House Speakers to embrace their interpretation of the Saint Lucia Constitution’s “as soon as convenient” (Section 36) on the basis, to quote Calixte George, that “words have legal meanings”?

Actually, it is wellestablished procedure, here and elsewhere, that when writing statutes the legislature intends to use ordinary English words in their ordinary senses. In Caminetti v United States this was how the U.S. Supreme Court put it: “It is elementary that the meaning of a statute must, in the first instance, be sought in the language in which the act is framed, and if that is plain . . . the sole function of the courts is to enforce it according to its terms . . .” If a statute’s language is plain and clear, the court further warned that “the duty of interpretation does not arise, and the rules which are to aid doubtful meanings need no discussion.”

What about the meaning of “as soon as convenient” as contained in our constitution that can reasonably be considered “doubtful” and therefore in need of discussion?

On Wednesday, it seemed to me Calixte George instructed Poleon that he understood “as soon as convenient” to mean “as soon as practicable.” Keeping in mind “practicable refers to a project

Mr. Calixte George: He seems to miss the point that whatever his interpretation of “as soon as convenient” the election of a deputy Speaker involves a collective effort by both sides of the House.

or idea as being capable of being done or put into effect,” I have no problem with the interpretation proffered by the former prime minister’s speechwriter. But it would appear his party may have. In 2016 the leader of the House opposition told reporters oncamera that “it would not be in the interest of our party at this time to nominate a candidate” for the position of deputy Speaker. In other words: it is at this time neither “practicable” nor “convenient.”

I anticipate the conveniently blind may wish

to question my citing a U.S. Supreme Court precedent. May I assure one and all that the English courts also share the view expressed in Caminetti v United States. In Becke v Smith, Justice Parker stated: “It is a very useful rule in the construction of a statute to adhere to the ordinary meaning of words used.” Parker restated the rule in different words in Gay v Pearson.

There is one reason, yes, just one, that the House does not at this time have a deputy House Speaker. And it is this: both sides have

together determined that to nominate a candidate for the position does not suit their political agendas. No number of invented reasons can change this fact. For those who would argue to the contrary, be reminded of Henry Hazlitt’s words: “A man with scant vocabulary will almost certainly be a weak thinker. If you do not know the words, you can hardly know the thing.”

Words that bring to mind a certain over-lubricated president of a nonexistent republic!

16

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Flow Launches Hottest Summer Ever

LOCAL

Team Flow and Red Unlimited revellers with Teddyson John (first from left), Ricky T and Michael Robinson (second and first from right).

We are the largest retailer in the region, offering many opportunities for growth and development and are looking for a talented and dedicated individual to become part of our dynamic team.

T

hings are really heating up with Flow for summer 2018, with the unveiling of the company’s seasonal promotional campaign.

The glitzy launch, including Carnival bands, some of Saint Lucia’s most outstanding musical talent and more, took place on Thursday evening, June 7 2018, at Flow’s Baywalk retail outlet.

Of course, Flow is the platinum sponsor of Saint Lucia Carnival 2018. This year, leading up to the ever sumptuous Parade of Bands, the company will also be collaborating with Fuzion Mas, Legends Carnival Band and Red Unlimited. For the sixth year, Flow will be partners with U4RIA and, for the second year, will support Transcend.

With the inception of the Hottest Summer Ever, Saint Lucia and the Caribbean’s leading telecommunications service provider is giving mobile customers the chance to win entry to Saint Lucia Carnival events, plus movie tickets, smartphones and free service.

Among the Saint Lucia Carnival events to which Flow customers can win tickets and VIP passes will be the National Calypso Semi-Finals, Inter-Commercial House Calypso, King & Queen of the Bands, Panorama, National Calypso Finals, and the Soca Monarch Competition, all under the Soleil umbrella, plus U4RIA, Transcend and Colour Me Red.

Any prepaid customer subscribing to a Flow Combo Plan is eligible for a chance to win. In addition, prepaid customers will be able to take advantage of double data on all packages during the promotion period, on Saint Lucia’s only 4G LTE mobile network.

Persons signing up for select postpaid plans also get up to a month of free service.

New subscribers to Flow Digital TV will also be getting a major bonus. Up to August 31 2018, every new sign-up will get a month-long free view of the Extended Basic, Family Time, Flow Sports Pack, Fans Central, A La Carte, In The Know, Entertainment Zone, HBO/MAX and Fox Movie City. That’s nearly 100 free channels!

Mobile, fixed line, broadband, and TV users will be entered for weekly $500 draws during the course of the Hottest Summer Ever promotion.

Flow customers across the board will benefit from a host of discounts and giveaways, not to mention the ability to share on the island’s first 4G LTE mobile data network.

The promotion runs until the end of August.

OECS Accountant Unicomer (Saint Lucia) Limited is recruiting an OECS Accountant with responsibility for providing assistance to the OECS Finance Director with the management of the finance and accounting functions of Unicomer OECS comprising the six OECS countries.

Main Duties and Responsibilities: • • • • • • • • • • •

Preparation of Management Accounts Review general payroll to ensure accuracy Monitoring and review of company processes to ensure control procedures are being adhered to Management of the implementation of recommendations made by external and internal auditors, agreed by management Preparation of Annual Budgets and 9+3 forecast, particularly the projection of expenses Coordinate, monitor and authorize Accounts Payables and all other payments to ensure their timely payment Assists with the management of the year-end audit process, including but not limited to; preparation of audit schedules, consol packs, financial statements and tax schedules and returns Manage tax and other statutory audits, through local finance departments Ensure company records are kept in a manner that facilitates retrieval for internal and external audits Assist with preparation of Capital/Investment appraisals Conducting periodic performance appraisals for direct reports and assessing roles to advise relevance and/ or improvements

JOB REQUIREMENTS Minimum Education/Skills & Experience: • • • • • •

Qualified Accountant with internationally recognized professional qualification Over 5 years professional experience Knowledge of finance and financial Markets Experience in managing an accounting function in a medium/large company or exposure via audit experience Strong negotiation skills Commercial awareness

Desirable Specialized Techniques/Knowledge: • • • • • • •

Computer literate with significant strengths in the use of Microsoft Excel Knowledge of finance and financial markets Understanding of listed company operational procedures and legal requirements Knowledge of IFRS Knowledge of tax and other statutory regulations Experience in a retail Environment Knowledge of accounting, inventory and POS software Packages

Other • • • •

Ability to communicate with staff at all levels.

Excellent reporting and team building skills.

Ability to motivate staff Excellent written and oral communication skills

Please email cover letter and CV to hr.unicomerlc@gmail.com on or before Friday 15th June, 2018.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

17

18 LOCAL

JUNE 09, 2018 THE STAR

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FLETCHER RECOGNIZED FOR HIS WORK IN CLIMATE CHANGE A

n international initiative, aimed at recognizing the people who played a major role in the development and adoption of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, was launched last week by Christiana Figueres, the former director of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

The project, called Profiles of Paris, seeks to tell the stories of the people who made the Paris Agreement possible. Among its stated objectives: (i) to inspire leaders everywhere, by showing them what was achieved and help them lead, and (ii) present the Paris Agreement as a

shining example of the success of multilateralism and what is possible when we work together.

Saint Lucia’s former Minister of Sustainable Development, Dr James Fletcher, played a pivotal role in the negotiations that led to the historic adoption of the Paris Agreement in December of 2015. He led negotiations on behalf of the Caribbean and served as one of a small group of ministerial facilitators charged with the responsibility to achieve consensus on the various elements of the text of the agreement. The Profiles of Paris project recognizes the sterling contribution of Dr Fletcher to the Paris Agreement

and tells the story, in his own words, of his involvement in the negotiations.

Some of the other people who are recognized in the Profiles of Paris initiative are former US Vice President Al Gore, former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, head of the United Nations Development Program Achim Steiner, CNN journalist Christiane Amanpour, former President of Mexico Felipe Calderon, President of the World Bank Jim Yong Kim, actor and UN Peace Messenger Leonardo DiCaprio, His Holiness Pope Francis, and founder of the Virgin Group Sir Richard Branson.

The significant contribution of Dr James

Fletcher to this historic global treaty can best be summarised in his own words, as featured in Profiles of Paris: "I left Paris immensely proud of the fact that, together with a small group of individuals, I had helped bring to life the words of Margaret Mead: 'never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing that ever has.'"

You can read Dr Fletcher’s Profiles of Paris story, and the stories of the other men and women who helped to change the course of the world on climate change, at the website www. profilesofparis.com.

The former Minister of Sustainable Development is featured in an international project, Profles of Paris, for his contribution to the 2015 Paris Agreement.

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THE STAR

KIM’S KORNER

Get Pumped Up to Jump UP C

arnival season is again happily upon us, with just five weeks to get in shape, to improve your stamina and endurance for the carnival route and take steps to minimize the risk of the most common injuries. For the next six weeks you need to focus on your health and fitness. If you are only just starting your countdown to carnival get-fit campaign, you are cutting it fine, so forget the zero carb diets and killer workouts or any other insane weight loss/get fit gimmicks; focus on your diet and a sensible exercise plan.

• Eat healthily Start now by adopting a healthy eating plan, basing your calorie intake on your daily needs and activity levels. Try to balance your carbohydrate, protein and sugar intake and remember the old saying 'Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper'. By balancing the size of your meals this way, you are more likely to burn off excess calories than store them. Eating a big meal at night can affect your digestion and absorption.

• Work out Adopt a 7-day plan. Be sensible and do not over-train; build up your routine gradually.

Day 1: Aim for 30 minutes of cardio, either cycling, running, skipping or jumping jacks, or anything that raises your heart rate. If you cannot manage 30 minutes without breaking into a mad sweat and panting like somebody stole all of your air, try one minute of cardio, followed by one minute of marching on the spot (or walking, if out on the road) and gradually increase the time spent on your chosen cardio activity until you no longer rely on your one minute cardio breaks.

Day 2: Upper body workout.

Using hand weights, resistance bands or water bottles filled

LOCAL

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

JUNE 09, 2018

The only way to get the ideal carnival body this late in the year is to diet and exercise consistently and safely!

with sand or stones, perform 2 sets of 30 reps of bicep curls, triceps kick backs, overhead press and push-ups. If you are unable to perform 30 reps with weights, don’t give up, just continue without weights, gradually building up until you reach your goal.

Day 3: Work those core muscles of the back and abs.

Repeat 3 sets of 20 reps of back extensions, crunches and bridging with leg lifts. For increased intensity, add planks and side planks to your routine, holding for up to 5 minutes.

Day 4: Time to focus on the lower body. Repeat 3 sets of 20 reps of squats, forward lunges, side lunges and calf raises. For increased intensity, use hand

weights.

Day 5: Repeat your cardio routine.

Days 6 and 7: Go for a nice long brisk walk. Your feet need practice, too.

And, of course, remember to drink plenty of water during the day and get at least 7 hours of sleep every night.

So now your body is ready for jumping up and wining down so what else can you do? Well, the most important things to avoid are sore feet, sunburn and dehydration.

Sensible footwear: You have your costume all ready, to shine on the day, but pay attention to what you wear on your feet.

It’s tempting to finish off your costume with a pair of fancy shoes but remember you will be walking (or probably dancing) your way along the route so choose shoes that will provide comfort and support and not leave you with sore feet and blisters. Do not leave those shoes sitting in the cupboard, wear them now so your feet adjust.

Hydration: It’s party time and the streets will be lined with beers and spirits but remember it’s important to keep hydrated so swap alcohol and sweet drinks for plenty of water.

Sunburn: It’s not just fairskinned people that can get burned.

Follow these simple suggestions for a safe and injury-free carnival and remember to start your fitness campaign early.

If you currently have an injury or any health problems, see your healthcare provider or physiotherapist before undertaking an exercise programme or taking part in carnival.

Kim Jackson is a UK-trained physiotherapist with over 20 years' experience. She specializes in musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction, including back pain and sciatica, stroke and other neuro conditions plus sports physiotherapy, having worked with local, regional and international athletes and teams treating injuries and analyzing biomechanics to improve function and performance. She is registered with the Allied Health Council and is a member of PASL. She currently works at Bayside Therapy Services in Rodney Bay, www.baysidetherapyservices.com

19

SAINT LUCIA TOURISM AUTHORITY APPOINTS NEW DIRECTOR OF MARKETING CANADA

Jeanette Faria will present Saint Lucia to potential tourism customers in Canada.

T

he Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) has announced the appointment of Jeanette Faria as Director of Marketing, Canada. Faria, President of JF Marketing, will support the marketing efforts of the SLTA as part of a leading, national strategy to reposition the destination to Canadians.

With almost 20 years of industry experience, Faria brings a wealth of knowledge to the SLTA having previously worked as Account Manager for the US Virgin Islands and North Carolina. Faria currently is the Canadian lead for The Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel. Throughout her career, several international destinations have seen an increase in visitor arrivals from Canada, in addition to achieving a stronger brand identity under her leadership.

In her new role, Faria will be responsible for developing and executing a strategic marketing plan targeting consumer and the travel trade through product launches, training seminars, marketing initiatives, and national advertising campaigns.

"I am so excited for the opportunity to represent such an exotic destination," remarked Faria. "I am looking forward to working with all of our partners to build longlasting relationships.

"Saint Lucia is the perfect destination for weddings and honeymoons; there’s no shortage of sites to explore!

The island caters to wellness travellers, families and those in search of adventure, with a variety of breathtaking waterfalls, the healing powers of the Sulphur Springs, world famous dive sites, and the majestic Pitons”.

“We are very excited to have Jeanette join our team,” said Agnes Francis, Executive Chairperson of the SLTA. “Canada is an important and growing market for Saint Lucia. Over the next five years Saint Lucia is set to see an increase of 50% in our product offering. Jeanette’s expertise in the travel industry will play a pivotal part in our mission to reach new Canadian visitors.”

Faria can be reached by email at jfaria@stlucia.org or by telephone at (416) 788-4482.

20 ENTERTAINMENT

JUNE 09, 2018 THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

‘Vibes on the Island’ . . . hit or miss?

Keryn Nelson

W

hen the purpose of a fun night out is to raise funds for charity, it is like adding icing to an already well-frosted cake!

Sunday’s Vibes on the Island, at Pigeon Island National Park certainly proved a delectable treat. Hosted by the Sandals Foundation, the event successfully attracted a dense and particularly diverse crowd, due, in part, to the night's assorted performer line up.

Barrington Levy, though he was reportedly grazed by a bullet in the back merely four days earlier, opened the show, blasting his audience back to the past with a slew of his hits: 'Be Strong', 'My Woman', 'Work', 'Too Experienced' and others. Levy, who at 54-yearsold sounds as great live as he does on his records, performed for a crowd of enthusiastic locals and foreigners, most of whom committedly sang along to every lyric throughout the singer’s set. Levy interjected messages of love and unity into his hour-long gig and, despite a hearty thank you to his receptive audience before his departure, was summoned back onstage via uproarious encores. He topped off his performance with a zealous, lengthened rendition of the 1993 hit 'Vice Versa Love'.

Next up, DJ Hyper D and DJ Sir Lancealot stuck to the old school theme. “If you’re over the age of 23, let me see you raise your hands!” bellowed Sir Lance through his microphone. When he saw the jungle of pumping fists he added: “Then you’re old enough to appreciate this tune right here!” The tune was Beenie Man’s 'Romie' which rang through the park via surround sound speakers. Dancehall classics from the late 80s to the early 2000s continued until the DJs finished off with a local favourite, Blackboy’s 'Fire'.

The temperature skyrocketed from there.

When the music ceased the night’s MC, Mareen Alexander, stomped on stage with a look of desperation etched into her eyebrows. She was annoyed that Fire had been cut short

D’ Fun Machine himself, Ezra!

Few people in this world can make turquoise hair look good but Spice is one of them.

King Arthur saved the night when Spice took flight!

and wanted to keep the party going. With her exaggerated look of desire, she called for a replay while warning her daughter, who stood attentively in the front row, that despite what she was about to witness, discipline would continue as per usual at home. The eager MC readied herself with that identifiable Caribbean girl squat, Blackboy’s 'Fire' returned, cueing the MC's waist and rear end to tick tock to the beat. It only lasted a few seconds, however, then it was back to the night’s scheduled programming.

Dancehall Queen and cast member of popular American reality show Love & Hip Hop, Spice later made her way onstage with her ample curves hugged tight by an emblazoned body suit. She claimed she could not herself dance, by way of explaining the presence of Nutmeg and Cinnamon—her two dancers in black leotards, suitably branded “Team Spice”.

Yet, there was more spice to be had—not on stage, however.

The singer lowered herself to a chair conveniently placed at the foot of the podium and, with a raised arm harnessing Moses-type powers, she parted the crowd. A path was cleared before Spice leapt down to seek the willing: ladies who would show off their best dance moves. After a serious session of rump shaking, Spice returned to the stage

A STAR studded photo!

Ain’t nothing stopping Barrington Levy!

to perform her catalogue of hits, all the while treating the audience to messages of girl power, a dance-off and a segment where girls were made to prove their loyalty to their absent boyfriends by answering spontaneous questions about their partners, spewed at them at lightning speed. Nearly 30 minutes in, Spice announced her performance was coming to an end. Shocked gasps rose up from the audience.

It didn’t help matters when Spice explained that it was all she could manage, since her performance was censored.

She left amidst shouts for more, to no avail. The MC came on stage to deliver the sad news that Spice would not be back.

King Arthur eased the pain, first with his regional hit 'Who I Am'—the Looshan version—then into a series of soca from across the Caribbean. Sedale Semi, Superman HD and Ezra d’ Fun Machine came on in turn, spinning a frenzied crowd determined to keep the party

going. The night ended with Ezra’s performance, which was accented by crowd sauntering stilt-walkers, fire-eaters and skilled dancers, with the singer beckoning the audience to “swim his way”.

In a nutshell, the Sandals Foundation’s first episode of Vibes on the Island in Saint Lucia was a success. Proceeds from the night will be donated to the Faces of Cancer support group and the Salvation Army Child Centre in Castries.

Dancer Cinnamon shows off her aerial skills!

Only when feting, will an invisible backrest work as a resting spot!

When grass won’t do!

THE STAR

LOCAL 21

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JUNE 09, 2018

WALK 4 A CAUSE 2018 RAISES $93,000 for SLBWA Club GAR.

Club GAR introduced for the first time the Club GAR Hall of Heroes, a recognition to be given to persons who go above and beyond in service to the community and country.

It was quite a surprise for Mr. Avril who was selected unanimously by the organising committee as the first inductee into the Club GAR Hall of Heroes.

As part of the selection for the award, the Club researches the history of the organisations and the work done by the key

ECONOMIC REFORMS REQUIRED IN BARBADOS

Walk 4 A Cause 2018 far exceeded Club GAR and Digicel’s fundraising expectations.

(Photo: Anwar Brice for Club Gar)

T

he Club GAR and Digicel Walk 4 A Cause 2018 raised money and awareness for the St. Lucia Blind Welfare Association. The closing ceremony, held on Thursday June 7, 2018 at the J Q Motors showroom in Choc, was an opportunity for Club Gar to report on the walk and hand over the funds raised from the charitable event.

Walk 4 A Cause 2018 was the most successful of all five

annual walks hosted by Club GAR. There were over 1,100 participants in the Walk which took place on Sunday June 3 2018. Cause Captain for this year’s walk, Gregory Joseph, commented, “Not only did we have the largest number of participants, the response on a national level was so positive that we were able to meet and exceed our targets.”

The amount that the Club intended to raise was $40,000

but, in the end, the total available to the SLBWA, after all expenses, was $93,300.

Founder of Walk 4 a Cause, Anthony Bristol, stated, “This year’s success can be attributed to the cause, the sterling support of our corporate sponsors, in particular our title sponsor, Digicel, the marketing efforts and hard work of our team members and, importantly, resounding support and participation from the public.”

The St. Lucia Blind Welfare Association was on hand to receive the cheque, represented by the recently elected president, Glen Simon, and Director of the SLBWA, Mr. Anthony Avril. The funds raised will be paid to the National Community Foundation for the benefit of the SLBWA who will be able to draw down on the funds in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding between the NCF, SLBWA and

Flow and Même Bête make a mom happy

M

other’s Day may have come and gone, but the island’s leading telecommunications service provider is still wowing moms. An adoptive mother from Dennery is the winner of the Mother’s Day promotion from Flow and Même Bête.

Norita Jn Marie Louis, a resident of Richfond, Dennery, and an employee with Pan American Life, was delighted to discover that just by activating a TopUp of $15.00 or more on her prepaid mobile account, she was the winner of a one-ofa-kind Même Bête designer bag.

The winner was visited at work and presented with her prize by Adriana Mitchel-Gideon, Flow Saint Lucia product manager for broadband and TV, herself a mother of two.

Flow prepaid customers continue to benefit from being on the fastest, most reliable and best network in Saint Lucia.

Every $15 TopUp automatically entitles the customer to 2GB of data for FREE the following Sunday.

Norita Jn Marie Louis (right) receives her bag from Adriana Mitchel-Gideon of Flow.

people therein. In presenting the award, President of Club GAR, Gordon Charles, commented, “What has been achieved for the Blind and Visually Impaired by the work of Mr. Avril, the individual, family, community and national impact make him most worthy of this recognition.

We applaud his efforts and wish him continued good health and success in the future.”

Digicel marketing manager Yatsuri Marshall was on hand, along with many other sponsors who contributed and participated in the event.

T

he region, and Barbados in particular, is facing a difficult period in terms of economic reforms and this is evidenced by the fact that this island [Barbados] is third from the bottom globally in this area.

This is the word from the Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Trade, Sandra Husbands who delivered the feature address at the Excellence in Management Consulting Conference Celebrating International Consultant’s Day hosted by the Barbados Chapter of Caribbean Institute of Certified Management Consultants (CICMC) at the Savannah Hotel.

She stated that this can be felt in our companies and even in our homes. “Our region is facing one of the most difficult periods in terms of foreign economic reforms and none more so than Barbados who at the moment is third from the bottom across the world for where it is in terms of its economic reforms, and we feel it very keenly in our enterprises and we feel it very keenly in our households.”

This means that Barbadians now have to work earnestly towards getting this island back on the path of economic prosperity so that we can once again ensure that our citizens are able to enjoy the high quality of life that they were once accustomed to.

“So Barbados now has a task as to how it is going to raise economic development and to produce the type of growth that would cause our country to be able to go back to where it was, where we were punching above our weight. But it was not just that we were punching above our weight, we were guaranteeing our citizens a quality of life that was envied across the world. That is now at risk,” it was explained.

“This morning we were greeted with the news that we have experienced another downgrade and that this downgrade now puts us at D. This was not unexpected because all of the performance indicators were still heading in the wrong direction.

What is pertinent about this moment is that we have a new government that has a deep commitment to changing those indicators to taking Barbados and taking it back to where it needs to be, to grow literally a new Barbados, as indeed, in order for us to go forward, a lot of systems have to be changed, a lot of new things have to be introduced and you can see from the size of our cabinet, you can see from the throne speech that there are many initiatives that we are prepared to undertake to bring the necessary changes to what is happening in Barbados,” she added.

---Barbados Advocate

22 ENTERTAINMENT

JUNE 09, 2018 THE STAR

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Carnival Queen Pageant Goes Royal!

A

fter a most spectacular and dazzling sashing ceremony on April 18, 2018 at The Landings Resort and Spa, it is no surprise that this year’s National Carnival Queen Pageant has gone Royal!

And by that we mean the Royalton Saint Lucia Resort & Spa, arguably one of the most exquisitely modern resorts in Saint Lucia. Come Saturday June 30, nine amazingly brilliant and beautiful Saint Lucian belles will vie for the title of National Carnival Queen 2018.

“The Royalton Saint Lucia Resort & Spa could not be a more ideal venue for this prestigious affair,” remarks Lavelle du Boulay, Events Officer for Saint Lucia Carnival for Events Company Saint Lucia (ECSL). She adds, “This venue lends itself to creating elegance and glamour fit for a queen which these nine are in their own right.”

Expect an atmosphere and event of regal magnificence, from the décor to the crowning of one of these beautiful ladies as the new Carnival Queen 2018, a title that can be captured by any of the nine: Tasha Fanus—Miss Crystal

Nine ladies will make Royalton all the more regal in three weeks’ time.

Clear, Earlyca Frederick—Miss FICS, Pauline Francis—Miss Massy Stores, Camille Plummer—Miss MBC, Tember Cadette—Miss Bounty Rum, Tangie Butcher—Miss Piton Beer, Cathlina Lawrence—Miss Vybe Radio, Jevani Joseph— Miss DBS and finally, Kianna Nicholas—Miss Pierre Marcel.

Weighing in, Leila

Williams, Sponsorship and Marketing Officer for ECSL, comments, “In 2017 this coveted title of Carnival Queen was captured by Ms. Chancy Fontenelle, Miss Helen HTS/100 FM, who has carried the title gracefully for the past twelve months. We at ECSL thank her and wish her every success as she passes on this grand

Carnival Queen Heads to the Music Industry!

N

earing the end of her reign, the 2018 National Carnival Queen isn’t waiting until her final walk to remind the country of who she is! At midnight on Tuesday, Chancy Fontenelle released her first single ‘Come Close’ on her social media platforms.

The song, produced by Focus Productions, is a pop sound but features surprising vocals and tones not experienced when she competed in last year’s Queen Show. Obviously she’s been practising behind the scenes for life after carnival.

The music was written by Dellie Florenville, also known as Pearpy. Chancy said: “I mostly loved the style because it had unique tones, so I decided to pursue it!” She made her contribution in the form of lyrics and with her own voice. Chancy says she originally expected the response to be insignificant.

“However, reviews are definitely exceeding my expectations!”

Although Chancy had fun making ‘Come Close’, the production was not without its problems for her: “I was constantly asking myself: ‘Are you sure you are ready to enter this industry?’ Then I finally

made my decision after I’d undergone voice training that would permit me to do my best for this recording.”

---C.E.

privilege to one of our nine and moves forward and onward to even greater successes.”

Thomas Leonce, CEO of Events Company Saint Lucia, reaffirms one of the core objectives that drives

the team at ECSL: “With local, regional and international eyes on us, we have spared no effort in ensuring that the production value and quality of all of Saint Lucia’s national events, especially during this

carnival season, continue to live up to what is internationally accepted. We must ensure that Saint Lucia Carnival remains one of the most sought-after carnival products in the world as we continue to raise the bar, or should we say the crown, in this case.”

Tickets for the National Carnival Queen Pageant are available at an Early Bird Special of EC$80 from now until June 15, 2018 and can be purchased at The Cell Outlets island-wide. The regular ticket price thereafter is EC$100. The public is advised that no tickets will be sold at the venue on June 30, 2018 at the Royalton Saint Lucia Resort & Spa.

The National Carnival Queen Pageant is set to begin at 7 pm.

Sponsors for Saint Lucia Carnival include FLOW 4G LTE, Platinum Sponsor for the Soleil Saint Lucia Summer Festival, Caribbean Airlines, Bounty Rum and Piton Beer. Media sponsors include The Wave, HTS/Helen 100, Vybe Radio, Choice TV, DBS, Hot FM, RCI and MBC.

THE FUNNIES!

THE STAR

LOCAL

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

JUNE 09, 2018

23

GETTING TO KNOW YOU

By Michael Walker

Come build your career with Unicomer Group! A dynamic and fast paced retail organization spanning 24 countries, with over 1000 stores and 16000 talented and engaged retail professionals across Latin America, the Caribbean and USA. Unicomer Group is the owner of established brands within the Caribbean including Courts, Ready Finance, Radio Shack, Courts Optical, and Lucky Dollar.

Optometrist THE POSITION We are looking for a full time, energetic and customer centric Optometrist, who is passionate about delivering top notch customer service.

The Lombard area

1. This is the a. East Coast Highway. b. West Coast Highway. c. Gros Islet Highway.

2. The highway is heading a. west. b. east. c. southwest.

3. The area to the right of the highway is Lombard so a. the area to the left of the

highway is Mon Repos. b. the area straight ahead is Dennery. c. the area to the north is Micoud.

4. The Fox Grove Inn is a. off to the right. b. off to the left. c. behind us.

5. The last place this road passed through was a. Gros Islet. b. Babonneau. c. Praslin.

6. The next place this road comes to is a. Laborie. b. Patience. c. Micoud.

7. To the right of the highway close to the bend there might be a. a health centre. b. a police station. c. a gas station.

8. This area is generally a. commercial. b. residential. c. agricultural.

9. The houses have been built a. haphazardly. b. in strict lines. c. accidentally.

10. The road a. descends away from us. b. ascends away from us. c. is perfectly flat.

Answers: 1 a, 2 c, 3 a, 4 a, 5 c, 6 b, 7 c, 8 b, 9 a, 10 b.

A

new inter-active series of programmes from IETV to engender pride in our nation by promoting literacy and local general knowledge.

The series can be viewed on channels 118 (FLOW), 102 (Karib analogue), 32 (LIME) and on NTN.

CNN’s Anthony Bourdain dead at 61

C

NN confirmed Bourdain’s death yesterday and said the cause of death was suicide.

“It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain,” the network said in a statement Friday morning. “His love of great adventure, new friends, fine food and drink and the remarkable stories of the world made him a unique storyteller.

His talents never ceased to amaze us and we will miss him very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter

and family at this incredibly difficult time.”

Bourdain was in France working on an upcoming episode of his award-winning CNN series “Parts Unknown.”

His close friend Eric Ripert, the French chef, found Bourdain unresponsive in his hotel room Friday morning.

“Tony was an exceptional talent,” CNN President Jeff Zucker said in an email to employees. “Tony will be greatly missed not only for his work but also for the passion with which he did it.”

Stunned reactions to his

death from viewers, fellow chefs, celebrities and others swept through social media Friday morning. Author and humorist John Hodgman recalled eating with Bourdain some 14 years ago.

“He was big even then, but he took time to sit with me in Chinatown to talk ‘weird’ food for a magazine piece I was writing. He taught me that our ‘weird’ is the world’s delicious,” Hodgman wrote on Twitter. “We ate chicken feet. The afternoon vibrated with life. RIP.” ---Brian Stelter

THE OPTOMETRIST IS RESPONSIBLE FOR: • Examine the eyes and other parts of the visual system to determine patients’ needs.

• Diagnose and treat visual problems, referring patients to an Ophthalmologist if necessary.

• Prescribe spectacles or contact lenses as needed, and prescribe medications to treat eye diseases where law permits.

• Achieve targets, goals and objectives.

• Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements, safety factors, correct reading habits, and good nutrition.

• Work closely with the Optical Chain Manager to evaluate operations ensuring efficiency, productivity, competitiveness, and the achievement of strategies and goals.

THE CANDIDATE – MINIMUM REQUIREMENT • BSc in Optometry from a school accredited by the Local Medical Board/Council • Three (3) years’ experience • Experience with contact lenses will be an asset • Proficient in the use of optical diagnostic devices and techniques • Excellent communication and people skills • Must be able to work with precision • Must be well organised.

WHY SHOULD YOU APPLY? • We pride ourselves on providing the foundation for exciting, long-term careers – a home where your previous retail and customer service expertise will be truly valued and you will be given the opportunity to thrive!

• We provide a competitive total rewards package.

INTERESTED? Join us! Come be a part of a team that works together to provide customers with amazing service!

APPLICANTS ARE REQUESTED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUMES BY JUNE 15TH, 2018 TO: Human Resources Email: hr.unicomerlc@gmail.com

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

24 LOCAL

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JUNE 09, 2018 THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

SAINT LUCIA WINS TOP CTO TRAVEL MEDIA SOCIAL MEDIA AWARD

t’s official! Saint Lucia produced the best social media marketing campaign in the Caribbean in 2018!

The recognition came at the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s (CTO) travel media awards gala dinner on June 7, 2018 in New York City, as part of Caribbean Week. The island received the award for Best Social Media campaign in the “Up the Social Ladder” category for its “Let Her Inspire You” promotion. It aimed to increase awareness of Saint Lucia in Canada, the United States and the UK through a social media campaign to boost online traffic, social media followers and bookings in 2018.

Receiving the award on behalf of Saint Lucia were Minister for Tourism, Hon. Dominic Fedee; STLA Executive Chairperson, Agnes Francis; and Chief Communications Officer, Clinton Reynolds. In accepting the Award, Hon. Fedee congratulated the other nominees and thanked the CTO

for honouring Saint Lucia with the prestigious award.

“We are very happy to be receiving this award tonight,” said Minister Fedee.

“This honour is the product of the hard work the team has put in to rebrand Saint Lucia and increase its presence, especially on social media.

I want to congratulate Mrs. Francis and her team at the Tourism Authority on their vision and efforts in marketing Saint Lucia’s unique and captivating product.”

As a direct response to Saint Lucia being spared from the worst Atlantic hurricane season in Caribbean history, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority launched the “Let Her Inspire You” campaign in November 2017, to let prospective visitors know it was safe to visit the island. The aggressive social media marketing blitz aimed to raise the island’s profile on social media by developing a distinct online presence, while highlighting Saint Lucia

A beaming Tourism Minister Dominic Fedee (centre) flanked by (l-r): Karolin Troubetzkoy, CHTA President; Clinton Reynolds, SLTA Chief Communications Officer; Agnes Francis, SLTA Executive Chairperson; Karine Mousseau, President of the Martinique Tourism Authority, and Hugh Riley, CTO Secretary General.

as being untouched by the hurricanes. It also sought to arouse curiosity from prospective visitors and retain the interest of repeat travellers by showcasing the destination’s rich culture.

“We wanted to capture the imagination of every potential visitor and give them a panoramic view of what Saint Lucia has to offer, using the fastest-growing marketing tool

in the industry—social media,” Mrs. Francis stated. “The award is testament that our strategy is working, so we will continue to develop similar approaches to promote the island and increase visitor arrivals.”

The SLTA promotion included 200 unique images and 10 campaign videos, a sweepstake and visits by high profile social media influencers to push brand Saint Lucia and

increase the social media following on Facebook and Instagram. The effort also incorporated rebranding of the SLTA’s social media accounts from @SaintLuciaNow to @TravelSaintLucia to urge consumers to ‘Travel to Saint Lucia’. The new hashtags #LetHerInspireYou and #TravelSaintLucia were adopted to connect and engage with social media users and to allow

content to be discoverable more easily.

The five-month “Let Her Inspire You” social media campaign generated 11 million impressions, 20,000 sweepstake entries and a whole lot of buzz for the island. It also spiked the destination’s Facebook following by 33% and on Instagram by 21%.

The awards gala was held at the Wyndam New Yorker Hotel under the theme, “Recognizing the Media: Honouring Top Caribbean Stories” with the biggest players in Caribbean tourism attending. The CTO Travel Media Awards celebrate the very best in US and Caribbean travel journalism and reward individuals, organisations and destinations who produce and present exceptional work.

Saint Lucia’s nomination for the Best Social Media campaign in the “Up the Social Ladder” category was one of two new social media categories awarded by the CTO this year.

St. Lucia Teachers’ Credit Co-operative Ltd. Notice of Meeting

Notice is hereby given that the 33rd Annual General Meeting of the St. Lucia Teachers’ Credit Co-operative Ltd. will be held at THE GOLDEN PALM CONFERENCE CENTRE, RODNEY BAY Sunday 24th June, 2018 commencing at 11:00 a.m.

Open Session

AGENDA

1.

National Anthem 2.

Prayer/Invocation 3. Welcome Address

Close Session

1. Call to Order 2. Ascertainment of a Quorum 3. Notice Convening Meeting 4. Apologies for Absence 5. Adoption of Standing Orders 6. Reading and Approval of the Minutes of the last AGM and discussion of matters arising there

from and any intervening Special General Meetings 7. Adoption/Confirmation of Reports: a. Board of Directors b. Treasurer c. Auditor d. Credit Committee e. Supervisory Committee f. Any other Sub-Committees 8. Unfinished Business 9. Resolutions 10. Elections to: a. Board of Directors b. Credit Committee c. Supervisory Committee 11. Appointment of Auditors for the ensuing year 12. Announcements/Closing Remarks 13. Adjournment

By Order of the Board

THE STAR

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25

Garden Grove Community Crime Prevention Symposium A Success!

safe and empowered community is one where people can thrive and develop; it’s where children can take full advantage of their education and leisure time, families can grow together, and where neighbours support each other. And this is exactly what the Community Group of Garden Grove continues to undertake through its community outreach fundraising and small-scale

infrastructure development projects and activities.

With engagements in a number of activities and, of more recent, with the Marchand Police on efforts towards crime prevention in the wider Entrepot area, the group held a Community Crime Prevention Symposium on Sunday June 3, 2018 at Entrepot Human Resource Centre. The event was well

attended by the residents of Entrepot and surrounding communities, as well as by representatives from the Sunbilt and Sunny Acres Neighbourhood Watch Groups.

Remarks and presentations were delivered by the parliamentary representative for Castries East, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, a representative from security company, Fas Tech Plus, and Officer Zachary

Exploring Nuclear Technologies to foster Agriculture Sustainability in the Eastern Caribbean

A

LOCAL

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

JUNE 09, 2018

delegation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in response to a request from the OECS Commission to support the sustainable development of livestock and plant production systems utilizing nuclear energy, mounted a fact-finding mission to the OECS during the period 23-27 April 2018 as a precursor to the development of a technical cooperation package to the region.

IAEA plays a critical role as a specialized agency of the United Nations and the world’s International Centre for Cooperation in the nuclear field. The organisation seeks to promote a safe and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.

Consequently, support is provided to countries through IAEA Technical Cooperation in many areas such as health and nutrition, food and agriculture, water and the environment, energy planning and nuclear power, industrial applications and radiation technology, safety, and nuclear knowledge development and management.

Participating countries benefit from scientific visits, training courses, workshops and seminars, expert assistance, and the provision of equipment

and materials.

IAEA is also collaborating closely with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through the Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture which encompasses many subprogrammes including the Animal Production and Health sub-programme. The subprogramme intends to enhance global food security through the implementation of sustainable plant and livestock production systems using nuclear related techniques.

The OECS Commission solicited the assistance of IAEA and FAO in seven strategic areas: Capacity building to veterinary diagnostic and plant health laboratories; improved animal and plant nutrition; improved animal reproduction strategies; improved plant breeding techniques; improved plant pest risk analysis and surveillance; improved epidemiological surveillance of animal diseases; and improved methods and techniques of technology transfer.

Hence, Saul Pérez Pijuan, Section Head of the Division for Latin America and the Caribbean at IAEA, and Giovanni Cattoli, Head of the Animal Production

and Health Laboratory in the Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, visited Saint Lucia where they met with Mr. Dwight Lay representing the office of the Director General, Programme Officer of Agriculture, George Alcee and staff of OECS Commission.

While in Saint Lucia the delegation met with stakeholders from all sectors and conducted a virtual meeting with other OECS Member States and institutions. The IAEA delegation also visited the new diagnostic lab and other labs in Saint Lucia. Delegates pursued visits to Grenada and Dominica.

That first mission provided stakeholders with an opportunity to acquire knowledge about the IAEA and to discuss areas of development and technical cooperation to the region.

Discussions to finalize a regional implementation plan for the sustainable development of the region are underway.

IAEA and FAO support is timely as agriculture management remains vital for populations of the Eastern Caribbean, especially in a context of post-hurricane revitalisation.

Officer Zachary Hippolyte (left) from the RSLPF Community Relations Department with George Modeste of the Garden Grove Improvement Group.

Hippolyte of the Community Relations Department of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force. The feature address on “Situational Awareness and Crime Prevention” was delivered by former Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ausbert Regis.

In 2012, the Garden Grove Community Improvement Group

in Entrepot was established and registered with the Ministry for Social Transformation, Local Government and Community Empowerment to enhance the safety, security and welfare of residents and the environment. In keeping with the constitution of the Group, an Executive Committee and three sub-committees

were established to advance the objectives of the Group: (1) Neighbourhood Watch; (2) Welfare, Recreation and Fundraising and (3) Infrastructure, Environment and Disaster Preparedness.

The meeting generated lots of fruitful discussion and left residents quite satisfied with the information presented.

At the end of the meeting, gifts and tokens of appreciation were presented to the various speakers in recognition of their respective contributions.

These gifts were made possible by sponsors Massy United Insurance.

With closing, refreshments were offered. The Group takes this opportunity to express heartfelt thanks to its generous sponsors for providing refreshments for the event: Massy Stores, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, Windward and Leeward Brewery Ltd, Auberge Seraphine and Coco Palm Resort.

NOTICE Government of Saint Lucia Saint Lucia Solid Waste Management Authority

ENGAGEMENT OF SOLID WASTE COLLECTION CONTRACTORS The Saint. Lucia Solid Waste Management Authority (SLSWMA) as part of its mandate to improve the existing standards of solid waste collection is seeking the services of Waste Collection Contractors to provide the necessary vehicles, equipment and labour to efficiently provide this service.

In execution of the above tasks, the SLSWMA seeks expressions of interest for the COLLECTION AND TRANSPORTATION OF RESIDENTIAL AND INSTITUTIONAL SOLID WASTE to designated solid waste disposal facilities. Contracts will be for a duration of five (5) years. Tenders are currently available for the following waste collection zones.

1. Gros Islet North 2. Gros Islet South 3. Castries Outer 4. Dauphin 5. Castries Inner 6. Castries South 7. Anse La Raye/Canaries 8. Micoud 9. Vieux Fort 10. Soufriere 11. Laborie 12. Choiseul 13. Dennery North 14. Dennery South The successful tenderer will be required to operate in full compliance with relevant national and international legislation, guidelines and standards

in respect to health and safety, environmental pollution and plant and vehicle operation.

Tender documents may be purchased from the Saint Lucia Solid Waste Management Authority on Maurice Mason Avenue, Sans Souci, Castries for a nonrefundable fee of EC$150.00 effective Monday, June 11th, 2018.

The SLSWMA will hold a pre-bid submission meeting on Friday, June 22nd, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Ministry of Infrastructure Conference Room, Union, at which time all relevant information will be presented to interested tenderers.

Following this meeting interested tenderers are to submit expressions of interest in the form tender document at the address indicated below. Tenders shall be delivered to the address indicated below on or before 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 25th, 2018.

The Secretary Central Tenders Board Ministry of Finance Finance Administration Building Pointe Seraphine Castries For further information contact either the General Manager or Deputy General Manager at Telephone No. 453-2208 or Fax No. 453-6856 or email admin@sluswma.org.

22 INTERNATIONAL

JUNE 09, 2018 THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

UN reveals less than 10% of the plastic ever made has been recycled

L

ess than a 10th of all the plastic ever made has been recycled, and governments should consider banning or taxing single-use bags or food containers.

That is the damning claim that has emerged from a UN study that's been billed as the most comprehensive review of government action to curb single-use plastics.

It found that up to five trillion plastic bags are used worldwide each year. Spread out side-by-side, they would cover an area twice the size of France.

More than sixty nations are now taking action to reduce plastic pollution, according to the report.

However, policies to curb plastic waste in many nations have failed because of poor enforcement.

The report has been released on World Environment Day, which this year is based in India and is focusing on plastic pollution.

'If you can't reuse it,

refuse it' is the slogan of the report, compiled by the UN alongside the Indian government and launched this week.

Erik Solheim, head of UN Environment, said in the report: 'The scourge of plastic has reached every corner of the Earth.'

'Only nine per cent of the nine billion tonnes of plastic the world has ever produced has been recycled,' the report said.

'Most ends up in landfills, dumps or in the environment.'

China is the biggest source of plastic packaging waste, ahead of the European Union and the United States.

Per capita, however, the United States produces most, ahead of Japan and the EU.

But there are signs of action to limit plastic pollution, which harms life in the oceans, contaminates soils and releases toxic chemicals when burnt.

'Targeted levies and bans - where properly planned and enforced - have been among the most effective strategies to limit

VACANCY

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

REPORTS TO: Regional General Manager PURPOSE OF THE POSITION A multinational Corporation with operations in the Caribbean is seeking a Chief Financial Officer to manage the workflow of the Accounting Department in the Regional Office and in each island.

Key Responsibilities: • Oversee the day-to-day bookkeeping and financial management of all islands and see to it that the department is operating efficiently and effectively.

• Serve as a liaison between Island Managers and the central accounting staff.

• Serve as a liaison between NY Accounting Department and the central accounting staff.

• Ensure accurate and timely transaction entries done on real time.

• Ensure weekly bank reconciliations.

• Ensure billings are made based on approved price build ups.

• Maintain accurate receivable ledgers, reconciled with customers.

• Review customer credits prior to delivery and ensure customer is within approved credit limit; obtain approval for exceptions.

• Monitor accounts receivable collection targets vs. actual collections of each island.

• Monitor, maintain and provide oversight of regular accounts payables for each island.

• Review requests for weekly fund transfers and ensure validity of covered disbursements.

• Validate and approve customs duty computations prior to payment.

• Prepare/ review adjustments for monthly closings, including but not limited to Job Responsibilities • inventory adjustments to physical count, accruals, reconciliation adjustments, and prepaid freight and duties.

• Monitor capital expenditures if within budget of each island. Obtain proper approval for exceptions prior to disbursement.

• Prepare, assist in budget forecasting and monitor actual financial performance of each island against approved budgets. Obtain explanation for budget variances.

• Implement and maintain accounting policies and procedures including spot testing of financial controls.

• Liaise with internal and external auditors for the

overuse of disposable plastic products,' the report said.

Elisa Tonda, who leads the UN Environment's Sustainable Lifestyle programme, said more than 60 countries had bans or charges on single-use plastics such as bags or polystyrene containers.

Thirty per cent of countries found sharp drops in plastic bag consumption in the first year after imposing restrictions, while twenty per cent saw little or no change.

In half of the cases, however, governments failed to gauge the effects of restrictions, the report said.

Among its recommendations, the report called for better sorting of waste and recycling, economic incentives to promote ecofriendly alternatives to plastics, education of consumers and promotion of reusable products.

The report also found other cultural side-effects. In South Africa, plastic litter is jokingly referred to as 'the new national flower'.

preparation of interim and year-end audits.

• Compile and analyze financial information for the preparation of financial statements.

• Provide financial and relevant information for feasibility studies conducted by NY; assist in feasibility studies if necessary.

• Ensure financial records are maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and procedures.

• Ensure all financial reporting deadlines are met including the weekly monitoring reports on sales, receivables and bank reconciliations.

• Ensure accurate and timely submission of monthly, quarterly and year end reports • Resolve accounting discrepancies and irregularities.

• Analyze and advise on business operations including revenue and expenditure trends, financial commitments and future revenues.

• Travel to Islands as needed to ensure financial goals are met and complied with.

• Update management on IT issues in the islands and recommend solutions.

• Set expectations and targets regarding tasks and deadlines.

• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned from time to time.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE • Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance, ACCA or CPA preferred • With minimum of 5 years of public or private accounting experience, required.

• Extensive knowledge of generally accepted accounting practices and principles and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) • Strong organizational, interpersonal and analytical skills, required.

• Demonstrated abilities in problem solving, proficiency in written, analytical and verbal communications, required.

Proficiency in spreadsheet applications and computerized accounting systems, such as ACCPAC is required.

• Demonstrated qualities of being thorough, detail oriented, highly organized, analytical and responsible.

SEND APPLICATION TO: LEVERAGE MANAGEMENT CONSULTING POSITION FOR CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER MONGIRAUD, P.O. BOX 2000 GROS ISLET, SAINT LUCIA EMAIL: EMPLOYMENT@LEVERAGEMGT.COM DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: JUNE 18, 2018

In Ireland, windblown plastic bags caught in trees are referred to as 'witch's knickers'.

Plastic is encroaching on ecosystems and environments around the world.

Divers uncovered a plastic bag 36,000ft (10,898m) below the surface of the Pacific in the Mariana Trench, the world's deepest ocean trench.

The find, made more than 620 miles (1,000km) from the mainland, reveals the true horror of plastic pollution in the world's oceans, environmental experts warn.

The carrier bag in question was found deeper than 33 Eiffel towers, laid tip to base and was spotted on May 20, 1998.

The plastic bag was singled out as the deepest and most extreme example of ocean debris uncovered by the research team scouring three decades of evidence.

---Reuters

Court: EU states must recognize foreign same-sex marriages

T

he EU's top court, in a landmark ruling for gay rights in Europe, said on Tuesday that Romania must grant residence to the American husband of a local man even though Romania does not itself permit same-sex marriage.

In a case which has highlighted social differences between western Europe and a more conservative, ex-communist east, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled that Romania must accept the validity of the mens' 2010 Belgian marriage and treat American Clai Hamilton as Adrian Coman's spouse under EU law.

The case did not touch on the freedom of member states to set their own matrimony laws, although campaigners have called on Brussels to push states to legalize same-sex marriage as a fundamental human right. Rather it upheld rights of EU citizens to move freely across the bloc along with their families.

"Although the member states have the freedom whether or not to authorize marriage between persons of the same sex," the judges said, "they may not obstruct the freedom of residence of an EU citizen by refusing to grant his same-sex spouse, a national of a country that is not an EU member state, a derived right of residence in their territory."

The case arose because Hamilton's right as a non-EU citizen to live in Romania permanently was dependent on his status as Coman's spouse. Coman challenged a Romanian decision to limit Hamilton's residence to a three-month visa and a Romanian court referred the matter to the ECJ in Luxembourg.

Coman welcomed the ruling: "We can now look in the eyes of any public official in Romania and across the EU with certainty that our relationship is equally valuable and equally relevant for the purpose of free movement within the EU," he said.

The deputy leader of the liberal bloc in the European Parliament, Sophie in 't Veld, said: "This is fantastic news and a landmark opinion for rainbow families. Freedom of movement is a right of all EU citizens. It cannot be restricted because of whom they love."

---Julia Echikson for Reuters

SPLASH ISLAND WATER PARK ST LUCIA is seeking bright, ambitious, customer service focused individuals to join our team.

Vacancies exist for:

CERTIFIED LIFEGUARDS Applicants must possess • Lifeguard Certification, or Bronze Cross Certification (as a minimum requirement) • Excellent communication skills • A warm, approachable attitude

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Applicant must possess • Strong communication and writing skills • Passes in Math and English • Ability to work independently • Passion for working with people, especially kids • Love for the outdoors • Accounting experience, Sales Experience (are an asset) Weekend and Holiday work is required Please send your resume and cover letter to

info@saintluciawaterpark.com no later than Saturday 30th June 2018.

THE STAR

CLASSIFIED 27

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

JUNE 09, 2018

PROPERTY FOR SALE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS The Events Company of St. Lucia Inc. invites reputable organizations to submit proposals for the provision of the services below.

These services will be for Roots & Soul (August 31 to September 2) which forms part of the Soleil Saint Lucia Summer Festival 2018.

Bar Management Catering Services – Artiste, Production, VIP Crash Barriers Customs Brokerage Event Décor Ground Transportation Electrical Installation (Temporary) Mobile Containerized Washrooms Photography Plumbing Road Side Cleaning Services Security VIP Shuttle Services Temporary Structures – Tents & Stage Travel Services Venue Cleaning Please contact Events Company of St. Lucia Inc. for detailed guidelines and submission details for any of the above-mentioned services.

E-mail Address: admin@eventssaintlucia.com Tel. # (758) 458-6076 The deadline for receipt of proposals is Friday, June 29, 2018

Property for sale in Soufriere 2600 Sq ft.

4-Bedroom, 1 bath, laundry/ utility extension. Great location close proximity to all available amenities.

Potential for commercial use Serious buyers/ enquirers only Call:

286 6190

VEHICLE FOR SALE Silver Honda CRV, 1996 model good condition.

Best price! Best offer!

Please call Mobile: 730 1844 or 720 5046 For viewing

FOR RENT One fully furnished apartment with two air condition bedrooms, one bathroom in Caye Mange, Monchy.

For long term rental, king-sized beds, beautiful garden, water tanks, solar water heater, cable, water and internet included.

Contact Joanne at

715 3594 / 286 3890

FOR RENT 2 Bedrooms one Bath fully furnished house with laundry room downstairs and storage situated in Phase One, Beausejour, Gros Islet.

Lovely view of the stadium. $2,000.00 water included

Call: 520-1444

VACANCY NOTICE

CONSULTANCY SERVICE FOR LAND SURVEY WORKS

COMMUNITY LIAISON OFFICER

Invest Saint Lucia (ISL) is executing a Land Rationalisation Project in the unplanned communities located in the south of the island. To commence the process, the Agency requires the services of Land Surveyors to undertake topographic/occupational survey works. ISL intends to pre-qualify licensed land surveyors and their surveying teams with 10 or more years of professional experience to execute these works in the following areas:

Invest Saint Lucia is seeking applications from suitably qualified persons to fill the post of Community Liaison Officer. The suitable candidate will work with the Land Rationalisation Project team and with community members within the project areas.

Duties and Responsibilities: • Conduct interviews and meetings/ consultations with community personnel.

• Conduct socio-economic surveys, compile, process and collate data for review.

• Assist with the co-ordination of activities related to the project.

• Provide relevant socio-economic information for decision-making.

• Provide guidance and advice to residents in the targeted communities.

• Provide administrative and clerical support.

• Assist in the identification of all lots in all communities.

• Provide guidance to Community Assistants as required • Prepare weekly, monthly and quarterly progress reports.

related field plus three to five years’ experience in community work.

• Excellent communication and Interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team • Ability to plan and organize work and prepare accurate and concise reports.

• Sound knowledge of Microsoft Office, in particular Microsoft Word and Excel.

• Working knowledge of Auto Cad. • Excellent command of creole is essential.

Applicants for the post should submit a Résumé including two letters of reference and certified copies of relevant qualifications to: VACANCY FOR COMMUNITY LIAISON OFFICER ATTENTION: SENIOR MANAGER HUMAN RESOURCES Invest Saint Lucia 1ST Floor, Heraldine Rock Building Waterfront, Castries, P. O. Box 495 or via email at info@investstlucia.com Deadline for submission of applications is Friday 15th June 2018.

Qualifications and Experience: • Associate degree/Diploma in Business Administration, Social/Community Work or

Only applicants who meet the required qualifications and experience will be acknowledged.

Contract Group Group 1

Group 2

Group 3

Group 4

Group 5

Contract Name Occupational Survey in Lumiere & La Pelle/Dennery Occupational Survey in Pierrot & Grace 2/Vieux Fort Occupational Survey in Grande Ravine/Dennery Occupational Survey in Grace 1/Vieux Fort Occupational Survey in Despinoze & La Resource/Dennery

Persons interested in providing services for any of the above contracts are invited to submit a statement of capability that should comprise the following: • Qualifications, experience and technical competence of the Land Surveyor and the proposed team.

• Resource capacity to undertake the contract.

• Experience working on projects of a similar nature (Land Rationalisation).

• Financial capability of the proposed firm.

• Litigation history.

Note that applications may be made to pre-qualify for only two of the above contract groups. A Statement of Capability must be submitted in sealed envelopes clearly marked “Statement of Capability for [contract group and name]” and must be delivered to the Senior Manager Human Resources on or before Friday 22nd June 2018 at the following address: ATTENTION: SENIOR MANAGER HUMAN RESOURCES Invest Saint Lucia 1st Floor, Heraldine Rock Building P.O. Box 495, Waterfront, Castries or via email at info@investstlucia.com Pre-qualified applicants will be supplied with detailed Terms of Reference and invited to submit technical and financial proposals to carry out the contracts. It is expected that the services will be required during the period July 2018 to February 2019.

Only applicants who pre-qualify will be acknowledged.

SATURDAY, JUNE 09, 2018

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