early photo showing an
byDAYLE DASILVA
THE SAME TYPE OF FALSEHOODS presented during the construction of the Argyle International Airport is again being issued for the Port Modernization Project.
A more recent aerial photo of the affected area of the port project.
byKENVILLE HORNE
A PHOTOGRAPH that was posted last month on social media here showed an area of the Port Modernisation Project at Rose Place, Kingstown, from where a portion of the surfaced area had disappeared.
An early explanation by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves stated that the declutching of sheet piles at the port had resulted in material inside the reclaimed area being washed out to sea.
Glenford Stewart, Professional Engineer, laid bear the concerns he had about the approach to construction of the new port in Kingstown.
On March 5, Prime Minister Gonsalves said the declutching became apparent when dredging was being done outside of the sheet piles to ensure the berthing area was 40 feet deep.
During an interview on NBC Radio, March 17, Tam Smith, Project Director for AECON Group Inc., the contractors at the Port Modernization Project gave a further explanation on the issue.
He said that when AECON was doing the dredging to design depth on the front quay wall, “We realized that some of the sheet piles had declutched.”
He assured that AECON had a repair methodology and that was ongoing, and “we don’t think at this point in time, it’s a bit early, but we don’t think it’s going to affect the schedule (August 2025) at all”, said Smith on March 17.
On Wednesday 2nd April, during a New Democratic Party (NDP) press conference, Glenford Stewart - engineer and former NDP Member of Parliament for the Southern Grenadines and a Minister of Government - said that the sheet piles at the port were at 40 feet, too short, contributing to the loss of reclamation material at the site. Continued on Page 3.
Continued from Frontpage.
This was how Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves assessed and responded to comments made during a New Democratic Party (NDP) press briefing on April 2, a briefing that focused on the declutching of sheet piles which has resulted in soil loss at a section of the port project.
Glenford Stewart, engineer and a former NDP Parliamentary Representative for the Southern Grenadines and Minister of Government, joined by Daniel Cummings, also an engineer and Opposition NDP Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown, highlighted what they considered to be engineering flaws which resulted in the declutching of the sheet piles. Stewart claimed that the sheet piles were 40 feet too short saying that this was based on his calculations, and he criticized the method used for the construction of the port explaining
Continued from Frontpage.
He criticized the construction method, stating that when Port Kingstown was built in the 1960s, engineers used rip rap protection, boulders to protect shoreline structures against the seawater and built the pier on piles. “It is placed there so that the sea waves coming in, when they arrive at that location, the wave energy will be dissipated,” said Stewart.
that boulders were placed in the reclaimed land at the existing port to protect the shoreline structures.
He also raised what he considered to be the port’s inability to withstand future storms given its structure, which suffered some damage during Hurricane Beryl.
But Dr. Gonsalves rebutted these and other ‘concerns’, referring to a comprehensive report from the Project Implementation Management Unit, made available to him by Lensky Douglas, Port Project Manager (Ag).
The report indicated that the sheet piles were installed to the correct design depth, leading Dr. Gonsalves to conclude that the statements made at the press briefing were not based on data, and the assumptions were flawed and predictions outlandish.
The report went on to indicate that the declutching of the sheet piles created gaps in the quay wall and was observed on approximately 30 percent
of the total installed sheet piles, which compromised the overall retention capability of the quay wall.
But, the global geotechnical and structural stability of the quay wall was not compromised, the report said.
The quay wall’s stability analysis and design checks for static or seismic conditions were conducted with the results showing that the overall structural stability has been maintained.
Gonsalves outlined how the rectification of the sheet piles would proceed saying that the quay wall will be recompacted to design standard with the welding of steel plates which will then be backfilled with a concrete substance known as Tremie concrete, which will seal the space and prevent any further loss of backfill material.
The contracted completed date for the project was August 31, 2025 and Dr. Gonsalves assured that the team was working with the contractor and
consultants to ensure that the rectification works were executed safely and efficiently.
Rectification work on a 24-hour schedule was currently ongoing with the welding of the plates to close the gap. Some 70 meters of the quay wall was already completed.
And while rectification work was ongoing, the nature of the work could not be easily discerned through images from a drone.
Regarding the comment about the damage done to the project during Hurricane Beryl, the report indicated that claims for damages incurred from the weather system, were being pursued by the contractor through the relevant insurance.
In addition, the cost of the repairs to the recent developments at the port was not the responsibility of the state, but was part of the contractor’s contractual obligations which they will fulfil through their insurance coverage.
“The wharf areas, or the berthing areas, were constructed on piles, so that as the waves come, the waves will move and go towards the reclaimed area where the energy dissipated, and so the wharf areas, or the jetty areas, those are left intact. The waves do not destroy the jetty or
the wharf on piles,” he added.
Stewart further said the front of the sheet piles should have rip rap protection. “Unless we do that, the next storm will see the end of this
port. This is not a warning. This is a fact of life because we see it all over the world.”
But the Prime Minister, during a news conference on Monday, April 7,
castigated the engineer for spreading falsehoods, in similar manner to what was spewed during the period of the construction of the Argyle International Airport.
Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS
IN A RARE CASEinvolving the importation of marijuana into this country, where it is grown in abundance, a 57-year-old Vincentian residing in Canada was fined $67 on Monday.
Delon Lavia was fined $30 for importing 131 grams of marijuana at the Argyle International Airport (AIA) on April 4, 2025, and $37 for possession of the drug for the purpose drug trafficking at the AIA on the same date. He was ordered to pay both fines forthwith or go to prison for three months.
Chief Magistrate Colin John handed down the penalties at the Serious Offenses Court after Lavia pleaded guilty to the charges.
Lavia’s attorney Ronald Marks told the Court, in mitigation, that Lavia, who works in the manufacturing department of the airline ‘Air Canada’, came here unexpectedly, as his mother had a stroke.
Marks said that Lavia resides in Ontario, a province
in East-Central Canada, where marijuana is decriminalized. Persons there are allowed to grow up to four plants, and Lavia harvested two.
“It was for his own personal use. He did not intentionally bring it here. It was an adventure on his part. One would ask why marijuana to St. Vincent,” the lawyer added, and referenced the saying, “It like bringing sand to the beach”. He described the matter as a rare case.
Marks noted that Lavia was very remorseful, cooperated fully with the police, pleaded guilty at the first instance, and had no antecedents.
“It was a foolish act on his (Lavia) part, and it was imported as a result of carelessness”, the lawyer explained.
Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre told the Court that amount of marijuana would take the matter into the lesser category.
Pierre contended, though, that there must have been some awareness that the drug
(left) and Laurent Isidore will answer to a total of eight charges.
ONE OF TWOyoungsters who were charged with the April 1, 2025 daylight shooting of a Diamond man close to the Girls High School bus stop, Murray’s Road, has been granted bail, even as the men have been slapped with additional charges.
Keon Hackshaw, a 17-year-old student of Ottley Hall, was granted $30,000 bail with one surety yesterday (Thursday), when he and his co-accused, Laurent Isidore, a 26-year-old labourer
was in Lavia’s luggage.
“It’s just a little bit more than quarter pound. I think this is one of the rare cases where marijuana is imported into this country where it is grown in abundance”, the Prosecutor said. He requested a non-custodial sentence, and chose a starting point of $100, based on the value.
In handing down the penalties, the Chief Magistrate considered the section of the law under which Lavia was charged, Parliament position on marijuana, the sentencing guidelines, Lavia’s early guilty plea, and the value of the marijuana with which Lavia was found which he set at $100.
The facts of the case, presented earlier by Corporal Delroy Peters showed that around 3 p.m. on April 4, customs supervisor Glendon Swift was on duty at the customs area of the AIA when Lavia arrived in the state. He was summoned to the customs are where he was interviewed as part of the routine customs
inspection process. He was asked whether he had anything to declare, and he said no. When questioned about the contents of his luggage, he said it contained sanitary products for his mother. The customs supervisor conducted a search of his luggage during which a plastic wrapped package was found containing plantlike material resembling marijuana.
Lava was questioned about it, and replied, “It is marijuana”.
PC10221 Shanzica Thomas, who was on duty at the Airport, was summoned to the customs area and the package containing the marijuana was handed over to her. She escorted Lavia to the Immigration Office and requested a further search of his luggage to which he consented. During that search, the officer found a second package wrapped with plastic. The plastic was removed revealing another portion of marijuana.
Delon Lavia speaking to reporters after he was fined in a rare case involving marijuana.
Thomas pointed out the offense of possession of controlled drugs to Lavia, arrested him on suspicion and took him to the narcotics base at Arnos Vale where the drugs were weighed in his presence.
On leaving the Serious Offenses Court on Monday, Lavia told reporters that the police had arrested him for a very small amount of marijuana while there are so many unsolved murders here. He said that marijuana is decriminalized in Ontario, and he was allowed to leave Canada with it.
of St. Lucia/Gibson Corner, returned to Court to answer to eight charges, including attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearm with intent to commit the offense of murder, unlawful use of a firearm and other firearm related offenses.
The charges stemmed from the shooting of a 26-year-old steel bender, Michael Richards of Diamond, around 1:15 p.m. on the date in question.
The duo was denied bail when they initially appeared in Court on April 3 on the charges of attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to commit the offense of murder, and unlawful use of a firearm.
But on their return to Court yesterday, five additional charges were read to them.
Hackshaw has now been charged with possession of a Taurus G2c 9mm with a license and possession of five rounds of
live hallow point bullets, one 9 mm and one SXB(20) ammunition, without a license.
Isidore is additionally charged with possession of a Smith and Wesson MP40 pistol, without license, possession of seven rounds of Live .40 ammunition without license, and giving a false name to the police, to wit, Irish James.
All eight offenses were reportedly committed on April 1.
On their return to Court yesterday, the Prosecution continued their objection to bail.
Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre told the Court that the victim, who is still warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, is on life support, and is paralysed from his neck down.
However, attorney Grant Connell, who represented Hackshaw, told the Court that his client is a form 2 student of the JP Eustace Secondary School, can
provide a surety, is not a flight risk, and there are conditions that the Court could impose in granting bail, including a curfew: seizing his travel documents and reporting conditions.
The lawyer said that the reasons the Prosecution gave in his objection to bail were not sufficient. He said that if the victim is crippled, that condition may be permanent, and if the factual matrix changes, the charges could be changed.
Chief Magistrate Colin John upheld Connell’s application and granted Hackshaw $30,000 bail on condition that he report to the Central Police Station every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and surrender his travel documents. Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit.
Isidore, who was unrepresented, was further remanded to May 12.
All the charges were laid indictably and therefore, the men were not required to plead.
Junior DeRoche took the rap in a cocaine matter that involved he and three others.
JUNIOR DEROCHE, a 28-year-old fisherman of Union Island/Chester Cottage, was fined a total of $9,000 this week for cocaine possession with intent to supply and trafficking. DeRoche was fined $6,000 to be paid in three months or one year in prison for possession of 245 grams of cocaine for the purpose of drug trafficking. He was also ordered to pay $3,000 forthwith or six months behind bars for the same charge.
Chief Magistrate Colin John handed down the penalties at the Serious
Offenses Court.
DeRoche was charged jointly with Omar Williams, 28, Jerell Myall, 23, and Akeeno Williams, 28, all being fishermen of Union Island/Lodge Village.
However, while DeRoche pleaded guilty to the charges, the others maintained their innocence, and the Prosecution withdrew the charges against them.
The facts showed that around 3:57 p.m. on April 5, 2025 Sergeant 615 Lafleur Williams acting on intelligence, headed a party of police officers from the Chateaubelair Police Station and the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) on duty about the North Western Division in search of motor vehicle PQ974.
On reaching Cumberland, Williams saw the vehicle coming from the
direction of Spring Village, heading towards Troumaca. PC487 Glasgow, who was a member of the party, signaled to the driver to stop and he complied.
The police officers approached the car, during which they noticed four men in the vehicle. Sgt. Williams also noticed that the man who was sitting behind the driver’s seat was fidgeting a lot. She told him to relax himself, identified themselves as a police officers, and informed them of their duties.
Williams questioned them about their names and addresses, and they cooperated. She also asked them if they had anything illegal on their persons or in the vehicle to declare, and they all said no.
Williams then requested a search of their persons and the car, and they consented. They were then asked to exit
the vehicle to which they complied. Nothing illegal was found on their persons, but a search of the car’s glove compartment revealed two transparent plastic bags in a zip lock bag containing cocaine. A grey small digital scale was also found with particles of cocaine residue on it.
Williams showed her findings to the men in the presence of PC Glasgow and pointed out the offenses of possession of controlled drugs and trafficking them, following which they were arrested and taken to the Chateubelair Police Station.
On Sunday, April 6, they were taken to the Narcotics bas at Arnos Vale, where the substance was weighed in their presence.
Omar Williams, Akeeno Williams and Jare Myal made no reply, while DeRoche said, “Officer the cocaine belongs to me, and the scale, is the truth I telling you…. bag that come five pounds”.
Webster Woodley is said to be released after 25 years behind bars.
WEBSTER WOODLEY, said to be 50 years old and once a resident of Villa, has been an inmate of the prison system here since 2005.
He along with then coaccused Grenadian Sheldon ‘Dutch’ Bain were convicted and sentenced to 25 years in jail on February 26, 2010, for causing the death of Peter Joseph, a taxi operator, in 2005. However, their conviction was quashed by the Court of Appeal on November 23, 2011, after the court upheld that the lead evidence in the case was prejudicial.
A third defendant, Michael ‘Syndicate’ Samuel of Calliaqua, was freed on a no case submission in November 2008.
A retrial in 2015 resulted in Woodley being sentenced, once again, to 25 years in prison. That sentence was made in April.
Woodley stood alone this time around as the case against Grenadian Sheldon ‘Dutch’ Bain
Director of Public Prosecutions, Sejilla Mc Dowall, has decided to discontinue the case against Webster Woodley.
was discontinued in January of 2015.
Woodley’s second conviction was overturned once again, on appeal.
He, however, remained on remand having also been charged in connection with the murders of two other men: Livingston Primus of Sion Hill and Sigbert Pompey who was shot in Arnos Vale.
Now, after being behind bars for the last twenty years, Woodley is set to be released after the Director of Public Prosecutions, Sejilla Mc Dowall, has decided to discontinue the charges against him.
Eyebrows were raised when it was learned that Woodley was about to be released but moreso when it was learned that he was to be confined, on release, to the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre (MHRC), commonly referred to as the mental Home, at Glen.
The assumption made by the public is that the decision to confine Woodley to the MHRC was predicated on the basis that he was mentally unstable to the extent that he needed
Sheldon ‘Dutch’ Bain was returned to his native Grenada where he is currently serving a sentence of 38 years plus, a reduced sentence from an original 80 years for a murder committed in 2008.
ongoing residential care. Some have gone to the extent to declare that the decision to send him to the M.H.R.C was because was criminally insane.
Whatever the assessment regarding his mental state, concerns have been raised regarding the MHRC’s readiness to accommodate Woodley, given the Center’s inadequacy physically and in terms of trained personnel to care for Woodley if at all he is criminally insane.
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
IS IT UNTRUE to say that we in the Caribbean grew up believing that the grass was always greener on the other side, i.e. the USA? That the USA was a beacon of freedom, prosperity and boundless opportunities, a dream destination?
Is it untrue that many who migrated to the USA did find the grass greener, advanced themselves educationally and grew to acquire wealth and status?
Is it untrue to say that many of those who worked their bones off in the greener grass were able to support families through hard economic times in their homeland and by extension contributed significantly to the GNP of their homeland?
Yes, we were not coerced by the military might of the USA but by the subtle nature of its ‘soft power’ — one of its arms being culture - cinema (movies), television, radio, literature, magazine, music — all of which reinforced the perception that the USA was indeed a land where hard work paved the way to a better life.
But, as rude as the awakening might be, we have come to realise that beneath the decoration of benevolence was a legacy, that persists today, of interventionism (invasion and destabilisation), economic coercion and exploitation (of resources and people).
And now, Donald Trump has returned as President of the USA and without any diplomacy or subtlety he has exposed this reality for all to see. Under the weight of executive orders Trump has set a new course, on issues like climate change, trade, immigration, and even alliances like NATO.
And lest we think otherwise, Trump’s “course’ will have profound implications for the Caribbean which unquestionably interfaces with USA economically, politically (though lessening) and socially.
First up is the freeze of USAid — a foreign-aid programme through which the US exerted its influence in the region.
This freeze could well lead to jeopardy in the region - in the sense that this means a freeze in funding for education, infrastructure, disaster relief that sets in a period of uncertainty in the Caribbean, an aiddependent region.
Mind you, there are some who will say that USAid was not short of the USA using the “benevolence” of aid to
maintain economic and political dominance. What’s new? Then there is Trump’s open aggressive immigration policies. He threatens to deport thousands of Caribbean nationals and impose migration restrictions. The effect of this is that the region could well face economic and social crises of unprecedented proportions.
Effect does not exclude disturbance of what is a free flow of remittances from the Caribbean diaspora in the USA to their home countries. Remittances are said to amount to billions of dollars annually with estimates for 2024 showing that figure to be US$18.4 billion.
Any interference in this flow of remittances could mean disaster for families, not to mention imbalances in the economics, since remittances make significant contributions to the GDP of the Caribbean countries.
In the case of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a figure for 2020 purports that remittances by the Vincentian diaspora accounted for 6.95% of the GDP of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
All of this speaks to CARICOM having to step up and work genuinely towards fostering greater economic cooperation to safeguard themselves against the USAid freeze and the threats to immigration from the Caribbean.
Yes, the USAid freeze will cause hardship but it also presents an opportunity for the Caribbean to rethink its economic model. Foreign aid is never free; it comes with conditions that keep us dependent; it fronts as disguise for more sinister imperialistic intentions. Caribbean nations must take decisive steps to reduce economic reliance on the US. And with the imposition of Trump’s 10% tariff on all Caribbean goods/products, all the more reason for the Caribbean to strengthen intra-regional trade. Increasing local production and developing digital economies and sustainable industries will be key.
And if any progress is to be made in tuning what spells of disaster into an opportunity, the region must also clamp down on corruption, ensuring that all available resources are used effectively rather than siphoned off by political elites.
This could be a turning point for the Caribbean. Are we up to it?
AS SOMEONE WHO GREW UP in a cozy six-hundred-square-foot home, living in a house about sixteen times that size is difficult to grasp. But that’s just my perspective. Material possessions have never intrigued me; I’m the kind who washes my car only when necessary, refusing to fret over the rain that seems to coordinate its arrival perfectly and timed to ruin my hard work. But honestly, I’m not overly concerned about the size or the price tag of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) governor’s residence, even at the staggering sum of $22 million. A quick review of the St. Kitts real-estate market would show us that the average price tag for a luxury house is currently selling between $2,000 and $2,500 per square foot. Thus, making the price tag somewhat of a bargain.
Why am I not surprised? We have become a society where material things and the desire to exhibit power in everyday life are normal and acceptable among our newly minted elites. This blatant exhibit of power is done in the faces of the populists who are craving accountability in a partial lane. When the elite’s wrongdoing is spotlighted, finger-pointing is natural among them, and the governor seems to be the obvious target. Strangely, this exercise usually ends with no one being held accountable and the story disappearing from public view.
I find it hard to believe the governor was solely responsible for this hefty price tag. From the numerous reports I’ve encountered, it’s clear that the project was sanctioned by the Board of Directors–with an initial budget of only $7 million. It’s puzzling that a board notorious for scrutinizing our expenditures could approach their projects with such nonchalance. I would have expected that an investment of this magnitude would warrant careful discussion, thorough evaluation, and approval from various levels, especially the Monetary Council–a group composed of the region’s finance ministers.
This situation raises numerous questions: Why are we now hearing about this cost overrun when this project seems about eighty percent complete? During this discussion, we were told that a decision was made not to repair the then-home of the previous governor, Dr. Venner. We were also told that this property was sold to a Russian some years ago. What was the selling price of that house? Out of
curiosity, was that an arrangement tied to the citizen-byinvestment program?
Is the newly revealed price tag accounting for necessary land development and infrastructure that hadn’t been factored into earlier discussions? Additionally, I wonder how much we’re currently paying to lease the temporary residence for the governor. More fundamentally, why does the board feel compelled to provide a house to the bank governor and such an extravagantly sized home? The answers to these questions could shape one’s view on whether this is a prudent expenditure. Some may see this as a continuation of a traditional colonial mindset, where we used to bring in “outsiders” to oversee our affairs. Wary of the notion that they might develop genuine ties to our islands and people, we provided them with a home away from the people they serve.
Or are there security concerns in the region that we need to isolate our leaders from the people they serve? Is that our new concern? In this modern era where the governor is most likely to come from one of the member nations, do we still need to provide a home? Could we attract the same compliant individuals from the region if we revise the competition package to cover the cost of housing or offer a housing allowance? As a manager, I remember that when I was given a choice between a government-issued luxury car or a car allowance, I chose the car allowance and purchased a much more modest car.
As for the letter sent by Prime Minister (PM) Gonsalves, I will refrain from delving into some of the issues he raised except to ponder why he chose to address a letter to Antigua’s PM Browne, the incoming chairman rather than the current chairperson, Mrs. Cora Richardson Hodge of Anguilla. Isn’t she the most appropriate individual to address such pressing concerns? Or is there an underlying assumption that a woman cannot navigate the complexities of a construction project’s cost overruns? I know this cannot be true since we have a few very competent women, a “junior” senator in the Ministry of Urban Development, and a project manager overseeing one of our most expensive construction projects. Horatio.
IN MANY CASES, crimes are observed by citizens but there is a fear of retribution by the criminal, so the witnesses do not come forward.
Visible signs of crime include: graffiti on walls, excessive broken furniture in schools, broken toilets in public buildings, garbage dumped indiscriminately, everywhere, dirty streets, speeding vehicles, brandishing of wealth without any visible source of income, indiscriminate burning of garbage, cost overruns in public projects and conspicuous lack of transparency.
Noise pollution is a sound source of crime. Vehicles blasting loud music sometimes with a captive audience trying to move from one place to another, parties and public functions so loud that they rattle your internal organs and even political meetings and crusades, all exceed the safe level of sound for the human ear and may damage the eardrums. Instruments to measure the loudness of sound are downloadable as apps unto the cellphone.
People feel the effect of crime through assault and battery, whether it is in damaged eardrums, the smashing of internal organs by heavy vibrating noise, violent blunt trauma, piercing weapons and gun violence. Psychological and sociological damage caused by pollution and defective diet and lack of proper psychiatric services impact people’s outlook on life.
Secondhand smoke, marijuana, cocaine and the general abuse of legal and illegal drugs, all smell and taste of crimes being committed against the person. The laws regulating the sale of cigarettes and alcohol are blatantly being violated. Places licensed to sell “poisoning” liquors apparently open beyond the stipulated hours and have many underage customers. The indiscriminate use of pesticides by farmers who may not be able to read the labels jeopardize their own lives and those of their customers. Food vendors load their products with sugar, fat and salt ignoring the epidemic of hypertension, diabetes and kidney disease that seem to be coming upon us. Smoke from the burning of plastic and other synthetic materials, emitting poisons into our atmosphere, do not cause any alarm among law enforcers and neighbors suffer.
Finally, there is the perception that the wellconnected are immune from prosecution even when they break the law.
Anthony G. Stewart, PhD
* Has that man who is to be freed from His Majesty Prison and sent to the Mental Health Centre been assessed to be criminally insane?
* Who is fooling who about the damage at the New Kingstown Port?
* Are we moving our premier cultural festival — Carnival — further and further away from the people — the ordinary hard-working citizens of this country who make the carnival by being exponents of the various art forms and patrons to the calypso tents, mas bands, steelbands?
* Is something disastrous waiting to happen at the Community College? Is the concrete roof on a section of the college compound leaking? Is the galvanize on another section rusting and ready to be replaced?
* Why can’t adjustments be made to the registering process and voting process for people who are known to be natives of and residents of the Southern Grenadines at and after the last general election, but who were displayed through no fault (read Hurricane Beryl) of their own and had to take up temporary residence on mainland St. Vincent, so that these people can vote in the Southern Grenadines?
I AM WRITINGto register my belief that the Unity Labour Party (ULP) should be re-elected for another term, its sixth term, whenever general elections are called in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Tell me, Mr. Editor, if the truth be told, as you like to say, has the ULP not demonstrated leadership (especially through its leader Dr. Ralph Gonsalves,) vision and commitment to the development of our country?
If this is the case, it makes sense, simple sense, that we re-elect the ULP so that we can continue along the path of prosperity and progress that the ULP has set us along.
Tell me, why would we want to spoil a good thing… a good thing that has seen investments in infrastructure (airport and seaport), education (more schools and scholarships at the university level) and healthcare (Diagnostic Centre and the New Acute Care Hospital
under construction).
Not only that, but the ULP has implemented programmes that have direct impact on reducing poverty, providing housing directly and facilitating ownership of houses, creating jobs and more.
And we must not forget the expansion of roads, the construction of bridges where they never
existed and other infrastructural projects.
Mr. Editor, I believe the track record of the ULP speaks for itself. To re-elect the ULP is a guarantee that St. Vincent and the Grenadines will remain on the path to prosperity and progress.
Long live the ULP.
Jones
THE VOICESof some in the Grenadines are dissatisfied with the current administration’s efforts. However, the majority do not genuinely want a mere voice in the cabinet of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. True representation and voting for capable leaders are essential for our progress. While many may fantasize about the New Democratic Party (NDP) reclaiming power, they must confront a crucial question: Are they truly
ON APRIL 5, national and local organizations came together across the country to organize for Hands Off!, a national mass activation in defiance of the Trump-Musk billionaire takeover, and the Republican assault on our freedoms and our communities.
Hands Off! is an all-in moment for the prodemocracy, pro-worker movement– a demand, a warning, and a rallying cry that responds to the primary reasons for our mobilization, organisers said.
Scores of people took part in protests against President Donald Trump and Elon Musk across all 50 states and globally on Saturday, April 5, organized by the pro-democracy movement, in response to what they call a “hostile takeover” and attack on American rights and freedoms.
Over 1,400 “Hands Off!” mass-action protests were held at state capitols, federal buildings, congressional offices, Social Security’s headquarters, parks and city halls throughout the entire country — anywhere “we can make sure they hear us,” organizers said. “Hands Off!” demands “an end to this billionaire power grab.”
“Whether you are mobilized by the attacks on our democracy, the slashing of jobs, the invasion of privacy, or the assault on our services — this moment is for you,” the event flyers state. “We are setting out to build a massive, visible, national rejection of this crisis.”
Very little of the nationwide protests were shown on USA TV. WHY? ARE ALL OUR TV NEWS OUTLETS KISSING XYXY? FEAR?????
Provided by Paddy, NY
voting for their aspirations or jeopardizing their children’s future? The moment for an NDP Grenadines has decisively passed. Louise Mitchell would undoubtedly have made an exceptional opposition leader, yet the NDP squandered her potential by failing to give her the opportunity she deserved. Dr. Friday and the entrenched old boys’ club seem threatened by her capabilities. Weak leadership often breeds such insecurity.
Dr. Godwin Friday had a golden opportunity to fortify the party by allowing Louise Mitchell to take his seat in the Northern Grenadines while he contested in West St. George. The Northern Grenadines has traditionally been an NDP stronghold, thanks to James Mitchell,
Louise’s father. Yet, the NDP is fixated on a narrow vision centered around selling passports. The reality is that most individuals purchasing Caribbean passports are affluent and seeking opportunities in Canada, the UK, and the USA. Now, even the USA is considering offering citizenship to these same wealthy individuals through simple investments. Relying on passport sales to address the challenges in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not just misguided; it’s a disservice to our future. It’s time to rethink our strategies and redirect our efforts for the sake of our children’s future. This is the moment to strongly consider voting for the ULP.
Concern citizens
(An abridged version)
LAST WEEK (Sunday March 31st to April 7th) brought several items of good news arising from the developmental initiatives of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government. Among these were the following: (ii) The announcement by Delta Airlines that starting December 20, 2025, Delta will fly non-stop, daily to Argyle International Airport (AIA) out of Atlanta , Georgia, United States of America, over the winter tourism season; (ii) SVG received aid for the poultry industry with a delivery of 17,500 broiler chicks from the ALBA Bank of which SVG is a member, headquartered in Venezuela; (iii) Fisherfolk and seas moss producers in Bequia received vital supplies under the Hurricane Beryl Emergency Response and Livelihoods Recovery Programme through the auspices of the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations and the government of SVG; (iv) the certification of 200 fisherfolks under the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) – SVG Food Security Project of the government of the SVG; (v) the continued, and faster roll-out of the Post-Beryl Housing Rehabilitation Project, including the acceleration in the rebuilding process in Union Island with the start-up involvement of a 40-member Construction Brigade of the Guyana Defense Force; (vi) the ramping up of the roll-out of all the capital projects and recurrent initiatives of the ULP government across SVG as detailed in Budget 2025; (vii) the holding of the Diaspora Investment Promotion event in London , UK, under the auspices of Invest SVG, at which the Minister of Finance, Camillo, delivered the feature address; and (viii) the official visit of our Prime Minister, Comrade Ralph, to Romania, from which benefits are already flowing; (ix) the continued good governance of SVG, including the averting of serious criminal misconduct; and (x) enhanced regional cooperation amidst America’s tariffs.
Meanwhile, two other sets of activities buttressed, and form part of, the good news, namely: (a) the participation of Vincentians in a host of sporting and cultural activities, at home and abroad; and (b) the composite events (music, singing, dancing, speeches, and popular vending) at the ULP’s massively-attended Rally at Chatoyer’s Recreational Park at Rabacca to commemorate/ celebrate our 24th anniversary in government. And then our people, over this period, celebrate the GOOD NEWS of Christ, daily and on the weekend.
Amidst our travails, difficulties, and challenges, we must not forget THE GOOD NEWS of spiritual redemption, and the good news of earthly life, living, and production. Let us highlight a few items of the listed good news in our earthly city, SVG.
The Atlanta International Airport in Georgia, USA, is reportedly the busiest airport in the USA. It is a central hub in the southern United States. Delta, a major airline, is scheduled to start its daily flights, between Atlanta and Aryle International Airport, SVG, on December 20, 2025. This is a major boost for our tourism industry, and for travel to and from SVG by our nationals. This was the promised magic of AIA; and it is happening before our very eyes. Delta out of Atlanta means more passengers through AIA; more users of
taxis and minibuses; more guests at the hotels and apartments; more purchases of goods and services provided in SVG; more employees at AIA; more jobs in hotels and restaurants; more revenues for government; more money in the hands of hoteliers, workers, farmers, fishers, entertainers, service providers of all kinds. And so forth. All in all, a prosperous SVG!
In terms of international airline connections, SVG now has: Virgin Atlantic out of London; Air Canada out of Toronto, Canada; American Airlines out of Charlotte (North Carolina); Caribbean Airlines, Jet Blue, and American Airlines out of New York; American Airline out of Miami; and as of December 20th, Delta out of Atlanta. As the Comrade had correctly advised: “Build the AIA, and the airlines will come — Build it and they will come.”
The genius of the ULP government in building the AIA which every government hitherto, and the current opposition NDP, had thought impossible must now be fully recognised and applauded by all patriotic Vincentians. Sadly, and falsely, there are those in the NDP who still insist that AIA was not a necessity, and a milestone around the necks of Vincentians. The people must continue to punish the current NDP for its continued folly on AIA. Similarly, the people must continue to reward the ULP and its leadership for its vision, foresight, capacity, and quality governance in all matters, large and small.
And, we remind everyone that the same people who now “bad-mouth” the Modern Port in Kingstown are the very same ones who “bad-mouthed” the AIA. Daniel Cummings, Glenford Stewart; and the weakling of a “leader” Lorraine Friday, have no shame. They do not want to see real progress in SVG; they have no uplifting vision; they pull down, they cannot, and do not, build up.
The ULP government has set itself the mammoth task of assisting the people in the repairs, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of some 6,000 houses across SVG consequent upon the passage of Hurricane Beryl on July 1, 2024, and inclusive of a remainder of houses damaged by the volcanic eruptions of April 2021 which have since deteriorated. North Windward, North Central Windward, North Leeward, Bequia, and the Southern Grenadines were mainly affected, but elsewhere too. Beryl destroyed Union Island and severely battered Canouan and Mayreau.
The ULP government, Ian Wace’s Gombolimbo group in Canouan and Union Island, and home-owners themselves where able, have been doing a good job of rebuilding houses. All across SVG, some 3,000 or one-half of the 6,000 houses have been already satisfactorily addressed. Of the 143 houses in Mayreau which required attention, only seven (7) or so remain to be rebuilt/repaired. In Canouan, practically all the houses have been rebuilt/repaired. In Union Island, some 400 of the 1,000 affected houses have been satisfactorily rebuilt/repaired; and a ramping up is currently underway in union Island.
(Excerpts of Political Leader of the NDP Dr Godwin `Friday’s Presentation at the opening of the North Leeward Constituency Office.)
I WANT THIS COUNTRY to live up to its potential, where the genius of our people is evident every day in the things that we do. We are capable of much more than we have now. Much more capable.
They’re those people who try to dumb us down and to make us think that they are the smartest. They know more than everybody. And the people who used to go to school with them will tell you that they used to beat them in school. The point of the matter is this, all of us have potential, all of us have something to offer. And when we all put it together and we have a system that values the contribution of everybody, we will go much further.
They say if you want to go fast, you run alone. If you want to go far, you go together. That is what we are going to do under a New Democratic Party administration. I promise you this, dear people, that potential that we have, we want to see it realized and we will do so. We have the team in place in which to do it. When I tell you about North Windward and North Leeward, the Northern part of the country, Shevern told you just now about the plan that we have for the development of the North. Dr. Shallow told you about the plans that he has for the development here in North Leeward.
What we have envisioned is not just simply a development of the existing industries. We are talking, yes, of getting those things going, but also thinking of new industries, new economic opportunities that can transform this northern part of the country. Patel told you about the potential of tourism here. Well, why has it not been developed?
Because everybody looked down to the Grenadines and said that’s where tourism resides. But we could do it here. And what we have done, we have come up with a plan for the development. We call it the Northern Development Plan, for the northern part of the country. And that includes all the things we have spoken about, but it includes more than a vision of developing tourism.
You heard Dr. Shallow talked about the vision of having a cannabis village. I am not afraid to say that I’m in favour of the legalization of marijuana in this country. And to have that as an industry that can be done to create wealth and opportunity for our people. This is what the CARICOM Commission had recommended. And, we are working along with that to see to what extent we can get it done now and how we can do it in the future. There is a lot of potential there. We are going to create an environment in the north where you have better communication through
a ferry service from this side of the country to Owia on the other side, but not that alone.
We want to have a connection between the North and St. Lucia as well, and create the potential for economic synergies that we have not been able to imagine yet. I talked to some friends of mine and I say, who could have imagined? I couldn’t. At the time that I used to go to Grammar School, I came up on Friendship Rose back and forth. You could never have imagined that you’d have a ferry service running between Bequia and Kingstown where you have a boat almost every hour where all of this stuff is going up and down, where new businesses are created. Now, you have people going down to Bequia not just to do business, but to go to the beach to have a nice time on the weekend where the cruise ships coming in and full boatload of people going down.
You could not have conceived of it. So, let us not limit our imagination when we talk about developing the north to thinking what exists now. Think about what is possible. And that is what I want to unleash in this part of the country.
And I promise you that we will because we have the team in which to do so. You have Dr. Shallow as somebody who has proven, a person of great ability, somebody of talent and also the desire to do good in the region and here in his community. Give him the opportunity to do so. And I am sure that he will not let you down. And we will see the transformation of the communities here in the northern part of the country.
So, my dear people, I want to sum up by saying this. Listen to me. This is what we have in store. You talk about reasons why NOT to vote for the ULP. Fitz outlined them in detail, very eloquently. Well, I give you three reasons now that you VOTE for the NDP.
One, we have the better team. There’s no doubt about that. And two, we have the better plan. There’s no doubt about that. They don’t even have a plan. They just do one thing, one thing, one thing here and there. We have the better plan. And three, we have the better leader who has a vision that will transform this country. And with all of my team, we have put together the best team ever to contest elections. But only because I believe as well: not only will we win the elections, but that each member will be able to run his ministry from the day we form government, and life will begin to get better for the people throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“Out of difficulties grow miracles.” — Jean de La Bruyère (1645-1696) –French philosopher and moralist, who was noted for his satire.
SHERIDAN VOYSEA, writing in the Daily Bread Devotional of 30th March 2025 noted that, “The artist Degas suffered retina disease for the last fifty years of his life, switching from paint to pastel because the chalk lines were easier to see. Renoir had to have brushes placed between his fingers when arthritis made them clench like claws. And when surgery left Matisse immobile, he turned to collage, directing assistants to attach colored pieces of paper to a larger sheet on the wall. What followed in each case was a creative breakthrough: Degas’ Blue Dancers, Renoir’s Girls at the Piano, Matisse’s The Sorrows of the King, and other masterpieces. By adapting to their trial, beauty emerged from their infirmity.”
Society is sometimes guilty of disregarding or discarding individuals who may have birth defects or would have lost some of their capabilities due to accidents, diseases, or the aging process. In some instances, these very individuals may experience self-doubt and become recluse having incorrectly concluded that they had little or nothing to contribute to society. However, the examples appearing in the preceding paragraph provide ample evidence that it is still possible to fulfil our purpose in life after encountering such physical challenges. Individuals experiencing emotional, mental, and spiritual challenges can also be encouraged knowing that the “differently abled” can also make a positive contribution to the fabric of society.
Some regard infirmity as a source of imperfection or weakness. There was a period in history when children born with certain physical defects were discarded at birth. Others were hidden from society and never exposed to “normal education”. However, we are grateful that society has evolved to be more humane and to realise that such differently abled individuals have a right to exist and can make a positive contribution to society. Helen Keller (1880-1968) was blind and deaf at a very young age but overcame numerous challenges to become an outstanding educator, author, and activist. She was the first deaf-blind individual to gain a Bachelor of Arts degree. Nick Vugici (born 1983) was born with tetra-amelia syndrome, a rare disability characterised by the absence of limbs. He has gone on to become a sought-after motivational speaker, author, and Christian evangelist. He travels the world speaking about overcoming obstacles and living a fulfilling life despite physical challenges. Stephen Hawking (1942-2018), the world-famous physicist, readily comes to mind. He was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) at the age of 21 and confined to a wheelchair. Despite his challenges, this outstanding scientist made ground-breaking contributions to our understanding of black holes and the nature of the universe. These examples (and there are many more) remind us of the beauty of infirmity and the significant positive contribution that differently abled individuals have made (and continue to make) to education, science, technology, and life in general. The foregoing reminds us that infirmity posses its own unexpected
beauty; not the fragile cosmetic beauty that is defined by physical characteristics, but rather a deeper, more durable kind of grace that emanates from struggle and vulnerability — igniting persistence and courage to challenge the status quo and to reach deep inside to face and overcome one’s perceived limitations. It is a beauty that is entrenched in the human spirit’s ability to persist despite setbacks and adversity; revealing an inner strength that would otherwise remain concealed. However, we must recognize the significant positive impact that family members, friends, and associates would have made to their exploits, encouraging them to persist even against great odds.
The resilience of the human body and mind must be recognized as one of the most striking forms of beauty emerging from infirmity. Individuals living with mental health issues, chronic illness, or physical disabilities are regularly required to fortify their minds with a strong resolve as they pursue their noble dreams and ambitions even against the greatest odds. Their true beauty emerges as they cope with the limitations with grace and decorum even amidst chronic physical and emotional pain.
We continue to be encouraged by those individuals who, although regularly challenged by their varied limitations, demonstrate a heightened sense of compassion and empathy for others. Their vulnerability and experiences with suffering, often linked with a deep sense of gratitude, enable them to relate to others in profound ways — often demonstrating the beauty that emanates from expressions of compassion and selflessness.
In today’s world beauty is often defined by art, literature, and the media and equated with perfection, those who with infirmities offer a counternarrative. In their own way, they help to strip away the superficial forms of beauty and encourage a deep dive into the true characteristics of beauty — resilience, persistence, empathy, kindness, and so on. They remind us that when we allow ourselves to embrace people as they are, with all their imperfections, we discover a richer, more authentic beauty that surpasses appearance. We are encouraged to look beneath the surface and invited to examine and appreciate the strength and resilience inherent in all people, especially those who may be regularly marginalized due to their perceived limitations.
In a world that often values perfection, it is important to recognize and appreciate that true beauty is not confined to fragile, transient, flawless external appearance but in the depth of character and the strength to endure despite hardship. It is often in our imperfections, vulnerabilities, setbacks, disappointments, and our struggles that we discover the most valuable, enduring, and meaningful beauty that often portrays strength and grace.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
‘We are playing with politics without principle, policies without the intention to ever realise them and leadership without vision. That’s our difficulty. People go to their graves [heartbroken] from empty promises and betrayal.’ Alan Boesak, a legendary South African anti-apartheid fighter.
AS ELECTIONS DRAW NEARER, an increasingly nasty and cowardly saying is making the rounds. It is pushed by sensible people, including many who formerly supported PM Gonsalves’ Unity Labour Party. “Ralph is now ‘waste down’. He and the local and foreign parasitic elite around him are crappy, shitty, vulgar, suffocatingly undemocratic and unfathomably greedy, but there is no opposition.” Such simplistic, anti-national rhetoric is music to Gonsalves’ ears.
Are we such suckers for punishment!? Are we prepared to willingly sign on to our own dehumanisation? We cannot shirk our responsibility to the nation and further burden future generations. Most of us have recognised that the ship of state is floundering. By every important metric, people’s lives are in shambles. Only a tiny band can truthfully say that their lives have been made materially better since 2020. Yet some say if better can’t be done, let worse continue. Such utterings are the contaminated vibrations of a governing elite that finds it extremely difficult to inspire citizens. Learned helplessness is alien to our people’s history and tradition.
Our nation experienced the shortest period of organised slavery in the Caribbean before the abolition of slavery in 1834. Our people never accepted enslavement. They were enslaved but never slaves to their condition. Our forebears fought and died to protect our nation’s independence from white colonial domination in the first and second patriotic wars between 1763 and 1797.
In 1935, our people rose again in righteous indignation following the colonial legislators’ incendiary proposal to increase the tax on matches and kerosene oil. Many were shot, brutalised and jailed. Samuel ‘Sheriff’ Lewis, Bertha Butt and others rebelled without weapons to say enough is enough.
In 1975, hundreds of citizens joined in solidarity with the nation’s teachers in their demands for better working conditions and a salary increase. The Labour Party government teargassed them, but they remained defiant.
In 1981, people took to the streets in their thousands to protest two pieces of undemocratic, anti-people legislation that the autocratic premier Milton Cato had introduced to parliament.
And again in June 2000, following the James Mitchell-led NDP introduction of legislation dubbed the ‘Greedy bill’ to reward politicians and their wives with pension, gratuity and perks while it steadfastly refused to discuss salary increases and better working conditions for government employes, doctors, teachers, nurses, civil servants, (not another red cent fo dem), citizens took to the streets in a series of demonstrations that led to a shortened fourth term by the NDP.
In 2022, when the ULP government mandated the untested and dangerous vaccines for some workers, Vincentians refused to support the government’s effort to stigmatise and dismiss the workers. In a show of solidarity, and against the advice of Gonsalves and Friday, SVG had the lowest vaccination rate in the entire Caribbean.
Vincentians are reminded of this glorious history because citizens did not sit back and say there was no opposition. At each turn, they either took matters into their own hands or joined in solidarity with other civil society organisations to protest what
was wrong and oppressive. They did not wait for recognised groups, organisations, or individuals to lead them or beg them to join in defence of their interests.
What has happened since? Who or what has dulled our consciousness?
Any patriot, nationalist or revolutionary who lines up behind Gonsalves’s party on the basis that he is better than the official opposition is in a state of steep moral decline. Why would those who claim a superior level of consciousness encourage citizens to continue to participate in their own dehumanisation? Did citizens’ efforts to improve their lives and the nation’s future abruptly stop on March 28 2001, when the Unity Labour Party came to power?
Have we stopped to ask what national hero Chatoyer would think of our complicity in selling off our country’s resources at a fire-sale price and the debasement of our youth, especially young women? Would Nelly Ebou, the enslaved African heroine, who paid with her life by striking a blow for freedom by killing the white overseer on a Mayreau estate, parade in front of Gonsalves, as the presentday sambos do?
What about Samuel ‘Sheriff’ Lewis, the leader of the 1935 rebellion who embraced Haile Selassie and celebrated Ethiopia’s crushing defeat of the white Italian invaders, George Mc Intosh, an earlier crusader for the religious rights of black men and women to practise the Shaker religion, or ‘Pappy’ Joshua, who taught impoverished Black plantation workers that their beauty lies in their appreciation of their ‘somebodiness’? Would they remain silent in the face of the dismal conditions in our country? Reimagining freedom of necessity commands us to look again at what we hold sacred. Is Gonsalves really the Blackest prime minister in the Caribbean? Was he ever? Is he the most progressive we have ever had? What has his ‘blackness’ and progressive policies brought us? It is a fact of daily life that post-colonial SVG remains stuck in a colonial mindset. Queen Victoria, who died 124 years ago, still owns the park where our main independence event is commemorated. The main roadway leading out of Kingstown is named after Charles Murray, an arch reactionary, racist colonial governor. Have the government’s policies positively impacted poverty, unemployment, and crime rates or reduced the depths of helplessness and hopelessness that pervade the land? It’s a fact of life that the improvements witnessed in the last quarter century amount to tinkering at the margin, nothing revolutionary or transformative. All baby steps forward were opportunistically transactional with an eye to vote-grabbing. Is there a single distinctive characteristic that positively sets SVG apart from any other Caribbean country?
The World Bank says the per capita income in SVG in 2023 was US$10,540, which is EC$28,458. Surely, most Vincentians could only dream of making this amount each year. The foregoing proves why we cannot buy the thoughtless argument that there is no opposition. To embrace the no-opposition viewpoint is to make ourselves invisible and unworthy. We are the future we have been waiting for. Every serious Vincentian must understand that they are the opposition and commit to ending Gonsalves’ stranglehold on our country. Whenever they come before the next election, eat them out, drink them out, and vote them out. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions
trading partners, and Caribbean governments are trying to understand what it means for their already vulnerable economies, while bracing themselves for the ripple effects.
“We need to work these things out,” Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Stuart Young said Thursday. April 3, during a media briefing in Port of Spain.
Young, in the midst of elections campaigning, said it was premature to make any declarations about how the 10% tariffs on all exports into the United States will affect his oilproducing nation, a major supplier of liquefied natural gas to the U.S. He noted that other countries in the world are also dealing with the effects of the reciprocal tariffs, and the U.S. is not the only market for his country’s energy products.
Saturday while higher tariffs take effect the following Wednesday. The government of Jamaica has taken note of the new tariff regime, she said on her X account Thursday. “Please be assured that we appreciate the public’s need for further information and clarity and will update the business community and the wider public accordingly.”
Jamaica, Trinidad and 11 other independent countries in the Caribbean Community regional trade bloc known as CARICOM face a baseline tariff of at least 10% on all imports into the U.S. But one country, oil-producing Guyana, has been slapped with 38%.
In a statement, International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said the Washington-based lender to nations said the tariffs “clearly represent a significant risk to the global outlook at a time of sluggish growth.
by JACQUELINE CHARLES-
An abridged version
Source: Miami Herald
PRESIDENT Donald Trump launches a global trade war by imposing sweeping double-digit tariffs on major
“We in Trinidad will continue to be responsible,” said Young, who was among five Caribbean leaders who met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in late March during his visit to the region. “Analyze how it is, have the conversations that we need to have –and I can assure you as prime minister I will continue to protect and fight for Trinidad and Tobago.”
Jamaica Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith said her country is also looking into the effects of its 10% tariff, which will go into effect on
“It is important to avoid steps that could further harm the world economy,” she added. “We appeal to the United States and its trading partners to work constructively to resolve trade tensions and reduce uncertainty.”
Sir Ronald Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda’s ambassador to the United States, said the tariffs will hurt Caribbean economies, which are highly dependent on imports from the U.S. Sanders, who writes a regular op-ed column that’s published in the region, is asking the Trump administration to revisit the decision. With the exception of Guyana and Trinidad, Caribbean countries have run decades-long trade deficits with the U.S., Sanders said.
The independent nations of the Caribbean Community “have helped sustain American prosperity by collectively importing far more from the United States than they export, creating an enduring trade surplus in Washington’s favor,” he wrote.
Yet the nations have not escaped the Trump tariffs. “Because CARICOM nations consistently favor U.S. goods, American industries, farmers and manufacturers have long found profitable markets in our small economies,” Sanders said. ”Meanwhile, our own exports remain modest and pose no threat to U.S. producers, as confirmed by the U.S. Trade Representative’s annual reports to Congress.”
The Miami-based Guyanese American Chamber of Commerce said Thursday that it is gravely concerned over the imposition of a 38% tariff on imports from Guyana.
The decision marks a dramatic shift from the previous trade relations under the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act, which has long provided Guyana and other CARICOM members with dutyfree access to the U.S. market for a range of products, many of which are not produced in America, the group said.
“While it is understandable that trade imbalances and surpluses are factors in any nation’s economic policy, the disproportionate impact of these tariffs on a small, vulnerable economy like Guyana’s cannot be overlooked,” the chamber added. “This policy threatens to undermine the gains being made by many agribusinesses and manufacturing entities, including those who rely on access to the U.S. market to sustain their businesses, employ thousands of individuals and contribute to stable and secure Third Border countries.”
The chamber is urging the Trump administration to reconsider the tariffs and engage in dialogue with CARICOM countries. “These nations are not only key partners in trade but also vital allies in the global fight against climate change. Special consideration must be given to their unique economic challenges and the need for sustainable growth,” the statement said.
and
by NELSON A. KING
US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net
In its continuing efforts in raising much-needed funds to assist Vincentian athletes participating in the illustrious Penn Relays Carnival at the University Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, the Brooklyn, New York-based Vincentian group Club St. Vincent, Inc. on Saturday 5th April, held its 10th Annual Walkathon at Marine Park in Brooklyn.
“Despite the rainy and chilly morning, about 40 of our supporters braved the weather and came out to support us,” Ancilla Friday, vice president of Club St. Vincent, Inc. and walkathon coordinator, told THE VINCENTIAN afterwards.
“Over the years, our supporters show up with much zest and vigor for this worthy cause, with a mutual echo that permeates the air: ‘I am doing it for the children’”, added Friday, who initially welcomed everyone and offered the opening prayer.
Participants assemble before the Carmine Carro Community Center at Marine Park in Brooklyn, with the Vincentian flag front and center, before engaging in the Walk-a-ton.
Vincentian athletes and said, “We’re not just walking, but we’re going to Pennsylvania to support the athletes.”
Destra Adams and, for the second time, Paradise Investment Associates, represented by Mr. Crispin Friday.
In the pre-walk ceremony, Sandra Millington, the Sion Hill-born president of Club St. Vincent, Inc., said her organization has “proudly followed the progress of these children,” stating that “they have done well and soared to higher heights.”
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consul General to the United States Rondy McIntosh, urged the community to continue supporting the
Crispin Friday, Mrs. Friday’s husband and president of the Brooklyn-based Vincentian umbrella group, Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organizations, U.S.A., Inc. (COSAGO), urged nationals to accompany them on the trip to the Penn Relays on April 26-27 and to “wave our Vincy flag, and shout and cheer the athletes on to victory.”
Mrs. Friday said. “This year, we are blessed to have as our sponsors — SwiftPac Shipping Company, represented by Ms.
She thanked the staff and members of the Marine Park Older Adult Center, under the leadership of Program Director Jonathan Turovets for “making it possible for us to use the space at the Marine Park Center.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is expected to be represented this year at the Penn Relays by athletes from three secondary (high) schools — The Thomas Saunders Secondary School (TSSS); the Boys Grammar School (BGS);
and the prospective new team, the Emmanuel High School Marriaqua (EHSM).
James Cordice, the Philadelphia-based coordinator of the Vincentian Penn Relays initiative and president of Team SVG International, told THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday that he looks forward to welcoming again TSSS and BGS, and is “excited to welcome EHSM.”
Cordice, a Clare Valley native, is also coordinator of the Belize Penny Relays initiative. Belize will be represented for the fifth successive year at the Penn Relays by Stan Creek Ecumenical College (high school).
by HAYDN HUGGINS
FORMER NATIONAL FOOTBALLER Ivan
‘Tempest’ Dupont is appealing for help during a most challenging period of his life.
Dupont, now 62, speaking to THE VINCENTIAN yesterday from his home at Lodge Village, disclosed that he was diagnosed with a prostate problem in 2010, which has grown worse in recent years.
“It’s real hard with me. Sometimes I does run out of pampers and medication. Sometimes I does be in a lot of pain. Sometimes I could pee and sometimes I can’t pee. Is the Cuban doctors that keeping me alive,” said Dupont, who is also a former security guard, and once worked with business place such as CK Greave and Q-Care.
But despite his serious limitations, he said, “I does try my best to help myself.”
Dupont commended attorney Grant Connell who represented him pro bono in Court on Wednesday, when he
pleaded guilty to stealing a quart of Sunset Strong rum, value EC$13.56, the property of Massy Store Kingstown.
“Mr. Connell played an important role. I may have gone to jail had it not been for his kindness and support. The way I hear him talk about Jesus, he should be a pastor. I had known his father and uncle for years. His uncle bought my first football shoes for me.”
Connell, in mitigation on Dupont’s behalf at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, told the Court that Dupont had a prostate problem that occasioned excruciating pains.
“He takes his medication when he can afford it,” Connell added.
Connell told the Court, as per his instruction from his client, that he consumes strong rum, because it numbs the pain.
“He was a national footballer and is now almost a skeleton. In his heyday, he would have had tremendous support but like everything else in SVG, when you drop off your pedestal it could be very hard if you don’t have close friends and family to support you. It will be good if the football fraternity will assist him”, Connell told the Court.
Dupont was ordered to pay compensation in the sum of $13.50 forthwith or two weeks in prison. He was also sentenced to one month suspended for 18 months.
diseases that once brought sorrow to children and parents and other improvements in primary health care.
Editor’s Note: The following is an extract from the Eulogy delivered by Simeon Greene at the funeral service for Mr. Cruickshank, held on Sunday 6th April, 2025 at the New Grounds Primary School Hardcourt.
The Legacy of Chiefton Allan Cruickshank
THE YEARS OF LIGHTAllan saw between 1951 and 2025 witnessed six major advancements in our island state that have had and will continue to have a lasting impact on our development:
1. Universal adult suffrage in 1951
2. Universal access to vaccination against childhood
3. Universal access to primary and secondary education and growth in tertiary level education.
4. The deepening of social democracy after the setbacks of the ‘70s and early ‘80s.
5. The land reform programme, which saw the demise of the estate system and the rise of a thriving peasantry, correlating with the conversion of bananas into “green gold”.
6. Greater integration into the global space via physical transport and electronic means.
According to the United Nations, sustainable development is “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs,
encompassing economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.”
Development, therefore, is about people–the impact on lives and livelihoods.
While some, like James Linn, may argue that there is no objective way to measure the effectiveness of political leaders, assessing Allan’s legacy cannot be divorced from the corporate impact of the James Mitchell administration (1984—2001).
Of the six major development thrusts identified above, I would argue with much justification that the administration in which Allan served built on one, two, three, and six. Despite the problems one may identify with this administration, they were the major protagonists in deepening social democracy and ushering in economic independence, fueled by the land reform program and the transformation of bananas into “green gold.”
Time in this eulogy does not allow for further discussion on these issues, but in this “silly season,” they may come in for further debate.
Allan was a religious man. In his youth, he attended Bible class and Sunday school, travelling on religious missions with the New Testament Church of Mother Pryam, which was located in the village. However, when a new group of worshippers who kept the Sabbath moved from John Harry’s downstairs to the Thomas’ downstairs in the village, he began attending their Wednesday and Sunday night services sporadically.
The Sabbath debate arose in the village during this time, and Allan accepted the seventh-day Sabbath as the true Sabbath of the Bible, leading to his baptism in 1974. As a Seventh-day Adventist Christian, he served the church in many capacities, but his true strength lay in teaching a Sabbath school class. By this time, his love with Deb had ripened, and in that same year, the Deb/Allan fifty-plusyear marriage was forged with inseparable and irreplaceable materials. Through thick and thin Deb remained fiercely loyal to her man. They were soul mates.
Sometime after his passing, while up at my farm in Perseverance enjoying a coconut-enriched callaloo soup, his brother Bertrum remarked, “If Allan was here, he would have taken a good helping of this food–and with a dish to take some home for his Deb.” Allan, the fine teacher and community activist, was like his grandfather–a master of language coinage. As one of the founders of the community
organization Diamonites, it was he who coined the name “Diamonites” which remains one of the oldest community organizations in SVG (going since 1977).
His creativity extended to his children’s names:
* Amos, a classical biblical name
* Debalani, a fusion of Deb and Allan’s names for their daughter
* Allanson, meaning “son of Allan”
* Debson, meaning “son of Deb”
* Debron, another tribute to both parents
Had they gone for a sixth child, one wonders what the name might have been. However, Allan did have a sixth child from an Antiguan mother, Zackery a lawyer by profession–whom Allan ensured was well integrated into the family.
Allan became a grandfather quite late in his life. When he got grandchildren, he was elated. He loved his British, Acacia, Xavi and Adam with a passion. They brought pride and joy to his life. How much he would have loved to have seen them grow up a bit more.
As with all human beings, there were the highs and lows of Allen’s life: delight and sadness, service and achievements, but also one lingering disappointment. This disappointment was related to him being denied his pension when he left Parliament before reaching the age of 55. There was no law preventing his payment, and the precedent had already been set. This denial almost cost him his house and his children’s education.
For the last seventeen years, life’s pathway has allowed us to resume the close relationship we shared in our early years. One has come to understand that the meals at the king’s table, the magnificence of hotel rooms, the jet-settings around the globe, and the knocking of glasses with the famous are fleeting. What makes a lasting impact are the testimonies of
the students he encouraged, the lives he changed as a politician, and his own children, whom he nurtured into outstanding citizens.
Not that he did not have good memories of his local, regional, and international colleagues–he certainly had great admiration and respect for them.
From speaking with him, though, there was something special in his heart for Sir James Mitchell and Jacques Diouf, the Director-General of the FAO (1994—2011).
Allen was never careless in having his medical checks, so when this monster of a disease choked out his life with such rapidity, we were all surprised. I am comforted, though, because I knew a man who was a man– a man who believed he was a man. The heights of life never separated him from the soil. He still cherished the smell of soil being tilled and the crackling sound of a tannia plant giving up its yield at harvest time.
In public office, he never wasted nor pocketed the nation’s silver. As a head teacher, he had an eight-seater hired vehicle by the name of ‘Integrity’. At the time of his death in March 2025, his feet were his only carriage, but he proudly carried the named of his first vehicle: ‘Integrity’.
VICE PRESIDENTof the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) Attorney Ronald Charles, who was arrested and charged with unlawful assembly following protest action that took place on Victoria Street in Roseau on March 19, was granted bail on his own recognizance in the sum of $25,000, when he appeared before a Roseau Magistrate’s Court April 9, Charles is said to have been among 24 persons who have been arrested thus far, in relation to the protests. He is also said to have addressed the gathering on March 19.
His arrest came after he had availed himself to represent several of the people who have so far been arrested. He is himself being represented by Attorney Geoffrey Letang.
Local media reported that on Tuesday police officers went to the law chambers of Charles, seeking to take him in for questioning.
On Wednesday morning Charles presented himself, accompanied by his lawyers, to be detained and was formally charged at the police headquarters in Roseau.
Indications are that the police in Dominica are continuing to from arrest citizens in connection with the March 19 protest which turned violent near Parliament in Roseau.
Attorney Ronald Charles found himself in the defendant’s box after he had appeared previously as legal representative for a number of protestors.
(Source: Loop News)
was former Opposition Leader, Hector John and opposition legislator, Daniel Lugay.
Protesters were challenging three controversial electoral reform bills which were eventually passed in Parliament.
Those arrested have been charged with unlawful riotous gathering in violation of the Riot Act of Dominica.
(Sources: Dominica News Online, Loop News)
tear gas and rubber
Among those previously detained the
SOME SECONDARY SCHOOLstudents in Guyana sitting their Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations this year have had some great news.
The news, received with much celebration among students is that the Guyanese government has promised to cover their examination fees.
However, the payments will only be made on behalf of students sitting at least eight subjects.
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced the initiative on Wednesday during an engagement with residents at the West Demerara Secondary School in Region Three.
According to the Ministry of Education,
the CSEC examination fees include an initial entry fee of G$3,900, a subject fee of G$4,000, and a local administrative fee of G$1,000 per subject. A late registration fee of G$5,000 is also applicable. These costs will now be absorbed by the government. It is estimated that the initiative will cost the government about G$700 million. President Ali confirmed that the initiative will apply to candidates from both public and private institutions.
(Source: Loop News)
From Backpage
“It is still an offence, but you are not punished for it by a term of imprisonment,” Gonsalves said.
Back in 2018, parliament passed the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Bill and the Cannabis Cultivation (Amnesty) Bill. Under these pieces of legislation, it became possible to pursue medical and economic benefits from cannabis but it remained illegal for purposes other than was referenced in the Bill.
The suite of cannabis legislation allowed for persons to have in their possession up to two ounces of marijuana, for which someone found in possession will not be charged but will receive a ticket.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines has devised
saying that there was a proverbial pot of gold at the end of the medicinal cannabis rainbow that there was in fact none.
a medicinal cannabis industry which is well respected, “but now the Leader of the Opposition goes to North Leeward, and he thinks that people will be sucked in,” Dr. Gonsalves said.
According to Gonsalves, he pointed out to those who were
And given the problems associated with the United States, government will not legalise marijuana once it remains illegal in the conventions.
But the Opposition Leader wanted a free for all for marijuana which,
Gonsalves said, would lead to issues with US banks that have corresponding arrangements with commercial banks here.
The Convention does not permit legalisation, Gonsalves stated, nor does it permit decriminalization. However, it does permit possession of small quantities and depenalization.
Dear George,
ISLEPT WITH my secretary and paid her $500.00. She never asked me for money but I knew she needed it. I slept with her again two weeks later and this time around she demanded that I pay her $1000.00. I found her request to be outrageous and refused to give her a dime.
She got mad and showed up at my house demanding payment for her services, and disclosed to my wife the times I slept with her. Needless to say my wife was not amused and is planning to divorce me.
I fired my secretary but she kept coming to work, creating a deeper and deeper mess. What do I do in a situation such as this?
Totally stressed
Dear Totally stressed,
The fittest action to take in this case is to throw yourself at the mercy of your wife, and confess your wrongdoings. She might just be convinced by your repentance and choose to give the marriage another go. If you are not able to convince her, then you must seek out the services of a marriage counselor to assist you in doing so.
Once your secretary finds out you have decided to renew and re-energize the relationship with your wife, she might just cut her losses and any ties she might feel she has with you. Here’s hoping that you would learn a lesson from this experience.
George
Dear George,
MY BOYFRIENDand I have been dating for well over six years. We are planning on getting married but I have agreed not to say anything to anyone.
Exactly one week ago I found out, from a reliable source, that my husband to be is planning on getting married to another woman, one week before
the date of our planned wedding. I am not certain about what I should do. But, George, would it be in poor taste for me to show up on his wedding day and make a mess of things? Men like him are too wicked!
Very hurt
It is good that you found out your
boyfriend’s devious plan beforehand. Why wait until the day in question to address the matter? Confront him now with the information you have and then take it from there. Following through with the plan you have of interrupting the wedding will only lower your standards. Do not sink to such levels.
George
Dear George,
IAM IN THEU.S.A. and will be here for the next four months. My boyfriend is in St. Vincent. The last time I called him he seemed preoccupied but brushed it off when I asked if anyone was there with him. He did not hang up the phone properly when we finished our conversation and I was able to hear a female voice asking him who was that on the phone. I recognized the voice to be that of my best friend.
I have been turning this over and over in my mind and I believe my girlfriend has decided to move in on my man in my absence. The fact that he lied about anyone being there with him is enough to tell me he is cheating on me.
I am tempted to cut my stay short and show up suddenly but I’m afraid if I do that, I might not handle that situation very well. Should I just cut him off now? I do not want to be played for a fool.
Angry and helpless
Dear Angry and helpless,
You heard what you heard so there is no need to ask for further clarification. You cannot just ignore all of this and pretend it never happened. Let your boyfriend know that you know he was not forthcoming with you and for that reason your trust in him has been shaken. When you get back home you should be able to notice changes in his behaviour. You will decide from there whether it’s worth the effort to fight to stay in the relationship or move on.
George
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
If everyone wants to do their own thing, let them. Don't count on get- ting any help from those you live with. You will find that friends or relatives may not understand your needs. You may find acquaintances being deceptive.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
Go out with friends who are positive and supportive. Keep an open mind when dealing with youngsters. You may not want to spend time around family or your home. Relatives may not be telling you the whole truth about a family situation.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
Don't get involved in secret affairs or underhanded involvement's. Take care of your own responsibilities before you help others. Time to deal with institutional environments, gov- ernment agencies, and matters of a private nature this week. Don't over- do it. You need to enjoy yourself.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Disappointments are likely if your mate embarrasses you in front of friends. Be careful when dealing with superiors. Secret affairs may be tempting. Deal with the needs of children and get into groups that deal with self awareness.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
Someone you live with will be quite unreason able this week. Don't be too eager to buy things for those who really don't deserve it. Travel will be on your mind; however, be careful and proceed with caution as minor accidents will cause delays. Do what's best for the people you love most.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
If you can, try to work out of your home this week. You can get ahead if you work diligently behind the scenes. Be discreet with private information. Pleasure trips will pro- mote romance. Don't let your anger
consume you and don't allow impor- tant matters go unattended to.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
You can make major decisions regarding your professional direction. Tempers could boil if someone you work with has not been pulling their weight. Such over indulgence due to emotional upset will be your down- fall. Visit friends who have not been well.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
You are best to be discreet. Don't give in too quickly. A better diet, exercise, or a change to a relaxed atmosphere could be ways to soothe your nerves. Take a look at yourself and prepare to make those changes you've been contemplating.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
You can enjoy social events and meet new potential mates; however, avoid being lavish. Secret affairs will only lead to deception. Try to make arrangements with close friends or relatives to spend a few days away. You're in the mood to party.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
Misunderstandings at work could easily lead to your demise. Don't let yourself get rundown. You can write beautiful love letters this week. Use your creative flair.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 21.- Feb. 19)
Be prepared to make compensations and adjustments. Take the initiative and go after your goals. You can bet that you'll draw attention to yourself. Your emotional partner may make you angry this week.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Be sure to find out all you can before you commit to anything. Make changes regarding your friendships. Do not let them in on your plans if you want things to run smoothly. This is not the best time to take a risk, to gamble or spend money you really can't afford to part with.
ACROSS
1. Tennis hit
4. Toothpaste topper
7. Turkish title
10. Great anger
11. Like a mushy mango
12. Singer Shannon
13. Pervade
15. Senior citizens’ org.
16. Clip suddenly
17. Mattel male
19. West Virginia product
22. Door handles 26. Popularity
29. Grand 31. Jackie O’s second husband
32. Simpson and Hartman
33. Schedule abbr.
34. Hated
36. __ and found
37. Squelched (2 wds.)
38. Intense anger
40. R-V connection
42. “__ It Romantic?”
45. __ Blanc 48. Deficit
52. Spherical body
53. Place to yell “charge!”
54. Thank your waiter
55. Ram’s call
56. Consumed
57. One __ kind (2 wds.)
DOWN
1.Pitcher’s edge
2. Miners’ finds
3. Capital of Switzerland
4. Top-secret U.S. org.
5. Prone
6. Brief look
7. Toothpullers’ org.
8. Where Berlin is (abbr.)
9. Swiss mountain 11. “__Man” (1984 film) 14. Rodents 15. Lauders and Jillian
18.Supplements
20. Fifi’s friends
21. Surgical tool
23. “Beetle Bailey” dog 24. Babies’ protectors
25. “Begone!” 26. Short-lived fashions
27. Region 28. Fine spray 30. Actress Pinkett Smith
32. Dryer fluff
35. Hitching __ 36. For fear that 39. Maiden 41. Sch. for officers
TWO CURRENT, LEADING PRACTITIONERSof Karate here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and a pioneer in the sport, were among several karatekas who gained promotion at a grading ceremony that took place at the Scouts Headquarters, Thursday, April 3, 2025.
Gaining their 7th Dan Black Belt were Allan Burke and Claude Bascombe Jr.
The duo also earned the title Shichidan, meaning “Master Instructor” or “Teacher of Teachers”. Burke is the Chief Instructor of IKD
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, while Bascombe Jr. is the Founder and Chief Instructor of the Seishin Karate Dojo and President of the Hairouna Karate Federation (HKF).
Meanwhile, Marc Cordice, who is widely regarded as the Father of Karate here in St. Vincent and the
Grenadines, was awarded with an 8th Dan, thus earning him the title of Hachidan, a level of mastery and expertise that is considered a highlevel achievement.
Cordice resides in Seattle, Washington USA.
Among other karatekas gaining promotions were Cassique Quow of the IKD Shotokan Club, Malik McKie, Rishawn Roache and Jeaden Guy from Dragon Ryu Karate, and Christian Joseph, Desmond Cox and Liam Bollers from Seishin Karate Dojo. They all gained their 1st Dan.
Gaining promotion to 2nd Dan was Aaron Mc Donald — Seishin Karate Dojo, with Adrian John of Seishin Karate Dojo, now a 4th Dan.
The grading exercise
CLAUDE BASCOMBE JR.will continue as President of the Hairouna Karate Federation (HKF), the governing body for the sport here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
He, along with Vice-President — Adrian John, and General Secretary- Shernette Richards from the 2022-2025 Executive, will work with six new officers, who were elected last Saturday, April 5, 2025, when the HKF held its Annual General Meeting at the Conference Room of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee, at Villa Point.
The Executive will serve for three years.
Among those whetting their feet on the national administrative body are: Giselle Young, who is the new Treasurer; Rishaud Roache who takes up the post of Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer; and the new Public Relations Officer, Alvin Seales.
The three Committee Members are Josephine Alexander, Rosette Stronghold and Cathianna Greaves.
In his projections for 2025 and beyond, Bascombe Jr. highlighted
participation in regional and international championships as major priorities.
As for the local scene, Bascombe Jr. said: “We plan to have a total of four local tournaments, one national event and three club organized tournaments, and expand and grow the HKF to the Grenadines. We also will be continuing our Summer Karate programme.”
On the matter of technical development, Bascombe informed, “We are aiming at having a
minimum of three qualified World Karate Federation certified coaches, as well as qualify a minimum of one Pan-American Karate Federation PKF referee/judge, attend Pan American Karate Federation Congress, whilst supporting ordinary members’ initiatives to grow associate membership”.
Bascombe Jr thanked all who supported the sport over the last three years, and called on them to continue their patronage to
was done by Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai, who is a 10th Dan Shotokan Karate master.
Woon-A-Tai, the founder and Chief Instructor of the International Karate Daigaku (IKD), is among the highestranked practitioners in the world, and has taught in over 60 countries.
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES hosted two high level Gymnastics officials, from Sunday, April 6 to Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
The visiting delegation comprised President of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG), Morinari Wantanabe and President of the Pan American Gymnastics Union (PAGU)- Naomi Valenzo.
While here, Wantanabe and Valenzo paid a courtesy call on the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee, and toured the facilities of the Dolphins Gymnastics and Health Academy at Arnos Vale, where they also got firsthand experience of some of the emerging talents the country possesses.
Given the disadvantaged status of the sport here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, representatives of the local association petitioned for technical support, among other needs and wants.
However, the FIG President, whilst acknowledging the need for small organizations like the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Gymnastics Association (SVGGA) to get assistance, he was non—committal as to how that assistance might unfold.
“Small federations are more difficult than the big federations.; small countries need the support that is why I come here and talk to the President of the association”, Wantanabe underscored.
He also noted that the cries of St. Vincent and the Grenadines are similar to others in the region, hence his swing through the region, during which he had visited Barbados, and was en route to Jamaica, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands.
High ranking officials of the SVG Gymnastics Association are optimistic that St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be a beneficiary of tangible outcomes occasioned by the visit by the two wellplaced Gymnastics personnel.
THE HIERARCHYof the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Squash Association has gone beyond its usual realm of operation.
A twelve-year-old student from the Kingstown School with Special Needs is now part of the association’s Youth Development Programme.
Breaking that ground is Kayden Cupid, who has a hearing as well as speech impairment.
Cupid began playing Squash in February of this year, and has developed by leaps and bounds, according to President of the SVGSA - Amber Glasgow.
“Kayden is actually a decent player and is part of the Under-13 category in the National Squash
Championships that run from April 9 to 12, 2025, at the National Squash Centre, Paul’s Avenue”, Glasgow informed.
He noted that Kayden’s involvement in Squash has helped improve his attention span.
“He has become more attentive and that helps him as well as his coach — Jules Snagg”, Glasgow added.
Snagg, who has been conducting the association’s Youth Development Programme, disclosed his joy in teaching Cupid.
“Kayden loves Squash and has learned a lot since he has been enrolled in the programme. I plan to work with him, as he has shown promise and more so interest”, Snagg said.
Meanwhile, Cupid’s mother - Keniesha Rogers, is happy that her lone child has found his niche.
“At home, he was easily bored, but will watch television and ride his bicycle, and now involving in Squash, he is looking at Squash games on You Tube and will take up the racket and play his strokes”, Rogers was pleased to share.
She is thankful for the opportunity afforded her son and has seen progress in many ways.
Having broken the glass ceiling, Glasgow said
YOUNG PEOPLEin Diamond were the latest targets of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union’s outreach effort.
In this demonstration, six young males, all competent riders but who traverse the roads minus the important protective headgear, were the recipients of helmets compliments the Cycling Union.
It was this neglect by the riders that prompted the Cycling Union into action, Shimano Bailey, President of the Cycling Union said.
“We are observing that whilst the youth are super interested in cycling, not necessarily as a sport but as a part time, they often disregard safety protocols, resulting in clashes with law officers, especially those of the Traffic Branch of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force”, Bailey commented.
Bailey noted that the SVG Cycling Union is working with the law enforcers of the state, as they try to achieve a balance.
“We are working closely with the Police in finding
Snagg and Cupid on court during a training session at the National Squash Centre.
that her organization will continue to build the relationship with the School For Children With Special Needs.
“Our base is in close proximity to the institution. We are working with them, where we can unearth other talents. For us, it is a win-win situation, as in the case of Kayden, we too are learning to communicate in sign language, which is a plus for us”, Glasgow concluded.
Diamond youth sport their helmets, in the company of Shimano Bailey (back) and Police Corporal - Edson Smith (right).
that middle ground, as we do not want to reach that point of the law having to impose very stringent laws that will eventually force the young cyclists off the road and into deviant actions”, Bailey reasoned.
Bailey revealed that they are identifying leaders among the various cycling groups, to establish points of contact.
“We are working diligently with the groups, helping to empower them, with the overall aim of getting them into our planned BMX Programme”, the SVG Cycling Union President projected.
Bailey is positive that some semblance of order will emerge from the constant engagements involving the SVG Cycling Union, the RSVG Police and the young cyclists.
Durrant, President of the SVG Rugby Union will share the role as manager of the West Indies Men and Women Rugby squads to compete at the highly anticipated Tropical 7s Rugby Tournament, scheduled for April 18—19, 2025, in Tampa, Florida, USA. Durrant (SVG) will share the managerial responsibilities with Jonathan Keith Cassidy of Bermuda (BER).
Coaching duties will rest with Wayne Pantor and Jerome Poon Tip of
Trinidad and Tobago (T&T). They will be assisted by Chantel John of St. Lucia. Jeron Pantor of T&T/USA will travel as the squad’s physiotherapist.
The teams will arrive in Florida for pretournament training sessions from April 13th to 16th, and are looking forward to showcasing Caribbean talent and spirit on the international stage.
This year’s tournament will feature elite youth and senior talent from across the
globe, and West Indies Rugby is proud to field two dynamic teams composed of senior and rookie players from the region and the Caribbean diaspora in the USA. West Indies Rugby acknowledged the commitment of the island Unions, sponsors and supports generally, and recognized the tournament as a development opportunity for the region’s players and a chance to represent the region with pride.
I.B.A. ALLEN
THERE WEREsix centuries recorded in the 6th round of matches in the 2025 CWI 4-Day Championship. The centurions were: Javelle Glenn - 140 not out for Jamaica; Sunil Ambris- 110 for Windward Islands Volcanoes; Shayne Moseley109 for Barbados; Johann Jeremiah - 107 for Combined Campuses and Colleges; Tevin Imlach - 123 and Kevlon
Anderson — 101, for Guyana.
And of the four matches played, there were outright victories for Barbados Pride and Jamaica. The other two matches were drawn.
Barbados’ victory came against the Windward Island Volcanoes.
The Windwards had scores of 186 and 316, with Ambris’ century in their first innings and 99 from Kevin Hodge, 78
from Alick Athanaze and 50 from Shadrack Descart in the second. Barbados has scores of 198 and 307 for 8 — Mosley 109, Kyle Mayers 70 and Matthew Forde 66 not out in their second.
Keon Daston 6/52 led the Windwards’ bowling in Barbados’ first innings and Kenneth Dember 4 for 9 in the second. Ramon Simmonds returned 4/47 for Barbados in the Windwards’ first innings.
Jamaica Scorpions defeated Trinidad and Tobago Red Force by 223 runs. Scores: Trinidad and Tobago Red Force 171 - Joshua DaSilva 86, Marquino Mindley 3 for 37, Abhijai Manshingh 3 for 41; and 165 - Brad Barnes 4 for 19, Odean Browne 3 for 19. Jamaica 372, Javelle Glenn 140 not out, Abhijai Mansingh 67, Jermaine Blackwood 61, Kirk McKenzie 31. Joshua
Johann Jeremiah hit 107 for Combined Campuses and Colleges.
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
(SVG) recovered from a crushing defeat at the hands of Dominica to record their first win in the 2025 edition of the WINLOTT Windwards U19 Cricket Championship.
The Tournament opened last Sunday in Grenada with matches that pitted Dominica against SVG, and St. Lucia against host Grenada who are on the hunt to retain the championship title.
In the SVG-Dominica clash, Dominica posted a formidable 297 for 7 in 50 overs, thanks in the main to the first century of the championship by Earsinho Fontaine, who hammered a 135-ball
innings of 125 not out inclusive of 10 fours and 5 sixes. He was named Man of the Match.
Skipper Kodi Grant, 3 for 41, was SVG’s best bowler and Devontae McDowall had 2 for 80. SVG never looked the part in their reply and were set asunder for 125 in 43.2 overs, 15-year-old Zach Thomas top-scoring with 37. Jelani Joseph, 3 for 24, was chief among the Dominican bowlers.
The Vincentians showed improved class against St. Lucia on Monday, even as they played the same eleven that had lost by 178 runs to Dominica.
On the back of a throw-caution-to-thewind 74 (11 fours and 2
sixes) off 59 deliveries by Devontae MacDowall, SVG closed on 201 all out in 47.1 overs. St. Lucia’s leg spinning combination of Cody Fontinelle, 4 for 26, and Isaiah Jones, 3 for 38, kept the Vincentians in check.
St. Lucia never settled into a threatening reply and soon were all out for 167. Watson Seaton led the Vincentian charge with 3 for 23, Kevin Joseph had 3 for 30, skipper Kodi Grant 3 for 31, and Man of the Match Devonte MacDowall 1 for 45, to give SVG victory by 34 runs.
Tuesday was a rest day. SVG returned to action on Wednesday against Grenada.
James 3 for 40, Khary Pierre 3 for 87 and 187, Brandon King 89, Brian Charles 4 for 82, Shannon Gabriel 2 for 28.
Scores in the drawn match between Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) and West Indies Academy (WWEA) were: CCC 238 - Shaqkere Parris 52, Joshua Bishop 6 for 78, and 395 for 8 declaredJohann Jeremiah 107, Kelvin Pitman 3 for 70’; WIA 316Teddy Bishop 9, Mbeki Joseph 65, Chemar Holder 4 for 81 and 6 for 1 when play ended.
Scores in the Leeward Islands Hurricane and Guyana Harpy Eagle match: Leeward Islands Hurricane 335 - Keacy Carty 92, Jahmar Hamilton 80, Mikyle Louis 73, Ronaldo Alimohamed 5 for 91, and 147 for 3 - Louis 61, Kadeem Henry 36; Guyana Harpy Eagles 193 - Kevlon Anderson 77 not out, Keemo
Paul
DARK VIEW EXPLORERSmade a positive start to their pursuit of championship glory when they won their first two matches in the 6th edition of the Vincy Premier League (VPL.6).
The 6th edition bowled off last Monday at the Arnos Vale playing field.
Explorers recorded their first win against Grenadines Divers by 4 wickets. Scores: Grenadines Divers 94 for 6 from 10 overs - Ryshon Williams 24. Benniton Stapleton had 4 for bowling for Explorers, who replied with 96 for 6 from 9 overs. Asif Hooper turned in figures of 4 for 16 but could not prevent Explorers’ victory.
Explorers chalked up their second win with a 13-run win over Fort Charlotte Strikers. Explorers managed 91 from their 10 overs, South African Jacobus Pienaar leading with 34 and Jeremy Layne, 3 for 16, Carlos Brathwaite, 2 for 6, and Jerome Jones, 2 for 12, doing the damage for Strikers. Strikers used
their 10 overs but closed at 78 for 8, Kyle Jordan 27, Carlos Brathwaite 25. Trevian Mathews 2 for 10, Kemar Smith 2 for 5 led the bowling for Explorers.
In another match, La Soufriere Hikers defeated Salt Pond Breakers by 7 wickets. Scores: Breakers 87 for 7 from 10 overs - Haston Jackson 24, Darren Nedd 22 - Ryan Williams 3 for 17, Rasheed Fredericks 2 for 16. Hikers 90 for 3 from 8 overs - Dillon Douglas 28, Dejourn Charles 20 not out, Javel St Paul 29 not out. Fort Charlotte Strikers brushed off their earlier defeat to beat defending champions Botanical Gardens Rangers by 6 wickets. Scores: Rangers 108 for 6 from 10 oversKeron Cotty 49 not out, Desron Maloney 26 - Kevin Abraham 2 for 14, Jerome Jones 2 for 26, Carlos Brathwaite 2 for 19. Fort Charlotte Strikers 112 for 4 from 9 oversCarlos Brathwaite 51 not out, Sealroy Williams 30 - Nurlon Williams 2 for 20. Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN
THIS SPACE IS ONLY FOR ADVERTISING 4561123
The legalization of ‘ganja’ seems to be some way off according to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.
byDAYLE DA SILVA
“I AM NOT AFRAIDto say that I support the legalisation of marijuana in this country and to have an industry that can be done to create wealth and opportunity for our people.”
“This is what the CARICOM commission had recommended. And so, we are working along with that to see to what extent we can get it done now, and how we can do with it in the future. There is a lot of potential there.”
So declared Dr. Godwin Friday - Leader of the Opposition and President/Political Leader of the New Democratic party (NDP - at the opening of the party’s North Leeward Constituency office, April 4.
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This ‘declaration’ did not escape the attention of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.
During a press briefing on April 7, Dr. Gonsalves chided Dr. Friday for his ‘declaration’ saying that policy cannot be made on the basis of slogans, instead, “Policy has to be made on the basis of what is summed and what is in the interests of people.”
Dr. Godwin Friday, Leader of the Opposition, might be thinking otherwise as far as the legalization of ‘ganja’ is concerned.
He continued, “We begin first with a framework, international legal framework known as the International Convention on Narcotics, including marijuana.”
And according to the Prime Minister, under that Convention, it is affirmed that to possess marijuana is a criminal offence although it goes on to address exceptions in small quantities.
“And what I stressed in Parliament, we cannot
choose which piece of international law that we must obey and those which we must disobey.” Continued on Page 17.
SPEAKERSat the opening of the New Democratic Party (NDP) North Leeward constituency office, April 04, took the opportunity to focus on the marijuana issue.
Among those speakers who did so were MP for East Kingstown — Fitzgerald Bramble, and former NDP MP (2010 — 2020) for North Leeward — Roland Patel Matthews.
Buoyed by the common knowledge that the North Leeward district was a primary cultivation area for marijuana, albeit illegal cultivation, Bramble aroused the gathering saying that the marijuana “used to carry” the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, perhaps bearing in on an accepted analysis though not confirmed, that it was unquestionable that the marijuana trade contributed to a parallel economy that filtered into the mainstream economy.
Bramble referenced that the marijuana cultivation/production in North Leeward in particular, was responsible for the upkeep of many households, providing support for children’s education and bolstering
the small enterprises in the area and by extension, businesses in capital Kingstown.
All of this, Bramble proclaimed, was “destroyed by Ralph Gonsalves” and the ULP government, which, he said, was now giving all the opportunities afforded by marijuana cultivation/production to the persons involved in the medical marijuana industry.
With this in mind, and reemphasising that North Leeward has been disadvantaged with the ULP administration’s option to support the medical marijuana industry, while clamping down on the fledging illegal cultivation of and trade in marijuana, Bramble questioned whether the ULP was deserving of another term in office.
Matthews, for his part, openly declared, “We in this constituency benefited tremendously, hundreds of thousands of dollars from marijuana cultivation,” and noted that North Leeward “had an economy that depend greatly on marijuana cultivation,”
Fitzgerald Bramble, NDP MP for East Kingstown, fingered the ULP for having disadvantage the people and economy of North Leeward.
The former MP highlighted that his party’s called for legalising marijuana was not knew and recalled that at an NDP meeting in Fitz Hughes in 2016, the party promised that when it got into office it would move towards legalizing marijuana cultivation.
And as he reiterated the benefits
Roland Patel Matthews, former NDP MP for North Leeward, pointed to North Leeward thriving because of the marijuana cultivation/trade.
that marijuana cultivation had brought to the North leeward constituency in particular, he too condemned the ULP administration for having spearheaded the “the destruction of the marijuana industry in North Leeward.” (DR)