FRIDAY, NOVEMBER
12, 2021
VOLUME 115, No.45
SVGTU standing firm Page 3
www.thevincentian.com
Bus driver freed Page 4
by HAYDN HUGGINS Myron Samuel’s appeal to the Mercy Committee was successful. He was released from a sentence of 18 months.
WHILE DEFENCE LAWYER GRANT CONNELL is pleased with the decision of the Mercy Committee here to release former national footballer Myron Samuel from prison on medical grounds, he thinks this case should serve as a catalyst for the state to amend the existing law, in relation to suspended sentences. The 28-year-old Samuel of Layou was released on Monday after serving almost three months of an 18-month prison sentence for possession of one Glock .22 pistol without license. He was also fined $3,500 to be paid by December 31 or nine months for possession of 15 rounds of .40 ammunition without license. The sentences were to run concurrently, if the fine was not paid.
Court did its work Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett handed down the penalties at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, August 16, 2021. But Connell who had represented John who pleaded guilty to both charges, told THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, that he believed that if Magistrate Burnett had the
NTRC celebrates 20 years Page 13
EC$1.50
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option of imposing a suspended sentence he would have done so, but the law did not give him that option. Connell noted that Section 30 (2)(b) of the Criminal Code, Chapter 171 of the revised edition of the Laws of SVG, 2009, states that suspended sentences are not applicable in cases where persons are charged with illegal possession of firearms or ammunition. The lawyer said that in his mitigation on Samuel’s behalf, he had indicated to the Court that a suspended sentence would have been appropriate in the circumstances of the case, but unfortunately it could not be imposed, because of section 30 (2)(b) of the Criminal Code.
Call for amendment Connell who has repeatedly called for that section to be amended, reiterated his call, during his conversation with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday. He pointed that at the sentencing hearing, the prosecution had seemingly took pleasure in highlighting the point that this section denied that option. “The Court did its work, and the Mercy Committee carried out its function. “In light of the circumstances, precedents, and guidelines of sentencing, I think that Magistrate
Mustique Carnival: A mistake Page 28
Attorney Grant Connell reiterated his call for an amendment to the law so as to allow for suspended sentences in guns/ammunition possession cases. Burnett was fair in passing the 18month prison sentence,” he contended. He noted that the offences for which Samuel was charged were serious offences which carry a maximum penalty of $20,000 or seven years in prison, and the offender could be fined and confined. “Certainly, Myron Samuel would not be the last young man to come before the Court in cases of this nature, so in my humble opinion, the powers that be should give serious thought to amending the section of the law which states that suspended sentences are not applicable to cases of illegal possession of firearms ammunition”. Connell said that as part of his mitigation, Social Inquiry and Medical reports were presented on Samuel’s behalf, and he highlighted the fact that Samuel was suffering from excruciating pain because of his medical condition. Connell said he understands that Samuel’s condition had since deteriorated. Continued on Page 3.
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News 3 TeachersÊ Union standing firm AS THE DEADLINE for frontline workers to be vaccinated looms, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Union says it has been given the mandate to take the government to court, if unvaccinated teachers are prevented from entering the compound of the schools to which they are assigned. President of SVG Teachers UnionOswald Robinson said that teachers and other frontline workers are opting to take the COVID-19 vaccine because they are concerned about losing their jobs, in the face of mortgage debts, household responsibilities and other financial obligations.
Robinson described what the November 19 ultimatum that is being imposed on teacher as sinful and very unfortunate. “It is sinful because you are not supposed to go against your conscience. Nobody supposed to coerce you into doing something that violates your conscience, your fundamental right to choose.” He disclosed that the Union had advised teachers to show up to work and those desirous io taking the vaccine should do so along as it is their choice. He Union leader noted that there is a significant number of teachers who are yet to take the jab and will not
Samuel released: Lawyer calls for law to be amended Continued from Frontpage.
“Amend section 30 of the Criminal Code, and save others from having to appeal to the Mercy Committee, and avoid filling our jail with young offenders. “Some may not understand the objectives of sentencing. It is not designed to destroy the offender, but guided by the four pillars of sentencing — prevention, rehabilitation, deterrence, and retribution,” he explained. Connell said he was informed that attorney Vadeesha John-Brookes of Johnson and Associates Law Firm assisted Samuel in relation to the Mercy Committee application, and he commended the Law Firm for their efforts, in the circumstances. He added that he was also informed of the possibility of a flight availability to facilitate medical treatment in Cuba. “I hope the sporting disciplines would contribute to assist this young man in rectifying his medical issues, particularly in light of his contribution to sports over the years,” Connell pleaded. The firearms and ammunition for which Samuel was sentenced were found at his home on June 17, 2021 during police investigations into the disappearance of three Glock firearms, an M-4 rifle, and several rounds of ammunition from the Armory of the Georgetown Police Station.
Others charged and sentenced Samuel was one of four persons who were charged in connection with the incident. Meshack Dublin, 26, of Diamond Village, a former national athlete, is serving a sentence of two years and five months, while Avi King, 26, also of Diamond Village was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison, in relation to the matter. Up to press time Thursday Zackrie Latham, 25, who was at the time of his arrest, a police constable attached to the Georgetown Police Station, was awaiting trial in connection with the matter.
take it against their will. “A large number of teachers have said they are willing to take the risks of continuing to do their work both online and face to face, whatever the case maybe, and let the authorities fire them. If it gets to that point the only recourse we have is legal option,” said Robinson, adding that people rights are being violated by the state and that the members have given the union the mandate to take the government to court if necessary. Teachers, who have been added to the category of frontline workers have been given until November 19 to take the COVID-19 vaccine, so that they could enter their school compounds,
President of SVG Teachers UnionOswald Robinson described the ultimatum regarding vaccination for teachers as “sinful”. except those who have been exempted from taking the vaccination in accordance with the relevant Statutory Rules and Order 2021.
The NTRC turns 20 THE NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS REGULATORY COMMISSION (NTRC) of St Vincent and the Grenadines turns 20 this month. It was established as the Telecommunications Regulator in November 2001 to enhance the operation of telecommunication services in the country, and came into being following the passing of the Telecommunications Act (CAP 418) of the Revised Laws of St Vincent and the Grenadines of 2009. Since its inception in 2001, the NTRC has been responsible for the following tasks: the regulation of local telecommunications companies to ensure that these companies provide satisfactory services which include internet, landline, cable and mobile services to all customers; investigating and resolving disputes relating to infrastructure sharing between telecommunications providers; setting technical standards in
line with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). In collaboration with Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) established in 2000 to promote open competition in telecommunications, harmonize policies on a regional level for telecommunications and provide for a universal service, fair pricing and the use of cost-based pricing methods by telecommunications providers, the NTRC manages the use of the radio frequency spectrum assigned to telecom providers and radio operators in the country. It is responsible for the collection of fees under the Telecommunications Act and receives and processes applications for licenses, and ensure licensees comply with the conditions in their licence. And the NTRC manages the Universal Service Fund (USF)
which is used to carry out various projects such as installing WI-FI services at schools, learning resources, community centres, police stations and health centres across the country. Over the years, the NTRC has been involved in: the iCode784 Competition, a forum that challenges students from Secondary, Tertiary level institutions and persons under the age of 35 years old to develop and present projects in the form of ideas and mobile applications; the Maritime Project which was commissioned on November 20, 2012. Other projects and initiatives undertaken by the NTRC are ‘The Schools Project’ of June 7, 2011 which provides 107 schools throughout
the country with internet connection with a minimum download speed of 100 Mbps and upload speed of 15 Mbps; the MyApp Summer Programme; Financial Assistance Programme which provides financial assistance to one Primary and one Secondary School student; the SMART project which supplies equipment and teaching aids at the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College to enable specialized ICT training; and the Payphone Project which was signed with Cable and Wireless in 2011 to provide 25 payphones across the country at various locations, and to provide internet access at tourism sites and beaches at a minimal cost.
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4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
Court
Bus driver freed of sex charges
said to be twin sisters, who were both 15-yearold students at the time of the report. Richards was charged with raping one of the girls, and indecently assaulting the other. The incidents were alleged to have occurred in 2017 but the report was made Julian Richards had no the following year. The trial commenced case to answer once the at the High Court complainants against Criminal Assizes last him refused to testify. week, and the young ladies were slated to Stories by testify on Thursday, HAYDN HUGGINS November 4. They did not show up when MINIBUS operator Julian summoned, and the Richards of Diamond was Court issued a warrant this week freed on charges to have them brought of rape and indecent before the Court. assault, after the The girls showed up complainants in the on Monday, November 8, matter refused to testify and they both indicated against him. from the witness stand The complainants are that they did not want to
proceed any further with the matter. When Crown Counsel Rose-Ann Richardson asked the complainants, who were called to the stand separately, whether they made this decision of their own free will, they replied in the affirmative. When the Crown Counsel asked them if they were threatened to say so, or promised anything, the he girls responded, “No please.” Justice Brian Cottle told the sisters, “The matter that brought us to this court is a very serious offence, and this is a very serious case. You said you don’t want to proceed, and that’s your right, but you must come to the Court and say so.” When the Judge
inquired of the first of the girls to be called to the stand why she was not at Court on Thursday to testify in the matter, she replied, “I did not know anything about that until about midday.” When he asked other girl, “Did you know that this trial had started?”, she replied, “No please.” Turning to Richards’s attorney Grant Connell, Justice Cottle inquired whether he intended to cross-examine at this point. The lawyer said no, but informed the court that the defence was making an application for the case to be dismissed on the grounds that there was insufficient evidence presented by the prosecution thus far, to sustain the charges. Justice Cottle agreed,
and directed the ninemember jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty. Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN later, Connell said, “It is unfair for an accused person to be charged, and dragged before the Court for some four years, only to hear that the complainants do not wish to continue with the matters.” Connell pointed out that, “On reading the deposition, there are significant issues which arise that questioned whether the allegations had any merit, and that is why the police need to put more emphasis when investigating matters of this nature.” According to the lawyer, “It is not just about entertaining a
report, going to an alleged crime scene and saying that’s where it happened, or completing a medical. But if you dealing with a police force that is at variance with the modern practice of forensic investigation, what do you expect?” Connell posited. The attorney also alluded to the reaction to someone who might be charged, and dragged before the Courts. He suggested that they are branded, possibly for life. “All it takes is an allegation, and the accused has to hope for the best. Even if they are acquitted, their character is already stained, so in a sense the accused becomes a victim too,” he explained.
Disrespectful driver fined CHIEF MAGISTRATE Rechanne Browne, on Tuesday, sent a clear message to those who feel that disrespecting lawful authority is the way to go. The signal came when Jomo Rose of Richmond Hill, Kingstown, was ordered to pay the Court $1,200 forthwith or three months in prison, for using indecent language to a police officer. Rose had told police constable 173 Charles to, “Pitch you stinking mudder ….” Rose pleaded guilty when he appeared before the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. He was unrepresented. The facts revealed that around 12:40pm on November 6, PC Charles, a female officer attached to the Traffic Department of the Police Force, was on traffic duty on Halifax and Hillsboro Streets inter-section, Kingstown, when she proceeded to inquire about a traffic build-up. She went to the area of FLOW, and asked Rose to remove his vehicle from where there was a NO parking sign. Rose responded, “You see me a stay here?” to which the officer replied, “I am just simply saying, you cannot stay here.” Rose again told the officer, “You see me a stay here?” and followed up with “Pitch you stinking mudder ….”, directed at the officer, and then drove off. Rose’s explanation to the Court as to why he used the expletive and drove off was that the officer beat down the door of his vehicle and spoke to him in an
aggressive manner. But the Magistrate contended that even if the officer dealt with him roughly, that did not mean that he should react the way he did. “Do onto others what you want them do onto you. You want her to speak to you properly, but you disrespected her,” Browne told the defendant. When the Magistrate asked Prosecutor Renrick Cato whether he had any recommendations in relation to sentencing, Cato lamented the act of abusing a police officer and highlighted that the officer in question was on duty and in uniform. “The Court needs to send a message to those who think they could abuse police, and get away,” Cato, himself a police officer, suggested, adding, “I bet if it
was a male officer, of different stature, he (defendant) would have reacted differently.” In her summation, the Magistrate told Rose, “I have observed, in Court, your demeanor, and that said a lot. You are hostile, you are aggressive.” Browne also noted that Rose showed no remorse for his action. “The reason why a custodial sentence was not imposed is because you pleaded guilty,” she contended, before imposing the fine.
Police probing Canouan burglaries ONE MAN has been slapped with four charges of handling stolen goods, as police continue investigations into a series of burglaries on the Grenadine island of Canouan. Lenron George, 36year-old labourer of Overland, on mainland St. Vincent, has been charged with, on October 29, 2021 knowing or believing that one grey Samsung Galaxy S8 cellular phone, belonging to Phyllis Chance of Campden Park, to be stolen goods, did dishonestly receive it for his own benefit. George is also charged with, on the same date, knowing or believing that two red Samsung Galaxy A10 cellular phones, one blue HTC cellular phone, and one black Samsung tablet belonging to Aaron
Davis of Canouan to be stolen goods did dishonestly receive them for his own benefit. In addition, he is accused of knowing or believing that one blue Samsung Galaxy A11 cellular phone belonging to Valcina King-Gregg of Canouan to be stolen good, did dishonesty received it for his own benefit, on the same date. George is additionally charged with, on the same date, knowing or believing that one HP Laptop and charger belonging to Joeleen Doyle of Calder Ridge to be stolen goods, did dishonestly receive them for his own benefit. George pleaded not guilty to all four charges when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the
Canouan in the Southern Grenadines has seen a tremendous increase in commercial activity following recent development on the island. Serious Offences Court on Monday. In objecting to bail, Prosecutor Renrick Cato told the Court that the police in Canouan are carrying out investigations into a series of burglaries there. The prosecutor added that some of the items in these burglaries have not been recovered, and the police are fearful
that if George was granted bail at this juncture, he could impede the process of investigations. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne upheld Cato’s submissions, and remanded George until Monday, November 8 when bail will be reviewed. George was unrepresented.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 5.
COVID-19
Vincy doctor supports COVID-19 vaccine
Story by NELSON A. KING anymore loss of life when naking@verizon.net we have the vaccine. US CORRESPONDENT “We must protect ourselves, so we avoid DESPITE MISGIVINGS in anyone else experiencing many countries, including my story, or worse, his homeland, a Vincentian again,” warned Dr. frontline medical doctor in Young, stating that, as a Brooklyn, New York is primary care physician, fervently appealing to he knew that he was at nationals to take the great risk of contracting COVID-19 vaccine. the virus in December In an exclusive last year. interview with THE “My wife (a JamaicanVINCENTIAN, Dr. born registered nurse), Clifford Young, who hails the office nurse, and I from Calliaqua, said it is worked side by side important that nationals throughout the protect themselves from pandemic. We had taken the raging pandemic. every pre-caution — wore “This vaccine is the an N95 mask, kept our most powerful tool we home and work clothes have against fighting separate, and showered this virus,” said Dr. in a different bathroom Young, a St. Martin’s from the rest of our Secondary School family,” he disclosed. graduate, attending physician at Cumberland Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Brooklyn and an assistant professor at SUNY Downstate College of Medicine in Brooklyn, who, in December 2020, contracted the COVID-19 virus. “COVID-19 is rapidly mutating, but the vaccine has still shown to be our best defense against the virus,” added Dr. Young, a board-certified internist and a fellow of the American College of Physicians, who currently serves as the medical director of Citi Medical of Canarsie, P.C. in Brooklyn. “It still prevents the spread of the virus and reduces the number and severity of the complications. “Without taking the vaccine, we cannot work towards a common goal — protecting ourselves and each other from severe illness and death,” he continued. “Many feel that the state has been trampling our freedoms with vaccine mandates, but we simply cannot risk
A personal ordeal But, even with an abundance of caution, Dr. Young said they still contracted the virus, not from a patient but from a family member. “The virus soon made its way from myself to my wife, and, lastly, to my son,” he said. “The next couple of weeks
were unbearable. From late December of 2020 to late January of 2021, we suffered fevers, body aches, and chest-aching coughs. The symptoms were endless. No amount of callaloo soup or concoctions of ginger, garlic and fever grass would help. “Even though we came close to calling 911, we were still grateful that we had enough strength to fight through every day of sickness,” Dr. Young added. “Unfortunately, we cannot say the same for every person stricken with COVID-19. Every one of us has a story like this or knows someone who does.” He said this virus was “particularly ruthless within our community. “So, what tools do we have to protect ourselves now, masks and vaccines?” he asked.
The vaccine helps Dr. Young said this combination (mask and vaccine) has “severely reduced” the number of persons hospitalized and dying from COVID-19.
“We can protect ourselves and those who are vulnerable, those who are immunocompromised, and those who suffer from chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease,” he said. “Vaccines have proven that they reduce hospitalizations, deaths and transmission within our community. They have prevented countless hospitalizations and deaths, allowing us to resume many of our daily activities.” Yet, Dr. Young queried why many people still express concerns over the vaccine. He noted that research into coronavirus vaccines started in 2003, and mRNA vaccine research started in 2015. “So, we had years of background information,” Dr. Young said. “And, by March of 2020, countries across the world collaborated to develop and produce safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines.” With millions of vaccine doses given, the physician said the most
Dr. Clifford Young, an outstandiing Vincentian Medical Doctor, lent his voice to the campaign to encourage the taking of the COVID-19 vaccine. (Photo Credit: Caribbean Life News) common side effects are typical of any other vaccine, stating that they include pain and redness
at the site of the shot, and mild tiredness, headache and muscle pain.
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8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
CXC has become a target CORRECT US IF WE ARE WRONG but we are of the view that never before in its almost 50-year history, has the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) had to endure such an overwhelming attack on its integrity as a major body of functional cooperation in the region, and moreso, an assault on the integrity of its examination process. Almost immediately upon the release of results for the 2021 CSEC and CAPE examinations, students, teachers and parents across the region were up in protest against what they deemed to be inordinately low grades awarded to hundreds of students, in a variety of subject areas. Least we feel we were insulated from this ‘shock’, a number of students of the St. Vincent Grammar School made public their dissatisfaction with grades awarded for their SBAs in English. The umbrage with CXC and its (mis)handling of the 2021 CSEC examinations in particular, has got to the point where several students of the St. Augustine Girls’ High School in Trinidad and Tobago were said to be weighing “their legal options.” In Barbados when a similar situation arose between CXC and students there, Prime Minister Mia Mottley was so convinced by the information she had been given, that she announced her government will pay the query fees for all their students. And yes, to complain to and about CXC and its grading, you have to pay!!!. We introduce the Barbados situation to raise the question about the extent to which our Government is prepared to go in support of our students — our young people. Whether in fact our government will accept that their claims are legitimate and would be prepared to stand by them. All in all, students who claim to have been (mis)awarded grades by CXC, lament that this situation has consigned them to limbo, a place that leaves them uncertain about their futures once queries and claims about low grades remain pending. And if per chance anyone is
wondering why teachers, students and parents would harbor such animosity towards CXC, it is instructive to recall that CXC has gone on record with a rather condescending attitude, when it insisted not so long ago that the hundreds of complaints that would have been lodged with the Body, were from students who may have had expectations that go well beyond their actual capabilities. There have also been suggestions by the regional body that teachers may have been complicit in instilling a ‘false sense of confidence’ in their students. That said, one wonders with the preponderance of complaints, albeit still to be proven, whether CXC would cease being stubborn and admit that something did go wrong this time around. Whatever the overtures and whatever forms they take, they could be, in the final analysis, of little solace to the students. The damage has already been done thanks to the protracted and aloof processes that characterize CXC. Any dragging of feet by CXC on the matter of examination results, as far-fetched as some would perceive it to be, may possibly traumatise hundreds if not thousands of students across the region. Whatever the case, there’s no taking away from the fact that a regional body has taken a major hit. We hope, though, that it can work its way back being a full and healthy institution that fulfills its purpose to provide regionally and internationally recognised secondary school leaving examinations, relevant to the needs of the region. And on the question of needs of the region, it is time that CXC addresses the observation that CSEC is now used as a tool to qualify students for higher education and not for hiring, and that CXC would listen to the employers who have said and continue to say that CSEC is inadequate. May be its time for a deep, deep look into this regional body.
Not to rain on anyone’s parade I MEAN NO MALICE or disrespect, but the announcement of a new home for football in SVG and the accompanying artist’s impression of what it could look like, leave much to be desired. It is a stark reminder of how excited we can get when we finally get what we have been waiting for a long time. It has become a part of our culture to starve our people for as long as possible, then just before they give up in despair, we give them a little, and they become overly appreciative. Yes, we have become conditioned to be eternally grateful for the crumbs (leftovers) from the table, a legacy of colonialism I suppose. Just as if to prove that point, the first time we are shown a rendition of the “New Home of Football”, we see an attempt to cram everything into an undersized lot. We cannot continue to try to put ten pounds of fish into a five-pound bag every time. Please allow me to reflect on your success. I want to truly thank those responsible for securing the funds to purchase the land to build the stadium. The Football Federation, however, should not have to use donated funds to buy land for the “Home for Football”. The ground should be the Government’s responsibility or, need I say, some local philanthropist. Where is the love? In my opinion, the internationally secured funds should be used towards the construction of the facility. Well done, my friends. And nothing I say in this article is meant to distract from your valiant efforts and dedication to the sport. As someone who has been advocating for years for more basketball courts throughout SVG, I understand the work that went into this accomplishment. However, this is not the time to put everything football into one five-acre plot of land. I do have a concern about building an isolated football facility in Cain Grove. The funding the Federation was able
to secure ($2.4million) is an excellent opportunity to leverage it to make something magical. If we expand our thinking, these funds could provide a significant revenue source to the Football Association in conjunction with other private sector investments. These funds provide an opportunity for the Government to step up and use this seed money to incentivize some economic development in the much-talkedabout “Sports Economics”. To begin with, allow me to put forward an idea of an entertainment/business support district in conjunction with this facility. You’re showing approximately 100 parking spaces for a facility with a seating capacity of just over 4,000. Let’s assume half of the fans coming to a football game will be driving. They will arrive an average of four per car. A simple calculation will show that you need about 500 parking spaces. Where will these fans park? Now we all know that the actual parking needs will be between 800-1,000 spaces. If we rely on public transportation to bring most fans to the game, what will we do with the fans for the two hours ahead of time that the fans must arrive to see the game, then after the game for another two hours, waiting for a ride home? This facility provides an excellent business opportunity. These businesses can utilize the shared parking on the “few” days when we do not have a game. These parking spaces could be a source of revenue for the Football Federation. The increased business activities and facilities in the area will also generate more general revenue for the Government (hotel occupancy tax, VAT, CSS along with increased electricity and water demands and other fees). So come on, Mr. Minister of Sports, the ball is on your half of the pitch/ field. Horatio
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 9.
Letters
A taxing problem NOVEMBER traditionally was the time when final preparations for the Budget were made. The Budget was then presented in December. I always looked forward to the debate but of late I am wearied with the Congratulatory remarks, Obituaries, Tributes, Ministerial Statements, and Lack of Fairness in the application of the Parliamentary rules of the House. There must be balance in all that we do and our parliament must not be relegated to a political campaign platform. We are losing faith in the figures we hear and long for some authenticity in what is presented. How long will we continue with this ongoing “Tea Party” where much babbling takes place with speeches utilizing imaginary figures with apparently no relation to reality? With the Auditor General’s reports 5 years behind time, what would it take to bring them up to date? Do we have the will to get this done? From time to time the Report will highlight monies unaccounted for. The last time it was $95 million dollars. This is a very serious situation. Responsible authority seems to brush aside the infraction and are apparently adopting a policy of “undignified silence.” We cannot be so callous with the handling of hard-earned tax payer’s money. We do not do it with our own finances. Let us be accountable. Besides not acknowledging the persistent problem, what is even more troubling is the fact that we are not told of the measures that are being put in place to prevent another $95 million from going “missing.” Everything must be done to restore confidence in Taxpayers and this will encourage us to be more punctual in our payments. House and land tax, various user fees, vehicle licenses, port charges, VAT, and income tax among others are all important. Those charged with the collection of these fees must not just sit and wait for them to be paid but must actively call to remind the Taxpayers when the appropriate payment period approaches. The World has agreed on a minimum 15% tax on large corporations and we should not be exempted from this. While we collect from the identifiable wage earners, the rich must also carry their fair share of our tax burden. For the upcoming budgetary period, every organization should put in place proper accounting procedures and implement a system of internal auditing, so that Accountability becomes part of our culture and so aid in solving this Taxing problem that has apparently become endemic in our country. Anthony Stewart, PhD
Mia is it!!! PADDY COREA (the letter was inadvertently signed Paddy Core) in a letter to the editor in last week’s issue of THE VINCENTIAN, identified Ms. Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, as one who not only talks the talks, but talk the talks with ideas. Corea also described her as an historian of no mean measure. Like Corea, I am a staunch admirer of the lady Prime Minister. She is confident and while she recognizes the history that informs the present and the future, she is not bogged down with the past. And I am certain that those who have been following her since she became Prime Minister, will agree that she
carries herself with grace, charm and decorum, and with an air of respect - qualities that many of her colleague Prime Ministers should consider adopting. Then again, with the male chauvinistic attitude that abounds in the Caribbean, our male Prime Ministers are likely to feel that they would be inflicting a blow to their manhood if they adopt the mannerism and leadership style of a woman. But we have to admit, Mr. Editor, that we can learn a thing or two from Ms. Mottley’s style of leadership. First to begin with, there is no pretence about her; she needs no prompting, no
reminding that the Caribbean is her home. How many of you listened to her presentation at the recent 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow. She didn’t go there with a ‘whole set of impressive language full of hot air’. Instead, she presented a sound understanding of the problems and advanced practical and urgent solutions. No wonder she attracted the attention of world leaders and the international press in a way no other Caribbean leader has been able to do. And if you want an example of how strong this woman is, she
promised to lead her country into becoming a Republic on its 55th anniversary of independence, meant it, and has already begun to act accordingly. More power to Ms. Mottley, more power to Caribbean women. Jeffery H Kingstown
China, COVID-19 and a vaccine THE WORLD is overwhelmed by the coronavirus and direct or indirectly mandatory vaccination. On the 31st December 2019, the WHO was informed of cases of an unknown virus by the Chinese authority in Wuhan City, China. A novel coronavirus was identified by China’s authorities in January 2020 and the resulting disease was named COVID-19. Since the virus originated in China, we need to ask some questions: 1. What is the cause, was it man-made with the
intention to do what it is doing? 2. How did it manage to spread globally? Could China be deemed responsible for its cause, and outcome? 3. Is there a way (e.g natural foods, herbs, exercise and stress-free living) to stop or prevent the health damage we are experiencing today? Trade Unions are workers’ weapons. It is the duty of trade unions globally to call on the WHO to inform us of this health crisis and to inform the world if this was a plan by China, or
whoever, to reduce the world population. The creator God gives us choice and command. Man is giving us command — do or die. Locally, we have to take the Ministry responsible for Food Production out of the hands of those who have no interest in our health, and chart a 40-year recovery plan. Natural food and herbs are the answer with love and cooperation. Not vaccine. Christian Democrat
The power of words HAVING READ some of the writings of people like ‘Mahatma’ Gandhi, Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela, I am of the view that these great men understood the
strength of their words — that what they said would influence the people who proclaimed them as their leaders. And when I compare the writings of these three great men, there is a common thread that binds them together. They all encourage respect for all and often refer to compromise… not compromise to mean
to ‘cave in’ but to mean to search for what would serve the interest of all not a few, and contribute to building a fair society. So the words of these men live through the ages because they all wanted an orderly society. Not so with our leaders who seem to forget that what they say can easily become gospel for their supporter, even
if what they say doesn’t mean as much as what some character in a rum shop might utter. It is incumbent on our national leaders to accept full responsibility to communicate in a very sober and respectful manner — at all times. They must remember that young people in all communities will take their cues from the tone, demeanour and content of the spoken word coming from their leaders. Therefore, when our Prime Minister publicly lashes out in language more suited to the rum shop, this will manifest in negative ways. Watch what you say and how you say it. Birdman (Name withheld on request)
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10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
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Double celebration for our nation’s children
Severe hardship since elections
Introduction
FRIDAY 5TH NOVEMBER marked one year since the Unity Labour Party (ULP) was returned to power in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. During the general elections campaign, the ULP made a number of promises to Vincentians but has not delivered. The ULP continues to fail to deliver on its promises. Instead, Vincentians have been experiencing severe hardship. During the year, cost of living has skyrocketed, unemployment has increased, health care remained a concern, the lack of accountability continued, praedial larceny went out of control and the standard of living declined for most people. For instance, the price of petrol at the pump increased seven (7) times for the year. And, the government is giving the impression that the cause of the economic hardship in the country is due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano; we must not be fooled. The economy has been performing poorly for years. The COVID-19 pandemic and the eruption of La Soufriere volcano have exposed the poor economic condition in the country. Following the 2020 general elections, the first action of the government was to increase tax. It’s the only government to tax its citizens during a pandemic. In the 2021 budget, the government increased the Custom Service Charge (CSC) from 5% to 6% – i.e. a 20% hike. The CSC is a tax paid on all goods imported into the country. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a small open economy. We import most of what we consume. The CSC is included in the price of most of the things that we buy and use in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. So, its effect is very broad. Furthermore, the CSC increase will affect VAT as well. That is to say, the amount of money the government will collect on each VAT item will increase. This is because VAT is charged on the goods after the value of those goods has been raised by the higher customs service charge. By raising the CSC from 5% to 6%, the price of most goods we buy in the store or bring into the country for ourselves will go up. In fact, some prices have already gone up. People have noticed it. We will pay more for almost everything we use, including foodstuff: e.g. cooking oil, corned beef, chicken and other meats, salt, rice, sugar, macaroni, juices, ketchup, seasonings, detergents, soap, shampoo, school supplies, clothing and shoes, and everything else that we get at the grocery stores and clothing stores. Also, light bills have shown marked increases. VINLEC is quick to increase the fuel surcharge with the slightest increase in oil prices, but slow to lower it when oil prices go down. To the consumer, it is just as painful to pay his light bill if the increase comes for rising fuel surcharge as from using more energy in his daily activities. The New Democratic Party (NDP) will do something about it, starting with ensuring that the fuel surcharge never exceeds the cost of units used. In other words, you should not have to
THE WEEK of Monday, November 1, 2021 was an especially exciting week for our nation’s children at all levels of the education system. Still in a celebratory mood from the release of some very excellent results obtained by schools across the country that sat the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC), our students were after months, returning to face to face learning. The announcement by the Ministry of Education that schools across the country would reopen with full face-to-face learning in some instances and a blended/hybrid format in others, was welcomed news for our students. The COVID-19 pandemic had caused major disruptions across our education system since 2020 and the explosive eruption of the La Soufriere volcano on April 9, 2021, caused even further disruptions. The use of the schools in the green and yellow zones as emergency shelters for the months from April to August 2021, meant that our students could not have the benefit of face to face learning. The use of the online platform during the period of disruption presented many challenges to the teaching/learning experience with the expected teething problems as well as other challenges some of which were beyond the control of teachers and students. Despite the best efforts of the Ministry of Education in providing devices for all students and ensuring that teachers were trained in the use of the online platform, the availability of reliable internet connections across the country proved to be a constant challenge for both students and teachers. Notwithstanding those challenges, those committed teachers worked through every obstacle, encouraging and motivating their students, who displayed determination and a stubborn will to succeed. At the end of it all, schools across this nation were able to record improved results with very notable individual performances that make this nation proud, giving us cause to celebrate our children.
Academy with 16 passes (13 ones, 2 twos and 1 three) and Akayla Crichton of the Girls High School with 14 passes (11 ones and 3 twos). These results attained by our students would represent a wonderful achievement under ordinary circumstances, but the extraordinary nature of our experiences this year, makes them all the more remarkable and we should be justly proud in celebrating and congratulating our children.
School Reopens for Face to Face Learning
The reopening of school on Monday November 1, 2021 to full face-to- face in some schools and the use of a blended format in others meant that for the first time in months, students were going back into classrooms. Students, parents and most teachers had long been expressing their wish to have face to face instructions, as a preference to the use of online learning that posed too many challenges to the teaching/learning process. The general consensus among stakeholders seems to be that while online learning adds significant value to the process and should be maintained, it cannot currently serve as a replacement for face to face instructions. The excitement on the faces of students returning to school was clearly visible as they walked along sidewalks in groups, or interacted in their school yard, the students were excited to be back in school. It was also clear that similar feelings of excitement were felt among teachers, as they too were happy to be back in the classroom environment where they are now able to instruct the student in their most familiar methods. The pleasant exchanges between “Miss” and her students, the face-to-face introductions for the first time and the forming of friendships that can potentially last a lifetime were all now taking place. Those First Celebrating CSEC Results 2021 Formers who were so anxious to put Despite the many challenges faced on their new school uniforms, could now do so, and walk through their during their preparation for neighbourhood proudly, they achieved examination, the preliminary results that right of passage but so far, Covidof the CSEC showed an overall 19 and the aftermath of the volcanic increase in the results compared to eruption had robbed them of this. We last year. The results for this year showed that 85% of the subject entries are excited for our students and wish them all the best as they embark on were awarded Grades I, II, or III, up from 82% in 2020. These results when the new school year, engaging in face examined even further show that the to face instruction. improvements were not only in the Conclusion quantity but also in quality as more students got Grade Is and IIs than in While we celebrate with our 2020. The number of Grade Is rose to students their outstanding 28.05%, up from 15.62% while the achievements over the last number go Grade III decreased from 45.85% last year to 32.83% this year. examination cycle, we must recommit to ensuring that they are given the At the school level, 11 of our nation’s 25 secondary schools scored a best opportunity possible to succeed. The government continues to do its pass rate of 80% or higher, with no part, constructing facilities to properly school securing a pass rate less that 67%, a positive achievement over last house students, training teachers and making sure that the conditions of year. The St. Clair Dacon Secondary work are more than adequate. The School with an 83% pass rate this year, and the Union Island Secondary fact however that some schools have not yet returned to face-to-face School with a pass rate of 68%, recorded the biggest improvements in instruction tells a story of some teachers’ reluctance to get vaccinated their results with increases of 17% to ensure the working environment is and 19% respectively. On the as safe as it can be. We continue to individual level, three students were recognised as the top performers; Kajé encourage all teachers to get vaccinated, so that all students across Jack of the Grammar School with 14 passes all with Grade I, Anjú Dowers this nation can have the benefit of face to face instructions. of the Mountain View Adventist
pay more in fuel surcharge than you pay for the energy you actually use. Controlling the energy bill is important for the living standard of all households and critical to the competitiveness of businesses. Hotels, for example, have to air condition their rooms. Imagine the bills they see each month, especially when the fuel surcharge jumps. The NDP will relieve the tax burden on Vincentians.
Relieve the heavy tax burden Vincentians are being taxed more and more every year. As the government’s debt increases, so too will taxes. The VAT, by various means, was increased three years in a row following the 2015 elections. We have the highest taxes and the lowest wages in the OECS. No wonder we feel so poor. We don’t have to be poor; it is the ULP which is making the country poor. We can do better and will do better. To relieve the tax burden of people and free up money into the hands of consumers, we will reduce the VAT from 16 percent to 13 percent. Taxi and bus operators, we know you are struggling with high cost of vehicles and spare parts. The local contractors also are feeling the pressure of living under this government, especially as government often behaves like a bandit and fails to pay contractors on time or at all for their work. We will assist by reducing the duties and taxes associated with purchasing heavy equipment and other tools needed to do your work. We want you to be efficient and productive so you can serve the nation well and compete successfully for work in the other OECS countries.
Improving Health Care Despite a promise by ULP that dates back to as early as 2001, we still do not have a new hospital and there isn’t any plan to construct one. As mentioned in our 2020 manifesto, the NDP has a plan to build a new hospital. It will not be just a building but will be an integral component of a properly administered health care system. We will ensure that the hospital is properly resourced with medical supplies and that persons can get tested and receive their results on site in a timely and affordable manner. Further, the outbreak of dengue fever has shown the critical importance of an effective, wellresourced vector control unit. It saves lives. We will ensure a proactive and rigorous vector control programme combined with a targeted education and awareness campaign to engage our citizens in the fight against dengue fever and other pest-borne disease. Our people need an efficient and effective health sector and that the NDP will deliver. Had the NDP been in office, there would have been a complete transformation of this country.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 11.
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Boabab: The tree of life
“Strong astride its environ. This African tree flourishes in the desert’s drought and flowers in the darkest night.” — Insert found on the inside front cover of the programme for the installation of Professor Sir Hilary Beckles as Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies (May 31, 2015).
grow. This is especially important for the dwellers of the African savannah regions. The massive stem contains fibres that are fire-resistant and have proven to be excellent for making rope PROFESSOR SIR HILARY BECKLES will and clothing. Medicines and go down in history as one of the condiments can be made from the Caribbean’s citizens who championed leaves. The plants produce a fruit the need to create and sustain a strong (often referred to as “Monkey Bread”) links between the nations of the that looks like a coconut and has a Caribbean and the African continent. velvet-like shell is an excellent source This is reflected in many of his writings. of Vitamin C. A visit to the Cave Hill Campus of the This “wonder tree” has a cork-like University of the West Indies (Barbados) bark. The mature trees are usually confirms he sought to remind the hollow. This feature, and the massive peoples of the Caribbean of this size of the tree, makes it ideal for “connection across the Atlantic”. As several species of insects, animals, principal of the Cave Hill Campus he and humans to live in. It is known encouraged and supervised the that some entrepreneurs have construction of the new administration constructed bars and beer shops in building which is designed to portray the “natural living spaces” within the one of the more popular African stools. trunks of Boabab trees. Visitors to this building will be In an article appearing in the Daily pleasantly surprised to observe the Mail in December, 2007, reference many African paintings, photographs, was made to a South African family and carvings that adorn the walls of this (the Van Heerdens) who came across building. In his own way, Sir Hilary has a Boabab tree containing artefacts heightened our awareness of the need belonging to the pioneering Dutch of our Caribbean people to network with Voortrekkers family. The the peoples, governments, and Voortrekkers had travelled through organisations in Africa. South Africa in the mid-1800s. Tools The quotation that was used to and wagon pieces dating back to the introduce this week’s article was Great Trek were also found within the found on the insider front cover of the hollow of the tree trunk. They assert programme for the installation of that Boabab trees hollow naturally as Professor Sir Hilary Beckles as Vicethey age. They proclaim that there Chancellor of the University of the are trees on their farm that can easily West Indies. This event took place at seat as many as fifteen persons within the Cave Hill Campus of the the tree trunk. Wow! What a wonder University of the West Indies on May of God’s creation. 31, 2015. The Boabab tree can teach us so Research confirms that the Baobab many life lessons. In the first tree can be found in the drier parts of instance, we realise that we can Africa and Australia. Some natives flourish even when we are exposed to on those continents refer to the tree extremely harsh life conditions. as “bottle tree”, “the upside-down Sometimes we underestimate our tree”, or “the tree of life”. The latter ability to cope even as we face very name is most interesting and quite trying times. The “drought” may understandable. Some species of the appear to be harsh and long but we tree reach heights of close to 100 feet often have the capacity, the ability, to and the diameter of the trunk can survive — to flourish. It is also true sometimes reach 36 feet. However, that such harsh conditions may one of the very fascinating things initially appear to rid us of our about this wonder of God’s creation is “leaves” but we still have so much that lies in the fact that the trunk can substance within us. Amidst our hold as much as 120,000 litres of trying times we can be a source of water. Wow! No wonder some refer blessing and encouragement to others. to it “the tree of life”. This amazing The Boabab inspires and tree is often leafless for most of the encourages us to be strong; to not lose year. We can therefore imagine why hope even when/if conditions may some viewers will refer to it as the initially appear to be unfavourable. It “upside-down tree”; the leafless is a tree of hope. It is a tree of branches appear like roots stretching provision. It is a tree that encourages to the sky in search of water and and inspires us to find strength from nutrients. within and bless those without. In a Research has confirmed that some very true sense, it is a tree of life. species live well beyond a hundred years. Throughout their lifetime they Send comments, criticisms & provide water, food, shelter and suggestions to clothing for the animal and human julesferdinand@gmail.com inhabitants in the areas where they
Fitz Huggins as Ambassador at Large THE HOSPITALISATION of former prime minister James Mitchell coming as it did a few months after PM Gonsalves sustained a busted head and felt compelled to fly to Barbados for treatment, has brought into sharp focus the legacies of colonialism, priorities of post-independence governments, the inadequacies in our health care system and the pressing task confronting our nation. When the British colonisers formally left SVG in 1979 following nearly 200 years of colonial occupation, genocide, slavery and exploitation, a military barracks was our makeshift hospital. The facility was woefully inadequate, and many citizens remain convinced that it remains so. A good brethren justified his decision to take the vaccine for Covid-19 because he would rather take his chance with the unknown than end up in Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH). Many Vincentians have for generations viewed the hospital as a death trap. We have indeed come a long way. Today most of our doctors and specialists are Vincentians. In the old days, many were foreigners, especially from India. In the last few years, new operating theatres have been installed, but no one confidently welcomes a visit or stay on the wards of MCMH. Through the kind generosity of our Cuba brothers and sisters, we now boast a well-equipped Modern medical facility at Georgetown. However impressive some may view these gains, Gonsalves and Mitchell’s hurried departure to Barbados for urgent medical attention not only exposed our inadequacies but in some ways brought into stark relief the priorities or lack thereof of their governance. After all, both men have dominated and occupied the seat of power for 37 of our nation’s 42 years of independence. And here is where Fitz Huggins comes in. Huggins does not care for the good graces of diplomacy. He was not trained as one and its shows. He wears as a badge of honour his support for the governing party. He is a political jihadist and aims his sharpest spears at opposition politicians and supporters. He wades into matters social and political in ways no trained diplomat would, but few will question his nationalist and patriotic bonafides. The ageing Gonsalves, who holds the foreign ministry portfolio, clearly does not have the energy to globe-trot as he did in the past. Gonsalves gluttonously craves the big stage. His conspicuous absence from the climate summit in Glasgow, Ireland, is proof positive is slowing down, except there are more ominous health reasons. Fitz Huggins have demonstrated an ability to build contacts and seek out practical benefits for our country. There has been no one in a foreign posting that has brought home more tangible benefits. Some may dismiss his efforts but ask yourself why no other diplomat in our history has been as visible as Huggins. Huggins has acquired used vehicles and fire engines for our police, seeds for our farmers and tons of relief supplies whenever there is a disaster. Those who frown on or dismiss these efforts need to be in the seat of a distressed citizen who makes an urgent call to a police station only to be told there is no police vehicle. Worse, watch your house or business burn for lack of a functioning fire engine. Gonsalves and Mitchell rushed off to Barbados. Most citizens are unable to do so and are thus denied urgent and
adequate care. With government assistance, many ordinary citizens have had the opportunity to travel abroad and access medical care. However, except for the rarest of medical diagnosis and care, we should acquire it here. Both the ULP and NDP have promised to build a modern hospital. It is time we get serious with health care. Preventive care must be prioritised, but we must not prevent illness. Central to the comfort and satisfaction of citizens is knowing that they could receive adequate and competent care. If Fitz Huggins is made Ambassador at Large with the mandate to search for medical assistance, we can be assured he will give it his best effort. Take, for example, the absence of an MRI machine in SVG. Vincentians fly to neighbouring countries for this service. They must find money to pay for the transportation, hotel, internal travel as well as test. It is incomprehensible that no government in post-independence SVG has committed to acquiring one of these machines. An internet search produced this fact: A used low-field MRI machine can be as cheap as US$150,000 or as expensive as $1.2 million. For a state of the art 3 Tesla MRI machine, the price tag to buy a new one can reach $3 million. The room that houses the machine, called the MRI suite, can cost hundreds of thousands more. Would the investment be worth it? We think so. Early diagnosis may be less of a drain on public resources and saves lives. Further, the quest for such diagnostic tools must be done in the context of the construction and operation of a new hospital. We are not here talking about a new wall structure like the public library built with the assistance of the Taiwanese. Confidence in our health care facilities will increase only if we acquire modern equipment and diagnostic tools. Long gone are the days when hospitals were halfway houses where people went to suffer on their way to the cemetery. Take Taiwan, one of our closest allies. Could they not be convinced to offer this much-needed assistance or contribute to its realization? Cuba, our oppressed, suppressed, blockaged and resourced starved sister nation, built the Diagnostic Centre. With the necessary diplomatic cover and mandate, Fitz can travel around the world in search of this kind of assistance. Although we argued about the cost and politics of the Argyle International Airport, the settled view is that the airport is both necessary and essential. The mantra was build it, and they will come. A well-equipped hospital should be priority number one with a commitment to accomplishing it. Such a completion and celebration may have to wait for another day. What cannot wait is the dire need for a piece of medical equipment as essential and necessary as an MRI. As Ambassador at Large, Plain Talk is confident that Fitz Huggins has the commitment, enthusiasm and drive to ask world leaders for those things our nation lacks but needs. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
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12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
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SVG - Violence against women YOU CAN TELL the condition of a nation by looking at the status of its women. - Jawaharlal Nehru, First Prime Minister of India The status of women in our society is not equal to men. SVG Green Party has previously called for women to be equally represented on statutory boards and other positions of authority and stature. Although some women have higher status jobs, SVG needs more. It is positive role models that give young women and girls inspiration and hope. When they see what other women have achieved, they realise that they can achieve too. Women are the victims of the majority of crime in SVG. It is extremely disturbing that females from as young as 13 are victims of violent sexual crime, not to mention that elderly women also experience violent sexual crime. We have already noted a United Nations and World Bank report that showed SVG as having one of the highest rape rates in the Caribbean - 8 times the worldwide average. In 2007, St. Vincent had the thirdhighest rate of recorded rapes in the world, after the Bahamas and Swaziland, according to a United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime document. Other UN statistics showed that in 2011, St. Vincent was the fourth-worst country worldwide when it came to its rate of recorded rapes. Domestic abuse and incest are common. It was reported that between 2000 and 2011, 60 women died from gender-based violence or at the hands of their partner – a staggering figure
considering the under-reporting of cases and St. Vincent’s tiny population of about 109,000. It is not surprising that a Canadian newspaper reported that in 2010, 710 Vincentians sought asylum in Canada, up from only 179 in 2001. Also, over the decade of 2001 to 2011, there were more than 4,500 refugee claimants, roughly 4 per cent of our population. Most were women fleeing violence. In a report produced in collaboration between UQAM’s International Clinic for the Defense of Human Rights and the SVG Human Rights Association in 2014, it was found that: 1) The State of SVG does not provide effective access to justice for gender-based crimes; 2) The State of SVG fails to fulfil its obligation to take all appropriate measures to protect women against gender-based violence as a form of discrimination under the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women; 3) Gender-based violence is a persistent problem in SVG, with domestic violence, rape and incest being the most common types of violence against girls and women; 4) Between 2006 and 2009, 205 cases of rape, 200 cases of sex with a minor under the age of 15, and 29 cases of incest were reported in SVG; and 5) Between 2004 and 2011, the rate of rape per population of 100 000 has thus doubled, increasing from 177.8 per 100,000 to 389.5 per 100,000.
We have to change direction in our mindset and have respect for women. We must also abolish the economic apartheid that allows the super-rich foreigners of Mustique and Canouan tax and customs exemptions of billions of dollars. This injustice weakens the SVG’s economy and the consequences of this perpetuate poverty and violence. Over the years, our nation has witnessed many murders, rapes and other severe acts of brutality against women. SVG should go Green for prosperity
and a better quality of life for women. Green philosophy promotes equality for men and women. The time has come for a Green revolution to fix the economic and social problems created by the incompetent ULP government and to end violence against women.
The heroes among us ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES recently celebrated its 42nd Independence Anniversary. Some Vincentians saw it as a time for frolic and enjoyment. Others spent time with family and friends while others saw it as a time of reflection regarding our development trajectory, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the recent volcanic eruption on the nation. Additionally, the anniversary of our Independence is also a time when many reflect on the service others render to our nation’s development, and look and consider such occurrences as the basis for national awards and bestowing national hero status. However, when we cast our view around, we are wont to recognise only those ‘glaring heroic deeds’ and miss the heroes of everyday life; people who, without expectation of reward, do the small things that are necessary to hold the fabric of our nation together. On or about the August 10, I was driving through Owia (Red Zone) and saw a number of young people cleaning the community. I was quite impressed and stopped and casually asked if they were employed by the government. I was told by one young woman that their “Representative” had organized the clean-up and had hired them. I was pleasantly surprised, because I had privately expressed the view that the government should employ the young people in the Red Zone which would provide some employment to them, and jump start economic activity in the areas most badly affected by the Soufriere eruption. Wanting to express my support and appreciation for the initiative, I reached out to a close member of the Hon Montgomery Daniel’s team and asked them about it. To my amazement he did not know of the initiative and was surprised that young people were working in the Red Zone. He all but admitted that they had no control over what was going on. Mr. Editor, under further investigation it became clear that the initiative of putting young persons to gainful employment in the Red Zone was the initiative of Senator Shevern John. I contacted Senator John and
learned that she had started the initiative out of an abundance of concern for the young people who were just doing nothing but ‘hanging on the blocks’. The Senator pointed out that most of the work the government had assigned was done primarily by persons living outside the area. She observed that the young people from the community were left frustrated, with nothing to do and little opportunity open to them. She then sought and received funding and employed over 80 young persons in Owia and the surrounding areas for three weeks, and was able to assist returning residents in cleaning their homes and surroundings of ash and other debris. We must also understand that the Senator had to evacuate her home during the volcano eruption. Notwithstanding this personal setback, she was instrumental in providing food, water and clothing to many persons from North Windward who were also displaced and had taken refuge in shelters and private homes. If SVG had a national award system, Senator Shevern John, in my view, would have met the criteria for national honours. This is the type of practical leadership that SVG needs in this time — selfless, patriotic service. It may be early but on the merit of her works, the people in North Windward should give their unanimous support to Senator Shevern John. If this is what she can do in opposition, during a volcanic eruption and without government support, could you even begin to envisage what she can achieve with the resources of the government behind her? With Senator leading the way, I am confident Vincentians will marvel at the change and development in that part of the country. I am not talking a few bridges and a few hundred feet of roads every decade, I am speaking of personal and economic development that will positively impact the quality of lives of the people in North Windward. For the 42nd Anniversary of SVG’s Independence, I nominate Senator Shevern John for national recognition. Undoubtedly, “a breath of fresh air.” A Bonadie
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 13.
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14. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
Literature
„Pins and Needles‰ by GLORIAH…
illustrated by caroline boops sardine and published by Hobo Jungle “PINS AND NEEDLES: Words to Press which also operates see with the heART out of St. Vincent and the wide open”, is a Grenadines. on 28th July, 116-page 2021. A completely publication written by Andre Iton, Vincentian collaboration, Andre Iton ‘scribbled’ the lines that overwhelmed his thinking and passed them on to boops for another interpretation.
Below: The cover of “Pin and Needles’ in its extraordinary way, beckons you to discover what’s within.
the book boasts, according to www.amazon.com, “a collaboration of words and images between two nationals of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.. .” The collection is comprised of poems which, in Andre’s words are “scribbles” and drawings that reflect caroline’s experience of being alive in the 21st
century in the Caribbean, and facing a world that seeks to engulf it and all its inhabitants. Andre Iton is a Vincentian from New Montrose, now residing in the Cayman Islands. A rather private person, his thoughts on this book were: “In the dark of my mind. I scribbled. I shared the written thought with my dear friend caroline. Her inner eye and immense artistic talent transformed the words into images, images that any open heArt can see. Together we share the fruits of this collaboration with you. May our hearts be open, so that there is room for empathy, compassion and love, …until our eyes are closed.” The innovative and awesomely creative artist, caroline sardine — who prefers and signs her name in lower case letters - describes herself and her work this
caroline boops sardine lent her limitless imagination to putting a pictures to Iton’s ‘scribbled words”. way: “I am a Vincentian artist who uses mostly paint and ‘found objects’ to express my voice and inner vision to connect with people on a higher vibration. One heArt.” This book was launched in the Cayman Islands on October 13, 2021. It is available here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines at Gaymes Book Centre Outlets in Paul’s Avenue and next to the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic School on North River Road. It is also available on www.amazon.com.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 15.
News
Jakki – The supermom teacher
Jacqueline ‘Jakki’ King was presented with a signed artistic impression of a Cuban scene by her fifth form Spanish class.
Stories by GLORIAH…
JACQUELINE KING, affectionately known as ‘Jakki’ is a single mother from Richmond Hill, Kingstown. The reference ‘single mom’, in this case, can never be twinned with notions of hopelessness and ineptitude. It is, instead a description of a young lady who has toiled along the pathways of life, and ensured successes for her family, her students and herself. ‘Jakki’ is a mother of four. The coronavirus pandemic arrived even as two them were in exit level classes at opposite ends of the scale - Form 5 and Grade 6. The implications were obvious as per the attention they required with online instructions so as to earn good results
to ensure a better nextstep towards their future. Then the volcanic eruptions complicated the matter further. This became more trying as her last child was in entry level, Kindergarten. She was left with no choice than to divide her attention. She told THE VINCENTIAN, “I was determined to ensure that everyone was covered, and as I sometimes suffered from insomnia, I had to adopt the principles of ‘each one help one’ at home.” Mother and Teacher Added to her responsibilities as a single mother, ‘Jakki’ is a Modern Languages teacher at the St. Vincent Grammar School. She holds a Certificate of Proficiency in Theatre Arts (UWI-
2012) as well as an Associate Degree in Performing Arts (SVGCC- 2015). As with her own children, the pandemic and volcanic eruption created severe interruptions in her students’ Spanish programme, but her twenty years at the SVGS, and cumulative twenty-four years in the teaching service, provided a platform from which she craftily stimulated excellence. At this year’s CSEC examination, history was created as her students received 100% passes in Spanish, with 56% Grade I’s. It was her very first group of Fifth Form students and it was a feat the school had not enjoyed in a very long time. Mr. Colin Sam, Deputy Headmaster,
heartily congratulated her with a voice note, “Congratulations! We are very proud of you! It’s the first time we’re seeing so many Grade 1’s for Spanish in a very, very, very, long, long, time. You did an awesome job! You did a fantastic job!”
Hard work earns results Hard work had paid off. “I feel extremely proud of “my sons” as I affectionately call them,” she said. She added that, “Having taught most of these students Spanish for their entire tenure at the institution, I developed a close bond with them. I captured them from the start. .. We were a team, we worked tirelessly and the
hard work and sacrifices paid off.” She thanked God for blessings her with wisdom and knowledge to impart to her students, and for guiding and directing her always along this journey. She was always optimistic about their success
because she knew her students and believed in them and trusted God to do the rest. According to ‘Jakki’ you have to constantly remind your students of how smart they are; how much you are proud of them and believe in them.
MCMH gets murals
Muralists Rochelle Samuel (left) and Tansha George stand proudly next to their ‘Tree of Life’ depiction.
EVEN AS THE MILTON CATO Memorial Hospital has become, some say, synonymous with those affected by the coronavirus, the spirit of patients warded and visitors to the Maternity B and the Male Medical are now boosted by a mural at their entrances. The endeavor, a project piloted by the Psychology Department of the hospital, was undertaken by two recent Associate Degree Graduates in Fine Arts Design and Cultural Communication of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies, Tansha George of Sion Hill and Rochelle Samuel of Campden Park eagerly answered a call from their past lecturer, to participate in the project. The project entailed the painting of two murals: the ‘Tree of Life’ presented by the Psychology Department, for the entrance of the Maternity
Ward B; the ‘Tree of Hope’ for the entrance of the at the Male Medical Ward , as inspired by the ‘Tree of Dreams’ which Ms. Samuel sourced online.
Mural experience Ms. George told THE VINCENTIAN that this was not their first mural. She assisted in painting a mural at the entrance of the St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown in 2020, while Ms. Samuel’s experience came through assisting with the painting of a mural at the front of the Fairhall Government School in the summer of 2018. Both undertakings were part fulfillment of their studies.
It was Ms. Samuel’s opinion that the murals would serve a worthy purpose. “The colours of warm and cool hues expressed in the murals depict a warm and happy feeling,” she stated, “while the visual words that are seen would bring hope and comfort to the many patients and visitors at the hospital.” She spoke of words like
The ‘Hope Tree’ mural will bring a sense of better days being possible, according to muralists Rochelle Samuel (left) and Tansha George.
courage, strength, possibility, forgiveness, purpose, support and growth. Ms. George revealed that, “While painting, I heard remarks from staff stating that the hospital needed more of that and another stated that we needed to do more than what we were doing.” She opined that trees are
resilient, especially when their roots are deep, and it was her desire that the ‘Hope Tree’ and ‘Tree of Life’ would give patients and staff a reason to smile each day, and believe that better days are possible. The project was jointly sponsored by GECCU and the Valeo Experience.
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16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Business
Massy Stores Mega: Everyone benefits
Fashion designer Kimya Glasgow cuts the ribbon to declare Massy Stores Mega opened to business.
With 8,000 square feet of floor space and goods packed to ceiling height, Massy Stores Mega offers a one-stop shopping opportunity.
SVG Police Co-operative Credit Union Limited (PCCU) SCHOLARSHIP & BURSARY AWARDS NOTICE The St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Co-operative Credit Union Limited awarded full scholarships to, two (2) students who were successful at the 2021 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA). In addition to the presentation of scholarships, twenty-six (26) students were awarded one-off cash bursaries to assist with the purchasing of school supplies.
Left to right: Manager, Ayanna Samuel, scholarship holders Destiny Dickson, Lorenz Paul & President, Enville Williams.
Tel: 784-485-6840/784-534-7228 Email: svgpolicecredituion@vincysurf.com
JAMOL MCCOY, Marketing Manager at the Massy Stores Mega looks at the new venture as providing benefits for everybody. The Massy Stores Mega, located in the Russell’s Mall, Stoney Ground, was officially opened on Thursday 4th November, 2021. It commands some 8,000 square feet of floor space and is the latest addition to Massy’s chain of Supermarkets here with three locations — Stoney Ground, Upper Bay Street and Arnos Vale. McCoy was full of excitement on opening day, sharing that customers can purchase wholesale or in bulk, and that he was “pleased with the response from hotels and restaurants.” The Marketing Manager stressed the savings that can ensue by shopping at the Massy Stores Mega, not least being the savings on petrol occasioned by the significant reduction in the number of trips normally made to purchase at regular outlets.
This, plus the fact that there are savings with bulk purchasing, the new Massy venture offers “incredible benefits to everyone,” McCoy said. And in terms of benefits, customers have a range of items from which to choose — from the usual shopping lists items like corn flakes, cooking oil, laundry detergent, to televisions at reduced prices. Add a pharmacy to the service offers and it’s a one-stop shopping delight. General Manager of Massy Stores (St. Vincent) Ltd., Vanessa DeSouza admits that the Massy Stores Mega is a “bold move” but her company is determined to “closing the gap” in the provision of this type of service. Kamisha Craigg, Store Manager, is pleased with the work that has gone in to see the venture off the ground and praised her General Manager as a “visionary.” She welcome patrons to “Shop, save, smile.” Massy Stores Mega has 25 persons employed and customers can shop from 7am daily. Closing hours are 9pm Monday to Thursday, 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3pm Sunday. Kimya Glasgow,
Ms. Vanessa DeSouza, General Manager of Massy Stores (St. Vincent) Ltd. implied that Massy had made a bold move with the opening of its Stores Mega. designer and proprietor of Kimya Glasgow Boutique, and a prominent customer of Massy Stores, cut the ribbon to declare the new Massy outlet officially opened, and blessings of the new compound were performed by Rev. Dr. Cecil Richards. Massy Stores operates 47 retail locations in 5 markets in the Caribbean — Barbados, Guyana, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago where it is headquartered. Its operating formats include supercentres, supermarkets, pharmacies, express, gourmet, home and mega stores. (WKA)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 17.
News
Kingsley ÂInchÊ Jack: The Reggae King In 1980, Kingsley ‘Inch’ Jack won an Independence Reggae (Song) Contest with a composition entitled ‘Life’. That was perhaps the crowning point in the life of the singer, then in his early twenties. Schooled at the Wesley Hall Methodist and Kingstown Government Schools, and the Liberty Lodge Training Centre, Jack recalled hitting the stage at a Miss Teen Contest and bringing the house down with his soulful interpretation of the song ‘Wildflower’, first recorded and performed by the Canadian bandSKYLARK. That was the signal of things to come for him on the local entertainment scene. In keeping with the trend of the day, ‘Inch’ became a member of a performing quintet, the ‘Slim Sliders’, that included the likes of Karl ‘Dolly’ Campbell, Elford ‘Beams’ Burton, Noel ‘Egg’ Johnny, and Jerry ‘Jah’ Daisley. Cultural icon Robert ‘Patches’ Knights was instrumental in the harnessing of that outfit. Campbell reflected on the youthfulness of the group, then regarded as
the junior version of the seasoned ‘Slum Mates’, the leading performing group act of the 1970s and early 1980s. ‘Inch’, though, continued to perform as a solo act and in 1981 he lead the local music hit parades with a number he called, ‘They never love I’. He reminisced about performing at Fly’s Disco and the Aquatic Club, two of the leading entertainment venues in the 1970s, where he was supported by the band Clymax; and at Lyric Cinema with Mastermind on the band stand. He peaked but could not maintain the heights to which he had ascended. Today, ‘Inch’, undoubtedly one of the better reggae composers and performers this country has seen, straggles around the streets of Kingstown with a leg impediment that makes walking slow and uncertain. He gave Sion Hill as his place of abode and said he is supported by moneys through a Ministry of Government. Persons who know of ‘Inch’s’ contribution on the cultural arena are of the view that measures
Kingsley ‘Inch’ Jack cuts a picture of a desolate soul, surviving on recalling his accomplishments of a time past. ought to be taken to ensure a more comfortable way of life for him. Kingsley ‘Inch’ Jack was born October 10, 1958, to mother Violet Jack and father Samuel ‘Sparrow’ Duncan. He worked for some time as a cleaner at the Kingstown Market. His songs featured prominently on the playlist of at least one local radio station during the month of October, in commemoration of the country’s 42nd Independence anniversary. (WKA)
Union Island small businesses get funding SUSTAINABLE Grenadines Inc (SusGren) with funding from the Inter-American Foundation (IAF) is implementing a project entitled: ‘Ashton Lagoon Restoration and Income Generation on Union Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’. Grants totaling EC$200,000 have been disbursed to support start-ups, established and small businesses, community groups and educational institutions. Some of the areas being funded through the project includes art and craft, agriculture, food catering, auto mechanic and repairs, small shops, access to water, improvement to important community sites and training in sports and culture. The news of
availability of small grants attracted an overwhelming 127 applications of which SusGren was able to approve a total of 51. The 51 approvals included 7 groups and institutions and 44 small businesses. Thus far, the project has paid out more than EC$130,000.00 to successful applicants and SusGren’s aim is to ensure these small grants improve the overall economic lives of people, their family and the community in which they operate both direct and indirectly. Other aspects of the project will include the
Ladies involve themselves in clean-up initiatives in Union island, spearheaded by SusGren. construction of a plant nursery and water cistern to further increase the capacity of water on the island, an area of ongoing concern. (DD)
18. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 19.
News
Tour Guides urged to give positive experience
TOUR GUIDES HERE have been called on to give visitors a positive experience of the attractions, activities and amenities to visitors to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The call came from Quality Development Officer at the Ministry of Tourism, Aina Browne, as she addressed a workshop for Tour Guides as this country opens its ports, once again, to cruise line and stayover visitors. Browne, who also served as a Workshop facilitator, reminded the participants that it was essential that they get
refreshers and were certified, so as to maintain and enhance standards in the service In this light, the Quality Development Officer referenced the issuing licenses by the Tourism Authority as a means of ensuring that the guides are not only knowledgeable but credible. The Workshop, hoisted by the Ministry of Tourism, was held on November 4, 5, and 8, at the Conference Room of the Arnos Vale. Sports Complex, and attracted participation by 10 tour guides. They were exposed to
Members of BBO planting the Neme tree (seen between the persons pictured).
BBO plants tree PATRONS TO JACKSON BAY, Layou, should in years to come appreciate the thought and efforts of the Becket Benefit Organisation (BB0). On Saturday 30th October, 2021, members of BBO spearheaded the planting of a Neme tree that would, in time to come, provide shade for those who use the beach and waters of Jackson Bay. The tree, a donation from Layou-based Nature Care SVG, was planted on the western side of the beach, close to the entrance to the beach off the road leading to Bamberaux. BBO is committed to continue its assistance to the community of Layou, despite the prevailing circumstance occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic. Towards this end, the organization will stage a number of mini fund-rasing events, the first in the series being a Soup and Pelau sale held on Saturday 6th November. These events will continue with a local food sale (saltfish, provision and dough boy) on December 04 and a Raffle to be drawn in December. A 43-inch television is among the prizes in for the raffle. A indication from the BBO said that the community is invited to participate in a “Grab and Go” Toy Donation for Children from Pre-School age to seven years old, to be held at Velox Corner. (CD)
various topics in classroom-type sessions, went on field trips, engaged in role playing and wrote examinations The Responsibilities of a Tour Guide, Tourism Service, Standards and Code of Practices, Benefits of Tourism and Quick Facts About SVG
were among some of the topics discussed. Tourism Expert Marina Lampkin also facilitated some of the workshop sessions. Quality Development Manager, Avanelle Dasilva was in attendance and assessed the participants. (SG)
Quality Development Officer at the Ministry of Tourism, Aina Browne (standing) interacting with Tour Guide during one of the Workshop sessions.
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20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
The return of his ‘Ex’
Dear George, MY HUSBAND’s ‘Ex’ contacted him to recommend a place for her to stay during a business trip to SVG. I couldn’t grasp why she couldn’t that for herself and I decided I was going with him to meet her. When she saw him, she greeted him as though there was no COVID-19; she kissed him in a most sensual almost sultry manner and they caressed one another’s backs. I had to clear my throat loudly to get their attention and that was when he sheepishly introduced me saying, “This is ………” (name withheld). I reinforced that by saying, ‘I am his wife.” I could see that that surprised her. We quarreled over it when we got home. He left the house and stayed out the entire night and into the next day, something he never did before in our 4 years of marriage. I am sure he used that opportunity to be with her. I have not slept in the same room with him since and I am worried he might bring home some STD to me. We are just barely talking to each
other because the matter of his ‘Ex’ has not yet been resolved. Whenever I bring it up he gets mad and leaves the house. I would like your opinion on this.
Suspicious Dear Suspicious, You do have sound reasons to be suspicious of your husband’s actions and every right to ask for an explanation. It was incumbent on him to inform her of his marriage. Had she known that the greeting might have gone differently. Avoiding the problem is not what both of you want to do. Rather, you and your husband need to talk this through and I recommend that you use the services of a counsellor to help you though this hurdle.
George
Babysitting concerns Dear George,
Dear Red Mad,
I JUST discovered my boyfriend has been taking our 3-year-old daughter to his woman on the side for her to babysit her. I was of the impression he was taking her to daycare. This is the same individual with whom he swore he had nothing to do. Why would someone babysit a child for free in this hard guava crop? How is he paying her if no cash is involved? I am just tired of this nonsense and want out of this relationship. Is this a good reason to bounce?
The situation involving your daughter is of grave concern and should not been allowed to happen in the first place. Both of you should agree on who babysits your daughter. Your boyfriend’s decision to allow his lover on the side to be responsible for your daughter is reckless and should be stopped immediately. The decision is yours to make thereafter, whether you want to continue in the relationship and demand more or get more of the same.
Red Mad
George
My girlfriend cheats on me Dear George, I HAVE BEEN cheated 18 times in 6 months by my so called girlfriend. Each time I catch her in the act, she would cry and beg for forgiveness, and stupid me would forgive her each time. A friend of mine recently told me that she told him how stupid I am and she has cheated on me more times than I know, but I would never leave her because of the sex. I was hurt and asked her about it. Her response was, “Ask your friend how honest he is with you.” I didn’t quite know how to interpret that remark. Could it
be he had something to do with her?
Hurting Dear Hurting,
from any relationship it is difficult to move forward. You will not need to worry about your friend messing with your girlfriend if you deal with her cheating ways once and for all, and that means leaving her to figure out what she really wants but will have to do so without you.
Forgiving someone does not mean you have to put up with their behavior indefinitely. Your girlfriend is obviously taking advantage of your forgiving spirit. George Once trust disappears
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) The locks, stove, gas, or electric wires may not be secure. You will communicate easily and should be able to develop new friendships. Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with, but try to do things by the book. You will be tempted to shop till you drop. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Attempt to face key issues with lovers or problems could escalate. Don't overextend your self in order to add luxury items to your entertainment center. Real estate investments will payoff. You can win points if you present your ideas this week. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Use discrimination and play hard to get. Insincere gestures of friendliness are likely to occur. Rewards for past good deeds will be yours. You may find that your plans will cost a little more than you had expected. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Sit tight. Things aren't as bad as they appear. You can expect opposition at work. Don't let your competition be privy to information that could be in criminating. You can make headway if you share your intentions with someone you care about. You can continue to forge ahead if you make a few long distance calls pertinent to closing pending deals. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Rewards for past good deeds will be yours. Be diplomatic but stem. Get involved in worthwhile endeavors and meet new friends. Find a quiet spot where you can work diligently and stay out of the way. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Your dedication and fortitude when dealing with humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation. Do not let lovers cost you money or take advantage of you. Go with the flow and don't let the unsettled atmos-
phere get on your nerves. Visit friends or relatives who have been confirmed. LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may find it difficult to discuss personal matters with family members. Don't hesitate to visit someone who hasn't been well. Channel your energy wisely and you can score points with the boss. Business and emotional partnerships will run smoothly. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You will feel better about yourself and you may also meet potential lovers. Be discreet about your personal life or whereabouts. Be mysterious. Your ability to come up with original ideas will bring recognition from superiors. Property investments will payoff. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You can learn from those who have had similar experiences. Travel will promote romantic connections. You are best to keep your money tied up in a safe and secure place. Your doubt could lead to insecurity. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation. Family outings will make you feel secure and happy. Entertainment should include sports events or physical activities. Try not to say the wrong thing at the wrong time. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Control those desires to cast your fate to the wind. You mustn't be so trusting. Catch up on overdue phone calls and correspondence. Try to visit a country that excites you. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You are best to put your efforts into redecorating or inviting friends over. You need to do your own thing and work on making yourself the best you can be. Make career changes that may increase your income. Travel may change your attitudes with regard to your philosophy.
ACROSS 1. Tree branch 5. Like some bookstores 9. Senseless person 11. 6th day of the week 13. Like many marathon winners 15. The whole enchilada 16. Gnaw at 17. Marshy material 19. Stair part 20. English test component 22. Fine-tunes, e.g. 26. Soprano’s gig 31. Crows 32. Fit 33. Waste conduit 34. Bed coverings 35. “What’s mine is ___” 37. Common land measure 41. On bended ___ 42. Amazement 45. Crossword specialty 47. Ace value, sometimes 49. With no trouble 50. Cooked in a skillet 51. Chime 52. Hikes up DOWN 1. Similar 2. “The very ___!” 3. Make money 4. Tarzan tot 5. Expensive vase 6. Is placed 7. Correct 8. Challenge 10. Elaborate hanging 11. Salad cheese 12. Slangy assent
14. Treetop structures 18. Barnyard beast 21. All by ___ (on your own) 22. Tummy muscles 23. Much sued individual, with John 24. Gossip 25. Operate 27. It’s often a la mode 28. Expected time to be here 29. Like Rudolph’s nose 30. Infomercials, e.g. 32. Shopping excursion 34. Type of roof
36. All right! 37. Tucked away 38. Grumble 39. Ascent 40. Dastardly doings 42. Enthusiastic
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 21.
43. Garden intruder 44. Conclusions 46. Under the weather 48. Significant period
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22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
Services
VINLEC staff trained to operate new generators NINETEEN members of staff from the Generation Department, at both operational and Management levels, participated in a two-week training programme that examined the operations of the newly installed
Wärtsilä engines at the Cane Hall Power Station. The training commenced October 25th, under Senior Wärtsilä Instructor, Mr. Matti Kakko. According to Mr. Kakko, these latest model of
generators (Wärtsilä 6L32) boast upto-date technology. He said the generators contain miller timing which have fewer combustion chambers to reduce nitrous oxide (NOX) emissions and they are therefore environmentally friendly. Mr. Kakkoo said that proper maintenance of
the engines will ensure that they operate at the optimal level. The participants addressed relevant topics during the two-week period namely engine general design and function, function of engine built-on systems, fuel oil, lubricating oil and cooling water requirements, engine
operation, engine maintenance operations, general design of power plant, function of auxiliary systems, auxiliary systems operation and auxiliary systems maintenance operations. The training was essential for the VINLEC staff in order to ensure they are familiar with the new technology such
VINLEC and Wärtsilä teams in front of one of the generators.
that they can adequately address any challenges from the new installation. The participants noted that they are aware that the training helped to improve their knowledge about advancements in new generation technology. They are now Continued on Page 27.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 23.
Harry promises better stewardship
chose him over his other opponents- Stephen Joachim and Wayne Williams. Harry will be seeking to head the organisation for the next quadrennial, when the SVGOC holds a Special Meeting, including elections, at Hotel Alexandrina, from 5pm. Harry, who served as a Trustee for the past four years, believes he has gathered enough information about the “shortcomings” of the organisation, and is Vanburn Harry therefore, best suited to rewrite the wrongs. VANBURN HARRY - Presidential “My candidacy for the candidate in today’s elections position of president is not for (Friday 12th November, 2021) of gain, fame or glory, it is the St Vincent and the because I have seen the Grenadines Olympic Committee deficiencies and inefficiencies (SVGOC) – promises better of the SVGOC, and recognize stewardship, should affiliates
the injustice that we face in the form of poor leadership,” Harry commented. “The current core of the executive - President, VicePresident, General Secretary and Treasurer - has held their positions for multiple terms and yet the organization has seemingly fallen into an unprogressive state, with lack of accountability and transparency,” he cited. Harry disclosed that his campaign is based on three pillars: “Innovation, Good Governance and Equity.” As per ‘Innovation’, Harry said that he wants to make use of the best technologies available to assist with sports education and training, exploit marketing opportunities while building education and
awareness of the SVGOC. In reference to governance, Harry advanced the establishment of a good administrative framework that encourages growth and continuity, and that an institutional gap assessment is done, with an action plan developed to address these gaps, by ensuring that institutional documents and policies are in place. As for addressing transparency, the SVG Taekwondo President spoke to the setting up and disclosures of operational manual, accounting policies and procedures, procurement policy, travel policy and a conflict of interest policy. In promoting equity, Harry, once elected will ensure that
all affiliates are respected equally; that the needs of all affiliates are met with adequate and equal resources and support so they might overcome barriers. “I know that I can provide the kind of leadership that the affiliates deserve… The next generation of our sportsmen and sportswomen are the youths and it is up to us to give them the best chance for success with the correct guidance and leadership”, Harry emphasized. Should Harry be successful at getting the nod as President, he would have no need to contest the position of Secretary General. Any other result, his opponent in the run off for that post is Keith Joseph.
Breakaway Masters making a difference THE BREAKAWAY MASTERS ORGANIZATION “is fifteen years (old) and still going strong,” and its President - Leopold Dopwell — is “pleased with the contribution we have made over the years” and committed the organization to continue to do so. Dopwell made these remarks at the 15th Anniversary and Awards Ceremony, held at the at the Presidential Suite of the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. Starting as just a group of players taking part in various tournaments for seniors, Dopwell said the Breakaway Masters, which copped the Best Sports Club Award in 2018, has “transformed itself into an organization that not only organizes sporting events, but has taken the lead in recognizing the contribution of retired sportsmen and women who have been outstanding in their respective fields, and businesses and business executives who have
contributed to the organization and to sport generally. Dopwell said that the organisation was particularly pleased to have honoured the 1979 National Football team that is revered as perhaps the team that brought the most glory and recognition to football in SVG. “After taking over ten years ago from former President Cameron Sutherland, getting the organization to where it is now, was a challenge, but we persevered. As a struggling organization we fought our way to take part in the Masters Tournament in Barbados but we felt we needed to do something for ourselves, to be more self-reliant. So we organised the Breakaway Firms Tournament which was our major fund raising. We even slotted and Under-15, Under-19 and Female tournament to run alongside the Firms Tournament: Under-15, under-19 and a female tournament. So I am satisfied with the impact
The Breakaway Masters Organization executive (left to right): Leopold Dopwel – President; Kenville Frederick - Vice President; Angel Lotmore - Committee Member; , Allison Weeks – Secretary; Claudius Millington – Treasurer; Otis Blackett – Public Relations Officer. we have made on many persons and the fact that we have successfully strived to keep the organization going with stern leadership,” Dopwell told members, invited guests and media personnel.” But it has not been all sports and sports-related activities for the Breakaway Masters.
They have seen it fit, funds permitting, to assist with the education of children whose parents are members of the organization, and even the children of persons who have given their services to helping with the staging and managing of tournaments. Contributions — some monetary — have been
made to NEMO to assist in relief efforts. “But,” Dopwell assured, “with all the challenges and struggle, we still have a strong motivation to reach out to the public, especially through football.” Looking ahead, Dopwell is confident the organization is ready to resume its football tournament once things
get back to normal. “The COVID pandemic has hampered us a lot especially with our main fund raiser which is our tournament, but once things get back to normal we are ready to restart the tournament with our usual efficient level of organization,” Dopwell promised. I.B.A.ALLEN
V Carifta Games return 24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
JAMAICA will host the 2022 Carifta Games. This announcement has been greeted with much enthusiasm, not to mention relief, for it comes after a two- year absence of the Games. The Games, which began in 1972, had the first two postponements in its history in 2020 and 2021, when Bermuda was twice unable to hold the event for a fifth time because of the Covid-19 pandemic. As far as the 2022 Games were concerned, Jamaica was asked at short notice by the
Carifta Congress to take over hosting duties after Guyana, the original 2022 hosts, informed the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC) they would not be able to host it next year. In fact, it was only last month that NACAC officials- President Mike Sands and General Secretary Keith Joseph travelled to Jamaica to hold high level talks with Track and Field and government personnel. The good news came last Saturday, when
President of the Jamaica Athletic Administrative Association (JAAA) Garth Gayle, made the announcement at the NACA XIX General Assembly held in St Lucia. Gayle told the Assembly that his organization had received official word from the Minister of Sport in Jamaica, Hon Olivia Grange, assuring government’s support to the hosting of the 49th Annual Carifta Games over the Easter weekend in 2022.
or colleges overseas continuing a high level of And like most national training.” Several of St Vincent track and field bodies and the Grenadines top across the region, the Under-20 Track and Technical Officials and Field athletes are Executive of Team currently attending Athletics SVG (TASVG) have welcomed the news school in Jamaica, which “serves us well,” Morgan on the 2022 Carifta said. Games. “They are at A beaming Chester institutions where Track Morgan - Technical and Field is top priority, Director TASVG, told THE VINCENTIAN, “We thus building on the work the coaches have are looking forward to done here in St Vincent the return of Carifta, because most of our best and the Grenadines,” Morgan emphasised. prospects are either in “There are also a lot of universities or at schools other athletes who are
Local response
Garth Gayle, President of the Jamaica Athletic Administrative Association (JAAA), made an announcement that must have been music to the ears of young track and field athletes in the region. based here at home who are also looking forward to it, which is the most looked forward (to) Games in the region,” the TASVG Technical Director added.
NACAC’s top Athletes of the Year named JAMAICAN Elaine Thompson-Herah and American Ryan Crouser are respectively the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC) Female and Male Athletes of the Year.
Ryan Crouser (Credit: worldathletics.org)
The NACAC announcement came one week after it had expressed its disappointment that the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) did not name Thompson- Herah as its Female Athlete of the Year, at this year’s Japan Olympics. Instead, the ANOC named Canadian swimmer, Maggie Mc Neil, as the winner. Thompson-Herah ran away with the sprint double (100m and 200m) at the Tokyo Games, as she did at the Rio Olympics in 2016. She added another gold at the Tokyo Games as Jamaica won the Females 4 x 100m. But the 29-year-old was not done. Following on her Olympic glory she clocked 10.54 seconds in the 100m at the Prefontaine Classic, in Hayward Field, Eugene, Oregon, USA, to establish a new Jamaica record, and recorded the fastest time in the world
since Florence Griffith-Joyner’s World record (10:49 seconds) in 1988. Thompson-Herah went on to win the 100m title in the Diamond League final in Zurich. On the strength of her outstanding performances in 2021, ThompsonHerah has been nominated among nine others for the prestigious World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year Award. Meanwhile, Crouser established a new world record for the Men’s Shot Put at the US Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon. At the Tokyo Olympics, he broke the Olympic record for the event on three occasions. By virtue of winning the Olympic event, the 28-year-old Crouser is the world record holder of the event, both Indoor and Outdoor and the Olympic champion.
Elaine Thompson-Herah (Credit: insdiethegames.biz) Adjudication of the athletes of the year awards, was done by the NACAC Sports Journalist Working Group.
Athletes need more support LEAD ATHLETICS coach and Director of IT DAT Academy- Michael Ollivierre believes that much more can be done to assist track and field athletes with their all-round development. “Several of athletes were able to go off to colleges to further their development academically and their skills as athletes and that will be beneficial to them but there must be a conscious effort to do more,’ Ollivierre said. He pointed to a number of areas that cried out for attention, among these being: provide Clubs with funds to help needy athletes with training equipment, bus fare and nutritional support; ensuring organised coaching in schools, particularly at the Primary level, through the assignment of qualified PE teachers; dealing with the Club structure so as to allow and encourage continuity; increased TV/Radio coverage of local competitions; organize local competition/incentives for senior/junior athletes; more exposure for athletes at regional, international competitions; introduction of events to attract regional and international athletes, e.g. road races. Ollivierre, though, stressed the need to build a resource base by identifying and sending coaches to
Michael Ollivierre of IT DAT Academy, recognizes the acquisition of a synthetic 400M track and a significant development in the sport of track and field here. be trained as Coaches/PE Teachers. He named G.C. Foster College, Jamaica, with which he has some connection, as one institution where training opportunities are available. Despite all the challenges heightened by the COVID-19mpandemic, Ollivierre hinted there has been some progress. “The sport is now regaining some prominence locally and regionally with the improving performances of our juniors at Carifta Games and the emergence of Linda McDowall as the region’s top long distance runner. Schools are becoming more organized and competitions among them; at
both Primary and Secondary levels, are intensifying. Coaches are spending more time in preparing their athletes and parents are taking a greater interest.” He referenced. “But the most significant development in the sport was the acquisition of a synthetic 400M track,” Ollivierre suggested. “I am anxiously awaiting its construction to be part of the full revival of the sport, and look forward to us hosting our first CARIFTA Games in the not too distant future,” he added. I.B.A.ALLEN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 25.
Sports
Final burst
BY TODAY, Friday, November 12, the other finalist in the ICC T/20 final would have been decided. They have the chance of taking their momentum to the pinnacle in this Sunday’s shown. New Zealand wound not the underdog status even with their disposal of pretournament favourites England in last Wednesday’s first semi-final. Their celebrations over that accomplishment would have been sober, preferring to pile their energies into the final. Thereafter, anything could happen. Pakistan and Australia carved differing paths to the final. That journey will affect the outlook to Sunday’s game. Finalists aside, it will be time for wager, and that will include the full range. The West Indies will be part of the discussion, and remarks will be tinged with sarcasm to the minimum. The Gayle scenario will engender broad reflection. Objective outlook will point to natural developments guided and inspired by the needs and perceptions of the board. Ensuring the future of West Indies Cricket is the priority. We have to harness our resources to sharpen the best material for the ongoing contests. Coaches are significant and perhaps are not given enough input in the composition of the squad. It is known that coaches can only do so much. The player makes decisions on the field and on the spur of the moment. That calls for mental preparation. That is as much as coach can do. Players have to be imbued with a feeling of authority. Whereas being used to situations calms the nerves, there is the fatigue factor, and sometimes, the most seasoned campaigner may be overcome by numbness. The intensity was lacking from West Indies players in the early stages of the competition. When they realised what had happened, the wind had left their sails. If yesterday’s second semi-final was like the first, the final will be a tactical affair. No one knows how that will unfold. The game will be followed for what it is worth, but for West Indians, the anger will flourish even after the tournament. The disappointment is staggering and the ingredients leading to the championship engendered enough debate. The players under scrutiny had the chance to prove the detractors wrong. But Curtley Ambrose may be having the biggest grin, and Chris Gayle will have to apologise to him. There is nothing gained in West Indian players engaging in media warfare. It detracts from our dignity and sends a signal of immaturity in the region. We have to keep our cricket sharp and untainted. Administrators have to be vigilant and ensure their dig into our resources and harness the best for our continuing pursuits.
SVG still in Concacaf Under-20 hunt ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Under-20 Male footballers would have gone into last Wednesday’s final match of their Concacaf Qualifiers, with an outside chance of advancing to the next round. The Vincentians were set to meet Barbados in their final Group C match in the Dominican Republic, on three points, similar to Puerto Rico. However, St Vincent and the Grenadines’ chances would have depended on the following: that they beat Barbados convincingly, and hope Puerto Rico do the same to Bermuda; and have the best goal differential to decide on the Group’s winner, as only the top team goes through. St Vincent and the Grenadines did not need to take the field on Saturday, after their opponent Puerto Rico failed to submit their PCR results on time to the organisers. The Vincentian earned an easy three points in the process. But it was a different ‘kettle of fish’ for. St Vincent and the
The SVG Under-20 Male team and officials who travelled to the Dominican Republic for the Concacaf Qualifiers. Grenadines when they took to the field on Monday night. They lost to Bermuda three goals to nil at the Felix Sanchez Stadium After holding the Bermudans to a goal less first half, the Vincentians let it slip in the second half, allowing Jazir Warner to convert in the 48th minute, Sincere Hall in the 74th and Stefan Jones in the 83rd minute. It was Bermudans second win, after they had edged out Barbados 3-2 in their opening match on Saturday. This put Bermuda on six points and the best position to advance. Barbados, who are out of the running for a place to the next round, was
beaten by Puerto Rico one-nil on Monday. St Vincent and the Grenadines was not able to field most of their first-choice players; they were forced to remain home after they had returned positive COVID-19 test results. It meant that several players outside of the thirty-three who were on camp had to be drafted into the travel contingent. Those who travelled to the Dominican Republic included: Jermaine Jarvis and Nickron Laidlow (Goal Keepers); Kirk Jr Joshua Hamlet, Jazi Laborde, Anthonio Charles, Zalpheus Medica, Raysean Matthias, Tristan Marshall, TKAI Jshan
Bibby and Tyrese Bute (Defenders). Keshaun Alexander, Dakari Ben Hector, Saviola Blake, Bishon Richards and Swashaun Browne (Midfielders) and Jequan Adams, Jamary Davis, Rasheed Wallace, Steven Pierre and Oryan Velox (Strikers). The team’s Head Coach was Bishon Williams, with Christopher Harry and Carlton Dennie, the Assistants. Striker Coach- Shandell Samuel; Goal Keeper CoachMelvin Andrews, along with PhysiotherapistKevin Young and Nelycer Billingy-Jack, the Team Nurse. The Team Manager was Debson Cruickshank.
W.I. out of World Cup: Have to qualify for 2022 DOUBLE defending champions West Indies limped out of the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup on Saturday, after they were soundly beaten by arch rivals Australia by 8 wickets, in their final match in Group 1. West Indies failed to defend a target of 158, as beleaguered Aussie opener David Warner led the chase with an unbeaten 89 from 56 balls. This was West Indies’ fourth defeat out of five matches in the preliminary round of Group 1, their only victory coming by a mere 3 runs against Bangladesh. Overall, the West Indies, on two points, finished fifth in the Group 1 table which imposed serious repercussions on the team’s qualification for next year’s T20 World Cup in Australia. In fact, what this means is that there is no automatic qualification for the Caribbean team in
the Super 12 stages of the 2022 World Cup. Their defeat at the hands of Australia landed them in 10th position in the ICC T20 ranking, and they will have to play in the qualifying round with Keiron Pollard – West the associate teams, to Indies captain, spoke seek qualification for the of having to restart 2022 World Cup in ‘from a foundation’, Australia. even as there is West Indies will be joined in round one of the speculation about whether he would be qualifiers by Sri Lanka, retained as captain, far Scotland, Namibia and four qualifiers from among less as a member of the team. the associate members. And as he looked ahead to next year’s World Cup, West Indies captain Kieron Pollard said, “We have to start from a foundation now, and that’s just the reality of the situation,” this after he admitted that the 2021 World Cup was, “… a disappointing campaign all-round.” I.B.A.ALLEN The West Indies have dropped from being defending Champions of T20 World Cup Cricket, to having to earn a place in the 2022 Super 12 stage through a round of qualifiers which includes, among others, associate member countries of the ICC.
26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021. 27.
Classifieds
VINLEC staff trained to operate new generators
IN MEMORIAM
Continued from Page 22. better prepared to operate these new generators. One participant said, “We have to be on our best game to ensure they function as efficiently as possible.” In adherence to COVID-19 protocols, the participants were divided into two groups. One group was stationed at the Engineering Complex Training Room with Mr. Kakko, while the other group was stationed at the Engineering Complex Conference Room. The training ended last Friday, November 5th.
In loving memory of BERYL E. FRASER of New Montrose who departed this life 11th November, 2011. “We begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived, And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget”. Sadly missed by your daughter, grandchildren, relatives and friends. Continue to rest in peace.
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER
12, 2021
VOLUME 115, No.45
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MUSTIQUE ‘CARNIVAL’ WAS A MISTAKE
place, said, “I don’t RESPONDING to a trending know if the (social media) video of persons recent carnival like particiactivities that took place pating are A ‘band’ of revellers on the street of Mustique enjoying on the Grenadines island vaccinated, I don’t only express their own necessarily people of Mustique, Dr. Jerrol know any of these jumping behind it. Thompson, Infectious details. I think that this personal outrage and so forth, in one respect. “I am surprised to see Disease Specialist and can certainly give a But in terms of fine all that taking place … Government Consultant, wrong message …. I but I don’t know if any or deemed the activities a don’t know what the case details relating to it, (I) am not able to provide so (permission) was mistake. count in Mustique is that here this morning granted for this event,” Speaking on the OMG whether it has fallen or from the standpoint the Doctor noted. Morning Programme on so ….. I must say the where I sit,” Thompson Joseph then told BOOM SVG 106.9 last spacing of the crowd is declared. Thompson that what told Wednesday, Dr. not bad, but not the Co-host Bing Joseph place on Mustique was Thompson admitted that best.” proceeded to asked Dr. wrong. while he did know the The former Thompson whether or He suggested, “What details surrounding the parliamentarian not the police would have happen in Mustique is event, he was, in fact, responded that he was known (i.e. given informed of a planned not trying to defend the very serious. I think that approval) in advance of motorcade on the island. event, “but what I am this is a slap in the face the event since no one And in relating the pointing out is that this of Vincentians, all of St. was arrested. referenced activity to the is a mistake … and am Vincent and the Dr. Thompson current situation, Dr. not sure what’s behind Grenadines. Vaccinated Thompson when and all the details. I was responded by reiterating or not, you can’t have one that from the reminded by one of the trying to comment on set of rules or protocols information he received programme’s co-hosts it… anybody trying to for us. You can’t tell us that morning, there was that the COVID-19 comment on it without wear mask and in some protocols were still in the right information can supposed to be some cases wear double mask motorcade but not by KENVILLE HORNE
Dr. Jerrol Thompson, who has been at the forefront of this country’s effort to combat the COVID-19, assessed the activity in Mustique to be a mistake.
a Caribbean-like jump-up. and then in another hand you are allowing people basically to have a small carnival. No security officers, no sense of …. nothing and people think that that is okay and that is fine… it is wrong and I am happy this morning to call it as a mistake,” said Bing who commended Dr. Thompson for also referring to the event as a mistake. Citizens from all walks of life here, who either got wind of or viewed the video, have expressed strong condemnation of the authorities for what they say is a double standard on their part.
‘BOBO’ WANTS CLARITY ON A ‘WEED’ ISSUE He is a Medical Marijuana Licence holder. He knows that laws have been passed IRASTO CHANCE, also allowing for possession of a known as ‘Bobo,’ refers to certain amount of marijuana. himself as an Acting Priest ‘Bobo’, however, called for in the Bobo Shanti Order of dialogue with the authorities Rastafari. to have this ‘law’ verified and explained. His appeal stemmed from a Irasto ‘Bobo’ Chance want this question of how much stop and search exercise marijuana a person can carried out by units of the have on his person at any Royal SVG Police Force, in the given time, to be Central Leeward Town of addressed and clarified. Barrouallie last week by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
Thursday November 4. The exercise resulted in the confiscation of a quantity of marijuana which he had in his possession. Bobo insisted, when he called at the office of THE VINCENTIAN on Monday, that the amount of marijuana he had on him at the time was well within the law, and that it ought to have been returned to him. He considered the police action as an “injustice,” and noted that even with the law
in place, “..they still locking up people for marijuana, especially Rastafari.” ‘Bobo’ sees this as a matter of concern to all Rastafari and is hoping that discussions will lighten the path. The mishap occurred two days after the Coronation of His Imperial Majesty’s Coronation date, November 2, 1930. ‘Bobo’ was further incensed that the herb he had on him was part of the month long local celebrations of that historic event. (WKA)
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