THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 13-08-21

FRIDAY, AUGUST

13, 2021

VOLUME 115, No.31

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CoP apologizes to PM Page 4

SVG welcomes first cruise ship...

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FRIDAY - I AM THE GREATEST POLITICAL THREAT

New Times radio programme Colin Graham, businessman VEHEMENTLY CONDEMNING the Lance Oliver, activists Luzette raids on persons involved with the King, Robert "Patches" Knights, protest in Kingstown on Thursday Joe Da Silva, Kenson King, 5th August, Opposition Leader Dr. Adriana King, and Nikeisha Godwin Friday in an emergency Williams of Rise Hairouna. virtual press conference held on Members of the Black Squad also Saturday, 7th August, said it was an visited Igal Adams and Douglas attempt to intimidate and to DeFreitas of NICE Radio. frighten.

Dr. Friday said the only thing The New Democratic Party those persons had in common, Leader said that heavily armed was that they were perceived to Black Squad police unit officers, be persons who were directly descended upon the homes of involved in the demonstration last some 10 supporters of the NDP Thursday. and other activists last Saturday.

Dr. Friday said that there was He stated that the supporters no indication those persons had their devices taken under committed any offence. He warrants that were prepared and chimed, "This is clearly an signed off by a Justice of The attempt to intimidate and to Peace. The police were searching frighten protesters and for firearms, ammunition, Vincentian citizens who have electronic devices and documents taken to the streets, because they to conduct an investigation into are in disagreement with the the offence of unlicensed firearms. government particularly Those who were raided regarding the bill which was included, General Secretary of the passed in the House of Assembly NDP Tyrone James, host of the on Friday around 3am to amend

EC$1.50

by SHERON GARRAWAY

Dr. Godwin Friday addressing the press conference. the Public Health Act." He claimed that the bill was passed like a thief in the night and that persons including the unions have the right to express their democratic opinions as this has been the hallmark of the New Democratic Party.

He repeatedly, condemned violence in any form and said that concern for the welfare of the persons injured, including the Prime Minister was expressed and he wished them all a speedy recovery.

Dr. Friday said that any attempts to place blame on him for what Continued on Page 6.

NDP PRESS CONFERENCE TEAM : Colin Graham, Kay-BacchusBaptiste, St. Clair Leacock, Israel Bruce at NDP virtual press conference.

Vincies pay last respects to SOSO Page 16

No more private quarantine Page 18

PUBLIC HEALTH AMENDMENT BILL PASSED IN HOUSE

by DAYLE DASILVA THE PUBLIC HEALTH AMENDMENT BILL successfully made its way through all its stages and was passed in Parliament during the early morning hours of August 6.

The Bill amended provisions inserted in the Public Health Act of 1977 and sought Minister of Health St Clair Prince to modernize the existing health legislation to protect against and provide a health response to the spread of disease, in this case specifically COVID-19.

Health Minister St Clair Prince, who brought the motion to Parliament, explained that the section required some modification — hence the proposed amendments that were brought.

He said that the Government was aware of its responsibilities to the people and have gone all out to protect the livelihoods of Vincentians.

“We recognized this pandemic for what it was, it is a health emergency of monumental proportions,” Prince said.

Protocols aimed at curbing the spread of the pandemic were implemented according to the Minister of Health, however he said that effort was put into getting persons to understand that getting vaccinated against COVID-19 was the best tool.

Before the amendment, Section 27(b) under the Public Health Act allowed persons to be exempted for an order for a medical examination by a medical practitioner and an order for a person that has a communicable disease to place themselves under the care and treatment of a Continued on Page 6.

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News 3 Find another job or be transferred

Frontline workers like nurses have been given a clear choice with the Amended Public Health Act. (Photo Credit: PAHO)

Stories by GLORIAH…

THE PASSING of the Public Health Amendment Bill in Parliament on 5th August could precipitate situations of havoc and upheavals for frontline workers here, who are adamant that they will not take the COVID-19 vaccine.

The Bill seeks to amend certain provisions in the Public Health Act that will prevent, control and contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Accordingly, categories of frontline workers are now required to be vaccinated “in the public interest”, this according the Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment, Hon. St.

Clair Prince.

Speaking on NBC Radio on Wednesday, 4th August, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves elaborated on this issue.

He revealed that while the amendments do not impose mandatory vaccination on any frontline worker, those who do not wish to be vaccinated and are not eligible for either of the two exemptions given, will simply have to find another job that is not on the frontline or be transferred.

Dr. Gonsalves stressed, “If you don’t want to be vaccinated, the point is this: …. if a reasonable accommodation can be made for you to be placed

elsewhere, so be it. But if not, then you have a choice of not working as a nurse, you get a job as something else, because we in a pandemic. The overall health of the country, the public health of the country is vital, and of course, the economy.”

He gave indication of some categories of frontline workers which he said was not an exhaustive list: Immigration officers, workers at the Argyle International Airport, Customs Officers at the ports of entry, and Health Workers like doctors and nurses.

As per clarification of the Public Health Amendment Bill 2021,

the government has emphasized that there is no legal penalty for any person refusing to be vaccinated or tested for COVID-19.

COVID-19 Delta variant reaches SVG traveler was tested positive on July 22.

The adult was then moved from 48 hours’ hotel quarantine to private isolation. Routine contact tracing procedures followed which identified two other travelers to St. Vincent and the Grenadines who were positive for COVID-19 and had association with the adult in question. They all remain in strict isolation.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment has described the behavior of the Delta variant of the COVID-19 as being highly contagious, increases virus transmissibility and reduces the effectiveness of vaccines.

Additionally, it provided the statistic that the Delta variant currently accounts for 93% of new COVID-19 cases in the USA and the associated illnesses and deaths.

As a measure to minimize spread of the virus the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment is asking members of the public THE CARIBBEAN PUBLIC Daniel as he gave an update to to increase their compliance with HEALTH AGENCY (CARPHA) the nation via the Agency for has reported to St. Vincent and Public Information on 6th August. the basic public health measures the Grenadines that samples He went on to explain that the by painstakingly using masks correctly, physically distancing received for testing on July 27, sample from a fully vaccinated and meticulously sanitizing 2021, turned up a variant of traveler arriving from England hands. Another plea has been concern (VOC) — B.1.617.2 — Delta with a negative PCR result on variant.

July 21 was collected during entry made for all eligible members of the Vincentian public to get An announcement to this effect screening at the AIA. The vaccinated against the COVID-19 was made by Acting Prime Ministry of Health’s Molecular virus now.

Minister, Hon. Montgomery Lab Unit reported that the

Frontline workers can get exemption THE PUBLIC HEALTH AMENDMENT BILL 2021 will afford exemptions to some frontline workers who are opposed to taking the COVID-19 vaccine.

According to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, these exemptions will be allowed on two grounds.

“The occupants of those jobs will have the choice of taking the vaccine or not taking the vaccine,” he divulged. “If you don’t want to take the vaccine or if you want to take it but you have an exemption, the exemption you can get on two grounds: a certificate by their medical practitioner approved by the Chief Medical Officer certifying that the vaccination is not advisable on medical grounds; or the frontline employee objects in good faith and in writing that vaccination is contrary to his or her religious beliefs and the employer, that is to say the government or the state enterprise, is unable to make alternative arrangements to accommodate the employee.”

This explanation was given as the Prime Minister spoke on the

Public Health Amendment Bill on VC3 on Wednesday, 4th August. He expressed grave concern for the vaccination of frontline workers even as the Delta COVID-19 variant has emerged across the region and is likely to reach St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“In this public health emergency,” he stated, “the following things are arising currently, …. there are some deadly variants in the world, including the Delta, the Brazilian variant, …...which are emerging and they are already within the Caribbean.

Fortunately, we haven’t had them here as yet, but I will tell you …. they are likely to come here and everybody know that you have people coming in …. for the purposes of tourism and the economy. The second thing is that we need to get back …. to some form of normalcy even in the circumstances of COVID19.”

Since this from the Prime Minister , Health Officials have confirmed that one case of the Delta variant has been discovered in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

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4. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

CoP apologises to PM, public Democratic Party (NDP) and other organisations.

Violence erupted COMMISSIONER of Police during which a protestor Colin John has apologized threw a projectile, and to Prime Minister Dr. struck the Prime Ralph Gonsalves, and the Minister in his head, public for the events which resulting in a wound. unfolded at last week Other persons also Thursday’s protest actions sustained injuries. in the vicinity of The Commissioner Parliament, and on the issued the apology streets of Kingstown. during the police ‘On the The activities were Beat’ programme on organized by the NBC Radio last Monday opposition New night.

Stories by HADYN HUGGINS

The top cop admitted that the police were not as assertive as they should have been during the protest actions. He is of the view that the police performed below par, were too tolerant and, in some instances, failed to enforce the law.

He apologized to the Prime Minister and the public for what happened, and assured that the police would be more assertive in the

Commissioner of Police Colin John future.

In a release from the Police Public Relations and Complaints Department, dated August 8, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) strongly condemned the violent protest actions.

Lawyer retracts request to summon P.M. PRIME MINISTER Dr. Ralph Gonsalves will no longer be called upon by defence lawyer Grant Connell, at this juncture, to testify at the ongoing trial of suspended prison officer Louis Cupid.

Cupid is facing charges of conspiracy, and aiding the escape of murder accused Veron Primus from Her Majesty’s Prison between September 29 and October 2, 2019.

Connell had made an application before the Serious Offences Court to call the Prime Minister, and Commissioner of Police Colin John as witnesses in the matter, when the defence opens its case.

Connell’s decision to make that application, was based on the evidence of retired Superintendent of Prisons Brenton Charles who was recalled to the witness stand, about two weeks ago, at Connell’s request, to shed light on the issue of the

diary for the dormitory where Primus was called, prior to his escape between September 28 and October 2, 2019.

To date, there has been no disclosure of the diary, despite a court order.

When the Prosecution closed its case on Monday, 9th August, Connell made a no case submission which was overruled

by Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne on Wednesday.

Following the Magistrate’s decision, Connell asked whether the Court, on its own motion has decided to call the Prime Minister and the Commissioner, and she said, “No”. When Connell asked why, she indicated that the Court did not deem it necessary.

Connell then pointed out that the Prime Minister had suffered an injury, and in the circumstances, he may not be able to attend Court because of his present condition.

Connell said that what

transpired in relation to the Prime Minister was very unfortunate, and though he (Connell) would be acting within the ambits of the law to request that the PM be summond to attend Court, as he (Connell) had nothing to prove at this junction, he has decided to retract his application to have the PM summoned.

He however, indicated that he will maintain the application to summon the Commissioner.

Connell also indicated that he will be calling other witnesses, including a junior Prison Officer.

The Chief Magistrate will give her decision on Connell’s application on August 19.

The Prime Minister was struck in his head by a missile, resulting in an injury, during last week Thursday’s protest actions in Kingstown, organized by the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) and other organizations.

Barber charged with murder BARRINGTON CORNWALL, a 45-yearold barber of Park Hill, is behind bars, awaiting a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the death of Jexol Skinner, 40-yearold Insurance Agent of Edinboro.

Cornwall has been

charged with murder following a stabbing incident at a Barber Shop in the Baynes Building, in Kingstown around 4:30 p.m., on August 4.

Skinner, who sustained multiple stab wounds, was rushed to

the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Cornwall was not required to plea when he was taken before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Monday. He was remanded with the matter being adjourned to August 27.

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, Cornwall’s lawyer Grant Connell, said he requested and was granted a short adjournment for a paper committal proceeding, and hopefully the matter should be ready for trial in September.

Barrington Cornwall

Vendor charged with wounding Prime Minister ANNAMAY LEWIS, the woman who is accused of wounding Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves during last week Thursday’s protest actions in Kingstown, is expected to return to Court on September 15 for trial.

The 56-yearold vendor of Layou has been charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding Ralph Gonsalves, 75, Annamay Lewis has of Old Montrose (Dascent been charged with Cottage), by striking him unlawfully and maliciously wounding on the right side of his Prime Minister Ralph head with an unknown Gonsalves. object.

Lewis pleaded not guilty when she was taken before Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sejilla Mcdowall, representing the crown, did not object to bail, and the woman was released on $3,000 bail with one surety.

Lewis’ lead attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste requested full disclosure of all relevant material to the case, as soon as possible.

The DPP, in response said this was requisite, and assured that the prosecution will comply, as standard.

As a result, the Senior Magistrate ordered full disclosure by August 31.

Attorney Israel Bruce is also representing Lewis.

A release from the Police Public Relations and Complaints Department, dated August 8, states that on Thursday, August 5 while the Prime Minister was returning to Parliament for the afternoon session with his security entourage, the protestors blocked the road leading to the Parliament building, and as the PM and his security attempted to get to the Parliament by foot, a protestor threw a projectile and struck him on his head, resulting in a wound. He was immediately taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital for medical attention, and later flown to Barbados for further medical treatment.

As a result of the injury to the Prime Minister, the police launched an investigation, and a suspect was arrested on suspicion, and taken into custody.

The release further stated that on August 6, around 5:30 p.m., the police charged Lewis with the offence of wounding.

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6. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Public Health Amendment Bill passed in House

opposed to it and furnishes a statement to the health officer. medical practitioner who Prince however is acceptable to a health explained that the officer. amended law would The former piece of provide for exemptions legislation allowed for a from an order requiring a person to be exempted if person who has a the individual makes a communicable disease to statement in writing that place themselves under the person believes that the care and treatment of the medical treatment for a medical practitioner only the prevention or cure of a where a medical disease is prejudicial to practitioner acceptable to the person’s health or that the medical officer of the person’s beliefs are health certifies in writing Continued from Front Page.

that the medical treatment for the disease is not advisable on the medical grounds or grounds stipulated in the certificate.

In addition, the amended legislation gives the Chief Medical Officer the power to require the person claiming an exemption to submit to an examination by one or more medical practitioners to determine whether the person should be granted the exemption on the

medical grounds stipulated.

“This is to prevent certificate peddling; we know the social realities of St Vincent and the Grenadines,” Prince told the Parliament.

The Bill will go a long way in tidying up the Public Health Act, he added saying that it will give the leverage needed to better respond to the COVID-19 scourge.

“Now that we have a pandemic, we have to consider whether it is reasonable for a citizen infected with a communicable disease to be exempted from treatment for that disease on the grounds of personal belief when the entire community can be threatened by that communicable disease,” the Health Minister said.

It was not an attack on the fundamental rights and freedoms, he said, and it certainly did not violate the freedom of conscience.

“On the contrary it underpins our duty as a government to protect the well being of our country,

that is our job and we ought to do it,” Prince said.

He posited that getting vaccinated was the best tool in the fight against the coronavirus, and took the opportunity to encourage persons — especially frontline workers, to get vaccinated.

Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Godwin Friday however, maintained his objection to the amendment saying that it was invasive.

He reminded all that he had proposed many measures to the government as to how they ought to go about dealing with the COVID19 pandemic, but none spoke about mandatory vaccination.

He called on the government to treat people with respect by giving them the information they needed in order to make an informed decision to get vaccinated or not.

He put forward several arguments: that the new Bill narrowed the scope for exemptions; stating,

“Now you have to get a medical practitioner to do it, and the second hurdle is to find a practitioner acceptable to the Medical Officer of Health, so who is acceptable?”

That finding a practitioner acceptable to the Medical Officer of Health, even as an individual produces a certificate to prove exemption, where the Chief Medical Officer could still veto it.

That there were no longer provisions within the piece of legislation that exempted persons from getting vaccinated based on religious beliefs.

That the replacement of workers who refused to get vaccinated was not practicable if the numbers for those fully vaccinated were small. Here, he surmised, “What we have here is a solution that does not fit the problem, it is a solution that the government wants to all of a sudden, suspend people’s ability to decide what goes into their bodies,” Friday contended.

“If I could have supported this Bill I would have, but I can’t — it is too invasive and opens the door to mandatory vaccination,” he said.

Friday - I Am The Greatest Political Threat Media representative Colin Graham, said he will not be intimidated or cower. happened to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph He further pledged to fight for change Gonsalves was "scapegoating" and was and to defend democracy in this country also singling him out to put his safety even stronger. and security at risk.

Attorney and Senator Kay BacchusHe emphasised, "I am the person Baptiste expressed her disappointment who is the greatest political threat, so in the assault perpetrated by the police therefore they will seek to damage my officer at the protest and being unable reputation and to smear me with these to speak with the Commissioner of kinds of allegations which are Police Colin John as it pertained to absolutely false. Everybody in my life in such matters among other legal politics and even before that, would matters. know that I would never encourage, Vice President of the NDP and never advocate, never condone and Member of Parliament for Central would reject out... any acts of violence Kingstown, St. Clair Leacock affirmed against anybody including Ralph his solidarity with NDP leader Dr. Gonsalves."

Godwin Friday and articulated there Dr Friday said that it doesn't were mounting issues which brought advance the cause of the New protesters to the streets.

Democratic Party and it doesn't Attorney and Senator Israel Bruce advance his cause. He admitted more reminded persons to stand up for what light and less heat in the debates was they believe in like first National Hero needed and wanted people to voice their Joseph Chatoyer despite being judged. opinions honestly, fearlessly without He rebuked the University of the being threatened and intimated, and West Indies for interfering in the affairs encourage citizen participation. of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines by hurriedly putting out a Team members speak statement without being objective on the matter; and Vice Chancellor Sir Meanwhile, other team members of Hilary Beckles and the university for the NDP also shared their experiences releasing a statement entitled, "Rise and unanimously sounded their Again" describing the injury by a stonedisapproval over the raid and violence throwing act, to Dr. Gonsalves as in the protests. hooliganism, vandalism and cowardice.

Continued from Front Page.

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8. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 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

Right to protest, but...

IN THIS COLUMN of July 16, 2021, we wrote, inter alia, “…. citizens of this country have the right to gather and to protest… a right enshrined both in the principles of democracy and furthered in our country’s constitution.”

That right has been expressed by the protests mounted here in capital Kingstown over the last four weeks or so. First it was a supposedly non-government organization which summoned citizens to the streets then, from all accounts, the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) used the resulting momentum and euphoria to immerse itself in the call for further (street) protest, and proceeded to extend leadership to the ensuing protests.

The protests wavered in purpose from highlighting the ‘breakdown of the rule of law’, ‘a call for new elections’, ‘no mandatory COVID-19 vaccine’, and more recently ‘denouncing a Bill to amend the Public Health Act’.

That from time to time the protests included members from at least the trade unions representing teachers and civil servant, was enough to give indication that there were persons outside of the narrow politically warring parties, who were prepared to put ‘country before self’.

The July 16 column also stated, “… it is worth noting that in essence, protests are aimed at causing disruption, annoyance and inconvenience… .”

We still hold fast to that characterization. But it is not a position that in any rational way encourages anything even close to violence.

Aggressive behavior yes, but not to the extent that there is resulting open confrontation between security forces and protestors, and definitely not the use of violent means so as to bring harm on any one person or groups of persons.

That is why, we join in the condemnation of the incident that resulted in physical harm to the Prime Minister and wish him a full and speedy recovery. For sure, it will be some time before we effectively live down this wanton act.

However, if we are true to the

situation as a whole, we should be concerned about some securityrelated issues arising from the protests: Were the security forces - regular constabulary, traffic police, Special Squad Unit (SSU) and the dreaded Rapid Response Unit (RRU) aka Black Squad - deployed in ways they are trained and in accordance with internationally accepted measures in times of national protest, unrest? Were, for example, the SSU officers with riot shield deployed effectively?

Given that the protest was advertised to be ongoing, and in all fairness, especially given what obtained with the movement of very large trucks and haulers on the days of protests, can we say that the RSVGPF Traffic Department had devised a plan to ensure, as best as possible, the ‘free’ flow of vehicular traffic through Kingstown, thereby avoiding any uncalled for confrontation between truck/haulers, drivers and protestors?

Why did the Commissioner of Police feel moved to make an appearance among the protestors?

Didn’t he for one moment reflect on the probability of this (appearance) causing an intensification in the already existing tension between Security Forces and protestors?

Can we say with certainty that the expected security protocols were in place when the Prime Minister chose to make an appearance in his official vehicle during earlier protests?

Can we say that this was the case when the Prime Minister chose to exit his vehicle in the midst of a raucous, aggressive crowd that by this time had taken on to itself a new and seemingly uncontrolled stance?

Could this act of violent aggressiveness in which the PM was at the receiving end been avoided?

And what of the move by officers of the RRU to deny an injured citizen his right to emergency medical attention at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital? A case of ‘All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others’?

Comment on the June March of the N.D.P. (First published in THE VINCENTIAN of June 08, 2007) THE TIME AND TIMING of the march has taken up much time.

Whenever Opposition forces perceive that they are consistently being ignored and side-lined by a tyranny of the majority (even that “majority” is now questionable) they have a right, even perhaps, a duty to take the matter to the people, in peaceful demonstration.

Clearly, there can be nothing wrong with that. The recent track record of the N.D.P confirms that it does manage peaceful demonstrations fairly well.

Only the unwarranted interference by the police at the Cruise Ship berth last time around threatened a disturbance.

And interference it was indeed, since by subsequent passing of retroactive legislation on the issue the Government has virtually admitted that the marchers committed no infringement of the law at the Cruise Ship berth. On the contrary, they, were trying to prevent commission of an illegality by the authorities!

In cases where all other avenues of democratic expression are closed the march-demonstration remains the escape for a people’s anger and frustration. And the N.D.P has listed a litany of woes with little hope of attracting notice much less of obtaining redress.

The Opposition Party named some twenty-five of them on a still expanding list. They are not merely studiously ignored by the Government and its friends, but they are scoffed at and ridiculed as daily more and more provocations are added or intensified on the apparent premise that black exslaves respect only bludgeoning, and will always bow to the superior pressure: they can’t hear, they only feel.

Even in cases where antiGovernment marches are permitted in deference to the democratic imperative, there is always the fall-back official opposition that nothing will be gained by the march. Those opposing could march till ‘Thy Kingdom Come’, but things will not change; the marchers will tire and eventually give up in despair. Back to square one if only nerves are kept and an iron-hand maintained.

This N.D.P march has already

chalked up several initial victories.

For one thing it shows that it is extremely difficult to break a people’s will, once they have begun to see the light.

Secondly, Arnhim Eustace showed selectivity in surrender. He would yield the outworks but concentrate on the citadel of his aims. So, unlike the insurrectionists of 1999-2000, he defers to School exams, but he persists with the real thing nonetheless.

And, has been said before, there are reasons aplenty for the demonstration.

The grievances are for the most part inter-related and cumulative in effect.

That is why contrary to his usually pacific nature, Eustace is calling for real change, a total turnaround, virtually a new order, for “back ah death” if we return to the pattern of behaviour of the passing regime based on empty promises of popular consultations in the future.

For the current crop has no change, to change. A few have smelled not the coffee, but raw blood and, because they look forward to the continuation of the goodies which now flow their way, see themselves committed to a fight to the finish.

I believe that, the Government permitting, (I don’t rule out last-minute hum-bug by the authorities) these demonstrations have to count. After this series, and they have come not one minute too soon, unless it accomplishes what it sets out to, there may not be a second chance in a very long time. The signs paint a picture of growing overrule of a clique dominated by onemanism, intolerant of criticism.

There is the added globalization of politics which compound the issue, as we increasingly identify with ChavezCastro at the expense of traditional friends. In our adventurism we court the risks, not calculated, of becoming a cock-pit of international intrigue and machinations despite our small size.

At the end of the day N.D.P’s worst scenario would be to discover that “we have scotched the snake, not killed it…”

This march must register a clear break with trends of the recent past, or it would mark a victory and consolidation of the forces of darkness and evil.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 9.

Letters

Police like peas!!!! A void in WELL, MY FRIEND, is Labour Party tactics all over again.

Yes Bro Leacock, I too can recall what the so called Black Power boys faced under the Milton Cato regime of the 1970s.

Police would swarm down on their homes in search of God alone knows what.

Then there was the breaking up of all groups after 7 o’clock. I recall one Inspector Williams leading the Squad that would run us off the block for doing what, I still don’t know.

Prime Minister Cato must have thought that any group of young men who had gathered during those times had come together to plan a coup.

How well I recall the Prime Minister Cato

declaring phantom coup after phantom coup every Monday morning so that he could keep the people on edge, and try to justify the hindhandedness of the police force.

Can’t say the ‘road black revolution’ of the late 1990s and early 2000s ever resulted in a real show of force by the police; can’t recall, subject to correcting, anyone being hurt by the police. That I suppose had to do with how Mitchell and Eustace would have viewed the use of force during times of peace.

But now!!! Lord have mercy!! Police presence like peas at every protest!!! Every colour uniform of every police unit we have today was

on parade during the protest and in the middle, the Commissioner of Police.

Well I never see so much police baton, riot shield and guns on the streets of Kingstown before. And mind you, all the plain clothes police officers who were not so easy to identify must have also been armed.

Mr. Editor, I going to say here and now that the large number of police officers that came out for those protests, must have had something to do with the protestors getting angrier and angrier and look what happen. The PM gets hurt.

Is it some plight of history that we must endure the full force of

our police force anytime we seek to defend our rights under a LABOUR government?

I condemn what happened to the Prime Minister. If it is as is alleged that someone threw a stone and caused him injury, that is an act that was and is uncalled for regardless of how much we might think things have worsened in recent time.

Whatever, we need to take a look at our police force and more directly, a look at who heads it.

Charles - Edinboro

Christian Council urges restraint/responsibility The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council is concerned about the recent development reported in the media where the Prime Minister, Dr the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves was injured during a demonstration outside The House of Assembly on August 5, 2021.

While our democracy allows for the freedom of expression which derives from our dignity as human person, freedom brings with it responsibility - personal and social. The injuring of the PM by one of the

crowd, demonstrates a certain intolerance of divergent views, opinions and positions.

The Council continues to abhor violence and urges those who choose to protest to do so peacefully and responsibly. We encourage those who organize protest to make every effort to ensure they are peaceful and ask that all our leaders avoid incendiary language.

We are also concerned about the immaturity that has pervaded our society and its politics, where the justification of

one wrong is another which often leads to both sides of the political divide pointing to the short-comings or previous actions of the other, as excuse from responsibility.

We encourage our political leaders to be clear and unambiguous in discouraging violence and to act responsibly in navigating differences and the leadership they provide in these challenging times.

We pray for healing and recovery for the Prime Minister. We pray for wisdom and

discretion by the protesters. We pray for a spirit of contrition and reconciliation in the perpetrator. We pray that we will find mature ways to express and respond to grievances.

We pray for collaboration, cooperation, camaraderie, and godly fear as we seek to build our nation together.

SVG Christian Council

Are we truly emancipated?

ARE WE TRULY emancipated? We have just celebrated Emancipation Day, but can we honestly say that we are truly emancipated? Yes, we have been freed from slavery. But the real slavery that controls us is mental slavery.

As a people we have cultivate the idea that we are not good enough, so we always seek to degrade each other. We slander and fight each other, and then we have the gall to talk about the white man and his enslavement.

We have gravitated to foreign music over our very own. We have promoted many fashions that are foreign. We even easily adapt to accents that are foreign, instead of cherishing our own. It is as though our accent is not good enough.

Many admire and try to be like foreign stars.

Even our clothes that we wear are foreign in terms of its style. We look at television and other social media and we adapt to the foreign style, rather than our own. Can we honestly

say that we have clothing that is VINCY? Your guess is as good as mine.

There are persons who would like to be seen shopping at expensive stores that are foreign based and yet would then cry out that times are hard. Foreigners who invest in this country have more control on their spending than we do and so save more than we do, which account for their success in business. So no wonder the foreigners would be able to open businesses ahead of the

locals because of our mentality of spending and hardly saving.

As Vincies we seem to prefer foreigners above our own. Imagine you would have local pastors and preachers presenting the word of God, but they would not receive as much listening to as a foreigner. You have concerts and other events and for it to attract a large audience, a foreign artiste must be there.

Indeed, we are still in mental slavery where we are not free in our minds and still enslaved to

leadership IN MY OPINION, the last twenty months highlighted the severe void in leadership at the top of the ULP. After more than twenty years as the governing party under the guidance of one of the most extraordinary political minds I know, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the leadership vacuum is beginning to show. A few months ago, I wrote about my concern on this very issue confronting our country. Dr. Gonsalves is always front and center on every issue facing us, and that was before Covid-19 and the volcano’s eruption.

The pandemic and the once-in-a-generation volcanic eruption did not change anything regarding my leadership concern. Last Thursday, as Parliament convened to discuss a few “burning issues” like changes to health protocol to try and combat Covid-19, a crowd gathered outside to protest the proposed changes.

During a break in the discussion, we all witness the unthinkable. The Prime Minister was injured by one of the protesters. Much has been written and said about who is to be blamed and the lack of full troughed condemnation of the act of violence. I am not here to admonish anyone for their activities leading up to the event. There is enough blame to go around for everyone to get a share. I am, however, going to point to the leadership gap at the highest levels of our government.

I believe that much of what transpired in the days following the incident is the result of a lack of leadership. In my opinion, when Parliament reconvened, the leadership present at the time should have met in private and agree on a course of action to calm the nation. Instead, we had elected officials lining up at the podium trying to outdo each other on who cares the most and who should be blamed. I believe that a joint statement of condemnation by the remaining “leaders” in Parliament that day would have changed the entire atmosphere. I also think that after that statement, two representatives, one from each party, should have exited the meeting and addresses the crowd, and ask them to go home.

Yes, I also think that all matters not yet voted on should have been tabled for another day. You see, by continuing as if nothing important or despicable just happened outside, they fueled the already deteriorating respect for law and order. It also shows that some of our leaders as confusing power with leadership.

Horatio

foreigners. Until we free our minds and be positive in our thoughts, we would still be not emancipated. We need to believe in ourselves and value each other.

Until we stop the hatred and jealousy which are signs of mental slavery we would

still remain in slavery.

The way to true emancipation is not found in the politicians but in ourselves. We have to free our minds and then we can be emancipated.

Kennard King

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10. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

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Comrade Ralph and the courage to defend democracy Introduction ONE OF THE HALLMARKS of any parliamentary democracy is the debate that occurs in the House of Assembly between the representatives of the people duly elected in democratically conducted elections. The legislative process is designed to ensure that in our case, elected representatives are able to scrutinise bills before they are passed into law. The robust debates that occur during meetings of the Parliament are fundamental to the maintenance of a vibrant democracy and should be protected at all times.

Prior to the Unity Labour Party government, the meetings of the House were held almost in secrecy with no broadcasts of the people’s business allowed. So guarded were the proceedings that former speaker of the House of Parliament, Nolwyn Mc Dowald threatened journalist Glen Jackson with possible arrest and had him removed from the Parliament building, when he attempted to record one such meeting. Once elected to office, the ULP that campaigned on a platform of openness and transparency in government, immediately moved to have the meetings broadcast live on radio for the benefit of citizens. Democracy is much more than a fancy word to use in dishonest discourse to ignite emotions and tighten tensions. It involves processes and practices that deepen people participation.

Expanding the legislative agenda, and increasing access to debates and making them public, are some of the ways the ULP administration, led by Comrade Ralph has worked to deepen democracy since coming into office.

August 6, 2021: An attack on democracy The events of August 6, 2021, dubbed “bloody Thursday”, have been well-ventilated in the media and have received widespread condemnation locally, regionally and internationally.

Opposition NDP supporters, under instructions by their leadership, did their best to create an atmosphere of chaos, confusion and fear through their use of aggression and violence.

This angry mob of political activists, parading as freedom fighters used the pretext of the opposition to the amendments to the Public Health Act, to disrupt the free flow of traffic, block roads and light fires in the vicinity of the Parliament building. This illegal gathering encouraged and applauded by the Leader of the Opposition, soon forgot the pretext under which they were gathered and began expressing their true purpose: their desire to get rid of a democratically elected ULP government. The opposition NDP has refused to accept the results of any of the General Elections it has lost since 2001, threatening to use any means necessary to curtail the life of the elected ULP administration, oftentimes calling its supporters out to protest. This latest protest action was the most obvious expression of their desperation for power, having failed to unseat the ULP, and dissatisfied with their minority status in the parliament.

What was on display on “bloody Thursday” was the boiling over of their desperation with their frustration leading the NDP vice president to signal to its supporters that their illegal gathering was about

to become violent with the blessing of the party’s leadership. Comrade Ralph has always been a champion of democracy from his early days as a university student, and his activism spans over 50 years. This champion who believes in peaceful protest understands that even in the face of protest, which is also a hallmark of democracy, the business of parliament must go on, it must not be prevented.

It is quite the antithesis, that while on his way to the meeting of the House of Assembly, Comrade Ralph was attacked by the angry mob of NDP protestors, who tried to prevent him from entering the institution of democratic practice. Their attempts to prevent the convoy to pass, were not allowed to halt the movement of this champion of democracy to the parliament. His decision to walk prompted a protestor to commit an egregious act, that in any other country may well be considered an act of domestic terrorism against the comrade leader, spilling his blood as he is struck on his head by a rock.

The attack on that day was directed not just at Comrade Ralph, nor the constituents of North Central Windward he represents. It was not on the Unity Labour Party. It was on the very democracy that the Comrade has spent his life fighting for and protecting. The Comrade’s blood was shed as he stood courageously in the face of the most vicious attack on our democracy, organised by others who should be protecting it. The Comrade displayed the courage of leaders before him who stood bravely in the face of hate, anger and even violence and showed to the world that he would not cower to mob rule, that has no place in our democratic civilisation.

Conclusion Leadership demands courage under fire, and our Prime Minister and beloved comrade has shown that he would stand tall and courageous in defence of our country and its democracy. While the NDP tries unsuccessfully to wash its hands, dusting metaphorically as it will, its fingerprints from the events of August 6, 2021, Vincentians understand its role in what occurred and will continue to place the responsibility where it belongs. The opposition NDP’s inability to condemn the actions, compounded by their defiance to allowing the events being mentioned in Parliament, with the Member for East Kingstown, referring to it callously as a “side-show”, shows not only their inhumanity and lack of decency, but also their complicity.

They are to be held responsible.

Comrade Ralph and the entire leadership of the ULP have and continue to call for calm heads and the reduction of the tensions, and specifically reiterating that there must be no retaliation that can continue this violence. We are a peaceful people and even though we disagree, we can do so non-violently.

On Monday, August 9, 2021, as we welcomed home the Comrade, as he smiled and waved to the crowds, we are reminded by his mantra “you could lick me up, knock me down, ah get up back, I’m a hard man fo dead”.

We stand with you Comrade and your work to defend our democracy.

An attempt to suppress protestors (Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s Press Statement) TODAY, August 7th 2021, we learn of raids by the police, heavily armed ‘Black Squad’ officers. The first news we heard was heavily armed ‘Black Squad’ officers arrived at the home of Tyrone James, General Secretary of the New Democratic Party (NDP). He was not there but they subsequently went back.

Throughout the afternoon, there were raids on the homes of at least ten (10) persons that we are aware of. They include, NDP General Secretary, Tyrone James; the New Times radio programme host, Collin Graham; businessman, Lance Olliver; Luzette King; Kenson King, Patches Knights, Keisha Williams, Joe Da Silva and Adriana King.

The only thing that these persons have in common is that they are perceived to be persons who were directly involved in the demonstration in Kingstown last Thursday. There is no indication whatsoever at that time and none now, that any of these persons have committed any offence.

Since this has been done today, it is quite clear that the intention that has been signaled all the way from the top

by Ralph Gonsalves and others, is that they are coming for the people who they perceived as being in the forefront of the demonstration that happened on Thursday. We can expect therefore that other persons will also be on that long list of persons that they have targeted. This is clearly an attempt to intimidate and to frighten protestors, to frighten Vincentian citizens who have taken to the street because they are in disagreement with the government particularly regarding the Bill that was passed in the House recently to amend the Public Health Act. When the NDP calls upon citizens to come out and express their democratic opinions on the streets of Kingstown, we mean for them to do so in the best spirit and practice and of our democratic traditions that is to have a protest without violence and they have always maintained this.

That has been the hallmark of the NDP’s public action over the years. I have been involved in them for over twenty (20) years, and it continues to be the way in which we conduct those activities and going forward it will remain that way.

I have said repeatedly, we do not condone violence in any form and we reject the violent action that occurred for a moment within the demonstration on Thursday. For those persons who were injured, including Prime Minister Gonsalves, we express our concern for their welfare and also for their speedy recovery.

The people had a right to be there to voice their opinions on the streets of Kingstown. When they send us to parliament, as I told the people on the streets repeatedly; when they have come out to stand for themselves, they are saying never mind that I elected you and send you to parliament; you are in the House representing us and doing our business but when we choose to come on the streets ourselves that is our right as citizens of this country.

And, all those other persons and organizations that participated including the Teachers’ Union, the Public Service Union and civil society

organizations, the legitimate concern that those people had, primarily surrounded the amendment proposed to the Public Health Act with which the government can impose mandatory vaccination upon the people of this country if they chose to do so. That is the only reason why you would take out the limitation of voluntary immunization and leave it just open as immunization. That means it could be voluntary, it could be mandatory and if you don’t want it to be restricted by ‘voluntary’, it means that you aim to make it mandatory.

However, the common denominator today among all those persons who were harassed by the police and had their devices taken under warrants that were signed by a Justice of the Peace which says they were searching for fire arms, electronic devices, documents, and to conduct an investigation into unlicensed firearm.

This is clearly an attempt on the part of the authorities, on the part of police led by Commissioner of Police, Collin John, who is supposed to serve all the people. What began here today is an attempt to suppress the people from coming on the streets of Kingstown to voice their opposition to what the government is doing.

Even after all what happened on Thursday, even after the many persons who came out on Thursday, and the strong objections that were raised before and at the demonstration, the government still went ahead in the wee hours of the morning like a thief in the night, when most people many of whom were on the streets of Kingstown expressing their deep concerns about the matter were asleep, they still went ahead and passed this Bill. Why the intense urgency to get this done?

Why it was not put off?

Last week parliament was postponed for the flimsiest of reasons because the opposition did not receive the Public Investment Bill which nobody debated because it was routine. But, after all what had happened in Kingstown on Thursday; they passed the Bill at 3 o’clock in the morning. What is the urgency? What it does, it takes away the rights of persons who want to object to taking vaccine or any other treatment other than public health reason.

The right to object on religious grounds is completely eliminated and to get an exemption on medical grounds now has to be approved by the Medical Officer of Health in the first instance and if the Chief Medical Officer is not satisfied then it has to be approved by doctors that Chief Medical Officer tells you, you must submit your body to, for an examination.

There is also an amendment to another section of the Public Health Act which takes out the limitation that the government can impose a voluntary immunization programme which simply says now an immunization program. So, the people of this country had legitimate reason to protest.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 11.

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Beacons of integrity

“The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” – Robert “Bob” Marley (1945-1981) – Jamaican singer, songwriter, and enrichment of some citizens. Society musician. cries out for integrity in government, THE NEWS MEDIA is replete with reports business, and the society at large.

It is sad to listen to individuals of persons in “high places” whose words who have compromised their and actions reveal an absence of principles and seek to blame others integrity. Our people, especially the for their indiscretions and dishonesty. youth, continue to cry out for mentors We reject such attempts to justify or and role models in business, government, the church, and society at rationalise wrong/evil. Dr. William Glasser (1925-2013), the American large, who are considered beacons of integrity – individuals who they can look psychiatrist who championed the up to and categorize as good examples concept of reality therapy, advocated that we are all responsible for our to be followed. actions. We choose whether we will The Oxford Dictionary defines be individuals who demonstrate and integrity as, “the quality of being are guided by integrity. We reject the honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness”. Such arguments submitted by those who seek to transfer their indiscretions to a description beckons us to live lives that are righteous and upstanding. It others. It is grossly unfair for individuals in authority to give demands our honesty and fairness. directives to their direct reports to do As Michelle Obama, wife of the 44th wrong; to falsify statements or President of the United States of documents; to tell lies; to engage in America, reminds us, “We learned about honesty and integrity — that the sexual misconduct; and the like.

However, we are guided by the truth matters … that you don’t take wisdom of Chinua Achebe (1930shortcuts or play by your own set of 2013), the Nigerian poet and novelist, rules … and success doesn’t count who reminds us that, “One of the unless you earn it fair and square.”

Politicians who steal elections need to truest tests of integrity is its blunt reflect on this. Business persons who refusal to be compromised.” As a people we must be so grounded in our extort customers by imposing exorbitant profits should be guided by principles that we refuse to be enticed by those who may seek to “grant us this. Workers who engage in favours” with the expectations that activities that reduce their we will be obligated to them or unable productivity and/or pretend to be ill when they are not should be aware of to confront them when they do wrong because of our being “contaminated this. Medical officers who provide and compromised”. It is always better sick leave certificates when there is insufficient evidence that the patient to live our lives in such a manner that when our children think of integrity, warrants this must also be aware of their breach of integrity when they do fairness, and caring, they think of us. so. Our list can be expanded to refer We are encouraged by the pearls of wisdom shared by David A. Bednar to individuals who engage in sexual (born 1952) when he reminds us that, harassment practices in the “People of integrity and honesty not workplace. The examples balloon across all disciplines, races, religions, only practice what they preach, they are what they preach.” We must be nationalities, and gender. And our (rather than pretend to be) beacons of society continues to cry out for integrity. beacons of integrity.

Confucius, the Chinese philosopher Politicians in many of our and politician, was right when he Caribbean nations have been advocated that, “The strength of a advocating the need for integrity legislation. Some have progressed to nation derives from the integrity of the home.” Peace and purity will be having these enshrined in their laws evident throughout our society when and, in addition to this, have integrity is upheld and treasured in established commissions to have our homes, schools, workplaces, and oversight of Members of Parliament churches. We all have a role to play in an effort to create and maintain in making this possible. Each of us, transparency and accountability of their respective lawmakers and senior in our own small way, must commit public servants. Unfortunately, some (and recommit) to making sure that we “cast a straight shadow”. When regional parliaments have not yet the light of truth is shone on us we tabled integrity legislation for must be considered as beacons of discussion or debate. However, we integrity … regardless of what others periodically hear whispers and read online postings highlighting the need may say or do. We must not be distracted by those who seek to justify for such legislation as the Caribbean doing wrong in order to get ahead in civilisation blossoms to become life. We walk to a different drummer. increasingly enlightened and more We sing from a different song sheet. economically stable. Caribbean Our vision is far wider than the gain citizens at home and in the diaspora of filthy lucre, power, or fame. After now engage in heightened public all, our focus must forever be that of discussion in relation to levels of being beacons of integrity. accountability and transparency as speculations surface and ricochet in Send comments, criticisms & relation to possibilities of suggestions to misappropriation of funds and the julesferdinand@gmail.com

Fool’s gift, Nation’s loss ‘The COVID-19 pandemic has created health, social and economic crisis as well as a leadership crisis in the Caribbean.’ Malaka Parker, Antiguan political leader.

WHY ARE YOU STANDING in the road? Is our street. Why are you blocking the road? So Ralph ain’t block road too. Why do you want to prevent the prime minister from entering the parliament?

To show him who controls the street. We want to stick it to him.

Well, they stuck it to him, alright.

Since last Thursday evening, social media have been abuzz with gleeful comments from those who took demented pleasure in seeing blood flow from Gonsalves’ head.

The ULP leaders attempted to take the high ground. But they spoke with a forked tongue. Out of one side of their mouth, they muttered aimlessly about morality and democracy. Out of the other side, they spewed venom, and dog-whistled their supporters.

Rather than call for national unity and for calm heads to hold sway, they asked their supporters not to ‘seek revenge or retaliation.’ Meanwhile, one of their leaders angrily threatened ‘if is war they want is war, they go get.’

This call to arms, coming a few weeks after St Clair Leacock's incendiary comment 'we taking the peaceful out of protest’ makes one thing crystal clear: When the devil was dishing out irresponsibility, the political class in SVG took the lion share.

the narrative and brought widespread expressions of sympathy for the veteran politician.

Last Thursday began with Gonsalves painted as the villain committed to snatching basic and fundamental constitutionally protected rights of citizens. In front of all of us, Gonsalves morphed in the Caribbean Ayatollah, leading the regional governors in the mad rush to take away citizens’ rights in the effort to protect them from a deadly disease that has proven much less than deadly among Vincentians.

By the end of the day, leaders from Blize to Guyana issued statements condemning those who injured the Prime minister. Caricom and UWI joined the sympathy parade. They all professed their faith in good governance and democratic best practices.

All in on the vaccination agenda, which is touted as the best means to protect lives and livelihood, none of them cautioned against snuffing out the constitutional glue that holds our society together.

The shortsighted, silly, politically naive among us got their thrill. They laughed and roared with sickening ecstatic joy in seeing Gonsalves’ blood run. In all this macabre display of pleasure, they failed to realise that they have retarded and harmed the people’s effort to protect their fundamental rights and make a more perfect, participatory democracy.

By Saturday, Gonsalves government turned the police on the people. Blaming the opposition for his injury, more than 10 of its alleged supporters were raided. The police illegally confiscated cell phones and computers. They were clearly on a fishing expedition as no one was arrested except for a 56-year-old woman who pled her innocence as she left the court. Their top supporters labelled Thursday’s injury an assassination attempt and high treason. Backroom operators were said to be behind the assault. A conspiracy of sorts was unfolding. No proof, just wild, irresponsible assertions.

We can anticipate an aggressive region-wide assault on peoples’ right to protest. Last Sunday, Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne ordered his security to vamp on hundreds of citizens engaging in peaceful protest. They used tear gas, rubber bullets, and wooden batons as they wantonly and aggressively dispersed the crowd.

There was not a word of condemnation from officialdom at the excessive and brutal display of force.

There are clearly two sets of rules.

You can beat and break the bones and run the blood of ordinary people.

Touch the political and economic elite, and you will be crushed.

One thing has become crystal clear.

Regional leaders are coordinating their actions as they press on with their attempt to force citizens to take a demonstrably ineffective vaccine whose safety is in doubt. The coercive arm of the state is merging and aligning with the powerful economic interest in society to bend the people’s will and force them into submission.

The struggle continues. The people will resist. The people must resist.

What a difference a silly act makes.

Throughout the day, the protestors had the momentum. They were organised, energised, committed to letting their voices be heard. The ULP propaganda machine dismissively said there were 200 protestors. We can easily triple that number. The protest demonstration was beyond the usual NDP crowd. It was not as large as those in 2000, but it had the seeds of a growing movement. It was broadly representative of our society. Nurses, Customs Officers, Prison Officers and other civil servants came in their uniforms.

For the first time in two decades, citizens broke the fear barrier. They did not take to the street in throngs.

Not as yet, but they came. The fear is melting. They came early, and they stayed late.

They were determined to defend the autonomy and integrity of their bodies and that of their children. They registered their opposition to the government’s plan for mandatory vaccination. The persistent drumming, as if an attempt to invoke the energy of our ancestors, added to the mood.

The initiative was with the demonstrators. The broad masses had not yet decided to join the picket line, but the demonstrators had the moral high ground. Those passing the demonstration echoed the support for the cause. Many asked why was the government hell-bent on vaccinating every man, woman and child in SVG? And then it happened. After the lunch break, PM Gonsalves, returning to the parliament, was irresponsibly pelted with water bottles, beer bottles, and stones. It is yet unknown what caused Gonsalves’ injury, but images of him grimacing, visibly frightened in Send comments, criticisms & a blood-stained white shirt changed suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

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10. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

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Taiwan is SVGÊs greatest economic mistake IN TERMS OF SVG’s economic and financial development, establishing formal ties with Taiwan has been our greatest mistake. Taiwan’s exploitation of SVG’s Atlantic Ocean tuna fishing licence has held back SVG’s economic development. We should have used our Atlantic Ocean tuna fishing licence ourselves, and used that billion-dollar income to build a strong economy and create prosperity for all.

There has been no net benefit to having economic relationships with Taiwan. We should urgently cut ties with Taiwan and deport the Taiwanese Ambassador.

In September 2019, the Solomon Islands cut ties with Taiwan after a 36year relationship and made ties with China. The Solomon Islands’ Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, said the country needed to start ‘looking for ways to improve the country’s economic prospects’.

This statement shows that Taiwan

exist in SVG shows that Taiwan does not want our people or economy to succeed. Leader of SVG Green Party, had failed to help the Solomon Islands world-class education system in SVG Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal to become economically strong as well. from preschool to our own university.

BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, says that the Four days after the Solomon Islands The fact that we do not have even one Taiwan Ambassador should pack his university in SVG shows that Taiwan cut ties with Taiwan, Kiribati - which bags and go home. does not care about providing all our has a population of around Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal children with the means to get a 110,000 — cut ties with Taiwan.

BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA spent three university degree, and have an Kiribati’s President, Taneti Maamau, years at Brookes University, Oxford, increased opportunity to seek a lifetime England, reading for his BSc (Hons) said the country ‘acted in its best of prosperity. We should have had our degree in Accounting and Finance and national interest’ when it severed ties own SVG Science and Technology with Taiwan and re-established Economics and has the necessary University in SVG by now. diplomatic relations with China. financial expertise to competently Taiwan should have created a According to the Leader of SVG manage a team to create the billion-dollar tuna fishing and canning sustainable economic development Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, industry in SVG in order to create needed, to lift our country from the thousands of jobs and mass we have to get rid of Taiwan if we are edge of economic disaster into economic employment in SVG. Taiwan should going to have any chance of reviving prosperity. have built a School of Navigation in our economy.

For the sake of SVG’s economic and Taiwan has been in SVG for almost SVG to train our young people in the financial development, we must skills needed to captain, and run our 40 years. If Taiwan was a true friend urgently cut ties with Taiwan. It would own fleet of SVG tuna fishing vessels of the people of SVG, it would have be a big mistake not to. for deep sea fishing of tuna throughout helped our country to be economically strong and stable. There has been more the Atlantic Ocean. This would have Editor’s Note: The views expressed in than enough time for that to have been created billions of dollars of revenue this column are not necessarily those for the SVG economy. done over Taiwan’s time in SVG. of this Publication.

The fact that these things do not Taiwan should have helped build a

Testimony to the Lack of Pride In the News Newspaper of 30th July 2021, in an article titled “A Testimony to our Global Reputation” by the Unity Labour Party, we were informed that our stint as a member of the Security Council of the United Nations, has so far been a success and that it caps off a remarkable run by this country internationally over the last five years.

We were told that “securing the UNSC election was undoubtedly the most difficult of all the achievements, and possibly the strongest indication of our

influence and reputation”.

We were also told that a year before, Canada had failed to secure such an election, even after they had spent a million dollars in the effort. Given our economic circumstances, it is reasonable to ask — “how much did St. Vincent and the Grenadines spend in the effort”? That question is pertinent for in the “Testimony” referred to, there is the statement - ………… “It is also a good time to remind readers that SVG’s campaign for a non-permanent seat

the issues raised at the UN on our behalf and whether the UN took measures to resolve those issues.

Also in the opening paragraph readers were informed that despite the fact that three past presidents of the General Assembly come from CARICOM, St. Vincent and the Grenadines had never had a visit from the President of the General Assembly (PGA), before 2021. The suggestion was made that what was accomplished over the last five years at the UN has been “a direct result of the excellent work put in by our diplomats who have done their part in implementing the principled and consistent foreign policy of the ULP administration headed by Comrade Ralph”.

It is painfully remarkable that over these years when St. Vincent and the Grenadines had been actively involved in the United Nations’ and according to the ULP “Testimony”, gaining the respect of other countries, our people here at home were suffering badly. The economy was dead, crippled by the lack of activity in the agriculture sector, the health services were neglected and the roads were neglected.

I hardly think that the President of the General Assembly of the United Nations would have been impressed that we were a serious people genuinely disposed to the improvement of society.

Look at the condition of the drains all over Kingstown, the road behind the Girls’ High School and the Grammar School, the road from Kingstown to Fort Charlotte and Edinboro, the neglect of the impressive Police Headquarters building, the condition of the drains and sidewalks near to our prominent church buildings, the ‘wutless’ neglect exhibited around the “Carnegie” building, the nonfunctioning clocks on the Anglican Cathedral, the Financial Complex and the NIS building, the compound of the Parliament, the area around the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

On the way to and from the Botanical Gardens the recently established “Hospital car park exudes our ULP — “UNDENIABLY LITTLE PRIDE”.

began in 2009 when Comrade Camillo was Ambassador”.

The “Testimony” further informed, that in 2018 St. Vincent and the Grenadines was elected to serve as one of the Vice Presidents of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the body that deals with the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); we were also told that in (2019) our country was able to secure our election to the Presidency of ECOSOC where we raised a number of critical issues, including addressing the impacts of climate change on Small Island Developing States. “Many states, even larger states with more resources have never attempted, much less succeeded in such an ambitious agenda as this country between 2017-2019” while serving as President of ECOSOC, SVG faced the election to the Security Council in July of 2019, the culmination of ten years of preparation and campaigning.

Taken in isolation and in the prevailing ethos of insensitivity and indifference of our administrators to the societal well-being of our country, to the degree that we now have more of our citizens falling into the category of the “indigent poor”, this elevation to the United Nations’ Security Council and its related bodies, might seem to be remarkable and commendable.

But what the Vincentian public does not have, is the information as to the cost of the related “campaign” in financial and other resources. It is to be expected that we will have, in the spirit of democratic transparency, a comprehensive document with the relevant information, by the beginning of the new year.

In the opening paragraph of the “Testimony”, we were informed….

“Every year, leaders from across the globe, gather in New York city, USA at the headquarters of the United Nations, to participate in the annual General Assembly (GA) sessions and debates, where issues of national importance are presented”. We the LeRoy Providence people would like to know what were

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News

Into the rebuilding CONSTRUCTION of 27 houses in Orange Hill on the North Windward coast of mainland St. Vincent signals an attempt to adjust to normal life. That follows a period of explosive eruption at the Soufriere volcano situated to the northern tip of mainland St. Vincent.

Activities escalated April 9, and persisted over a three-week period with varying levels of intensity.

It resulted in a hasty evacuation of some 20,000 citizens from within the Red Zone, a five mile radius of the mountain peak. Up to Tuesday, August 10, the number of persons in shelters was around 1400, according to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

Some of those were housed in 26 schools. The plan is to reopen schools on October 4. That will hinge on how quickly the institutions are vacated, for according to scientists from The Seismic Research Centre, attached to the St. Augustine wing of the University of the West Indies, there are still areas to be cleared.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves alluded to the construction venture last Wednesday morning. He joined Professor Richie Robertson, Geologist at the SRC, and National Broadcasting Corporation’s host Johnnie ‘P’ Straker in a weekly presentation.

Robertson used the opportunity to highlight plans for mapping of the area around the volcano in on going assessment of the impact of the

volcanic activity.

According to the Vincentian leader, about 1,400 persons were in shelters, while foundation work is expected to commence of houses.

“We are in a race against time,” Dr Gonsalves sighed.

Professor Robertson stressed the aspect of harmony in the community as critical to the rebuilding exercise.

“You have to learn to live more knit as a community” he asserted. (WKA) Structural damage was reported throught St. Vincent after the eruption of the La Soufriere volcano in April of this year. (Photo Credit: UWI Siesmic Research Centre)

Ashelle Morgan granted additional leave GOVERNMENT Senator Ashelle Morgan has been granted additional leave from Parliament.

Speaker of the House, Rochelle Forde, announced in Parliament on August 5 that, Morgan by way of letter dated July 27, 2021 made a request for further leave of absence which had been grated until August 26, 2021.

Morgan is currently The month leave of absence requested by Senator Ashelle embroiled in a legal matter involving the Morgan has now been Deputy Director of Public extended until August 26,2021.

Prosecutions, Karim Nelson for their involvement in a gun related incident at the home of Cornelius John on April 13 this year and are expected to appear at the Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court on August 17.

She made an initial application for a month’s leave on June 28 after being charged.

In that letter, Morgan stated that although there was no legal or moral obligation for her to take such a leave, she opted to do

so voluntarily because she did not want the trial to overshadow the business of the Parliament.

On June 24, weeks following the alleged incident, Director of Public Prosecutions Sejilla McDowall instructed the Commissioner of Police to charge Morgan and Nelson with among other things, the use of threatening language, wounding and the unlawful discharge of a firearm. (DD)

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14. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Tourism

SVG welcomes first cruise ship for the new season

ON SATURDAY 7th August, 2021, St. Vincent and the Grenadines welcomed its first cruise line for the 2020/2021 season, after a hard hit to the cruise sector in 2020. Seaborn Odyssey, one of the world’s leading luxury cruise ships, visited the Grenadine island of Bequia with a fully vaccinated occupancy of 341 crew members and 81 passengers.

In addition to the warm Vincentian hospitality received by passengers and crew of Seaborn Odyssey, a short welcome reception was held to celebrate the momentous resumption of the cruise season. Seaborn Odyssey is expected to visit these shores bi-weekly until the end of October.

Passengers and crew who disembarked Seaborn Odyssey were a part of an organised 'bubble'; where they were restricted to selected locations on island and their interactions were limited to only vaccinated service providers. The bubble is established to ensure that cruise lines abide by the prevailing precautionary measures outlined in the Cruise Tourism Protocols.

The first call of the Seaborn Odyssey was used as a trial run to assess the implementation of the Cruise Tourism Protocols for the upcoming Cruise Season.

According to Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture Carlos James, the captain and crew of the Seaborn Odyssey expressed full satisfaction with the implementation of the Cruise Tourism Protocols during Saturday’s call.

“We have developed a comprehensive draft of the Cruise Protocols detailing how cruise passengers are expected to function within the bubble, and Saturday’s exercise was an excellent indication that with the Cruise Tourism Protocols the resumption of Cruise Tourism can work, despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic,” Minister James said.

Following the successful cruise call of Seaborn Odyssey, Minister James noted that the Ministry will be working closely with stakeholders to safely extend the bubble to include other tourism sites and establishments across St

Vincent and the Grenadines.

“We have to ensure that all stakeholders benefit, inclusive of taxi operators, tour guides and vendors, providing that they are in compliance with the Cruise Tourism Protocols set by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Tourism. The safety of the general public remains paramount during the cruise season,” Minister James said.

The restart of the season is due to the support shown by stakeholders within the Tourism and Hospitality Industry; as the thrust and commitment to revitalize the socio-economic benefits of this lucrative industry is at the heart of many stakeholders.

The 2021/22 cruise season is projected to be the year of resuscitation for the hard hit

A toast to Seabourn Odyssey - (left to right) Dr. Resa Noel McBarnett - Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development, Mr. Carlos Williams - Deputy Director of Grenadines Affairs, Mr. Krasimir Raclev, Captain- Master of Seabourn Odyssey, Hon. Carlos James Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development, Mr. Raphael Le Lay - Chief Purser, Mr. Paul Delves - Manager of Coreas Tours. sector, so far, 224 cruise ships are expected to call this season, when

compared to no cruise calls last year.

Visitor Satisfaction is key VINCENTIANS have been given some advice on how to ensure their tourism product grows.

It comes from Vincent Vanderpool Wallace, Bahamas’ former Tourism Minister.

“Tourism is defined by how you make the visitor feel,” Wallace stated. Respected as one of the 50 most influential people in Caribbean Tourism, he shared his expertise at a Conference staged by the Tourism Ministry last week Wednesday, August 4.

He stressed the importance of ensuring that persons visiting the state are satisfied with their trip. Wallace highlighted the importance of those working within the industry. He endorsed the personal nature of the visitor’s experience and urged authorities to “get some of the best and brightest people into the tourism sector.”

He noted that workers at the core of the

industry were invariably at the lower end of the wage scale.

He was impressed with the quality of service he received here and had high praises for this nation as a destination.

He noted the similarity of the nations and their ongoing relations.

Tourism as an economic development tool is misunderstood and underestimated according to Wallace.

He dismissed the concept of “private sector” when it comes to the tourism product and surmised that “all tourism is community.”

He contended that the impact of the tourism dollar is not seen as accurately assessed.

He echoed the importance of visitor satisfaction. “It is the experience. Will you recommend me to your friend and relatives?”

Wallace tendered.

He is encouraging those in authority to “fix

the things that are wrong” instead of talking.

The Tourism Ministry must share plans with everyone, so that the mission is clear about ensuring visitor satisfaction.

Wallace praised the Vincentian government for reducing taxes on airline tickets. He thinks that the cost of travel within the Caribbean is too high.

“The largest untapped market is the Caribbean itself,” Wallace cited.

For him, understanding how the tourism dollars circulate is of great interest.

He pointed to hotel occupancy as key to the success of the industry.

His philosophy of engaging the whole population, and ensuring visitor satisfaction could justify this country drive in establishing this country as the “Caribbean you’re looking for.”

Virgin to begin operating in October Former Tourism Minister of Bahamas Vincent Vanderpool Wallace.

(Photo Credit: Loop Caribbean News) Wallace’s presentation followed remarks by Tourism Minister Carlos James. Activities continued Thursday August 5 with events streamed through various platforms.

Dr. Acolla Cameron Lewis, Dean of Social Sciences at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, was Thursday’s Keynote Speaker. The conference was held under theme: ‘Reconnect, Rethink and Rebuild Stronger Together.”

VIRGIN ATLANTIC is now expected to begin services here on October 13, 2021.

This, after initial plans for the June, 2021 beginning of operation, had to be pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Carlos James, Minister responsible for Tourism, said in Parliament on August 5 that the airline is expected to operate twice weekly - Wednesdays and Sundays - out of Heathrow in London.

He was at the time responding to a question posed by Leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday to provide the commencement date for flights on Virgin to the Argyle International

Airport.

It was further announced that with the anticipated opening of the Sandals Beaches Resort, Virgin has been eager to get into this market.

The government has also been assured it will not be paying for empty seats on the scheduled flights to St Vincent and the Grenadines.

While addressing the question, James mentioned that American Airlines was expected to resume service here in October; Air Canada Rouge was expected to begin on November 1, 2021 and Caribbean Airlines (CAL) was expected to return here on October 20, 2021. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 15.

News

ROC (Taiwan) Embassy launches Photo Exhibition L-R: Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister; Hon. Sir Louis Straker, Taiwan Ambassador Calvin Ho, Acting Prime Minister Hon. Montgomery Daniel and Governor-General Dame Susan Dougan.

The photo exhibition showcased the journey of collaboration between both countries over the past 40 years.

SINCE THE ESTABLISHMENT of diplomatic ties on August 15, 1981, the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have steadily expanded exchanges across all

facets of our relationship. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in St. Vincent and the

Grenadines embarked on a visual journey through a Photo Exhibition held from August 9 to 16, 2021, at the National Public Library, highlighting those memorable moments of the shared diplomatic history for both countries.

On August 9, the opening

ceremony of “ROC (Taiwan) + SVG @40 Photo Exhibition” was hosted by Ambassador Calvin Ho; Governor-General H.E. Susan Dougan; Acting Prime Minister Hon. Montgomery Daniel; Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister; Hon. Sir Louis Straker, among many other Cabinet Ministers were

in attendance. The ceremony also presented congratulatory letters from President Tsai Ing-wen of the Republic of China (Taiwan) addressed to Governor-General Dame Susan Dougan and Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, along with a video message from Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Joseph Wu celebrating 40 years of diplomatic relations between ROC (Taiwan) and SVG. The Embassy compiled 100 photographs illustrating the 40 years of rock-solid bilateral relations between the two countries. The exhibition not only presented the images of reciprocal visits between the national leaders of our two countries, such as Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves’s visits to Taiwan, and President Tsai Ing-wen’s visit to SVG in 2019, but also highlighted the achievements of their bilateral cooperation projects in areas of agriculture, public health, and ICT projects. Moreover, the two countries have been close and faithful partners in the fields of infrastructure, education, and many others during the past 40 years.

“We welcome all the Vincentians to take this journey with us. Taiwan deeply values the friendship and diplomatic relation with SVG. We are confident that through joint efforts, our partnership and friendship will continue to deepen and grow from strength to strength for the years to come!”

(Submitted by Embassy of the ROC (Taiwan) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

V Vincies pay last respects to Winston Soso 16. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Center and University Hospital of Brooklyn.

In an impromptu reunion, some former members of Clymax, of which Soso was its main vocalist, paid tribute to Soso musically and in speeches in the two-hourlong service.

Before performing “Congratulations”, along with Bob Marley’s “One Love” and other ballads, Bernard “Bonni” Browne, leader of the defunct Clymax, assured the officiating priest, Jamaican-born the Rev. Fr. Donovan I. Leys, that the temporarily-revived group was “going to do some songs that’s not going to violate the sanctity” of the church.

Other tributes were paid by pre-eminent Vincentian calypsonians Alston “Becket” Cyprus, read by Garfield Palmer, who was also a vocalist with Clymax, and Cyril “Scorcher” Thomas — both like Soso, Winston Soso’s children, left to right, Renson Vincentian cultural Haynes, Evan Lockhart and Shanell Lockhart. ambassadors — and who, in 1986, along with Story and photos by a funeral service at St. NELSON A. KING Gabriel’s Episcopal Church calypsonians Cauldric Forbes and the late naking@verizon.net on Hawthorne Street in Walter Porter, formed US CORRESPONDENT Brooklyn, New York. the St. Vincent and the Soso — whose real Grenadines Entertainers VINCENTIANS And other name was Trevor Guild of North America.

Caribbean nationals Lockhart - died on Jul. Becket said Soso, “one Saturday evening paid 18, of multiple medical their last respect to complications, a few days of the top soca artists in the world”, was the Vincentian cultural after his 69th birthday, composer and performer ambassador Winston Soso, at State University of of his signature “I Doh renowned as “the Rolls New York (SUNY) Mind”, “one of the Royce of Calypso”, during Downstate Medical

Winston Soso’s children, left to right, Renson Haynes, Evan Lockhart and Shanell Lockhart.

The temporarily-revived Clymax band pays tribute to Winston Soso. greatest soca hits of all time.”

A tribute was also shared by Brooklynbased, Vincentian musical arranger Adrian Bailey — who, along with Allan “Tom” Doyle, owner of San Souci Studio in Brooklyn, and retired Registered Nurse Laverne Munro — had established a GoFundMe to help defray medical costs for Soso during his long period of illness.

Bailey, who recalled first meeting Soso some thirty years ago, said in addition, “He once told me that he used to write at least two songs a day and recorded the demos on his computer. I really hope something meaningful can be done with those archives.”

Vincentian sports ambassador Stanley “Luxie” Morris — a former national football (soccer) captain, who played under Soso’s captaincy, when he was a goal keeper for the local Vincentian club Avenues United and the national team in the late 1960s and early 1970s — paid homage to the cultural and sports icon.

Her described Soso as “a very dear and personal friend”, and that Soso was “one of the best custodians (goal keepers in soccer) bar none.”

Wayne Grant,

representing the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation, and Olson Dallaway, Consul at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consulate General in midtown Manhattan, were among others who offered tributes.

Grant said Soso’s “name will be called in the annals of football in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, along with Mr. Cyril Scorcher (Thomas).”

Dallaway noted that the deceased will be “remembered as a very disciplined, dedicated and determined cultural ambassador,” one who has “left an indelible legacy for all musicians to emulate.”

Sherill-Ann MasonHaywood, chairperson of the Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc., said “the breadth of his musical catalog is immense, spanning calypso and soca, to ballads and Christmas music,” noting that Soso was named a cultural ambassador for St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2014 and a Cultural Awardee at the SVG Diaspora Heritage Awards in Brooklyn in 2017.

Despite his musical and sporting prowess,

Cyril “Scorcher” Thomas pays tribute to Winston Soso.

Shanell Lockhart said her father, to her and others, was “just dad.”

“Dad was quiet, sensitive, proud and somewhat a reclusive person,” she said in eulogizing Soso, stating that she was “completely unashamed to say I’m a daddy’s girl.”

“Dad was a man of deep and abiding faith,” said Shanell, flanked by her brother, Evan.

“When his body began to fail, his faith held him up.

“I will miss my father more than anyone can ever think,” she continued. “He’s at peace; we’ll be fine.”

Soso’s body was interred on Monday at Cypress Hills Cemetery on the Brooklyn-Queens corridor.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 17.

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18. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

No more private home quarantine

THE HOME QUARANTINE OPTION was discontinued on July 13, 2021 because of the assessed high risk of exposure of residents of St Vincent and the Grenadines to COVID-19.

So said Health Minister

St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince in response to a question posed by Opposition Parliamentarian and Representative for East Kingstown Fitzgerald Bramble in Parliament on August 5.

The question was for the Minister of Health to indicate the number of persons that have been quarantined in government approved hotels since December 2020 and to explain why

the protocol had been discontinued and since reinstated.

According to Prince, on June 9, 2021 the Protocol for Travelers Phase 14 commenced — this protocol allowed for fully

vaccinated persons to quarantine for 48 hours either at an approved hotel or in a private residence that was either unoccupied or where the residents were fully vaccinated.

“All occupants in private residences would be required to quarantine along with the traveler,” Prince explained.

Persons opting for this type of accommodation were required to apply for permission two weeks prior to their scheduled arrival along with proof of vaccination of each traveler and occupant of the private residence.

However, that protocol had to be discontinued due to issues of noncompliance by private residents to strict quarantine requirements, similar to what occurred in December 2020 which resulted in an outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic here.

Other factors that influenced the decision according to the health minister were the detection of variants and outbreaks of the coronavirus in other countries throughout the region; incidents of fake vaccination cards and PCR

Minister of Health St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince. results; and overall few requests made by persons wanting to stay in private homes with fully vaccinated people.

Prince told members of Parliament that the option to discontinued home quarantine had already proven to be the right one.

Already health officials here were able to detect three positive cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated travelers who also produced negative PCR results.

“We will continue this protocol until it is deemed safe,” Prince said.

As of August 4, 2021 there have been 31,744 travelers registered as having entered through the Argyle International Airport (AIA) with 13,666 travelers listed as quarantined. 9,439 travelers were quarantined in guest houses or hotels and there were about 1,004 travelers categorized as medium risk with 10,000 travelers categorized as high risk.

(DD)

Numbers in shelters dwindling THERE ARE JUST OVER 1,500 persons still living in shelters following the series of eruptions of the La Soufriere volcano between April 9 and 22.

And those individuals presently occupy just over 40 shelters throughout the country, of which 28 are schools.

According to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who provided the information in Parliament on August 5, it was expected that some of the persons still residing in schools will either relocate to another shelter or hopefully they would be able to return home.

There were still displaced persons living in institutions including the Kingstown Preparatory and C W Prescod Primary schools, the Prime Minister said.

On July 23, 2021 residents residing in the Red Zone on the Leeward side of the island were given the green light to return, however those on the Windward side living in communities North of Rabacca were told that they could not yet return due to the extent of the damage to infrastructure and homes.

According to the Prime Minister, there was a psychosocial aspect involved to offer support to those displaced persons.

He explained that beginning August 9 and continuing through the months of September and October, counsellors would be going to shelters and private homes where displaced persons are residing to provide psychosocial support to them. (DD)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 19.

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20. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

News not housed in shelters with direct access to incoming aid, but those in private residences and elsewhere. Eardley expressed pleasure in partnering with Afro Caribbean not just on the relief but going forward.

Douglas said that her organization began supporting persons as soon as the volcano erupted. She noted that she was involved in charity work in the collect approximately Eardley, Broker/Owner been working diligently United Kingdom and she EC$10,000 through the of REMAX Result Realty since the eruption to was happy to return REMAX Relief Effort Real Estate Brokerage assist those who were home and continue her campaign. Additionally, presented a cheque of most impacted, especially efforts. “Doing this now REMAX clients, Cassandra $10,000 and the 4 barrels the evacuees who were in my home country is a and Kevin Clarke were to Afro Caribbean instrumental in Services SVG Inc. accumulating supplies in (ACSSVG), a charitable Toronto, filling 4 barrels organization based in for the relief effort.

Arnos Vale and founded On Wednesday,

by Rachael Douglas.

August 4, Barbara The organization has

REMAX provides volcano relief FOLLOWING THE ERUPTIONS of the La Soufrière Volcano in St. Vincent, REMAX office set up a Go Fund Me page in Toronto (via Christopher Charlesworth Director of Marketing). With the assistance of friends, family, clients and the RE/MAX network, they were able to successfully

blessing and we want to continue to tackle poverty and help those in need,” said the ACSSVG founder.

Eardley said that REMAX’s goal is to support ACSSVG organization throughout the year with donations, as they expand the services they currently offer those in need. “With four staff members and ten volunteers they are able to carry out direct community outreach, and we’re excited to help sustain their efforts,” said REMAX owner.

Barbara Eardley, Broker/Owner of REMAX Result Realty Real Estate Brokerage with members of ACSSVG during the handover.

Commissioner of Police: Protests were illegal Continued from Backpage.

The Commissioner is advising political parties and the public to be fully educated on the Public Order Act. A release this week from the Police Public Relations and Complaints Department, stated that, “In order to ensure that safety and security of citizens, and their property, and preserve the public peace, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force will exercise a zero tolerance approach to protest actions that are violent and unlawful in nature. The police will be strictly enforcing the Public Order Act, Chapter 396 of the Revised Edition of the Laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 2009.”

The released published sections of the Act.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 21.

Business

RFHL records US$155.1 million in third quarter profits

THE CHAIRMAN OF REPUBLIC Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL), Vincent Pereira, in announcing third quarter profits today said, “The uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the economies in which the Republic Financial Holdings Limited Group operate. Vaccination programmes commenced in many countries, but reopenings and recovery of tourist arrivals remained gradual and at times interrupted by rising COVID-19 cases. The Group continues to support its customers, communities and staff, through concessions on loan payments, interest rates and fees, increased business support, donations of medical and educational supplies and the rollout of a staff vaccination programme.”

He added, “Against this backdrop, Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) recorded profit attributable to its equity holders of US$155.1 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2021. This represents an increase of US$39.2 million or 33.8% over the US$115.9 million reported in the corresponding period of the last financial year.

The improved results reflect the impact of the Group’s acquisition of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) operations in June 2020, lower provisions for loan losses and general improvement in operating profitability in Ghana and Cayman National Corporation.

These positive developments were partially offset by a reduction in net interest margins, fees and commission income

Chairman of Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL), Vincent Pereira. across the Group. Lower interest rates, fees and commissions reflect the Group’s decision to maintain many of the concessions granted to our customers at the inception of the pandemic.”

Total assets stood at US$16.2 billion at June 30, 2021, an increase of US$437.7 million or 2.8% over the total assets at June 2020, representing 3.7% growth in loans and advances and 9.9% growth in investments funded by the growth in customer deposits across most subsidiaries.

Mr. Pereira concluded, “Despite uncertainty over the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are confident that the Group is well positioned to continue supporting the recovery efforts of the economies in which we operate. We also remain committed to assisting with the vaccination drive across the Group’s territories.

With collective creativity and hard work, I am confident our economies can emerge more resilient. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the efforts of staff within the Group for their continued commitment to serving our clients and our communities.”

(Submitted by RFHL)

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22. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Thank you George Dear George, THANK YOU for advising me the way you did some months ago.

It was hard for me to walk away from my abusive husband but I did. Today I am free of him and very happy. The last thing I heard about him was the same woman he was messing with ended up giving him AIDS. He came back to me begging for forgiveness but I chased him back to his concubine. I did more than one HIV test and all of them came back negative. Thank God! I only feel sorry for the other innocent people who will get this disease but there is nothing I can do about that. Keep up the good work. You are a blessing to St. Vincent.

Thankful and moving on Dear Thankful, I am glad you needed my advice and are experiencing a renewed joy of living. Physical and other forms of abuse must never be tolerated in a relationship. No one has a right to physically abuse another and in your case you took the steps to get out and now you have discovered there is life after an abusive relationship. The key thing is recognizing that you deserve better and going after better.

George

Taking it too far Dear George, MY NEXT DOOR neighbour is a single 32-year-old, beautiful woman. She has fallen on hard times of late and my husband decided to help her out from time to time by getting her groceries, anything from the land like provision etc. The problem is, my husband has started paying her rent and even going to extent of buying her expensive clothes. He is definitely going too far now and I am beginning to suspect him of having an affair with her. He has denied this but I have this gut feeling that he is.

What should I do about this situation?

Not in agreement Dear Not in agreement, Both of you have to agree on the level of help that is to be given to your neighbour. There has to be an understanding that the help given is based on your good will and not obligation.

Your husband has to exercise wisdom and refrain from creating suspicion of anything untoward. Yes, you may trust him, but at the same time he should not put himself in a situation where his actions become questionable. The occasional food/groceries yes, but the paying of her rent and purchase of expensive clothing is a definite no, no.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Don't be too quick to judge partners or those you work with. Children will want to help, too. Your high energy will enable you to take the role of leader in group functions.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Pleasure trips will be a form of healing for your emotional state of mind. Your ability to deal with others will help you in getting the support you need. Be cautious who you deal with financially.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You can benefit financially if you put money or maintenance into your living quarters. You can continue to forge ahead if you make a few long distance calls pertinent to closing pending deals.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your home environment appears to be a little shaky. Changes regarding your image will bring you greater confidence. Be careful when dealing with superiors. Back off if you want to keep the relationship intact.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You may not be happy if members of your family are not pulling their weight.

You can help other people with their financial problems by setting up a budget for them. Offer love and affection instead of conflict and rejection.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) If you keep busy you won't feel the personal pressures you are going through. Try to understand both sides of the issue before taking sides. Beware of someone who is trying to make you look bad.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Opportunities to go out with clients or colleagues will be in your best interest.

Difficulties will result if you have to deal with controversial groups this week. Bring work home if it will help you get caught up.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Take positive action. Entertainment could be pleasing if it is of an energetic nature.

It may be a disappointing day emotionally. Enlist coworkers in order to get the job done on time.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Do not reveal personal information to those you feel may be untrustworthy.

Don't trust others with private information that could be used against you. Do your own thing and everything will settle down.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Someone you live with is ready to play emotional games. You can make rewarding connections through the organized groups you associate with. You are able to make changes in your home that will be favorable to all involved.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Make changes to your living quarters that will please the whole family. Don't expect romantic encounters to be lasting. Be prepared to step into the limelight if you wish to promote your ambitions.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Don't get involved in idle chatter that will hurt your position. Your willingness to help others can and will lead to fatigue if you don't learn to say no. Your attitude could be up and down like a yo-yo.

ACROSS 1. Undisturbed 5. Short moment 8. Bell toll 12. Bread spread 13. Wordsmith Gershwin 14. Besides 15. Placed 16. Packing carton 17. Harness strap 18. Valuable item 20. Small taste 22. Impetuous 23. Rural path 25. Everyday contraction 27. Sheep utterance 30. Turf piece 31. Cattle farm 34. Most aged 36. Skin design 37. Hand covering 38. Used a bench 39. Piglet parent 40. Playmate 41. Work group 43. Feline friend 45. Deluxe resort 47. Shower bars 51. Bone-dry 53. Museum collection 55. Highway unit 56. Restaurant read 57. Pod legume 58. Creation location 59. Book leaf 60. Nile reptile 61. Orderly DOWN 1. Brown drink

2. Sorrowful sigh 3. Luau loops 4. Strike a pose 5. Neck napkin 6. Pressed 7. Airport car 8. According to 9. Basic parts 10. Pakistan’s continent 11. Bestow temporarily 19. Fez adornments 21. Buccaneers 24. “_ a chance!”

26. Manufacturing tank 27. Seek alms 28. 100% 29. Becoming legal guardian of 32. Dove vocalization

33. “_ are you?”

35. Ms. Marie Saint 36. Paving stuff 38. Frightens 42. Adult girls 43. Tent size 44. Square footage

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 23.

46. Mama’s spouse 48. She helps 49. Earnest entreaty 50. Posted (mail) 52. Expected 54. Keg spigot

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24. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

BCBA extends its outreach efforts

THE BLUE CHIP BASKETBALL ACADEMY (BCBA) has extended its outreach efforts.

After an absence of one year, the BCBA returned this year to add new features to the annual undertakings.

Apart from hosting its Basketball Camps on the mainland, the BCBA this year added the Shad Thomas Basketball camp on Union Island.

The camps were bolstered by the staging of the sixth edition of Kishon Bishop the Veronica Bishop Classic, Right: Hope and Hope Camp the inaugural in session at the Girls’ High Clive Bishop have brand new hoops at Soccer Classic, as School hard court. the Girls’ High School well as work of courts”. two hard courts and other Bishop though was high in praise humanitarian efforts. for the Union Island experience.

Us based Vincentian- Kishon “We had our first annual Shad Bishop, who is the founder of the Blue Chip Basketball Academy on reflection Thomas Basketball Camp in Union of the various activities said: “This trip Island in conjunction with the Union Island Basketball Association Summer was excellent…We restored the hard Camp… It was an excellent camp… court at Campden Park … We have We had a turn- out of over seventyalso refenced Campden Park Hard Court, with three new gates which can five kids, ranging from 5 to 17 years”, Bishop lauded. now be bolted and locked …We also

Bishop also highlighted the fact that despite the scaled down in operations for this year’s camps, they were also able to introduce the Soccer component.

Bishop disclosed that soon there will be launch of the ‘Little Dribblers’ programme and a refencing of the Girls’ High School hard court.

Outlining the plans for the Girls’ High School hardcourt, Bishop related, “We will begin with a refencing; we were able to do the administration

work, the red-tape work that is required to do so… We will break ground on this project pretty soon”.

Bishop said that as part of their Relief Efforts, the BCBA looking for families who need clothing especially those in the Red Zone.

Bishop, who resides in North Carolina, USA, is a St Vincent and the Grenadines Basketball player who founded the BCBA in 2017 and he is also the owner and Director of Hope and Hope Inc. SVG/USA.

Myle gets set for US Junior College ZAMESHA MYLE, a former student of the Buccament Government School, the Thomas Saunders Secondary School, and now the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, has been accepted into the Central Arizona College, on a full Athletics Scholarship.

Myle, a St Vincent and the Grenadines sprint athlete, whose pet event is the 400m, will be pursuing studies in Hospitality and Communications at the Junior College in the USA. Nearing her 20th birthday in November, Myle, a resident of Du Bois, is grateful for the opportunity to further her studies and enhance her

abilities in Athletics.

“I am especially thankful, because to my family, it means a lot… I am the first to reach this far and get such an opportunity to go overseas and able to future my education and at the same time continue in Track and Field”, Myle underlined.

Myle said that despite coming from a family, with the ability in sports, namely Athletics, she has been the standard bearer.

Looking back at her genesis in the sport, Myle disclosed that she never liked “running”, but it was a teacher then, who gave her that push.

“I started in Grade 3 at the Buccament Government

School and it was Santa Cruickshank who pushed me because I did not like running at first until she saw my potential”, Myle related.

Myle noted that her rise in the sport was rather quick, as she immediately began carving out a name nationally.

She highlighted that she was able to represent the Thomas Saunders Secondary School at the Penn Relays in the USA, on four occasions.

Myle as first former had her Penn Relays participation in 2015, and followed up in 2016, 2018 and 2019.

Having taste of the US soil, Myle acknowledges that she will have to “balance off” between her studies and

Athletics.

“I have spoken to some other athletes and they have told me about it will not be an easy thing to study and train, so I am preparing for the hard work”, Myle projected.

As Myle goes into the starting blocks for her new race, she is thankful to those who have seen her through thus far.

“Thanks to the principal and staff of the Thomas Saunders Secondary School for their academic and other support over the years… Also, thanks to Godfrey Harry, my school and X- Ceed Sports Club coach, along with other coaches of the club, Pamenos Ballantyne and Santa

Zamesha Myle Cruickshank, for helping me earlier in life, Myle expressed with gratitude.

Myle is set to leave St Vincent and the Grenadines for the USA, early next week.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 25.

Sports

Cadogan, DeFreitas relish Olympics exposure

SHANE CADOGAN and Mya DeFreitas, Vincentian swimmers who represented this country with distinction at the recently held Tokyo Olympics, revealed it was a life experience which can only benefit swimming going forward.

Cadogan, a student at Stanford University, who competed at his first Olympics, won his heat 24.71, but didn’t advance to the next round of the 50 meters Freestyle said he is still reminiscing on the experience. “Being an Olympian still hasn’t fully sunk in with me, which to me tells what a surreal experience participating in the Games was. It was a blessing to realize one of my biggest dreams, a dream I had from the very start of my swimming career. The Games’ atmosphere was indescribable and being surrounded by elite athletes you’re used to watching on TV and feeling like you fit in is a memory I will carry for the rest of my life. I was not very pleased with my time because I know there’s a lot more in me.

However, that feeling of finishing the race, looking up and seeing number 1 next to my name and the Vincy flag is unmatched, especially knowing that so many including friends, family and supporters were up to watch us perform on the biggest stage in sports.

This experience definitely has given me that extra motivation to work towards Paris 2024. My goals now are to keep grinding, but even harder now, so that I’m in the best shape of my life these upcoming years and can continue to represent my country once called upon and perform at my absolute best.”

DeFreitas who placed fourth with 28.57 in her 50 meters Freestyle was happy for the experience. “It was amazing to be able to learn from the best athletes in the world. It truly was an honor to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This has been an eyeopening experience, learning from the performances of my role models and it is a great source of motivation and

Shane Cadogan won his heat in the 50 meters freestyle. inspiration to pursue this sport further. I am determined to continue representing SVG at regional and international competitions to the best of my ability.

Furthermore, I aspire to be like my idols, and one day, become a role model for other upcoming Mya DeFreitas Caribbean finished 4th in Athletes”. Simone France who went with the 50 meters the swimmers was also freestyle. pleased with the showing. “Our team performed at their best and they were extraordinary ambassadors for SVG. Despite the challenges and the restrictions during the games, the Olympic experience was as memorable as to be expected. It did not in any way negatively impact our athletes’ sportsmanship and drive to excel. I am truly appreciative of the opportunity given to me by the SVG Swimming Federation and the SVG National Olympic Committee.

Stories by I.B.A.ALLEN

Ollivierre, Maloney overworked MICHAEL OLLIVIERRE, Shafiqua Maloney’s coach called it right before the Tokyo Olympics, stating that the middle distance runner wasn’t in her best shape due to her workload prior to the Tokyo Olympics.

The head coach of IT-DAT Academy where Maloney continues her athletics career, said he was really happy and honored she got the exposure, but she could have done better. “After she was selected to go to university firstly and then the Olympics, I think she has international potential, but I am not comfortable and satisfied with her last season workload, SVG because she ran 37 Olympian races before she went to Shafiqua Maloney.

Continued on Page 22.

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26. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Garvey soul yet young TUESDAY, August 17 marks the 134th anniversary of the birth of Marcus Garvey. His death, June 10, 1940, brought an end to a life packed with intrigue in the 52 years it represented.

Garvey stands out as one of the world’s greatest visionaries, driven by his passion for the development of the black man through the dignity of humanity and made no apology for promoting the cause of the black man.

He was a keen observer of his surroundings and needed no prompting in determining that something drastic ought to have been done to ensure the survival of the black race. Gifted in many aspects, his intellect and foresight perhaps served as continuous sources for kindling the spark in him.

Like many a prophet before and after him, who shared his dreams, there was the willingness to question his ambition, and join forces in their own self-destruction, in their quest to fulfil strands of servitude to oppressors and foreign masters with little interest in their own welfare.

The Garvey episode is filled with hypocrisy and deceit. He faced the full brunt of the imperialist machinery, for he was targeted for his ambition of trying to shoulder the task of uplifting the black man. That could be tolerated, especially in the United States of America where Garvey had managed to galvanise the black population regardless of their originality.

Unfortunately, Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association, loose and liberal as it emerged, served as the perfect haunting ground for those who saw any semblance of dignity for the black man as counter-productive to their sphere of dominance.

So, it was easy to raise doubts about Garvey’s vision mushrooming into reality. A Jamaican, right. But he seemed to have assembled the spirit of ingenuity, and he filled the void created by the removal of the black man’s right, perpetuated by the imposition of slavery within the Americas.

Garvey’s birth was just after the emancipation, forced by acceptance of the economic reality in 1834. By the time the Apprenticeship period phased out four years, the Caribbean region was facing a new kind of socio-evolution.

Black people were scattered throughout the region, subdued by imposition of their forced existence.

With odds stacked heavily against them, it was near impossible for back people to achieve anything, unless they were prepared to take matters into their own hands. Garvey stood out as a leading figure in the struggle for pride. His legacy is one which offers lessons as the story unfolds. Garvey was jailed for fraud, in what history will recall, were trumped up charges aimed at derailing any efforts by the black masses to assert any form of authority on themselves.

The system is never going to be happy with the likes of Garvey. His lifestyle, teachings, writings, thoughts and projections exposed a level of apprehension of the existing conditions for those keen on the perpetuation of the black race.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines was part of Garvey’s agenda and his influence has attributed to the formation of the credit union movement here.

The Garvey philosophy still resonates and has relevance in today’s society. It will be dynamic, and to ensure the life and teachings of Marcus Garvey be ascribed as part of the nation’s educational curriculum, every year at least on August 17, the commemoration of his life work should be observed. Continuous and systematic attention to his legacy will allow the conditions to be so established that his exoneration will be a matter of course rather than the denial that stains his image.

Some of the netballers in photo with a portion of their donations.

SVGNA leads effort to assist affected netballers THIRTY NETBALLERS who reside in the Northern part of mainland St. Vincent, and who were displaced by the eruptions of La Soufriere on 9th April, and subsequently affected by Hurricane Elsa last month, have had an ease.

This, as the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA), in concert with Soroptimist International on Wednesday, 4th August

at the Kingstown Netball Centre, presented the netballers with humanitarian and care packages inclusive of blankets. Additionally, the netballers were given food vouchers.

Several individual donors from North America were responsible for the packages.

President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball

Association (SVGNA)Mrs Doris Mc Intosh, said that support for the displaced netballers was galvanized following an initial donation from a former President of the Grenada Netball Association.

Mc Intosh disclosed that with momentum garnered others got on board locally.

“I want to thank all those who assisted us in our drive”, Mc Intosh

said.

The SVGNA President further revealed prior to the donations, that her organisation was instrumental in providing some psychosocial support to the displaced netballers.

Mc Intosh noted that whilst some of the netballers have returned to their homes in the North, some are still unable to do so.

Shallow, Bailey pleased with progress ARAVINDA SHALLOW and Keiffer Bailey, two Vincentian track athletes currently on athletics scholarship at the GC Foster College in Jamaica, are happy with their progress despite the challenges with injury and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shallow, pursuing studies in massage therapy is satisfy with his academic performance in his first and second semesters.

“I ended with a 3.62 GPA passing all courses in the first term and in the second term with the same mindset, I got a higher GPA of 3.72,” he disclosed.

As far as track was concerned, he said, “I ended the term in track and field with some personal best, notably 10.82 in the 100 meters so I am happy I ended on a high after injury.

And as for the future, “My plans after getting my Bachelor’s Degree will be to set up a business in sports massage where I can nurture and teach young national athletes about sports injury during and out of competition and what it requires to get an athlete back on the park.

I am prepared to bring my knowledge back too and help to prepare athletes for the world class stage as we have the knowledge, the track and talent to

go forward in athletics,” the young man shared.

Bailey another student at the GC Foster College where she is enrolled in a Sports Development, Coaching and Fitness academic programme, is looking forward to have improved results on the track next season.

“I started off well last season but this season it wasn’t so good due to injury. I expect for next season to get back to full fitness and run personal bests,’ the 800m specialist said.

On the academic side of things, Bailey, over two semesters,

Aravinda Shallow is satisfied with his performance on and off the track. obtained 3.56 and 3.78 GPAs. I.B.A. ALLEN

Keiffer Bailey is determined to improve her performance on the track.

Ollivierre, Maloney overworked Ollivierre. “I knew she was not in the top 50 and there were over compete in Jamaica before the 30 athletes who are ahead of her, Tokyo Olympics. I think she was so it was going to be tough for overworked and as a result her her. She had a good indoor technique would have fallen off a season, but I think she was bit and she needed to get back overworked and as a result she her technique right to perform was not going to perform the way better under pressure”. she can perform. But she has a So as far as the possibility of bright future ahead of her. Once advancing in her 800 meters she is being managed well, she where she finished 7th, that can be one of our top athletes in didn’t come as a surprise the the future”.

Continued from Page 21.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2021. 27.

Classifieds

SVG records second fatality Continued from Backpage.

The accident took place near the bridge close to the mineral spa area, around 2:30 pm. Motor vehicle TB622, a white Hino truck owned and driven by Edwart Joseph, a Landscaper of Belair was travelling along the Belair Public Road heading towards the Spa. The truck collided with McDonald and 12-year-old student Delron Maloney who were travelling towards Fountain on bicycles. McDowald was pronounced dead on the scene by the District Medical Officer, while Maloney escaped with minor injuries. The driver of the truck was taken into police custody to assist with investigations.

A community resident remarked that McDonald’s death could have been avoided, citing that family members who were warned about the danger children wantonly riding bikes regardless of traffic, had done something about it. “They (parents) would usually have children playing along that road and once I was coming around a corner and I almost hit a kid. I asked for their parents but they did not answer, so I saw some adults and encourage them to move the children from the corner, but one of the adult told me they are just playing,” said the resident, adding that the death was quite sad.

The first road fatality for 2021 was Shavel Cain who died on the Mandela Highway on July 18th. He was also from Belair.

CLARETTA ASHTON Saturday, 7th August, 2021 Church of God World Wide Mission Spring Village Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Spring Village Cemetery ERMINE JOHN INNIS a.k.a. Emerine Durrant Saturday, 7th August, 2021 Freedom Hall Church Reeves level Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Biabou Cemetery

PHILMORE JACK a.k.a. Phil & Marble Saturday, 7th August, 2021 Wesleyan Holiness Church Georgetown Viewing: 12:30 p.m.

Service: 1:00 p.m.

Interment: Georgetown Cemetery ROSETTA MERRY PETERS Better known as Roee Saturday, 7th August, 2021 St. Peter's Anglican Church Mt. Greenan Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Church Yard

VERNIE JERMINA LEWIS Saturday, 7th August, 2021 Apostolic Faith Church Campden Park Viewing: 9:30 a.m.

Service: 10:30 a.m.

Interment: Chauncey Cemetery

JAZELLE BESS WILLIAMS Friday 6th July 2021 Faith Temple Church, Kingstown Viewing: 9:00 a.m.

Service: 10:00 a.m.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST

13, 2021

VOLUME 115, No.31

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

COMMISSIONER OF POLICE:

PROTESTS WERE ILLEGAL

by HAYDN HUGGINS

the vicinity of Parliament, and around Kingstown, were illegal, as the COMMISSIONER of Police Colin John said organizers of the actions as well as last week Thursday’s protest actions in participants were in breach of provisions

SVG RECORDS SECOND ROAD FATALITY

by KENVILLE HORNE A FEW WEEKS after this country recorded its first road fatality tragedy has struck once again.

Police say they are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal accident that occurred along the Belair Public Road on Monday, that claimed the life of Mark McDonald, a 15-yearold student from Belair.

Continued on Page 27.

The area in Belair where the incident occurred.

15-year-old Mark McDonald

Commissioner of Police Colin John calls on the of the Public Order Act, political parties and the public to familiarize Chapter 396 of the revised themselves with the Public Order Act. edition of the Laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines guilty of an offence under this Act.” 2009.

In reference to the recent protest “They mounted an illegal protest actions, including the one last week because they did not inform the police Thursday, in which Prime Minister Dr. that they were going to protest”, the Ralph Gonsalves and others were Commissioner said Monday night on injured, the Commissioner said, “No the Police ‘On the Beat’ programme on notification was given to the NBC radio.

Commissioner of Police, so therefore The top cop also made the point the organizers, and anyone involved in during a telephone conversation with those actions, could be charged.”

THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday.

The maximum penalty for that When asked if all the previous offence is $2,500 or three months in protest actions in the vicinity of the prison.

Parliament building and around He referenced another Section of the Kingstown were illegal, John said, “All Act. also punishable by a maximum the recent ones were illegal”. penalty of $2,500 or three months’ The Commissioner said that Section imprisonment: Section 10 — “Any 5(1) of the Act states that, “any person public meeting or procession (exclusive organizing or concerned in organizing of funerals) shall be held within a any public meeting or public radius of 200 yards, at any time the procession (exclusive of funerals) shall House of Assembly, Court of Appeal, notify the Commission of Police at High Court or Magistrate’s Court are least 24 hours before the time fixed for sitting.” such meeting or procession, of his Also pertinent to the issue were: intention to hold such meeting or Section 13 which states, “Any person procession, and shall state the time who incites anyone to commit an and place proposed for such assembly, offence is, also guilty of an offence”; and in the case of a procession, the and Section 12 that, “Any person who route proposed to be followed”. is present at a public meeting or Section 5(2) states that, “The procession which is called upon to organizers or any person who disperse, under Section 10 or 11, shall knowingly takes part in any public disperse immediately.” meeting or public procession held in Continued on Page 20. contravention of Subsection (1) is

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.