FRIDAY, MARCH 18,
2022
VOLUME 116, No.11
A&B easing mask-wearing Page 4
www.thevincentian.com
To appeal? AG to decide Page 5
EC$1.50
Remembering Moulton Mayers Pages 15-21
E-Bus systems... Page 21
River 14 transformed Page 22
PM ON SITE IN RICHMOND Below: Prime Minister on site in Richmond and used the opportunity to address in particular, the relocation of farmers to accommodate the quarrying and mining operations.
Right: Senator Julian Francis (left) assured his Prime Minister and the nation that ‘government will dictate what is exported.”
operation, which necessitated the company leasing close to LAST FRIDAY, March 11, a 58.8 acres of land in government contingent, Richmond, for a period led by Prime Minister Dr. of 30 years, at Ralph Gonsalves and $12,000.00 a year,. including, among other The visit to the area government officials, was an opportunity for Minister of Urban the Prime Minister to Development Senator speak directly with and Julian Francis and MP for address the concerns North Leeward Carlos particular to the farmers James, descended on the in the area, whose site for a quarry and lands/farms fall in the mining operation in area and acreage Richmond, North allowed to the quarry Leeward. and mining operations, The quarrying and under the MOU as mining operation, for referred. which site preparation But before moving to has already begun, speak directly to their generated much needs, the Prime discussion locally to the Minister and a number North Leeward area and of media personnel were nationally after word given a brief description broke that a St. Lucia of the topography of the company, Rayneau area, the number of Construction & farmers who would be Industrial Products Ltd., directly affected and an had entered into a indication of the crops Memorandum of grown. Understanding (MOU) According to Senator with the government Francis, nine farmers, here to operate a quarrying and mining Continued on Page 3. Contributed by CARDEN MICHAEL
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2. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
News
Government revenue down
FORMER MINISTER OF FINANCE and Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, a former Minister of Finance, says that the report on the fiscal operations for the Central Government for the period ending February 2022, shows another fall in government revenue. He said, on Radio this week, that the numbers in the report, which he received on March 15, suggest that government’s revenue was lower this year than for that in 2021 and 2020. February 2022 figures were about EC$10 million less than what was generated in 2021, Dr. Gonsalves said. The prime minister explained that the economy was saved by property sales, including one major one in Mustique in 2021. Collections recorded at the end of February 2022 on the current revenue amounted to EC$86.8 million, compared to EC$96.9 million in 2021, a EC$21 million shortfall which the Prime Minister described as significant. Dr. Gonsalves registered his intention to conduct an interrogation
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves reported decreases in revenue collection and hinted at an investigation with respect to reportage issue. with personnel within the Ministry of Finance to determine if there were any reportage issues. “But surely, the numbers are down February to February,” he reiterated. (DD)
V News 3 CBI progammes threatened:
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 . 3.
EU gives ultimatum European parliament has slighted the two concerned MPs but that was to change. Last week, the European Union Parliament passed legislation in relation to the ongoing execution of CIPs. The legislation gave those countries an ultimatum: Do away with CBI to have continued Schengen Visa-Free status or continue with CBI and lose Visa-Free status to Schengen Region. The visa policy allows nationals of certain countries, like St. Vincent and the Grenadines and a A Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme has been a lifeline for number of other Dominica and continues to change lives, a sentiment that Prime Minister Caribbean states, to Roosevelt Skerrit re-accentuates. enter the Schengen Area, 26 European member AS FAR BACK AS MAY, a thriving, immensely twin-island federation’s countries, via air, land or 2019, two Members of the beneficial Citizen by CBI programme. sea without a visa for European Parliament had Investment (CBI) They brought up the stays of up to 90 days called for the abolition of programme. case of Andrei Pavlov, a within a 180-day period. visa-free travel for In a letter to the blacklisted Russian who The EU Parliament, in passport holders of St. European Union managed to enter Europe an attendant statement, Kitts and Nevis, in an open Parliament, the two MP’s for about 70 more times stressed that CBI letter sent to the highest expressed their concerns after he was banned “schemes”, under which EU officials. regarding EU’s visa from Europe, travelling, third-country nationals St. Kitts and Nevis waiver programme with they alleged, on a obtain citizenship rights had been named because St. Kitts and Nevis, over passport issue in his in exchange for a sum of it had what was “questionable” name by the government money, undermine the described by that individuals getting of St. Kitts and Nevis. essence of EU country’s government as passports under the It appeared that the citizenship.
The European Union has given an ultimatum to all countries operating CBI programmes. In addition to St. Kitts and Nevis, four other Caribbean countries offer CBI programmes, namely citizenship through investment programmes, namely Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada and St Lucia. Dominica has boasted openly of its funding of the construction of its international airport with funds raised by its CBI programme, among other sources. Hot on the heels of the ultimatum, Antigua’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne said if you don’t have Visa Free access into the Schengen region, it will undermine the viability of these
programmes. Caribbean Loop News reported Browne as admitting, “Many people who receive Antigua citizensh ip use it literally to gain visa-free access to the Schengen countries. “ But this only served to tighten the screw with the European Parliament calling for an “EU levy of a meaningful percentage on the investments made — until ‘golden passports’ are phased out and indefinitely for ‘golden visas”. It also asks the Commission to pressure third countries that benefit from visa-free travel to the EU to follow suit.
Among the projects included in the billion-dollar capital investment were the Modern When pressed by a media Port Facilitate for Kingstown person on the issue of export and Sandals Resorts Continued from Frontpage. compensation. what they currently occupy of the aggregate from the development at Buccament. On that note, the Prime without lease, and there is the operation, Dr. Gonsalves To further address this with crops in the field, will be Minister, not for the first time, intention to negotiate with vehemently dismissed the issue, Senator Francis told the directly affected to the extent gave the assurance that his them for the release of more indication from the media gathering that by next week of being uprooted, and will government will compensate lands. person that the Principal of therefore, have to be given all farmers whose cultivations The area known as Top Hill the Company that had signed an appendix to the MOU will be signed. That appendix will replacement plots and would have been affected, and has also been identified as the MOU with government, address the issue of aggregate compensation for the losses, that land with be quickly possibly a relocation site for had said to him that up to 99% for export and for local use. current and projected. Among identified for their relocation affected farmers. of the aggregate produced will What informs this these are three medical of their farms. By way of an aside, the be for export. appendix, Francis said, was a marijuana cultivators. On the matter of relocation Prime Minister alluded to the The Prime Minister was position that “Government The Prime Minister also got and replacement plots, there fact that a number of persons visibly shaken by this notion dictates what is exported,” and a briefing from Mr. Byam, an has already been an occupying lands in the area, and brought the issue to “Our demand must be filled evaluator from the Ministry of agreement with the Richmond including some to be relocated, nought by referencing the first.. .” Agriculture, about the acreage Vale Academy, the Prime had no formal lease need for aggregate to satisfy The PM was resolute, which the farmers occupy and Minister disclosed, for them to arrangements with the current and future works in claiming some folks object to some idea about the extent of release up to three acres of government. SVG. everything progressive. He According to the Prime Minister, some stated that St. Vincent would achieve prosperity through US1 billion were earmarked for capital this project and that Richmond was the most investment up to 2025 and is “no way a strategic place to operate the quarry, since there isn’t a quarry is here and cluster of human settlements government or the within the immediate vicinity, private sector can’t except for Fitz Hughes. get it (aggregate).”
PM on site in Richmond
Aggregate for home use
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4. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
COVID
Antigua to ease mask-wearing
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA has taken the lead among CARICOM countries in easing at least one requirement – restriction occasioned by the COVID19 pandemic. The online news agency — Antigua News Room (ANR) — reported that that country’s Cabinet, during a meeting on Wednesday 16t March which received a presentation by Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph and Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Rhonda Antiguans may have had some ease with respect Sealey-Thomas, took the to mask-wearing but they are still encouraged to decision to make maskvaccinate as a means of preventing COVID-19 wearing optional. infections. ANR reported that a note from the Cabinet become vaccinated, to meet the goal of said Sealey-Thomas and her team having a vaccination rate of 70 per proposed that face masks be worn by cent by June 1. workers indoors, where workers come Lionel Hurst, Chief of Staff, in a into contact with strangers. post —Cabinet report to the media, In outdoor places spaces, it is said the government was confident of recommended that people wear masks meeting this goal, which requires a when they are in crowds. further 10,000 people to be vaccinated. The decision to make mask-wearing The requirement of proof of optional comes at a time when vaccination in order to participate in Antigua and Barbuda has one of the Antigua’s 2022 carnival which highest COVID-19 vaccine penetration climaxes on August 2, is seen by many rates in CARICOM, at 62 per cent of as one way of prodding the population its eligible population. towards that 70 per cent vaccination Notwithstanding, the government rate. (Antigua News Room) continues to encourage citizens to
Amended COVID protocols to come AS COUNTRIES throughout the region and the rest of the world move to ease COVID-19 restrictions, Cabinet here was expected to be briefed by Dr. Simone Keizer-Beache (Chief Medical Officer) and Dr. Roger Duncan (Medical Officer of Health), on proposed amendments to the existing protocols, (earlier) this week. Drs. Keizer and Duncan were scheduled to brief Cabinet last Wednesday, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves disclosed while speaking on radio 705 on Wednesday morning. Dr. Gonsalves noted that there was a lengthy discussion at Cabinet one week earlier during which health officials had given indication of some amendments to Covid-19 related protocols that they recommended for amendment. While there was
agreement with some of what was advanced, the Prime Minister said that there was need for clarity on others. That said, Dr. Gonsalves reminded citizens that they needed to continue to adhere to the existing protocols for the time being. “The numbers are down, but we cannot tempt faith,” he said. He then procced to refer to two events held over the Heroes Day Weekend, saying that evidence had surfaced
that some persons who attended those events did not pay much attention to the health protocols. “I know the statistics reveal that there are presently no hospitalizations, and the count is down to one (as of March 16) active case,” he said, “But we are on one earth; the numbers are increasing in countries like Hong Kong, China, even in the UK…and we have to be very careful that we do not have another wave.” (DD)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. 5.
Court
Workers to sue, Government to appeal?
No decisions yet WHETHER or not there will be an appeal of a High Court judgement that allows dismissed government workers to sue the government, will be determined by the Attorney General. This is according to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves who, last week Friday, in response to a question about whether his government would appeal the judgement, said inter alia, “… when the Attorney General’s chambers … read the judgment itself, they may decide whether or not they appeal particular aspects of judgment, because it was a mixed judgment.” The day before Gonsalves’ response, Justice Esco Henry had turned down permission for a judicial review of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, but ruled that the case of workers who were fired for not being vaccinated will still be considered by the court. The Lady Justice ruled that the court should hear the case by former government workers, who were dismissed for abandoning their posts, even though the law under which they were fired deemed them absent if they
attended work while being unvaccinated against COVID-19. Former primary-school teachers Shanile Howe and Novita Roberts; Cavet Thomas, a former senior customs officer; Alfonzo Lyttle, a former assistant supervisor employed with the Customs and Excise Department; Brenton Smith, a former station sergeant of police; and Sylvorne Olliver, a former corporal of police, brought the lawsuit against the government. The SVG Teachers Union, Public Service Union (PSU), and Police Welfare Association (PWA) sponsored the lawsuits. However, the court ruled that they were not competent to bring a suit in their own names in the proceedings. The ruling struck out those three bodies and the attorney general as parties to this part of the proceedings, specifically the application for leave to seek judicial review. In essence the decision by the Judge extended to giving permission for the court to review the legality of the
The matter of dismissed government workers as per the vaccine mandate, was taken to court amidst street protests by trade unions, civil society organizations, opposition political parties and concerned individuals. Minister of Health’s decision to make Rule 8 (1) and (2) of SR&O No. 28 of 2022, commonly referred to as the vaccine mandate.
Regulation 8 (1) provides that an unvaccinated employee must not enter the workplace and is to be treated as being absent from duty without leave.
6. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. 7.
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8. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. 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
Are we serious about IWD? ANOTHER INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY (IWD) – March 8 - has come and gone and at the risk of having this publication declared repetitive and sloppy, we have once again to ask: Are we serious about International Women’s Day (IWD)? One would have to be stretching the limits of truth to say that we celebrated the Day with pomp and pageantry befitting of the foundation (women) of the family in our society. If we celebrated at all, we should have done so in keeping with the IWD 2022 Theme : “Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow,” under the hashtag #BreakTheBias. Across the world on every IWD, countries celebrate, in keeping with the purpose of the Day, the ‘social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women in their home countries’, and advance the ‘call by female interest groups and stakeholders for the true formalisation of gender parity and equality for women in all spheres within previously maledominated societal hierarchies’. We, therefore, would expect that the least that we would have done, with some seriousness and not as windowdressing, was to come together to recognise and celebrate our women’s achievement with events that also raised awareness of the role, contribution and societal place of women, and the need for gender equality. Yes there will be those who point to a Gender Affairs Department as being responsible 24/7 for these things that we suggest as the least our IWD focus should be. On the flip side, there are those who will say that the label Gender Affairs Department is an anomaly since its activities are centred on women, and there is nothing wrong with that, save and accept that in so doing we remove the male from a relationship with woman that is at the core of the manwoman relationship, which characterises our society and is responsible for many of our attitudes, in general. Further, there are those who will point to the many women who hold top state and private sector positions, and those in middle management as something about which we should celebrate with increased emphasis on IWD. We will admit that there were
activities, albeit low-keyed comparably speaking since we do not have the resources to follow suit with the rest of the world. But the question, with the lip service that is paid and the otherwise disregard and disrespect for women generally, we must ask ourselves, if we’re honest, is how serious are we about the movement aimed at creating gender balance and equality? We are not going to claim any copyright novelty when we say that the women as pioneers and trend setters have been for ages, part of the global narrative. Yes, we engage in ongoing discussion much of it in a vicious cycle of vacuous pronouncements without deepening the discussion of fairness and parity for women in the broad society. Can we truly say today that there is real evidence that the success which we set as our goal has been achieved, and that men do not continue to hold the true power in the majority of scenarios? With all that we say we have provided as increased opportunities for women — secondary education and qualification, entry and graduation from The University of the West Indies, both cases in which females dominate males, that a proportionate share of females achieve similar success and upward movement in their professional lives? Are we fooling ourselves into believing that the glass ceiling that has weighed heavily on women’s role and opportunity in society has been completely broken? Yes, we must stand up and admit that at this junction in our development that women are abused and even murdered, and worse that those who commit such horrendous crimes go unchecked or receive punishment far less that what would be considered appropriate to the crime. In that light and all that is said here, it must be that we still have to ask the question of whether IWD is a one-day affair or whether we truly understand and embrace the substance of the Day’s purpose and extenuating calling. Action, not lip service, is the essence of the IWD movement. This country, admittedly, is not unique with respect to the place, role of women and the need for genuine gender balance and equality. It is the hope of this publication that one day, the celebration of IWD will reflect real success among us that it, the day, beckons.
Treating each other with respect CALL ME OLD-FASHIONED. But the extent to which leaders across our country treat each other with respect will be the measure of our success. Why would our Prime Minister write the President of Russia a letter and not release it, then tell us about it? (If it was a private letter, keep it private.) Like the kids today would say, “just because.” Then right on cue, the Opposition Leader fell into the trap - making statements calling for the letter’s release. Dr. Friday, the call should be for a special session of Parliament to review our country’s position. By the way Dr, in all of this bassa-bassa, I did not hear what your position is on the “The Special Military Operations,” other than a call for repatriation of the students studying in Russia. I am not sure if this is for the safety of the students or a boycott of Russia. One thing is sure: the leadership of the two leading political parties in SVG does not respect each other. That’s putting it mildly. Unfortunately, we are currently experiencing a trend where most of our leaders treat each other with disdain and discount their ideas and contributions. This attitude has permeated well into our daily lives. Take the misuse of our school buses for private purposes on the weekends. Things are so bad that the Minister of Transportation had to take to the radio waves to ask the police to confiscate any school bus seen on the road not being used to transport kids. This is the side effect of leaders not treating each other with respect. Another recent example is the return to work order for unvaccinated Sanitation workers. The Minister of Health seemed uncertain or unaware of the order when questioned by a reporter more than two weeks after a memo was sent by his Permanent Secretary (PS). His no comment spoke volumes. Then the PS, realizing he may have gotten out ahead of his boss, suddenly had to go to a meeting and could not comment any further. I look forward to our political
leaders being strong enough to discipline wrongdoers. The open ridiculing of elected officials in some government offices is outrageous and counterproductive. This practice is commonplace among all elected officials and locally in some public service departments. The callous disrespect for people is appalling and can only be corrected with a change in attitude from the top. Bullying and public shaming have become a part of our daily routine and have been tolerated for too long. Unfortunately, this behavior is not unique to us in SVG. Just look at the USA and the Democrats and the Republicans. Over the next few weeks, we will see a barrage of personal attacks on the USA President’s nominee to fill the vacant Supreme Court seat. Our people deserve leadership to find ways to engage in civil discourse. Employees deserve a work environment where they are respected, and their ideas and efforts are appreciated. Now I will be the first to admit that some of what we describe as disrespect by the employees are generational gap issues. We see the things our parents consider disrespectful as simply an expression of confidence, not arrogance. My dad used to say it’s how we say something rather than what we say. So what can leaders do to ensure that we return to civility and begin to treat each other with respect? First, our leaders must set high standards. After over twenty years of the “yellow and red” divide, we cannot assume that leaders and team members will treat each other respectfully by default. Specifically, leaders must articulate the exact behaviours that they expect everyone in your organization to model in daily interactions. Don’t make people guess what you want. Tell them. So I ask, can I count on you to do the right thing when no one is looking? Don’t answer that. Horatio
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. 9.
Letters
Dr. J. P. Eustace is it!!!!
I MAY NOT see eye to eye with Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on some issues, but I support his call for persons to be vaccinated. I do not, however, support mandatory vaccination. But in considering the vaccine, I urge persons to consider: What else is there at least to mass deaths from this dreaded disease? What would have been the situation without the vaccine? Now to my real purpose. In this short piece, which hopefully is my ‘reconnection piece’, I
want to deal briefly with the issue of another National Hero. I get the feeling that we are locked into considering George McIntosh, E.T. Joshua and Milton Cato as the only candidates for our next national hero. Each of these persons is deserving of consideration some more so than others. But I want people not to exclude Dr. J. P. Eustace from consideration. And I want to thanks Theodore
Browne, Barrister-atLaw and graduate of the Emmanuel High School for keeping his name in the loop. In my opinion, if you put the four persons together and ask me to judge, I would have to say that Dr. Eustace stands above all the others; he is the only one who single-handedly made an impact on people’s lives… like making formal education available to people who would have never got that opportunity in the
biased system that existed then. Dr. Eustace touched people’s lives in a real way and asked for nothing in return. How many attended his Emmanuel High School without paying fees, I wonder? He not only talked the faith he had in his God, but he lived that faith which called on him to be his brother’s keeper. Tell me, how many people can say that any of the other three made a
THESE ARE the final hours. As we look at the political side of the Bible, we can see the writing on the walls. ‘But this gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.’ (Matt. 24:24.) These are the words of the Messiah in the opening of his public mission: The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom (government) of God is at hand…. believe the gospel. (Mark 1:15). The Messiah was making
reference to the time when Daniel told the first human political world leader, Nebuchadnezzar, of the end of all human (manmade laws) governments on earth. (Daniel 2:24.) According to divine order mentioned in Dan. 2:4, world powers would rule before the end comes. Close to the ending, the last power would be divided (v.41), more division in v.42. In v.43 they would seek unity, but will fail. Let us take a realistic look at those world
powers as they unfolded themselves in history. According to history, the Medes and the Persians (Iraq and Iran) took power from the Chaldean Empire around 538 BC and established the second world power. Alexander the Great took world power from the Medo-Persians around 333 BC and established the Greek Empire. All who are acquainted with history know very well that the Roman Empire was established following the Grecian Empire around 146 BC.
The 2-feet on the metallic image in Daniel 2 represented capitalism, led by the UK/US, and communism led by Russia. The toes represent the EU and all their alliances. According to Daniel 2:44 the final hour will see the end of all the above-mentioned governments, and a people with divine leadership will govern earth forever and ever. Amen
real difference in their lives… gave them a start to building a career or a livelihood for that matter? Dr. J. P. Eustace might not be as glamourous as the other candidates but stride for stride he has surpassed them in deeds. Colin Greaves, NY
Are our ladies The world powers soon will end empowered…?
Mr. Fix It
MATTER Fix, a la Marlon Roudette. One visit to the ‘troubled area’ and just like that, peace prevails. Yes, last Friday’s visit by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves to Richmond, the site for the quarry operations to be undertaken by a St. Lucian firm, seems to have quelled whatever fears there might have been that there were some farmers who were going to lose the land they had been cultivating for years. Yes, a few persons/farmers within the area designated for setting up the quarry operations will have to be relocated. But right there on the spot, the Prime Minister settled the matter. Farmers will be compensated for their produce already in the field - including ‘legal’ ganja cultivation — and they will all be given land to replace what they have to give up. And right on the spot, it looked like the location of those lands were identified. Yes, we can say that more often than not when things seem to be going array, in steps the Prime Minister, regardless if it’s his direct concern or not, and puts all his ministers in their place and ‘solves’ the problem. We might not like his style, and I don’t, but I suppose if that’s the only way we will get things done and get to the bottom of an issue, until such time as Dr. Gonsalves is no more the Prime Minister, we will have to put up with how he and his government operate. The next thing we expect from the PM is that he will see to it that all those public servants who lost their jobs because they refuse the COVID-19 vaccine, will be reinstated, like the sanitation workers. We know you can make this happen, Mr. PM, just as you made their dismissal happen. Harvey
Christian Democrat
ARE OUR ladies empowered and do they have a voice? It is estimated that over sixty percent (60%) of Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Department are females. I want to believe the same percent holds well for managers and owners of private businesses. Are our ladies empowered and do they have a voice? The Head of State, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Clerk of the House, and three of Six Senators are female. The former Attorney General and Deputy Prime Minister were female. Are our ladies empowered and do they have a voice? Granted, there is a flip side and in the cases of abuse and domestic violence, females are the main victims. Yet, there are many men who are victims of abuse by their female spouses, but since it is a woman’s world many times the men remain silent. Men are afraid to let others know about their abuse because they do not want to appear weak. Ladies, when it is so, have to accept the fact they contribute to domestic violence and abuse. When, for example, they find reason to be unfaithful, many men resort to physical abuse. So, tell me: Are our women empowered and do they have a voice? So much emphasis is placed on females/girls that our men and boys are neglected. No wonder many turn to crime. There is definitely a need for gender balance and equality in our society. Attention ought to be given by the Gender Affairs Department to empowering our boys and men. Street boys and homeless males are evidence of gender neglect. Kennard King
Editor’s Note: This submission was edited for length and accuracy.
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10. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
ULP proven right as USA and EU threatens Citizen by Investment (CIP) countries Introduction ONE OF THE fundamental policy positions that has defined the almost 21 years of the Comrade Ralph-led Unity Labour Party (ULP) government, is its steadfast commitment to protect our patrimony by refusing to sell our Vincentian passport. The proclamation by this country’s leader that the office of citizen is the highest in the land offers a very clear indication of the respect and value placed on the holders of the office by this government. The notion therefore of selling out our patrimony, the outward sign of citizenship, for a few pennies represents an absurdity that is strongly rebuffed whenever the notion arises as an option for revenue generation for this country. It has now become a mantra accepted and repeated by most right- thinking Vincentian, that we will not sell out our patrimony, we will not sell our passports, and our citizens have chosen that path over the path offering to do otherwise. While the leader of the opposition proudly declares that his Canadian passport is in his front pocket, the rest of us as Vincentians who do not have dual citizenship, understand the value of our passport, the one we have in our front pockets where it belongs. It is no wonder that the leadership of the NDP treats our passport, our patrimony, our citizenship with such scant regard, believing that it can be commoditised and sold for pennies to individuals who never even bothered to develop a citizen relationship with our blessed land. Vincentians rejected previously, and continue to reject, such prostitution of our symbol of independence, and the current global situation is proving the ULP’s position and leadership on the issue to be spot on.
Current threat to Caribbean CIP countries Before discussing the current threat facing Caribbean countries that currently have a Citizen by Investment Program, it is necessary to give a bit of context to the program and exactly what is at stake. Generally, the individuals who participate in the program, seek the regional passports primarily because of the benefits of visa free access to the Schengen region, the UK as well has a more relaxed visa regime for USA and Canada. These benefits are currently enjoyed by our citizens and make our passports very valuable to nationals from countries facing sanctions and other measures by the countries/region listed above. In extreme cases, criminals who are seeking to evade the law in their own countries as well as third party countries, purchase these passports to be able to travel much more freely. The current conflict between Russia and Ukraine has seen the European Union and the Unites States of America impose very severe sanctions on Russia for its role in the conflict. Some of the measures imposed on high profile individuals - politicians and businessmen thought to have links with the Russian president intend to put pressure on him by isolating his personal allies and his country. These measures being imposed on Russia and selective
individuals have brought the issue of the so called “golden passport” schemes or Citizen by Investment Programs into sharp focus. It is believed that some of the Russians who are the intended targets of sanctions may be able to access a second passport offered by one of the countries involved in CIP, and be able to evade the sanctions or worst yet find their way into the European Union. In response to this possibility, the EU has passed legislation that would require countries abandon their Citizen by Investment Programs or lose the visa free access status enjoyed. The USA, through congressmen Burgess Owens (UT-04) and Steve Cohen (TN-09) is also working on a similar bill and will work closely with the EU to ensure its effectiveness. The choice for countries in this region is clear: abandon the CIP and keep your visa free waiver that your citizens currently enjoy, or keep the program and loose the waiver, and with that creating unnecessary difficulties for the citizens. The eventual outcome of the EU/USA ultimatum is clear, the program will not be sustainable if maintained as the value of the passport to those third country nationals would no longer be there without the visa free access. The Prime Minister of Antigua has acknowledged that this development will inflict extreme hardship on the program and to his country’s economy, which stands to lose close to 15% of its revenue once that program is halted. The unfortunate reality in the OECS is that Antigua and Barbuda is not alone but is joined by Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia and Saint Kitts and Nevis, the other countries with the program that must deal with this looming threat.
SVG benefits from the ULP’s strong leadership on the matter With this very real threat hanging over the economies of countries in the OECS, imagine for a second where SVG would have been if our government wasn’t very strong and resolute in its decision that our passports are not for sale. The NDP consistently presented the idea of selling passports as a glorious, golden opportunity that would “rain” cash in this economy that would allow them to work miracles while at the same time cutting VAT by 50%, removing the environmental levy, and removing the 1% added to the CSC that is used to support regional organisations. The responsible and prudent ULP always recognised that our country couldn’t put our metaphoric eggs in the CIP basket because it represents a race to the bottom, and while it is a source of a short-term windfall, it will never be sustainable. Had our government not focused on more sustainable sources of finance, this country too would be worried about our revenue stream to pay public servants, buy medication, fix roads and implement many of the projects planned. Once again, because of wise and prudent leadership, SVG will not be in the position of our sister countries in the OECS, on this issue of not selling passports, the Comrade and the ULP are proven right.
Remember our history and invoke the indomitable spirit of Chatoyer (Excerpts from Dr. Friday’s Presentation on Heroes Day) THIS YEAR, we celebrate under the theme: “Appreciating Our Identity: Preserving Our Heritage With Pride”. In the founding of any nation, there are those who make their mark that then become part of our history. They are the freedom fighters, they are builders of businesses and other institutions, the community-spirited men and women who seize every opportunity to serve their neighbours and friends to make life better for them; and leaders in other walks of life who forge a path forward for all of us. We stand upon their shoulders today, even as we, too, know we must do our part. As a nation, we have decided to honor as national heroes those who make the greatest contributions. Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer is, of course, the first and, thus far, the only one so honored. No one else could have been first, as there is no better example of courage and sacrifice than his.
Lessons from Chatoyer Notwithstanding that we are a small nation, our history is rich and complex. It contains many acts of courage and sacrifice that hold our foundation together and inspire us to continue to build upon it. Among the many identities of our people are those who have made their indelible mark in the soil and on the soul of our people– on the character of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Though we stand today as a proud and independent nation, we know all too well from our history and indeed, from current international events that national sovereignty is not guaranteed. It is a fragile ideal that is mostly won through struggle and must be defended at every turn. Chatoyer taught us that. In his time, the early struggles and wars fought for freedom were defined by alliances of like-minded people, who knew the value of freedom and cherished it. People who would never surrender or diminish for expedience or short-term gain, a nation’s right to selfdetermination. As we celebrate National Heroes Day today and look to the future, it is fitting to remember our history and invoke the indomitable spirit of Chatoyer, for as the philosopher Santayana cautioned so many years ago, “…those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”. Chatoyer himself called upon us to unite as citizens and as brothers and sisters to build up and protect this land. Today, as we continue the neverending task of nation-building, we must invoke that same spirit. In short, we must work together to build our country and do so as in the words and example of Chatoyer, as a united people. Today, we express that commitment in the familiar words: “One People, One Nation, One Vincy”. There is no better time than Heroes Day to call upon our better angels and together pledge to lift our game for the common good. Transcend mediocrity and limited thinking and aim higher to consider how we are now or might become heroes in our own right. Every day offers us opportunity. It is for us to recognize them, embrace them and make them count–i.e. make the best of them.
I believe in the virtue of work, in the power of opportunity and the strength and noble character of our people. But we must all be passionate about fulfilling our potential and working for a better future, one in which we are safe, prosperous, and free. We work together so that everyone can succeed, no matter his or her background or beliefs and where we never surrender our patrimony or birthright. To surrender it would mean that Chatoyer struggled and died in vain, and we know that is not so. That’s why we call him a national hero. Chatoyer’s proclamation was a call to arms in a time of war. The sovereignty of the Garifuna people was threatened. He rejected colonialism and its merciless march of conquest and subjugation of free, resilient people. His struggle was continued in different ways by our forebears over the centuries since, through the re-attainment of our independence in 1979 and in the years that followed. It was a struggle, we know, for freedom and sovereignty. A yearning of people from time immemorial, all over the world.
Ukraine war The lessons from Chatoyer’s time are crucially important today. Our world is challenged once again with large-scale conflict, this time in Ukraine. The aggression and expansionism this time is coming from Russia. The conflict is an invasion of a sovereign nation by a powerful aggressor in the largest war in Europe since the WWII. The tragedy unfolds daily, inexorably. Many young soldiers on both sides are killed, and innocent civilians–women, children, the elderly and infirm– die in bombed out Ukrainian cities or while trying to flee! In addition to military installations, hospitals, schools, and residences have been shelled and bombed. Every day, the emerging video images show massive devastation, and the worse, we are told, is yet to come. Because we are more interconnected than at any time in human history, the tremors of that war are already being felt here in SVG. Our nationals who serve in the armed forces of NATO countries– the USA and UK– will no doubt be called up and positioned in Europe to reassure NATO allies who fear a spreading conflict. The economic fallout also affects us with higher oil and other commodity prices. We must prepare for it to help to cushion the effects on our people, who have already been through so much hardship. A war of aggression is a grotesque absurdity, especially in this modern era. With every moral fiber in our bodies, both individual and the collective, we must denounce it and oppose it. In doing so we will be upholding our proud legacy and the values we have defended throughout our history. We will, with freedomloving people the world over, proclaim and defend the inalienable rights of men and women to be free, wherever they may be. Let us pray for peace in Ukraine and in every place where war rages.
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Cutting the knot
“A man must be able to cut a knot, for everything cannot be untied; he must know how to disengage what is essential from the detail in which it is enwrapped, for everything cannot be equally considered; in a word, he must be able to simplify his duties, his business and his life.” - Henri Frédéric Amiel (1821–1881) Swiss philosopher, poet, professor of aesthetics & philos, Geneva academy WE ARE MORE FAMILIAR with the expression “tying the knot”. That phrase is used when referring to someone getting married. It refers to binding together, unity, togetherness, and similar synonyms. That is what marriages were intended to be; lifelong arrangements. Marriages were intended to be permanent engagements. Unfortunately, many marriages go sour. That is a fact of life. Many couples, for a variety of reasons, drift apart and the happy marriage ship eventually capsizes or runs aground. The casualties may be extensive and the resulting pain may endure for a relatively long time. I do not know of any divorcee who has testified that the experiences leading up to the actual divorce were painless. Separations are painful. Divorce is traumatic; especially when children are involved. What happens to make a couple that appears to be all “sweetysweety” today become so ready and willing to cut the knot, to go their separate ways, tomorrow? What causes a strong bond of friendship and love to disintegrate? What situations cause good fellowship to implode? I do not pretend to be an expert in this area. However, having appeared in the divorce court and having been part of the carnage of divorce I wish to advance three simple guidelines in the hope that some couple somewhere may benefit from my little sharing. This is as useful for the newly married as it is for those who have been in the trenches for some time. Yes, I particularly used “trenches” to remind our readers that marriages are not always blessed with mountain top experiences; there are times when we must have the valley experiences. There will be times when sickness will visit, when funds will be low, when conflicts will emerge; those are valley experiences. Ironically, those are the times when we need to support and encourage each other. Sadly, those are often the times when tempers flare and when we walk away from each other. My exposure to animal husbandry and my close working relationships with a number of veterinarians over the years resulted in my being familiar with
some of the broad-spectrum medications used in the industry. Chlortetracycline is one such drug. It is possible to use this medication to bring ailing animals back to relatively good health. We will not go into the details of how this happens. Suffice it to say that I find the example useful when examining any relationship that appears to be ailing. Many can recover if treated with “relationship chlortetracycline”. For convenience, I abbreviate the word as “CTC” (that is not the scientific acronym; that is my tailor-made version). The first “C” represents communication. It is imperative that we keep the lines of communication open and active. The absence of regular, adequate, appropriate, communication can result in the fraying of any relationship; regardless of how strong it may originally appear to be. I particularly describe the communication as “adequate” and “appropriate” to drive the message home to all of us that communication is not merely talking or writing; we must do so with decency and respect for the recipient. Adequate and appropriate communication will foster trust. That is where the “T” comes in. The converse is also true; when we fail to communicate effectively, for whatever the reason, we are likely to generate a feeling of mistrust and/or resentment. This may manifest itself in a number of ways. However, invariably it tends to lead to a lack of commitment. “Commitment” then becomes the final “C” in my version of the “CTC” analysis. This reader does not advocate divorce. However, I do believe that there are times when divorce becomes necessary. This is biblical (but will be debated/expanded in a subsequent article). Suffice it to say, however, that too many relationships end up in the divorce courts when they should not. We are now too ready to untie the knot for little, insignificant, reasons. Or should I replace “reasons” with “excuses”? Many couples refuse to seek opportunities to take the CTC approach to resolving their differences. Many friendships disintegrate because individuals refuse to take the CTC approach. Before proceeding with the cutting of the knot let us swallow our pride, remove the hurt, and apply the “relationship Chlortetracycline”. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
Ukraine Crisis: much more than meets the eye ‘I THINK IT IS THE BEGINNING of a new cold war. I think the Russians will gradually react quite adversely, and it will affect their policies. I think it is a tragic mistake. There was no reason for this whatsoever. No one was threatening anybody else. ‘Of course, there will be a bad reaction from Russia, and then [the NATO expanders] will say that we always told you that is how the Russians are – but this is just wrong.’ George Kennan, architect of the Cold War in 1998. ‘If Ukraine is to survive and thrive, it must not be either side’s outpost against the other – it should function as a bridge between them. The West must understand that, to Russia, Ukraine can never be just a foreign country. ‘Even such famed dissidents as Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn and Joseph Brodsky insisted that Ukraine was an integral part of Russian history and, indeed, of Russia. Ukraine should not join NATO.’ Henry Kissinger, former US Secretary of State in 2014. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is a clear violation of the independence and territorial integrity of the country. All of the inviolable principles of international law, the rights of nations to selfdetermination, non-interference in internal affairs, sovereignty, and the peaceful settlement of conflicts are put into question when Russian troops cross the borders of Ukraine. Yes, Ukraine is in Europe, and it may appear far from us. However, the peace and security of the entire world rest on the cessation of hostilities and a negotiated settlement of all security issues. It is said that there are over 30 biological and chemical laboratories in Ukraine testing and perfecting dangerous microbes and viruses. If any of these were to be accidentally struck or a nuclear plant destroyed, all hell would break loose. These are tripwire issues from which the world may not return. To understand the crisis in Ukraine, we may have to go back to 1990/1991 when the former Soviet Union, of which Ukraine along with Russia was an integral part. Back then, the Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev secured a commitment from American leaders that he would withdraw Soviet troops from East Germany and allow for the unification of Germany on the condition that the NATO ‘defensive’ security alliance would not be extended eastward. Gorbachev withdrew the Troops, the Soviet Union collapsed, and the USA and the NATO alliance refused to honour the commitment. In fact, in 1993, Bill Clinton agreed to allow the eastern march of NATO membership. Since then, more than a dozen countries have been allowed to join. The expansion of NATO is seen as a threat by Russia. Western leaders explained that Nato was formed in 1949 as a defensive shield of Western Europe against the mighty Soviet Union. In response, the Soviet leaders formed the Warsaw pact as a counterbalance. The Warsaw pact was dissolved with the Soviet collapse, yet some strategic thinkers in the West push the theory that NATO must remain to ensure peace and security worldwide. Remember it was NATO forces that bombed Libya, assassinated Colonel Ghadafi, destroyed Africa’s second most developed country and turned Libya into a failed state where Africans are daily sold as slaves in Tripoli and Bengazi. The security situation in Ukraine took a turn for the worse in 2014 following the removal of President Viktor Yanukovych and the election by Volodymyr Zelensky. Yanukovych was somewhat neutral and expressed no interest in joining NATO.
President Zelensky is more pro-western and committed to taking Ukraine into the NATO alliance. Since the removal of Yanukovych, a low-intensity civil war, which has not been highlighted in the mainstream media, has claimed the lives of over 14,000 Ukrainians who live in the eastern parts of the country. These regions and people, especially those in Luhansk and Donetsk, are said to be ethnic Russians and want a closer relationship with Russia. Only the most naive and politically blinkered will fail to recognise the legitimacy of Russia’s security concerns. Russian leaders, no doubt, remember that during WW11, more than 40 percent or 20 million of the casualties were Soviet citizens. No country will sit by and watch as another significant power encircle it with military might, including nuclear weapons. In 1962, Fidel Castro allowed the Soviet leaders to bring nuclear weapons to Cuba. President Kennedy demanded their removal, and the world came to the brink of nuclear war. However, while Russian concerns, recognised by imminent geopolitical thinkers and strategists of the calibre of George Kennan and Henry Kissinger, are understandable, the move to war in defence of those security jitters are difficult to justify. War is hell, and the road to hell is slippery. There may come a time when there is no turning back. Already NATO threatens to invoke its article 5 provision, which calls for collective security if one of its members is attacked. Diplomacy then should be emphasised. Military conflict must be minimised and brought to an immediate end. It was heartening to hear President Zelensky backing away from his earlier intentions to join NATO. He also expressed willingness to negotiate with leaders of the breakaway regions of Luhansk and Donetsk. Russia’s decision to invade Ukraine, while it may evidence a seriousness of that country regarding its security, may have hurt its long term goal for security and played into the hands of the Americans. Trust is built on goodwill and friendship. Commercial deals and economic cooperation are the bedrock of building confidence and security. Russia’s construction of the Eurostream oil and gas pipeline was a step in that direction. The US had always opposed the pipeline because it feared such a deal would have brought Europe closer and reduced tensions. An economically united Europe would also threaten American hegemony in the world. American thinkers feared the unification of Europe and saw such unity as second only to the growing economic and Chinese military challenge. In political, economic and military terms, the Russian invasion of Ukraine may amount to one step forward, two steps back. Heavy sanctions are imposed on Moscow, many countries such as Germany and Japan have removed their most favoured nation status, and Europe is now more militarised than before the invasion. Worse of all, world leaders have placed their nuclear weapons on alert for the first time in decades. They are willing to risk the human race’s continued existence for their narrow political gains. The rest of humanity must stand united in the quest for peace. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
V I donÊt have a dollar coming in! 12. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
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THE EXTENT of poverty in SVG has become much worse under the ULP regime. A number of people have said to the Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, that poor leadership at the top in SVG is the root cause of the poverty. A man recently said to the Leader of SVG Green Party, ‘I don’t have a dollar coming in’. Despairingly, he spoke about how broke he was and the trouble he has in trying to pay his rent. He said it was degrading being so poor and unable to feed his kids properly. Another person in a similar position, said that things are not bad, they were beyond bad. He said things were hopeless and terrible, and that he had not managed to get any paid work in months.
A lorry owner said it was very hard to get any work and he would be lucky to get one Rabacca sand delivery a month. He said not many people were building houses and so there were not many orders for sand. Similar stories can be heard throughout our country. Poverty is widespread and has been so for over 10 years, and the ULP regime has failed to alleviate the suffering of many thousands of people. Nearly everywhere you travel in SVG the cries are the same, that of destitution, too much crime, no jobs, no money circulating, parents being unable to afford to send their children to school, and others only able to send their children to school on a hungry belly. These children are being left behind. SVG has been pushed to the ground
by the gross incompetence of the ULP regime leadership. Investing about EC$70 million in building the Belle Isle jail in North Leeward, rather than in education and setting up infrastructure for a strong business sector, was plain foolish. This has been one of the causes of SVG having a weak economy for so long and a high level of poverty and crime. In this prolonged period of economic hardship and high level of poverty, our country urgently needs an economic transformation. Under the grossly incompetent Gonsalves regime, there has been a scatter gun approach to running the economy. A number of schemes have been tried in various sections of the economy, but none has managed to create a strong economy and significant economic growth. In SVG we need factories to
stimulate economic growth and to get money circulating our country. Our economy must be export-driven to bring money into our country and create surplus revenue. A much needed project in SVG is our own billion dollar tuna fishing and canning industry. This would provide a very high rate of return on investment and create about 1,000 jobs. We must take back our fish licence from Taiwan and bring an end to Taiwan ripping-off our country and devastating the futures of our children. From the moment they are born, many Vincentian children are being condemned to a life of poverty, and little opportunity to escape it. To end generational poverty in SVG, we need a strong economy and sustainable revenue, so all our children can have access to free, high-quality education from pre-school to university. Having a highly educated population will create economic growth and end generational poverty.
Developments in Modern Medicinal Wellness Industry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines psychedelics. This MOU outlined a period for the Medicinal Wellness Feasibility Study, in which the parties would collaborate to examine “the key elements involved in building a THE GOVERNMENT of Saint Vincent commercially viable, science-based, … and the Grenadines (SVG) has health and wellness ecosystem in approved a policy space for the SVG.” The Study parameters would establishment of a National Modern avoid premature market saturation or Health and Wellness Industry using fragmentation through careful plant and/or fungi-based materials. As curation of companies on the platform, such, the Government of St. Vincent to allow a thorough assessment of the and the Grenadines (SVG) signed a true economic impact. Memorandum of Understanding The companies involved were Ajori (MOU) in October 2020 with three Health & Wellness Ltd., SVG Biomed companies expressing interest in the Inc. (now trading as Headland medical use of several psychoactive Wellness Inc), and Mera Life Sciences compounds, broadly classed as LLC (since acquired by Red Light (Editor’s Note: The following is a Press Release issued by the Standard of bureau’s Executive Director Ezra Ledger. It is reproduced verbatim.)
Holland and renamed Scarlette Lillie Sciences and Innovation Inc.). The Ministry of Industry and the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and the Bureau of Standards (SVGBS) were the enabling agencies for the government, and the parties jointly agreed that other companies could only be added to the platform by unanimous consent. The compounds covered under the study included psilocybin, ibogaine, peyote, ketamine, dimethyltryptamine, ayahuasca and sassafras. Additional, non-psychoactive compounds were also included: namely, turmeric, aloe vera, arrowroot, soursop, ginger and moringa. Permitted licensed activities included research and development, cultivation, GXP processing, prescription and administration of the compounds in licensed clinical treatment facilities. In the time since the commencement of the MOU, the companies have worked to support the objectives of the study and have engaged in different aspects of the Medicinal Wellness Industry. Activities have included the engagement of local and international medical professionals, the evaluation and acquisition of properties to facilitate licensed activities, the recruitment of operational professionals, and the initiation of production and supply arrangements. One of the companies has been granted permission to import a listed compound produced in another jurisdiction for analytical testing in SVG. It is expected that the three pioneering licensees will soon begin the clinical phase of the study which will expand to include clinical trial support and medically supervised treatment facilities. The government, in turn, has conducted a thorough review of existing legislation governing the production and distribution of pharmaceutical medicines, and has
created a working committee to review the progress of the companies. The government is currently addressing the drafting of a legislative framework for the establishment of a full psychedelics value chain. This has included the engagement of the international legal luminary Dr. David Berry to provide contextualization of the local industry within the legal obligations created by the international treaties governing controlled substances. Subsequently, a technical review of the industry, its participants and their operational plans has been provided to the government by Professor Leonard O’Garro. Outside of the coverage of the MOU, two other companies have been issued Scientific Research Only licences. These licences permit local research into the same list of compounds, but do not allow commercialization, distribution, or clinical applications. All activities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be in full compliance with International Law where compounds are only to be used for scientific research and medical purposes through a regulatory agency with strict national laws and regulations to ensure non-diversion of these compounds to or from the illicit market. Recognizing the significant medical and economic potential offered by the licensed production and clinical distribution of these compounds, it is expected that the completion of the MOU study period will be followed by a seamless transition into a functional Medicinal Health and Wellness Industry. In a recent statement, the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry, and Labour, Hon. Saboto Caesar, congratulated the three companies for their “astute work into the ongoing feasibility study and the contribution to the build out of the Medicinal Wellness Industry here in SVG.”
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Eulogy for Moulton T. Mayers
The Reigate Building was also one of his undertaking. The National Insurance Services Headquarters (NIS building) was one of the many designs conceptualised by Moulton Mayers. Delivered by JOHN ANDERSON T IS INDEED AN HONOR to have been asked to give the eulogy for my friend Moulton Mayers. The lifelong friendship between Moulton and I
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began as students at City College, New York, when we were roommates for three years. Moulton, whose 71st birthday would have been on March 1st, passed away February 19th, 2022, after a
lengthy battle with cancer. Moulton was the son of Milton Mayers and Stephanie Antoine. He was married to Yvonne Bowen Mayers for 39 years, and together they had three children,
Melissa, Michael, Melanie. He leaves to mourn his children, sonin-law Kitwana Morris and two grandchildren Daniel and Mya. Moulton grew up with his father and sister Marilyn, brothers Carlton, Rudy and Stanley, otherwise
known as “Brother.” He also had other siblings including Maferne and Milton Jr. Moulton’s childhood days were spent growing up in Prospect and Villa. At an early age, Moulton’s mother migrated to Trinidad where she lived for many
years leaving Moulton and his siblings to be raised by their father.
Early Education Moulton’s formal education started at the Calliaqua Primary Continued on Page 19.
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Eulogy for Moulton T. Mayers
The Bequia Revenue Building was also one of his designs. Continued from Page 15. School. By the age of eleven, Moulton had moved onto St. Martin’s Secondary School in Kingstown, however he was not motivated by the academic curriculum and would frequently skip classes and run off to the Botanical Gardens. He was eventually expelled from the school and moved onto the Intermediate High School. At the Intermediate High School, he took his class work more seriously and moved up to form five, where he sat for the London Cambridge General Certificate Exam (GCE) at ordinary level. Moulton passed three subjects which included geography, health science and religious knowledge. The following year, he added English and Mathematics to his “O” level success. While in high school, Moulton also worked with his father Milton Mayers, a building contractor in St. Vincent. Moulton would don his water boots and pour cement at various construction sites. He also learned to read blueprints during this period. This turned out to be his introduction to construction and would later help to differentiate him from his peers.
Advanced Education After completing his secondary school education in 1974, his former headmaster Mr. Timmy Richards facilitated him being admitted to Humber College in Toronto Canada, where in 1977 he completed a diploma in architectural drafting. Having completed his diploma, Moulton was preparing to return to St. Vincent to work with his father, but one evening while out celebrating his graduation with friends at a Marcia McIntosh’s party in Toronto, he was introduced to Eugene Anderson. Eugene encouraged Moulton to come to New York and take the Scholastic Assessment Test, (SAT) for college entrance in the USA before returning to St. Vincent. Moulton decided to take Eugene’s advice and sat for the exam, passing it with flying colors. With the successful results of his SAT score, Moulton was admitted to City College of New York to study architecture. In 1980, Moulton graduated from the School of Architecture and was on the dean’s list at graduation. Incidentally, we both graduated from City College
at the same time. Moulton went on to complete his master’s degree at Pratt University in New York, specializing in Urban Design in 1981. Moulton’s success in college was primarily due to his teachers and secondary school headmaster Mr. Timmy Richards, the timely advice of Ms. Eugene Anderson, the inspiration and financial support from his father, and the help and support he received from his girlfriend at the time, Yvonne Bowen. Yvonne would take care of Moulton’s household needs and would even type his college papers, allowing Moulton to focus on his college work.
British Empire (MBE) by the Queen of England. He was also an Honorary Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Moulton was distinctly a creative St. Vincent and the Grenadines for genius. He was highly intelligent using many years. his imagination to create art made Moulton was also president of the from concrete and steel. He did not let St. Vincent and the Grenadines his early academic struggles deter him Institute of Architects from 1996-1998. from striving for greater Moulton was a pioneer and a accomplishments. Granted, he had his patriotic Vincentian. Vincentians father who encouraged and supported salute and proudly recognize him for him financially, but once he discovered his accomplishments in the his gifts, he did not allow anything to development of St. Vincent and the stop him from achieving his goals. Grenadines. Farewell my friend, you Moulton is an outstanding son of have done well, your work is done, rest the soil. He went abroad to develop in peace. and complete his formal education in architecture, before returning home to the land he loved. He has left his architectural Delving into his profession handprint on the landscape of St. As his roommate and friend, I saw Vincent and the firsthand Moulton’s architectural Grenadines for work. He would line the walls of our generations to apartment hallway with drawings that come. In 2012, he he had prepared for his class projects. was awarded the Anyone seeing his work was in no Member of the So too was the St. Vincent Building and Loan doubt that he was going to be a Order of the Association. successful architect. After graduating from University, Moulton began his professional career in New York City, working with an architectural company. It did not take long before he was promoted to manager, supervising his peers on the construction site. With the urging of his father to come back home, Moulton packed up and returned to St. Vincent, resigning from his lucrative position in New York to work with his father. Once in St. Vincent, Moulton established his architectural consulting company and built his office and residence at McKies Hill on a steep gradient that only an architect would consider building on. This construction demonstrated that Moulton was serious, and no challenge would be too great for him to conquer. During his professional life in St. Vincent, Moulton designed and built many commercial and government buildings, residential homes and made additions and alterations to many more. His most prominent designs include: * The National Insurance Services Headquarters (NIS building) * The St. Vincent Building and Loan Association Bank * The Ministerial Office Building * The Reigate Building, also known as the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines * The Marion House * The Forestry Head-Quarters * The School for Children with Special Needs * Bequia Revenue Office Building * Union Island Secondary School * Fancy Community Centre * Hotel Alexandrina, and * Dr. Stephens Residence Moulton also worked on a project in St. Lucia and was refitting some schools in Antigua.
Pioneer and patriot
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Moulton T. Mayers – His Life Story OULTON THEOPHILUS MAYERS, MBE was born in Prospect, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 70 years ago to Stephanie Antoine and the late Milton Theophilus Mayers SR, MBE. He had 8 brothers: Rudolph, Stanley, Carlton, Milton Jr., Marcus and Dawrance Mayers. Shorn and Patrick Hunt; twelve (12) sisters: Elma Gabriel, Sally Benjamin, Marilyn Mayers-Neverson, Marcelle and Maxyn Mayers, Maferne MayersOliver, Annmarie DeCoteau, Judith, Antoinette, Magna, Bridgette, and Carla Antoine. Moulton grew up with his father and stepmother Val ByronMayers. He had a pretty good life in those growingup years. His father was the first trained architect/contractor in St. Vincent, and for a very long time he was the only person who could build
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according to a plan. Even though his father emerged as affluent and outgoing, he was a very serious family man who did not spoil his children. He told his children that they should not waste too much time sleeping since the early bird catches the worm, and woke them up at 5 a.m. every morning for devotions. Moulton and his brothers helped at worksites during school vacations by toting concrete or performing other tasks. That’s how Moulton got to be the man he was. He was raised into his profession by his father into his prolific architectural beginning and he frequently stated, “that my father always wanted his children to be a step above him, and he nurtured me, and he pushed me in the field of architecture”. Moulton graduated
from the Calliaqua Anglican School before advancing to the Intermediate High School (better known as Timmy school), following his high school years Moulton migrated in 1975 to Canada to further his education. He graduated with a Diploma in Architecture from Humber College, Toronto, Ontario in 1977. In 1977, he migrated to New York and attended The City College in New York and graduated with a B S Arch. B Arch, during which time he was a Dean’s Honor List student 1978-1980. As his quest for knowledge continued, he attended Pratt Institute, New York, 1980-1981, where he obtained a M.S. degree in Urban Designing/Planning. His work was also citated in the Architectural Records
Magazine (January 1984 issue). Moulton completed several internships and worked at various architectural firms while completing his studies in the United States. Harlem Urban Development Corporation, 1979-1980, AR Environetics group, well known for providing solutions for interior space planning and Architectural design 1981-1983. While he loved his work, he really appreciated the fun side of his colleagues. He always told stories of some of the experience that weren’t work related but a lot of fun. His most memorable was the experience he gained at Castro-Blanco Piscioneri & Feder New York Architect, this Architectural firm is well known in New York City. He returned home in 1985 to work with his father in Villa. In 1999 he continued updating his professional standard of practice and obtained a Certificate in Specification and Application in Timber products from Southern Pine. Moulton was also very experienced in Design/Working Drawings, Construction document coordination, Construction Administration, Interior Design, Valuator, and Urban Design/Planning. Moulton relocated and open his McKies Hill office Moulton Mayers Architects (MMA) in 1990. He had been practicing Architecture in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Caribbean for the past 36 yrs. If you have been in and around Kingstown, there is little doubt that you have seen or entered some of the structures designed by him. He credited his father for his entrance into the realm of architecture, he said he was enthralled watching his father work. He often referred to him as his idol architect and contractor who constructed a breathtaking array of iconic and impressive buildings across the length and breadth of SVG, and made his mark in other Eastern
Caribbean countries, especially in St Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda. He followed in his father’s footsteps and placed his architectural stamp on the landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. And became a renowned local architect who designed his breathtaking array of iconic and impressive buildings across the length and breadth of SVG. From structures like the National Insurances Services headquarters, the Building and Loan offices, the Reigate building that houses the new Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Curriculum building, the Forestry Division, and the KFC and Massy Supermarket Arnos Vale. His designs are exhibited in other Eastern Caribbean countries. In 1972 at a farewell part for Mr. Adrian Saunders (who is now a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice), Moulton met Yvonne the love his life. They were married 10 years later in 1982. Yvonne, you are going to miss Moulton so much. You have all our sympathy. They were blessed with 3 children, Melissa Mayers-Morris, Melanee, and Michael Mayers. To quote Moulton when he talk about his children and Yvonne, “She gave me 3 beautiful children and she played the major role in their development”. Two grandchildren: Daniel and Mya Morris (his Baba), son-in-law Kitwana Morris. I do hope that all the pictures of Moulton and the stories about him will live on in their memories and in their homes so that the grandchildren will never forget their grandfather. Moulton enjoyed going to be beach early in the morning, he was a member of the Indian Bay Beach University (IBBU). Travelling, going to wild meat cookout on weekends. Hanging out with the guys at the Calliaqua round table. He appreciated the real old time calypsoes and would dance all night to such tunes. He always had the ability to forge
many friendships but mostly with friends who are old enough to be his father. He was also very active in the community. A former president of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, he designed the School for Special Needs while he was a Rotarian, for free. President of the St. Vincent Institute of Architects and was currently an executive member. He was the current President of the Intermediate High School Alumni. Designed the Methodist Community Hall with his father and brother Milton Jr. In 2012 he earned a place on the Queen Honours list. He was the recipient of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). The award was given for his years of input into the architectural field and community service. He was also appointed the Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic in St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2010. Moulton battled with cancer for the last 5 years. He always had a positive outlook, easy going and friendly. Moulton loved his family and friends. He knew Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Saviour and responded to his call peacefully at 5 a.m. Saturday, February 19, 2022 at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital he traded life for eternity 10 days before his 71st birthday. Left to cherish his memories: His loving wife of 40 years, his children, grandchildren and son-in-law. His mother, siblings, aunt Lillian George, uncle Grafton Mayers, many nieces, nephews and cousins, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. The Moses and Mayers families in Canada, the Mayers and Antoine families in New York, Boston, California, England, Trinidad, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Staff of Moulton Mayers Architects (MMA) - Tina and Branson. Colleagues throughout St. Vincent and the Caribbean, and a host of friends.
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News
E-Bus system not in use project, ‘The travelling public will no longer need to wait at bus stops or terminals for excessive periods of time. Passengers can go online (via a website and an app), to easily ascertain expected arrival times, and will therefore, be better able to manage their time. The state-of-theart surveillance system (CCTV), monitors roads and traffic, thereby improving citizens’ security by assisting in deterring the commission of crimes.” The project was funded by the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the tine of US$1.67 million and the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in an amount of US$732,000. As it stands, the system is, in want of a better expression, undersubscribed and commuters, for whom the system is meant to cater, walk One of the units installed at locations past a blue poles carrying solar panels that serve a monitor lying about midthroughout St. Vincent. way up the pole, which is also outfitted with CTTV cameras. by Carlyle Douglas Since their installation, commuters and others have been seen to walk GIVEN WHAT can only be described, to past a blue pole (unit) indicating that date, as a non-started, many persons there has been little or no use and here as saying that the E-Bus project is heading for the cupboard, where it would reliance on the system. Checks of many of those units join the Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard. located throughout mainland St. But, according to one observer, we Vincent show a NO BUS indication on can only hope that the E-Bus system their screens; there was no other doesn’t become a victim of the “it-wasinformation. their-project-so-let-it-fail syndrome of A recent interview with Mrs. political parties here. Donette O’Neil the Information The E-Bus system, officially the St. Services Division, provided Vincent and the Grenadines information that speaks to the need for Intelligent Bus Management and Monitoring System Project, is aimed at legislation to make it mandatory for the van drivers to commission the improving the transportation sector, units already installed, to be able to enhancing citizens’ security, and communicate with the system’s app consolidating current and previous and make the information available to ICT initiatives. commuters. The operations centre for the Oneil appealed to commuters to system is located at the Questelles convince the bus drivers to turn on the Police Station. units in their buses so that they, The government website says that commuters, can be better served. with the coming on stream of the She admitted that prior to the advent of COVID-19 and the restrictions on passenger capacity, it appeared that van drivers were prepared to become full participants in the system. When bus drivers were requested to give their opinion of the system, most had nothing to say while a few said they were waiting on the media to provide more Local technicians worked along with Taiwanese technicians in installing and commissioning the unit.
Workmen handle the solar panel with care as they move to install it on the unit. information, suggesting that they were not effectively consulted if at all. One driver confirmed that many of the van drivers had not activated the unit had the app installed. There was much hope and
The monitors on the poles located at bus stop across St. Vincent displaying a No Bus indication. encouragement attached to this Project with Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in welcoming the project, describing it as “essential to life, liberty and justice.”
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22. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Heritage
River 14 transformed
Cecelia William, President of GECCU, said that the team at GECCU is pleased to have transformed the area into a people friendly environment.
Lennox Bowman, Immediate Past CEO of GECCU, must be credited for having given meaning to the River 14 Recreational Park concept.
RIVER 14, a 1.5 acre plot in South Rivers, located in the interior of mainland St. Vincent, has been transformed into a recreational park, and is destined to become the hub of the eco-tourism thrust adopted by St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Governor General Deputy Dawn Smith, Cecelia Williams — President - General Employees Co-operative Union (GECCU), and Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves officiated at the ribbon cutting ceremony. That was the culmination to a ceremony at which GECCU president Cecelia Williams, Chief Executive Officer Rohan Stowe, former CEO Lennox Bowman, and River 14 Project Manager Philmore Isaacs addressed a gathering at the very spot last week Thursday, Match 10, 2022. Williams expressed a feeling of “joy” seeing the $1.3 million transformation of the area, a joint effort involving GECCU and the Global Environmental Facility (Small Grants) Programme. For Williams, the collaborative venture is an example of “what cooperation and collaboration can accomplish.” The River 14 Recreational Park is cited as a gift not only to South Rivers and surrounding areas, but the nation as a whole. For CEO Stowe, the
unfolding of the facility is a manifestation that the Cooperative Union industry “is continuing to fulfil its core responsibilities.” Stowe is looking at the venture as an “ecotourism hub” and is anxious to see the exercise turn into a “selfsustaining” operation. Even though GECCU has been pivotal in the development. Stowe sees it as a national offer and looks forward to working with the Tourism Ministry. Tasheka Haynes-Bobb, National Coordinator for GEF Small Grant
Programme, welcomed the facility as a venture in keeping with her institution’s mandate to improve conservation and eco-system. HaynesBobb embraces the venture as it helps with ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment. She is happy that the project is playing a role in “combatting climate change.” She noted that with farmers having been trained in “sustainable agricultural land management,” and with boulders from the river reused to protect houses and property along the banks, conservation of wild life in the neighbourhood will boost livelihood. Lennox Bowman confessed that River 14 is not an “ordinary project.” He endorsed Stowe’s sentiment that it was a “big deal.” Bowman, traced the acquisition of the South Rivers Cooperative Credit Union in October 2012 as part of an amalgamated venture and announced the fulfilment of the River 14 as a realisation of a promise. Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves thanked the South Rivers people for having
The transformation of River 14 is estimated to have cost EC$1.3 million. (Photo Credit: GECCU Facebook) Right: The cutting of the ribbon officially declaring the Park open, involved Governor General Deputy Dawn Smith (centre), Cecelia Williams – Pres/GECCU (partly hidden) and Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves. sustained and invested in him, and rehashed the stages of the cooperative spirit with people first engaging in Sou-Sou hand activities. He recognised GECCU for their pioneering venture and joined in the call for the area to be maintained. (WKA)
Traditional Culinary Arts still alive NATIONAL HEROES DAY (NHD) 2022 was for many Vincentians a welcome holiday just to stay at home and relax, or to complete some house repairs. For others, however, it was an appropriate time to unwind a bit, having been restricted by COVID for more than two years. And for those who were among the latter and who journeyed to the new or wellknown recreational sites, local food, beverage and music were the main ingredients for a day in the outdoors, spent with close family and friends. Having been informed by a former Principal of the Fancy Government School that she and family would still be ‘doing a lil thing’ in the absence of formal cultural activities in Fancy, a few radio operators journeyed to that community, now dubbed the ‘Cultural Capital’, to savour the local delicacies, including doucouna, callaloo soup, farine bam bam, madongo bakes and fried fish.
Breadfruit and salt fish, goat water and pelau were also on the menu at the various temporary roadside stalls, not forgetting the BBQ grills dotting the roadsides in Georgetown, Sandy Bay and Owia offering mainly roast chicken and roast pork. Also on sale along the road side were the first crops harvested since the La Soufriere eruption, including tomatoes, carrots, sweet Three generations of one potatoes and sweet family was involved in the peppers. Other locally prepared culinary items preparation (3 stages) of madongo bakes. available for sale Savouring the first bite from a freshly included farine and baked ‘madongo bake’. and skills involved in virgin coconut oil, all at the preparation of reasonable prices. local, traditional In Fancy, it was significant to the fact that even as there is that persons who were catering culinary delights. a drastic reduction in the rate Also noticeable was that to the public involved three of COVID-19 infections, citizens generations … parents, children there were no large gatherings are still prepared to adhere to anywhere, with several groups the health protocols. and grandchildren - a practice hardly surpassing 15 that augured well for the (Contributed by: Donald De individuals, bearing testimony continuation of the knowledge Riggs.)
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. 23.
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24. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
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26. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
Mother-in-law moves in Dear George, I GOT MARRIED not too long ago and my wife and I are living in our own home which we managed to finish in time for the wedding. My wife’s mother came in from the States for the wedding. She was scheduled to return within two weeks but it’s five months since the wedding and she is still here. When I asked her about her return she said, “I will let you know when I’m leaving.” My wife, meantime, says her mother is free to leave when she is good and ready. George, from the looks of things it appears as though she has moved back to SVG and in with us. I did not sign up to be living with my mother- inlaw. We have not had one moment of matrimonial privacy and already the situation is putting a strain on our young marriage.
Dear Very Concerned, It is very important to establish boundaries and guidelines very early in your marriage. There should be no question as to the duration of your inlaw’s visit. It should have been clear from the beginning and if she needed an extension to her time, that should have been communicated to both of you. It is not acceptable for her to impose on your good nature and relatively young marriage. Your wife is better positioned to let her know her time is up and to leave both of you to settle without having to deal with issues that put undue stress on your relationship.
George Very Concerned.
Threesome in bed was louder than he thought she would have MY BEST friend (female) been and she admitted after that she had had a sleep over at my forgotten where she was. house which I occupy My friend told me that with my boyfriend. My boyfriend sanctioned the she always slept in little sleep over, knowing that or nothing and that was what tempted my we have only one bedroom with a king size boyfriend. Further, she has the body of a model bed. and it would be quite a I agreed that we all sleep together sometime; challenge for any man to resist her. my friend had no As you might gather, I problem with that and I was very disappointed, saw no harm since my devastated and angry all friend and I are like in one. Things are not sisters and I trust her ok between us three and with my life. I’m wondering if I can It so happened that trust any of them again. about halfway through the night I was Shocked awakened by the mourning sounds of my Dear Shocked, friend. My boyfriend was having his way with Let me get this her. Apparently she straight. Knowing your
Dear George,
girlfriend’s physical attributes, i.e. that she can be quite irresistible to men, you still invited her to sleep on the same bed with you and your boyfriend, and are now expressing shock and disappointment that he ended up having sex with her? What you did was naive and practically handing your boyfriend on a platter to your friend. Yes, he is accountable for his actions but you could have made a better decision regarding the sleeping arrangements. Talk this through with him and see whether or not you are comfortable moving forward with him.
George
Women are wired differently Dear George, MY WIFE has not slept with me for 7 months. I have my own theories but I chose to keep them to myself. She is forever lamenting about how we are going to pay the mortgage and the light and other bills. I cannot see how any of this should stop her freeing up herself to me when needed. I would hate to think there is another man involved. I cannot continue like this because I have needs that have to be met. I am not going to wait another 7 months like some idiot. Some women are too wicked!
Time Up Dear Time Up,
The everyday stresses of life can be major contributing factors to what’s happening or not happening in the bedroom. Women are wired differently from men and cannot open up and give of themselves freely knowing that all is not well generally. It would help your cause if you double your efforts to help get the regular stuff organized and back on track and giving much emotional support while you are at it. Sorting out the trials and getting to some mutual understanding can be prodded by seeing a counsellor. When things become clearer to your wife and she begins to feel less stressed, you will see a change of rhythm in the bedroom.
George
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Stay away from social unpleasantness. Keep an open mind when listening to the opinions of others. Your attitudes at work will open new avenues for you. You may need help with your financial situation. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Exhaustion combined with overindulgence could result in minor health problems. Ideas may sound good, but be careful if people are just looking for handouts. You could find yourself caught in a one sided relationship. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Broaden your horizons and look into programs that will teach you awareness and relaxation. You are best to concentrate on your professional endeavors. You must try to lay your cards on the table. Talk to your mate and tell them how you feel.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Don't second guess yourself, just go to it. You will not impress others by being foolishly generous. Traffic will be busier than you anticipated, so try to get a head start if you have made plans to travel. Empty promises and a lack of cash may put a damper on your plans. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Be prepared to meet new lovers through colleagues. You should be putting your cash into long-term investments like real estate. You can take advantage of opportunities if you are quick to make a move. Exercise discipline when it comes to controlling bad habits. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Get involved in the activities of children. Your creative input will be appreciated by your boss. Don't deny yourself this week. Look into alternate means of sup porting your financial burdens.
CANCER (June 22-July 22) You would be wise to consider attending lectures that will broaden your awareness concerning your professional direction. You've been a little down and you need a lift. You will earn recognition for the work you are doing.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Accomplishment is yours if you direct yourself accordingly. You will find that friends or relatives may not understand your needs. It might be best to keep your ideas to yourself this week. Be cautious while traveling to foreign countries
LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You may have difficulties finishing projects you start. You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction. Don't let your partner get you going. You are best to travel or attend lectures or seminars.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Try to calm down and listen to your partner's complaints. Compromise may be necessary. Don't ruffle the feathers of those you care about most. Your financial situation may be draining and it's time to make some serious changes.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Social activity should be on your agenda this week. You can solidify your relationship if you plan a special evening with your mate. You will gain a lot if you listen. There will be hidden matters that you may find disturbing.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You will have problems with coworkers if you are too extreme about doing things perfectly. Move into a leadership position if you are determined to do so. Be honest in your communication and don't lose your cool. Problems with peers is apparent.
ACROSS 1. Lick___ promise 5. Lifeless 10. Aspiration 14. Shade of black 15. Link up again 16. Nullify 17. Bandage 20. Specks in the sea 21. In sum 22. Luxury liner 25. Runs 26. Fleece seeker’s ship 30. Makes unfeeling 33. Wallops 35. “Amscray!” 36. Embitterment 39. Breakfast appliance 42. Salon application 43. Disentangle 44. King or queen 45. Frighten 46. Lodge fellows 47. Might 51. Followers: Suffix 54. Marine 57. Kia model 62. Holiday cooking equipment 66. Fictional detective Philip 67. Big Plot 68. Spots 69. Tie up 70. Ostrich look-alike
12. “Rolling in the Deep” singer 13. The ___ Prayer 18. Peter and Paul: Abbr. 19. Annual baseball game 23. Undisturbed 24. “Tosca” composer 26. Not up and DOWN around 1. Berry considered a superfruit 27. Gamble on 28. Jollity 2. Acceptances 29. Needing no 3. Creator and Charlie and script Matilda 31. Sacred songs 4. Nautical heading 32. Usher song: 5. Galway native “My ___” 6. Calif. Neighbor 34. High schooler 7. Berlioz’s “Les nuits d’ ___” 36 “___ cost you” 8. Morning talk show Cohost 37. Stink Kelly 38. Commits a 9. Swiss archer faux pas 10. Enthusiasm 40. It’s stranded, 11. Victorious
for short 41. A boy named __ 47. Concentrate 48. Earth tone 49. “Walk the Line” actress, Witherspoon 50. Spanish houses 52. Crown location 53. Hot springs site 55. Like some
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. 27.
airports, abbr. 56. Panacea 58. Ivan IV’s title 59. It’s scratchable 60. Barely adequate 61. Geometric figure 63. Contents of some bags 64. E.R. workers
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28. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Five in a Row for CLSS Shykienna Dickson was named Victrix Ludorum. Chester Morgan, the coach of the CLSS, was pleased with the performances of his athletes. “What was so pleasing is that it was our secondstring athletes who represented the school as some of our leading athletes would have already made the Carifta standard, so we gave the other athletes an opportunity. They took it well,” Morgan said. As someone who has the national track and The victorious Central Leeward Secondary School with winning trophy. field standard in his A SUPPORTER OF THE the Grenadines/VitaMalt place, with Petit Bordel purview, Morgan shared CENTRAL LEEWARD All Leeward InterSecondary School (PBSS) that he was particularly SECONDARY SCHOOL Secondary School Track in fourth on 308 and pleased with the (CLSS) declared last and Field Meet. Buccament Secondary competition from Friday, March 11, at the When the Meet closed, School (BSS) on 172 Troumaca, not to take Cumberland Playing Field the CLSS had points. away from the other that that school had taken accumulated 539 points The PBSS beat the schools. lead from the Unity Labour to distance themselves CLSS to top individual “The competitive Party, and had become the from second placed honours among the aspect of the athletes is second entity to have won Troumaca Ontario males with Ajay developing so that was five contests in a row in Secondary School (TOSS) Delpesche running away pleasing to see,” he said. recent times. on 312 points. with the prestigious In terms of the actual That supporter was The Bethel High Victor Ludorum award. running of the referring to the CLSS’s School/Campden Park The CLSS, however, championship, Morgan fifth straight win in the (BHS) managed 312 claimed individual glory posited that given the Bank of St. Vincent and points to take third among the females when level of support that it
More athletes make Carifta standards SIX MORE ATHLETES met the minimum standards when Team Athletics SVG hosted its Junior Carifta Trials last Saturday and Sunday, at the Diamond Track Facility. On Saturday, Kodi Grant made the Male Under-17 Long L-R: Keo Davis and Grenisha Thomas Jump mark, when he leapt to 6.68m to more than satisfy the 6.50m standard. Also, on Saturday, Shonte Matthias qualified for the Girls Under-17 100m with her clocking of 12.21 seconds, faster than the 12.25 seconds standard set by Team Athletics SVG Likewise, Kyle Lawrence’s 10.76 seconds qualified him for the Male Under-20 100m which required a 10.80 seconds qualifying minimum. Lawrence returned on Sunday to also qualify for the Left: Devonric Mack (left) and Kyle Lawrence (right).
200m. He e did 21.73 seconds ahead of the mark of 21.80. Also qualifying with Lawrence was Devonric Mack who clocked 21.43. Another 200m qualifier was Keo Davis in the Male Under-17. Davis’ time was 21.68 seconds, with the mark being 22 seconds flat. And Grenisha Thomas made the 400m Under-20 Females Hurdles. Her 1:04.75 was faster than the 1.05 standard. Grant, Matthias, Lawrence, Davis, Mack and Thomas, join Jahieme Harry and Zacri Sobers who both qualified for the Male Under-17 400m. Meanwhile the following Jamaica-based athletes have qualified: Uroy Ryan , the Male Under-20 Long Jump; Verrol Sam, the Male Under-20 High Jump and Pole Vault; and Amal Glasgow, the Male Under-20 400m. With the Heats for the InterSecondary Schools Athletics Championship set for 30th and 31st March, locally based athletes have a last gasp chance to meet the qualifying standards. The Junior Carifta Games are set for the Jamaica National Stadium, 16th to 18th April.
The victorious Central Leeward Secondary School with winning trophy.
Victrix Ludorum Shykienna Dickson Central Leeward Secondary School.
received, all should be done to ensure that it is an annual event. He advised, though, that attention must be given to scheduling as it related to the start and finishing of events.
”If we had lights, we can start in the afternoon or even on a weekend, so that more parents can be involved,” he added. I.B.A. ALLEN
Athletes from the Barrouallie Anglican School had a recent outing on the Diamond Track Facility.
IPSAC and ISSAC back on track AFTER A TWO- YEAR ABSENCE, the InterPrimary and Inter — Secondary Schools’ Athletics Championships are back on the calendar. The return will be in new surroundings as both Championships, sponsored by the National Lotteries Authority, are scheduled for the Diamond Track Facility and will be, in the circumstance, the first time many of the athletes will be running on a synthetic track. Heats for the primary schools are slated for 22nd to 25th March, while the females of the secondary schools will have their preliminary competition on 30th March, with the males doing so on the 31st. The grand finales for the Inter- Primary Schools Athletics Championships (IPSAC) and the InterSecondary Schools Athletics Championships (ISSAC), take place 7th and 8th April respectively. Unlike previous years when Team Athletics SVG took charge of the IPSAC and ISSAC, the Ministry of Education and National Reconciliation in collaboration with the Ministry of the Public Service, Consumer Affairs and Sports will do so this year. There were no IPSAC nor ISSAC events in 2020 and 2021 because of the threat posed by the coronavirus pandemic.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. 29.
Sports
Rugby Union hosts Level One Course
the course was attended by twelve persons, and was conducted under the auspices Rugby Americas North/World Rugby. Course facilitators were Trinidadian Anthony Pontifiette Referee Educator for World Rugby and Rugby Americas North Region - and American Erin Anthony Pontiflette, Kennedy of the USA Referee Educator for World Rugby and Rugby Regional Development Manager for Rugby America North Region. Americas North. Kennedy described the A TWO-DAY COURSE aimed course as a sowing at giving local Rugby exercise for the future. officials insights into According to match officiating and Pontifiette, “The turnout coaching, was held last Friday and Saturday at the was great… It was better than what I expected… I Conference Room of the was expecting about four Blue Lagoon Hotel. persons because not Hosted by the SVG many people take up Rugby Union (SVGRU), officiating”.
Reflecting on the content areas of the course, Pontifiette disclosed: “We did some scenarios, we did some simulations …The walkthrough gave them what to expect when they go out on to the field and how they apply the laws and their technical skills.” He noted that as precondition for the course, participants had to acquaint themselves with the Laws of the Game, Ready Rugby, Concussion Protocols and a Pre-Introduction to Level One, which he said aided the success of the two-day exercise. Emphasising that the participants had just scratched the surface as it relates to officiating, Pontifiette stated: “As they progress, as they develop themselves, there is a higher level ...The more matches they do and better their skills …We will then provide
support afterwards by making matches available for them to look at and analyse.” Referees, he said, have to remain active — researching, discussing and look to move from Level One on to Level Two. Meanwhile, Kennedy said that the course was also an assessment of how World Rugby can assist the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Rugby Union. “It was super great from that standpoint, because it is a way where we can support St. Vincent and the Grenadines (to) raise the profile of Rugby in the country,” Kennedy said. Leonard Matthews, President of the SVGRU, described the initiative as a welcomed one, “one that can only contribute to improvement in the overall quality of the sport. “The programme we
Leonard Matthews President of the SVG Rugby Union. had was intended to increase the confidence of the current coaches and referees… with specific focus on safety of the players.. and with the intention to have them certified by World Rugby so they would be recognize in other parts of the world,” Matthews
Aran Kennedy Regional Development Manager for Rugby Americans North. explained. Based on the enthusiasm shown during the two days, Kennedy holds the view that, “The future of Rugby in St. Vincent and the Grenadines looks really bright.”
Mikal Quammie wins British Army Squash title THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES SQUASH ASSOCIATION has a lot to celebrate, as one of its own Mikal Quammie - known formerly as Mikal Quashie, is the British Army’s Under-25 Individual Squash champion. Quammie was among ten players who competed in the championships. After receiving a first-round
bye, Quammie defeated Ben Sugden in straight sets (12/6, 12/10). The win placed him in the last four (semi-finals) where he faced and defeated Oscar Bantin (11/8, 11/4, 11/3). In the finals against Oliver Coleman, he had to rally back from a 12/10 loss in the first set, to win 8/11, 11/8, 11/5. Quammie was born and grew up in Paul’s Avenue, a stone’s
throw away from the National Squash Centre. He came through the SVG Squash Association’s Junior Programme and went on to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines at the local and regional, Junior and Senior levels. Quammie last represented St Vincent and the Grenadines in 2019, at the Senior Caribbean
Area Squash Association (CASA) Championships in Guyana. Apart from Quammie, Omari Wilson, another Vincentian, is part of the British Army’s Squash Team. Mikal Quammie – has stamped his name on the winners’ roll in the British Army Squash Championship.
Williams in relay record run
Williams ran the opening leg. Williams was not done. She joined with her school mates — Savionna Glover, Eilika Layne and Kassie Jordan - to win the 4x100m relay in 47.89, in which
Winning and record-breaking 4x200m St. Benedict College quartet, (L-R): CeCe Williams, Shantel Williams, Angel Johnson and Kassie Jordan. VINCENTIAN SPRINTER Shantel Williams, representing St. Benedict College, South Carolina, USA, at the March 5 Savannah State Relay Meet, Georgia, turned in one of her better Meet performances for the
year. First, she teamed up with her colleagues CeCe Williams, Angel Johnson and Kassie Jordan - to win and break her school’s record in the 4x200m relay. The quartet clocked 1:42.06 in which
Williams ran the third leg. And competing in the Meet’s 100m, the Vincentian clocked 12.40 to finish second. Williams’ next outing will be on 25th and 26th March, in the USC
Weems Baskin in Columbia, where she will compete in the 100m, 200m and 4x100 meters. An alumna of the Girls’ High School and the SVG Community College, Williams left SVG in 2019 to
commence a four-year scholarship at St. Benedict College. In addition to refining and improving her track and field shills, she is pursuing a major in Business Management. I.B.A. ALLEN
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30. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
Vincy Premier League goes forth THE VINCY PREMIER LEAGUE hits out tomorrow, Saturday March 19 at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex. The final,April 4, will fit into 50th anniversary celebration since the ground saw its first international game 1972. That was when a New Zealand squad descended. Before that, international cricket was at Victoria Park in capital city Kingstown, or Richmond Hill Playing as when the Australian Under-19 team played there in 1970. Six franchises continue this year’s championship. They are: Grenadines Divers, Botanic Garden Rangers, La Soufriere Hikers, Salt Pond Breakers, Dark View Explorers, and Fort Charlotte Strikers. Non-Vincentian readers might be curious as to the choice of names for the squads. Vincentians will have a clue. It is easy to identify the Divers, for there will be no better diving scenery that in the Grenadines. Divers are led by Asif Hooper and includes West Indies T/20 specialist Obed McCoy. With Grenadian Roland Cato, there is added attraction. Shem Browne and Braxie Browne will be more reasons to follow this team. Hyron Shallow is a formidable striker. Kevin Abraham, Wesrick Strough, Geron Wyllie, Denson Hoyte, Vidal Edwards, Kody Horne, Irvin Warrican Jr, and Kodi Grant will relish the opportunity to make their mark before viewers. Botanic Gardens on the edge of capital city Kingstown is the oldest such setting in the Caribbean. Known for its collection of exotic plants, Gardens is one of this country’s most significant land marks. The squad is led by West Indies T/20 stalwart Kesrick Williams. He has big support from his West Indian colleague, Andre Fletcher, Larry Edward, as well as Windward Islands stalwarts Kerron Cottoy and Kenneth Dember. That will be enough to inspire Salvan Browne, a former Wndwards’ opener, Wayne Harper, Tjorn Pope, Winston Samuel, Alex Samuel, Kimali Williams, Shahime Samuel, and Ethan Gibson. If you in St. Vincent, the best place to take a hike is La Soufriere. At this time however, you will have to get permission from the national Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO), for the trail has not yet been restored since eruptions ceased April 22, 2021. La Soufriere Hikers is led by Windwards’ one time opener Desron Shallow. Kavem Hodge, among the region’s top cricketers, strengthens the party, and with Gidron Pope, Dillon Douglas, Raymon Williams, Jeremy Layne, Nigel Small, OJay Matthews, Jaheil Walters, Andrew Thomas, Jide John, Kimron Strough and Kobe Dabreo, that team will show their worth. If exploring is your past time, Dark View, to the northern part of mainland St. Vincent will be an exciting destination. You will get fringe benefits from that exploration. So check it out. Lindon James leads that squad. He is familiar with the area having played in the Vinlec North Leeward Cricket competition for many years. He shot to prominence as the wicket keeper batsman for the Allan Stanford XI. Dominican batsman Alick Athanaze joins the contingent. Romano Pierre scored the most runs last time and will want to keep his distance. Shaman Hooper is a capable all-rounder. Darius Martin will look at this year as his break out parade. Jeverdean Browne, Sealron Williams, Luke Williams, Urnel Thomas, Tilron Harry, Maxwell Edwards, Derron Greaves, Alean Caesar, and Newton Browne complete this outfit. When it comes to striking, Fort Charlotte is the best place to take aim. The canons placed there by the British years ago were pointing inland, designed to ward off the resistance form the indigenous Garifuna warriors led by Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer. Forth Charlotte is west of capital city Kingstown and commands a panoramic view of most of the southern mainland, as well as an expanse of the Caribbean Sea including the Grenadines. This squad is led by former West Indies T/20 opener Miles Bascombe, Windwards’ speedsters Preston McSween and Ray Jordan add fire. Rasheed Fredericks, Joshua James Cosmos Hackshaw, Kirlon Lavia, Donwell Hector, Javid Harry, Chrisroy John, Reynolly Hillocks and to the list. Don’t be confused if you see Sealroy Williams. You might just have seen the name before. Pay attention. There one letter separating the twins. The other team is Salt Pond Breakers. Salt Pond is a setting etched on the north coast of mainland St. Vincent. Some curious ignite rock protect and enclosed area which identifies that area. If your take is a natural rustic outlook, Salt Pond is the ideal location. There you will be at peace on one side and watch waves crash into the coastline from the raging Atlantic Ocean. That squad is led by Delorn Johnson and includes: Rickford walker, Ricavo Williams, Kadeem Alleyne, Benniton Stapleton, Kadir Nedd, Anson Latchman, Kensely Joseph, Atticus Browne, Jordan Samuel, Camario Caine, Cuthbert Springer, and Devonte McDowald.
Warrican eyes another VPL Title IRVIN WARRICAN, head coach of La Soufrière Hikers, says his team is going all out to retain Vincy Premier League (VPL) title, the 4th edition of which bowls off tomorrow, Saturday, at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. “Any team can win on a given day so although we would have won the tournament for two editions, we are going to expect a lot of competition where every team will be coming at us,” Warrican told THE VINCENTIAN, adding that his team has gone through fitness and net sessions as well as some practise matches ahead of the Tournament. He is expecting his players to be fearless but smart in their approach to defence of their title, even as they take it “step by step.” Warrican is happy with the composition of the Hikers’ teams. He noted that as far as composition was concerned, that the teams looked balanced and he expects that “the reintroduction of the overseas players will serve the tournament in good stead, because these guys bring a lot of experience and professionalism to
La Soufriere Hikers - VPL defending champion. the game.” The experienced coach is also excited by the inclusion of a ‘development player’. He described it as “a brilliant idea, to give some youngsters the chance to come on board and learn on the ground, …. to help them in their future development.” La Soufrière Hikers team reads: Desron Maloney Captain, Dillon Douglas, Othneil Lewis, Rayan Williams, Jeremy Layne, Nigel Small, Ojay Mathews, Gidron Pope, Kavem Hodge, Jaheil Walters, Andrew Thomas, Kemron Strough, Cody Dabreo,
Irvin Warrican head coach of La Soufrière Hikers. Romario Bibby. The defending champs will face Salt Pond Breakers in their first fixture from 2:30 pm, following the opening match between Grenadines Divers and Botanical Garden Rangers from 12:00 pm. I.B.A. ALLEN
Coaches revelation and ⁄⁄. WE NOW UNDERSTAND why our footballers and football are not improving fast enough to meet the standard of other countries. Our coaches are not applying the coaching principles of soccer. The funny things is though, there seem to be more persons now with FIFA coaching certificates than teams in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, yet we cannot produce players and teams as good as in the 60s-80s. Forming a coaches’ association gives them (coaches) the opportunity to talk to real coaches and others in the field, from across the world. As a result, they will become more knowledgeable. Why does it look like the Football Federation does not want coaches to form an association? It is because as an association coaches will become more knowledgeable and independent
and therefore hard to convince when election time comes around? Is it a case of divide them, keep them in ignorance so they will not become a threat? Coaches and players should at all time avoid creating embarrassing situations for themselves. It was nothing but embarrassing to the national players when the coaches’ analyses were aired on radio, TV, and in the press. The whole world heard us when the coaches all but said, “Our players cannot carry out instructions and cannot implement tactics”. Do you think those comments will invite scouts to take a second look at our players? Can a player be soccer intelligent and at the same time not be able to carry out instructions? Players have to practice instructions over and over for them to become a part of their behaviour.
Could you imagine coaching a soccer team for more than a year and a coach could not recognize that the players were not carrying out instructions during practice sessions? Something has to be seriously wrong with the coaches. Is it that they can’t apply knowledge? The elected president has more work to do than being an organizer. Undoubtedly, there is a need for coaches’ analyses, which assess our strengths and weaknesses, our mental and physical problems. On the other hand, players need to wake up… start asking questions. Players need to show their intelligence - start asking your club administrators questions about, for example, your share of the development fund. And why not a players’ association? Football depends on you, the players. Rollit
Young footballers involved in a training exercise.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022. 31.
Classifieds
Teachers’ Pension Bill for Parliament From Backpage That Act, passed in Parliament in 2021, and the attendant SR&0 made it mandatory for frontline workers to be vaccinated against Covid-19. Dr. Gonsalves also referenced that others who refused to take the vaccine and went ahead to make the application for early retirement, found themselves not being able to “retire” because they did not act in concert with the law. The amendment to the Act, Gonsalves said, was to ensure that such persons receive their pensions in the same way that teachers classified as Grade 5 or higher were able to do.
MATTHEW CLEOPHUS SAMPSON Saturday, 12th March, 2022 Holiness Church, Layou Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Layou Cemetery
MARVA LENNON Saturday, 12th March, 2022 Berean Baptist Church Georgetown Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Georgetown Cemetery
ISOLINE CAMPBELL JOHN
HULDA COTTLE LYNCH MARTINEZ
Saturday, 12th March, 2022 Evesham Methodist Church Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Windsor Cemetery
Sunday, 13th March, 2022 S.D.A Church Layou Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Layou Cemetery
HOMIE NAOMI CHANCE MAINGOT a.k.a. Tanty Sunday, 13th March, 2022 St. Bethel Spiritual Baptist Church Byera Viewing: 10:30 a.m. Service: 11:30 a.m. Interment: Byera Cemetery
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FRIDAY, MARCH 18,
2022
VOLUME 116, No.11
www.thevincentian.com
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VINCYMAS STILL ON THE AGENDA This disclosure was made by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves THE GOVERNMENT is while speaking on Radio committed to make a 705 earlier this week. contribution to ensure that He went on to say that the efforts of individuals he is awaiting involved in Carnival do not information with respect go to waste, if it turns out to numbers of persons that Vincy Mas 2022 that might be affected. cannot be held. The Office of the Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA
Prime Minister had, back in January, given the all clear for the staging of Carnival (Vincymas) after a two-year hiatus occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic. The extent of the Carnival — activities and numbers — was conditioned on the rate of COVID-19 vaccination, with the indication being that a full carnival would be allowed if the vaccination rate Vincymas has traditionally featured hundred-strong bands for the Monday Afternoon Jam.
could reach 70%. It is understood that the search is already on for candidates for Dr. Gonsalves the 2022 Miss SVG Pageant. said then that a This week, on radio, the Minister of proposal had come in he stressed his Education Curtis King from the Carnival commitment to the and from all indications, Development staging of Vincy Mas Interschool Sports for Corporation (CDC) for 2022, declaring, “I want both primary and Carnival, taking into us to have Carnival, it is secondary schools would account the current part of embracing fresh be held this year at the protocols. hope,” assuring that the Diamond Track and “Naturally, I raised officials were still trying Field facility. the question what kind to get the numbers (of But while the students of Carnival will we have vaccinations) up. were looking forward to if we go for 70 percent There was a similar it, the Prime Minister vaccination by the end of situation, Dr. Gonsalves warned that organizers March,” Gonsalves said said, with the Interschool needed to be mindful of then, adding, “This is not Sports scheduled to the protocols. just a question of getting make a return this year, He said that he had the vaccine rate up but after a two-year hiatus inquired about the we need something caused by the COVID-19 numbers, but that bigger than the slim pandemic. information had not yet down version of Dr. Gonsalves said been provided. Carnival.” that he had spoken to
TEACHERSÊ PENSION BILL FOR PARLIAMENT THE TEACHERS’ Pensions Amendment previously scheduled. Leader of Government Business and Bill is among several Bills to be Prime Minister — Dr. Ralph Gonsalves presented when Parliament meets on explained that Parliament had to be reMarch 24, one week later than
scheduled because of the meeting of the sixth (6th) OECS Assembly Meeting in Antigua which gets underway on March 18. Dr. Gonsalves, speaking on Radio this week, prefaced the need for the amendment to the Teachers’ Pension Bill, with an explanation that under the existing Act, teachers classified as Grade 3 and 4, i.e. Qualified Assistant Teachers — unlike teachers classified as Grade 5 Teachers and above, were
Parliament will debate the Teachers’ Pensions Amendment Bill towards bring some regularity to the qualification for retirement and pensions. Teachers are pictured in protest against mandatory vaccination. (File Photo)
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
governed under the Teacher’s Pension Act as opposed to the General Pensions Act which covers all public servants. This in effect meant that Teachers classified as Grade 5 and above were allowed to take early retirement at age 55 and qualified for their gratuity and pension. However, teachers classified as Grade 3 and 4 teachers did not enjoy this privilege, Gonsalves explained. “It is not fair, just because of the difference of the Grade,” he said. So, teachers classified as Grade 5 teachers and above and who decided to take early retirement following the Public Health Amendment Act, were able to do so and still receive their gratuity and pension. Continued on Page 31.
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