THE HUMILIATION OF THE WEST INDIESat the hands of the Australians in the recent third test played in Kingston, Jamaica, has not escaped the ‘tongue’ of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, an avid cricket enthusiast.
Following on the West Indies’ dismissal for a paltry 27 runs in their second innings which handed the Australians a clean sweep of the three-test series, PM Gonsalves called on the Cricket West Indies board, chaired by Vincentian Dr. Kishore Shalliow, to resign en mass.
He went further and castigated the CWI for the US$$10,000 it awarded to members of the West Indies team that won the inaugural 1975 Cricket World Cup, and accused it of treating the recognition of the World Cup squad as a sideshow to the West Indies Cricket Awards ceremony.
Dr. Shallow is also the opposition New Democratic Party candidate for the North Leeward constituency for the next general election here.
That obviously positioned the two men at even more telling, unlike poles and on more than one occasion since Dr. Shallow announced his candidacy, the two men have gone at each other’s jugular.
No authority to speak
This occasion was no different, and Dr. Shallow, speaking on Boom 106.9 FM OMG morning programme last Monday, told the Prime Minister
to “shut up” about sports “unless he’s willing to invest in proper facilities for young athletes.”
He accused Dr. Gonsalves of being all talk and no
action when it came to developing sports infrastructure in his country.
Continue on page 3
Cricket festival will go on
PLANS BY THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM to host a major cricket event, dubbed the Inaugural Emancipation Cricket Festival from July 31 to August 04, 2025, at the Arnos Vale Playing Filed, seem to have come upon a hurdle, that threatened to curtail the plans.
When it was thought that all that was needed as far as clearance for hosting the event was concerned was approval by the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), franchise holders of T20 cricket in the West Indies, it has surfaced that approval has to be sought initially from Cricket West Indies.
And this procedure was made known by the CPL in a letter dated July 16 addressed to the CEO of the SVG Tourism Authority, this coming a day after the CPL had given its endorsement in writing.
However, on Thursday Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves told the local media that the Festival will go on as planned, and noted in the process of his confirmation what he perceived to be “a potential undermining tactic by the CWI.
on page 3
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has called on the Board of Directors of CWI to vacate their seats immediately.
Dr. Kishore Shallow says Prime Minister Gonsalves does not have the moral authority to speak on sports in SVG far less the Caribbean.
The refurbished Arnos Vale Playing Field that lt hosted 2024 Wo4rld Cup 2024 matches, will be the venue for the Festival’s matches.
Freer movement among four Caricom states
To advance the goal of free movement of all Community nationals, the Heads of Government 49th Summit endorsed the right of nationals of Barbados, Belize, Dominica and SVG to enter, leave and re-enter, move freely, reside, work and remain indefinitely in the receiving Member State, without the need for a work or residency permit. (Photo Source: caricom.org)
BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2025
NATIONALS of Barbados, Belize, Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be allowed to move freely among these countries, and stay indefinitely and work without requiring a work permit.
This was one of the key takeaways following the 49th CARICOM Heads of Government meeting held in Jamaica
between July 6 and 8.
According to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, there already exists free movement arrangement among the citizens of the six OECS countries.
Within the CARICOM region however, nationals were only allowed to remain within a territory for a period not exceeding six months, providing they met the relevant
criteria, and they were not allowed to work without a work permit unless they obtained a skilled workers certificate.
“But the big take away in the freedom of movement was that some countries have taken advantage of what we have called the enhancement regime of cooperation,” Gonsalves said during a press briefing on July 11.
The “doctors’ at it again
“YOU (GONSALVES) ARE GOINGto come publicly and criticize West Indies cricket when you are the Prime Minister of a country and you cannot even produce or provide facilities for players to train,” Shallow challenged as he referenced the situation in relation to three young cricketers from Spring Village
“You do not have the authority to speak on sports. What are you doing for sports in your country? And if you are not going to do anything for sports in a country, then shut up and don’t speak about sports,” Dr. Shallow continued.
Choosing the other side
Shallow admitted that his relationship with Dr. Gonsalves deteriorated after he refused to align himself politically with the Gonsalves-led Unity Labour Party.
“I do not have a problem with Ralph Gonsalves. Ralph has a problem with me. … I suspect that he would have preferred to have me on his side, but obviously I didn’t want to be on his side. And for that, he clearly has a grudge,” declared the opposition hopeful.
That grudged might have just taken deeper root as Dr. Shallow described a deliberate attempt to undermine West Indies cricket and to get at him personally.
“He attempted to bring me down, but that failed because I was returned unopposed as president,” Dr. Shallow quipped. (KH)
There already existed free movement between nationals of SVG and Dominica under the OECS agreement, but Barbados and Belize agreed to also institute the free movement of nationals from within the four named countries beginning October 1.
“What it means now, our Garifuna brothers and sisters in Belize who want to come and spend more time, not just come
Cricket festival will go on
Continued from front page
“THERE ARE ELEMENTS IN CWIthat are trying to undermine this festival,” Dr. Gonsalves held out, and dismissed the CPL letter of July 16 as insignificant, declaring that it was “neither here nor there.”
And as he reiterated his assessment that “there are elements in CWI that are trying to undermine the Festival,” he warned the CWI that if it wanted “to find itself on the wrong side of history, they can go ahead because
what they are trying to do is frighten the players; they can’t shake this government.”
The Emancipation Cricket Festival is expected to feature players from Bangladesh, England, the West Indies, the USA, and other international cricketing nations.
As a major add-on to the Festival, the living legends who helped West Indies win the World Cup in 1975 had accepted invitations to attend and were expected to be honoured for their contributions to cricket. (KH)
for the six months, they can come and work here if they want,” Gonsalves said.
According to the prime minister, other CARICOM territories had some reservations about implementing the free movement of nationals.
“But from my standpoint, whatever needling problems exist, it will all come out in the wash,” he said.
Gonsalves further made the point that the free movement of nationals from other countries would solve the issue of declining populations, which he said exists here.
“We see how the population is stagnating because the fertility rate has dropped to about 1.5 children per woman.
“And if it continues like that, then you will have a decline in the population, and one of the ways that this has been satisfied is through migration,” Gonsalves said. (DD)
Continued from front page
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves is determined to see the Festival through regardless of what he perceives to be undermining tactics within the CWI to curtail it.
‘Guardsman’ damages woman and property
Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS
JUST FIVE DAYS after a Guardsman Security, Wadie Simon, was remanded on a murder charge, another security guard, who told the Court he is employed with Guardsman, has been remanded until June 23 for full sentencing on a
criminal charge. Appearing at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, the defendant, Al Tyson, 34, of Glen/Cedars, pleaded guilty to assaulting his common-law-wife Colleena Williams of Glen, causing her bodily harm; damaging a wooden bedroom door and a steel burglar barred gate which together valued EC$585.35, the property of Williams; and damaging a laptop valued US$200 belonging to Williams’ 15-year-old sister.
While compensation has been ordered on all three charges, the Court is yet to complete the sentencing process on the assault charge.
The facts as presented by court clerk Constable 196 Lynosia Constantine, showed that Williams and Tyson have been in a common-law relationship for 14 years and lived together in a rented apartment at Glen.
The incident
About 10:30 p.m. on July 13, 2025, Williams was at home with her 15-year-old sister and one-year-old niece, when Tyson arrived. An argument ensued between him and Williams, during which
he spat in her face.
Williams left the room with her niece and went to another room, but Tyson followed her. The argument continued and he struck her.
On hearing Williams’ cries, her sister entered the room, picked up the baby and returned to her own room.
Tyson then punched Williams in her face, and when she attempted to leave the house to seek help, he proceeded to beat her with a cutlass and swung the weapon at her head. She managed to dodge it, and it struck and damaged two burglar bars of a gate.
Williams ran into her bedroom and barricaded the door with a bed, but Tyson kicked the door open and continued to assault her.
Her sister tried to contact the police using her laptop, but Tyson seized the laptop and slammed it to the ground.
As the chaos continued, Williams managed to flee the house and reported the matter at the Calliaqua Police Station.
Constable 955 Campbell took the report, and officers from that station apprehended Tyson. He was cautioned, interviewed and subsequently charged.
To jail or not to jail
Cocaine offender takes responsibility
WHILE Rahiem Williams took full responsibility for a small amount of cocaine found at his home, he insisted that he had no knowledge of how the drug got there.
The Lowmans Leeward man pleaded guilty to possession of 14.2 grams of cocaine with intent to supply, when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday.
The facts showed that the drug was found in a gold, oval pencil case in Williams’ bedroom when police, acting on information about a firearm, conducted a search of Williams’ home around 10:30am on July 9.
When cautioned, he told the police, “I don’t know about dem dey. It has to be someone give my girl to give me”.
But Williams told the Court on Monday, “I don’t recall saying, I don’t know about the drugs, I recall saying, I don’t know how it got there”.
Williams told the Court that, to date, she cannot eat properly because of an injury to her gum the result of the beating.
“It (incident) just took a toll on me”, she said, adding that she keeps jumping out of her sleep. She said she has to pay rent and other bills.
Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie told the woman that parliament has enacted legislation meant to protect people like her, not just from physical damage, but economic damage as well. The Magistrate hinted that she could go to the Family Court and ask for a protection order.
“You are an adult, you have the right to choose whether you want to be in this type of relationship”, McKenzie told Williams.
“I don’t know how to break up with him”, Williams replied.
“You don’t have to get permission from him to break up”, McKenzie told her.
When the Magistrate asked her whether she wanted Tyson to go to jail, she replied, “I don’t want him to go to jail
because he has responsibilities”.
But the Magistrate reminded the woman that “there are plenty of people in prison with responsibilities”.
Williams then indicated that Tyson had a loan to pay, but when Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre asked her whether the loan was related to her, she said no.
“You love him”, the Magistrate asked the woman, who replied in the affirmative.
“You have to love yourself more”, McKenzie told her, adding that Williams would have to decide what path she wanted to take from here, or the situation could have a much more serious outcome.
Williams’ teenage sister also told the Court that she was greatly affected by the incident because her schoolwork was stored on the laptop that was damaged.
Compensation ordered Tyson said he accepted the facts as presented by the prosecution, but explained that the incident was triggered by a dispute over some money that Williams had for him.
Williams added, “I am aware that it was on my premises and I take full responsibility because it was in my room and on my premises”.
According to him, “This is just a case of irresponsibility. I am not a drug dealer; I am not a criminal”. Williams described himself as a good father and everything that revolves around him revolves around his child.
He said he was a certified builder and worked with former ruling Unity Labour Party candidate for South Leeward, David Browne, to repair houses damaged by Hurricane Beryl. In handing down the penalty, the Magistrate considered the sentencing guidelines, weighed the mitigating factors and aggravating ones, resulting in Williams paying a fine of $798. He was ordered to pay $400 of that forthwith and the balance of $398 by August 1 or six months in prison.
For damaging the laptop, Tyson was ordered to pay $1000 compensation forthwith or one year in prison, and for damaging the door and burglar-barred gate, he will have to pay compensation in the sum of $585.35, $170 forthwith or three months in prison and the balance of $365.35 by August 15, or six months in prison
Tyson was also ordered to pay $2,000 in compensation to Williams for assaulting and causing her bodily harm, but the Magistrate has left that penalty open, and will complete the sentencing process on that charge when Tyson returns to Court on July 23.
On Friday, July 11, Wadie Simon, a 60-yearold Security Guard attached to Guardsman appeared at the Serious Offenses Court after being charged with murder, stemming from the death of Shernard Gloster, a 47-year-old resident of Keartons, Barrouallie who was shot and killed.
Eyebrows were raised in Court when he said he worked as a security guard with the firm Guardsman.
Women in Carnival incident punished
TWO WOMEN who pleaded guilty to wounding when they appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court last week, received their penalties on Wednesday.
The penalties were handed down in connection with an incident on Carnival Tuesday, which resulted in another woman receiving a head injury.
Sade Regisford, 19, of Greiggs, and Kerisa Jack, 21, of Lowmans Leeward, both unemployed, had pleaded guilty to a joint charge of unlawfully and maliciously wounding L’Oreal Nero, a 22-year-old teacher of Barrouallie.
Sentencing was adjourned to Wednesday to give the police a chance to review the case file, and to allow for the completion of Nero’s medical examination.
However, when they returned to Court on Wednesday, the wounding charge against Jack was reduced to assault, causing bodily, while it was maintained for Regisford.
For wounding Nero, Regisford was ordered to pay $500 compensation forthwith to the victim, or one year in prison. She was also sentenced to nine months behind bars, but that sentence
was suspended for nine months.
Jack was bonded for three months, in the sum of $500 or six months in prison for assaulting Nero, causing her bodily harm.
The incident, which followed a previous altercation, occurred around 7:30pm at the cruise ship terminal on Carnival Tuesday, when Jack held onto Nero’s costume and pushed her onto a fence, following which Regisford struck Nero on the left side of her forehead with a cup labelled ‘Oxygen’, causing Nero to endure a lot a pain and felt what appeared to be blood running profusely down her face.
Al Tyson leaving the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
Kerisa Jack Sade Regisford
Caribbean mourns Rickey Singh
VETERAN JOURNALISTRickey Singh passed away on Saturday, July 05, in Barbados.
Singh, who was born in Guyana, lived and worked in several Caribbean nations, sharing his opinions and analyses of issues affecting the people of the region.
His column ‘Our Caribbean’ was published in The Nation and he was a regular contributor to publications in Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.
But perhaps one of Singh’s most significant assignments was as editor (1975 - 1983) of the Caribbean Contact (organ of the Caribbean Conference of Churches) which covered and commented on regional and international issues.”
Singh left Guyana for Trinidad and Tobago to take up his editorship with the Caribbean Contact, but he again
fell afoul of a politician, branded a communist for supporting the bloodless coup in Grenada under Maurice Bishop. With his work permit not being renewed, he came to Barbados.
This time, it was late Prime Minister Tom Adams who took exception to his comments in The Nation and did not renew his work permit. Singh’s family — his wife Dolly and the children — remained in Barbados and he roamed the Caribbean as a freelancer.
On Adams’ death in 1985, he was invited to return to Barbados but refused the work permit in favour of the right to be able to live and work as a citizen. Singh continued to “pen” columns from his home in Strathclyde, St. Michael. He never worked for another newspaper, but his work appeared in the publications which
Rickey published his first article in 1957 at age 20, his last in 2017 at age 80 and proceeded into involuntary retirement, forced by elements of advanced age.
(Photo: News Source Guyana)
supported him when he was roaming.
In 2002, the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus conferred on
him an honorary Doctor of Letters.
(Sources: The Nation, Trinidad Newsday)
FRAUDULENT WEBSITES: BOSVG issues warning
THE FOLLOWINGis an official release from the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines made available to the media on Thursday.
“We would like to inform you that two fraudulent websites are currently impersonating the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ltd (BOSVG) Online Banking platform. The websites in question are: * bosvg.digital * bosvg.today
These sites have been designed to closely resemble the official BOSVG Online Banking login page. Please be cautious, as entering your personal information on these sites could jeopardize your account security.
The links to these fraudulent websites are being distributed via text messaging, so we urge you to be extra vigilant when receiving such messages. Please note that we do not send official customer communications
via text messaging.
We want to assure you that BOSVG has taken immediate steps to remove these fraudulent websites and prevent further harm.
To protect your online security, please follow these best practices:
* Always verify the website URL to ensure you’re on the official BOSVG Online Banking platform.
* Do not enter your login credentials on any suspicious websites.
* Avoid clicking on links from
unsolicited text messages or unrecognized sources.
* Hover over links to verify their legitimacy before clicking. If you come across any suspicious websites or notice unusual activity on your account, please contact us immediately at info@bosvg.com or call 784-452-4375.
Your security is our top priority. We appreciate your vigilance in protecting your personal information. “ Thank you for your continued trust in BOSVG.
Gasoline prices up
GASOLINE AT THE PUMPS IN St. Vincent is now $15.12 per gallon.
The change, made official in the Price Control (Amendment) (No. 6) Order 2025, was gazetted and came into effect on July 14, 2025.
Under the amended order, signed by Kattian Barnwell-Scott, Secretary to the Cabinet, and issued by the Governor-General, maximum retail and wholesale prices have been updated for gasoline, diesel, and lowsulphur diesel across Areas I, II, III, and IV.
The updated prices are as follows:
Gasoline:
Maximum wholesale price: $14.36 per gallon
Maximum retail price: $15.12 per gallon Diesel (Regular):
Maximum wholesale price: $11.95 per gallon
Maximum retail price: $12.61 per gallon
Diesel (Low Sulphur):
Maximum wholesale price: $11.77 per gallon
Maximum retail price: $12.43 per gallon
This marks a significant change in the pricing structure and follows recent global trends in fuel price fluctuations, according toprime Minister dr. ralph Gopnslaves, although the government has not provided specific reasoning for the increase in this release.
The amendment was made under the authority granted by Section 10 of the Price and Distribution of Goods Act (Cap. 161), which allows for price
regulation in the interest of protecting consumers and ensuring fair market practices.
The statutory order replaces all previously listed prices for these fuel types and aims to standardize costs across the designated areas.
As the changes take effect on Monday, July 14, consumers, transport operators, and businesses are urged to take note of the new fuel costs and adjust their operations accordingly. (Source: API)
It has almost been one week since the increase of gasoline and diesel prices at the pumps.
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Rickey Singh: A unique, courageous Caribbean voice
RICKEY ‘RAMOUTAR’ SINGHdied aged 88 on Saturday, July 05, in Barbados. He was one of the most acclaimed and courageous journalists of his time. His reporting and editorial work over many decades, beginning in the 1960s, was inspired by a deep commitment to the poor, to those marginalised by oppressive colonial powers and later oppressive “indigenous” governments, not least being the Forbes Burnham-led regime in Guyana, his place of birth.
Hubert Williams, Rickey’s childhood friend and close associate throughout his life wrote that Rickey “….. dared and challenged Forbes Burnham, the country’s first executive president, who must have breathed a sigh of relief when Singh left with his family to work in T&T as editor of “Caribbean Contact”, the official newspaper of the Caribbean Conference of Churches (CCC).”
For Rickey, his journalism was essentially a form of political activism. Needless to say, this more often than not positioned him at odds against many a Caribbean regime during his six decades and more as an active journalist.
George Orwell’s comment on a colleague’s work could well be applied to Rickey’s work. Orwell it was who said of his friend’s work, “… he set out to make political writing an art.” That all but encapsulates the immense body of work which Rickey has left us, which continues to influence a whole new generation of journalists who are so disposed. And while they would have been uncomfortable with him (his writing), no Caribbean Prime Minister then or now would dare dispute that Orwellian claim.
Going further, with this humble analysis of Rickey’s work, one would not be wrong to says his writing was distinctive with a unique literary elegance; distinctive in its vitality, its openness and deliberate lack of subtlety, though at times he was wont to dabble in irony. His writing was a near perfect blend of rhetoric, historical and contemporary analysis, a bit of personal memoir, a heavy dose of political insight, not to mention its descriptive power.
It was that depth of political insight that drew the likes of current Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, former
Our relationship with time
Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony and many others now prominent Caribbean personalities, toward his friendship and political guidance.
Rickey’s writing never drifted into dry, abstract, ideological theory. He was as hard-nosed as you would expect of someone committed to preaching that the “goods of the earth” were created for all mankind to partake, and not the property of some would-be dictator or prime minister lost in a world of ego-aggrandisement.
Many an editor today was influenced by Rickey’s style of writing that seemed unusually rigorous and which became almost a way of seeing; it elevated the active voice over the passive voice; it denied cliche?s and employed adjectives only sparingly. It spoke directly but unpatronisingly to the reader.
He explained his thoroughness as follows: “I remember how one particular passage…. took me almost two days to write; I was determined that it should say exactly what I wanted it to say but also with a certain rhythm. By giving priority to the writing, I have tried not always successfully to draw together the literary, the analytical and the historical.”
For Rickey, journalists had to strive to be ethical, accurate and seek the ‘truth’. He drew on a certain propaganda model to highlight the ways in which the corporate media too often serve as propagandists for the dominant political, economic, cultural, and intelligence interests, a subservient role he abhorred.
His pen never ceased to be directed at exposing wrongdoing, injustice and the abuse of power.
That is why he went out of his way in pursuit of the fore-mentioned to support his writing, his analysis, with information garnered from interviews with the voiceless and abused. He strove always to be provide an indispensable corrective to the litany of disinformation he perceived as being fed to the “masses’ by the mainstream media.
What better way to end this piece but to have Rickey speak to us: “As journalists we have a social responsibility: we are the gatekeepers of the society, the conveyor belt of competing views helping to stimulate informed public debates.”
I HAD THE OPPORTUNITYto hear the Minister of Education speak about the CPEA results a few weeks ago. While he was self-aggrandizing and highlighting his government’s success (deservedly so), one surprising detail caught my attention: some students didn’t even attend the exam. The Minister didn’t delve into why, but it struck me that those students learned a valuable lesson about the importance of punctuality.
Since my decision to write a weekly article, I am constantly reminded to be punctual. Now and then, the editor has to remind me to watch my word count, but never the deadline or the topic. That’s all my responsibility. I must plan my time and ensure my article is written and delivered on time. I wish the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) would learn this lesson. Like a friend said to me after all these years, with the complaint about time, it seems like the CDC has lost the ability to learn from past experiences.
Whether meeting the editors’ deadlines, catching the bus, or showing up at the “Park” on time and ready to perform in a carnival show, punctuality matters. While those participating in the show might view this as a leisure activity, the people responsible for organizing a timely, comfortable, and rewarding show for your patrons, it’s your job. Time dominates all the activities we engage in, and when it is not respected by those in a position of authority or event coordinators, it tarnishes our actual expertise. I could not help but wonder how those responsible for coordinating the “Dimanche Gras” (Sunday night) felt at the night’s end. In other words, if I were a member of that team, I would be embarrassed. As I was leaving the “Park” at 2 am, six hours after the scheduled start time, only two-thirds of the show was presented. I was not the only one leaving. It’s fair to say I left behind about one hundred fans and event participants waiting for the King of the Bands presentation. Interestingly, the CDC complains about the public’s lack of interest in this annual signature event. Any wonder why? But like most things, Vincy, rather than hold those responsible accountable for this dismal performance, we are always willing and ready to find and make excuses. This show should last four to five
hours, allowing for a half-hour rain interruption. Do this, and you will get more than a five-hundred coalition of faithful attendees. I will pay more to attend this spectacular display of talent and craftsmanship if you can guarantee a well-organized and smooth-running show on time. Get me in my seat by 8 pm and out of the Park by midnight, leaving room for a late-starting “all-inclusive Jouvert event”.
By the way, I like “Fireman,” but please stop insulting me with a halfbaked Kereko show. Come on now. Question to ourselves: Why does punctuality feel like a rare gem in a world filled with the mundane? In a society where time seems to slip through our fingers, lateness has become our accepted norm. Being late has become an accepted trait. I know some people associate the lack of punctuality with our unique cultural relationship with time. Still, as long as we live in a capitalist society and our events are arranged around money, we must reconsider our relationship with time. Join me as we unpack this intriguing phenomenon. Am I the only one overreacting to our CDC event coordinators’ and artisans’ lack of respect for other people’s time? If so, please help me understand the entertainers’ and representative associations’ constant battle yearly for a greater prize and appearance fee. My simple belief is that keeping the event on the stated schedule would be helpful to everyone. It allows the event to flow much more smoothly; every little delay can make some individuals, including the participants, feel less stressed. For example, at least two of the performances in the Queen of the Band section rushed themselves off the stage, while the moderator did her part in pushing most of the others off. On average, each performer had about three minutes to show off months of hard work on what I could only imagine was a very costly endeavor. It is time we pursue an organizational goal characterized by punctuality and acknowledge and respect the time of others, as merited.
‘Fortify the OECS even more’
‘REGARDLESSas to political party preference, people admire the courage and forthrightness of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and welcome his recent remarks on the inequities in CARICOM. However, it appears that the media missed a very important statement within his remarks, as follows- ‘In that, or any, event, we are called upon to fortify the OECS even more’, said Prime Minister Gonsalves.
One wonders what the late Alister Mc Intyre’s response would have been, given his staunch support for the tightening of regional integration; he was a regional economist who contributed tremendously to the postindependence
development of the Caribbean. Based on my discussions with the guru over the years, I submit that, as a strong regionalist, he would again call for greater political will and the deepening of regional unity. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was founded on a vision of solidarity–a collective of small, vulnerable states forging a unified path toward economic resilience and shared prosperity. Yet, from its inception, this noble goal has been perpetually strained by an internal and fundamental schism: the deep-seated developmental disparity between its More Developed Countries (MDCs) and Less Developed Countries
(LDCs). This divide, rooted in vast differences in economic scale, structure, and capacity, manifests across trade, labor mobility, and policy implementation, creating a persistent tension that challenges the very core of the regional integration project.
The primary arena where this conflict plays out is the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), the community’s flagship initiative. In theory, the CSME is designed to create a level playing field, but in practice, the LDCs–primarily the small island nations of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS)–argue it has created a one-way street for trade. Their small, nascent industries
are often unable to compete with the flood of more affordable, massproduced goods from the larger, more industrialized economies of MDCs like Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica. Consequently, LDCs feel they are left to shoulder the costs of the Common External Tariff (CET), paying higher prices for extra-regional goods to protect MDC industries, while their own local productive sectors are stifled. From the MDC perspective, this is simply the natural outcome of market competition, arguing that their firms are merely more efficient and are supplying the region with essential goods. This fundamental disagreement transforms the single market from a
Tribute to the late Nicholas Dougan
THE NEWSof the passing of my great friend Nicholas Dougan was stunning, even at our age. My heart goes out to his family and all the many mourners in Calliaqua at this time of great sadness. I always remember Nicky and his late brother Renauld encouraging me to join
the Police Band, but this was declined as I followed the exodus to the Mother Country. He represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines and also the Windward Islands at cricket. I remembered in 1967 how proud he was when telling me that he was an international cricketer and named the
great English cricketers he played against when playing for the Windwards, and the big regional names when playing in the Shell Shield.
I was very proud to read the scorecards and see his name in the papers here in this great city of London.
Nicky worked his way
up in the Police Force, and along with his cricket achievements, was an important national figure. Goodbye, my friend. Thanks for the memory. Rest in peace and may God have mercy on your soul.
Clinton McCree.
Happy Birthday, Sparrow
HE IS NOTVincentian. He was born in Grenada, grew up in Trinidad and Tobago where he learned the craft of composing/singing calypso, and became undoubtedly the Calypso King of the World, Slinger Fancisco, known to the world as The Mighty Sparrow or
PEOPLE ARE ASKING:
* Isn’t it time that Cricket West Indies Inc. appoint a proper batting coach?
* Does Darren Sammy have the first and last say in selecting West Indies cricket teams? If that is the case, will we learn from the recent white washing by Australia and do the right thing?
* Is the Soca/Ragga Monarch competition on Saturday night ‘killing’ the attendance at the Dimanche Gras (Sunday Night)?
* Do certain people in this country have more rights or are more entitled than others because they feel they have the protection of government? If not, why are they allowed to get away with maligning others on radio?
* Are we proud that our carnival is now being showcased as an occasion for young boys and girls to “wine back” on one another in the most sexually explicit manner you could imagine?
* When is the ULP going to announce its full slate of candidates for the next general election?
simply Birdie, from ‘Jean and Dinah’ to ‘Ten to One is Murder’, ‘Education’ ‘Congo man’, he has entertained us all with his unique style and an unmatched ability to communicate from a stage. He is one of a kind.
He turned 90 years on July 9, 2025, and for what it’s worth, I wish
him a Happy Birthday and many more to come. The new generation would be missing something if they don’t make themselves familiar with his body of work that stretches across six decades and more.
Watcher.
Condolences
WE EXPRESScondolences to the family of The Very Rev’d Fr. Ulric Smith, Dean Emeritus, who passed on Saturday, July 5, 2025.
May he rest in peace and may light perpetual shine upon him.
We keep his dear wife, our Class of ‘62 GHS sister, Her Excellency, Dawn Da Santos-Smith, Governor General Deputy, son Glenn and other family members in our prayers.
He will be remembered fondly and sadly missed.
God bless.
Peace, Love, Comfort & Support. Cheryl King.
tool of unity into a source of economic friction and perceived inequity.
The OECS must further strengthen ties among themselves and quickly too. OECS political union is not a pipe dream; never mind that Prime Minister Mitchell failed to achieve it.
Maralyn Ballantyne LLB.Hons.
Moving beyond distress
FROM E.T. Joshua, R.M. Cato, J.F. Mitchell we, as a nation, have never been so divided and distressed as we are today under R.E. Gonslaves.
The Unity Labour Party (ULP) government has been running on a divide-and-rule wheel. You must leave if you are a farmer, since agriculture is a thing of the past. Go and do security work, etc. The Marketing Corporation was the farmers’ lifeline, with trucks going to North Windward and North Leeward on Thursdays to collect farmers’ produce. The Corporation was dismantled and the holding sold out to the regional private sector.
The result? Unemployment has risen, coupled with the increase in poverty and crime.
The ULP functions best in disasters. At this time, they are praying for another disaster. No concern for all our sons and daughters who have been unemployed since COVID-19 and other disasters.
There is no doubt that Gonsalves’ priestcraft showing up on the so-called Spiritual Baptist holiday, ringing a bell, is a mockery.
As a Christian nation, this is the time for us to organize, educate and energise ourselves to make a meaningful change from divide-and-rule to a united people. If we have to get rid of the ULP and the NDP to form a united People’s Political Party (PPP), so be it.
In this time and age of our history, we are supposed to be mature enough to recognize a system that breeds negativity, criticism, and division among the leadership and the people. This does no good for our country, instead it stifles growth and keeps us apart by creating chaos and keeps us from serving our Father in heaven.
We have to consider taking a more positive approach toward building a healthy and Godfearing nation so as to move forward. This can only be done by collective and responsible leadership, and must be done before the upcoming general elections. It demands a national change, a mindset, and the bringing together of the most spiritual and intelligent citizens. Long live! The future is in our hands.
Christian Democrat.
SVG in push for freedom of movement in CARICOM
Good news
LAST WEEK some good news came out of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) held at Montego Bay, Jamaica, on July 6-8, 2025, at which SVG was represented by a delegation headed by Comrade Ralph.
The first piece of good news was that four CARICOM member-states (Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines) agreed to the “Implementation of Full Free Movement of People using the Amendments to the Revised Treaty providing for Enhanced Cooperation”, by October 1, 2025.
Explicitly, these four countries agreed that they will, among themselves, grant their nationals the right to:
(a) Enter, leave, and re-enter, move freely, reside, work, and remain indefinitely in the receiving MemberState without the need to obtain a residency permit or work permit;
(b) Access public primary and public secondary education; and
(c) Access emergency health care and primary health care services provided by the Government within the means and capacity of the receiving Member-State.
The four countries further agreed to put in place the required legislative, security, and administrative measures to support the free movement of their nationals by October 1, 2025.
Of the remaining ten independent CARICOM member-states the situation on this issue is as follows: For seven of them (Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago), they requested more time, ranging 3-to-7 years to implement “full free movement”; one member-state (Antigua and Barbuda) had hitherto entered a reservation; Haiti had hitherto agreed not to participate in CSME until their internal turmoil is resolved; and the Bahamas, although part of CARICOM is not part of CSME; thus, “free movement” is not applicable to the Bahamas.
It is expected that Grenada and St. Lucia will sign-on to the “free movement” initiative; their Prime Ministers were not at the CARICOM meeting. It is reasonably expected, too, that Suriname will sign-on sometime after its new President takes office on July 17, 2025. Observers consider that St. Kitts and Nevis may join Antigua and Barbuda in its reservation. To be fair to Antigua and Barbuda, half of its population are already non-nationals. St. Kitts-Nevis also has a significant migrant population.
“Free movement” already exists in the OECS
Of course, in the six independent member-states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), namely, Antigua-Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, there is already “full freedom of movement” of people among their total population of approximately 650,000. Thus far, among these OECS member-states there have been no limitations placed on access to “contingent rights” relating to health and education. There has been no adverse impact on any OECS country as a consequence of “full free movement”; indeed, we see benefits to the economies and societies.
Likely impact of “full free movement” among the CARICOM four
It is likely that the “full free movement” among the four-named CARICOM member-states will be between Barbados, on the one hand, and Dominica and SVG on the other. After all, through the OECS arrangements, Dominica and SVG already have “full free movement”. Belize in Central America is quite a distance away; it is likely, though, that nationals of Belize and SVG who are Garifuna may take advantage of the “full
free movement”.
Historically, Barbadians and Vincentians have migrated, to and from, their respective countries, though admittedly more Vincentians reside in Barbados than Bajans in SVG. This trend is likely to continue.
Currently, all nationals of Barbados and SVG, subject to security and “means” conditions, are permitted under Article 45 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (“the CARICOM Treaty”) to enter and stay in each other’s country for up to six months, but they are not permitted to work. It is well-known that scores of Vincentians travel to Barbados to work, mainly on construction sites, at guest houses, and restaurants, and in people’s homes, without residency or work permits.; sometimes, they are disadvantaged because of their “illegal” status. After October 1, 2025, such persons will have legal status with accompanying rights. This is very much of benefit to our people.
Of course, under Article 46 of the CARICOM Treaty, CARICOM nationals (except from Bahamas and Haiti for reasons stated earlier) who possess a “CARICOM Skilled National Certificate” may enter, reside, and work in each other member-state indefinitely. The categories of workers for such Certificates have expanded significantly over time to the benefit of CARICOM nationals, but some countries have put unnecessary hurdles in place to humbug those eligible for, or possessing, such Certificates. Between “the CARICOM Four”, these Certificates will no longer be necessary from October 1, 2025.
Long-standing ULP policy for full free movement
In the Election Manifesto of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) for the elections of March 2001, under the rubric “The Path to Caribbean Nationhood”, it was stated thus:
“The ULP affirms that the Caribbean possess a legitimate, authentic, and distinct civilisation. This Caribbean civilisation, which has various national elements at home and in the diaspora, requires a much deeper institutional expression. The ULP will thus work towards a political union of the Caribbean, first through deepening political links between Barbados and the OECS and then with other members of CARICOM. In this regard the freedom of movement of people is vital. The ULP fully supports, too, the broadening of CARICOM to include non-English speaking Caribbean countries and deepening the processes of economic and functional integration.”
Over the last near-25 years, the ULP government has pursued this policy faithfully. In July 2001, Comrade Ralph signed, on behalf of SVG, the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas with the quest for a CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The Comrade since then has played a leading role in the advancement of regional integration, including in the drafting, approval, and implementation of the Revised Treaty of Basseterre for the Establishment of an Economic Union in the OECS in June 2010. Every single advance of regional integration since 2001, the ULP government has been in the lead.
Final note
Within the next two or so months the Comrade is publishing a book he has authored entitled Regional Integration in Our Caribbean. Another book by him, entitled Political Leadership in Our Caribbean is also forthcoming. Leaders in our Caribbean must write and speak authoritatively. They owe this to their people.
Vincentians need NDP to govern SVG
NOW THAT VINCY MASis behind us, we turn our focus back to the journey towards the 2025 General Elections. The campaign momentum continues to build as candidates and other members of the New Democratic Party (NDP) continue to work tirelessly to share the message of change and hope with the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The NDP has a comprehensive development plan for St. Vincent and the Grenadines that centers on four key economic pillars: agriculture, tourism, the blue economy, and the new economy. Together, these pillars form a holistic approach to building a more prosperous and sustainable future for the people of the country.
At a recent public meeting in North Leeward, the Political leader of the NDP, Honourable Dr. Godwin Friday, delivered an effective message to the people. He said: “Last election, more people voted for the NDP than they voted for the ULP. That tells you that the people wanted change. So, we have put together a team to deliver for the people of this country. This is why Dr. Shallow has been ‘hurting up the head’ of a fellow on the other side. This is why Conroy Huggins is shaking things up so much in Central Leeward. All these young professionals have a bright future ahead of them, have said, I want to be a part of this vehicle that we call the New Democratic Party that will bring about the change that the country needs.
Wherever I go, all over the country, people are crying out for something better. They feel the hardship when they can’t put bread on the table. When the young people come out of school, they can’t find work. It isn’t easy. So, we have put together a team of people who will deliver from day one in government because we have studied the challenges that this country faces and we are prepared to meet them, not with sweet talk and lies and all this kind of mamaguying people. No, we are going to look at the problems that the farmers face and present them with solutions that will make them more productive. We will redevelop the agricultural sector.
The new economy; this is an area where we are going to look at all the things that we tend to put by the side before: sports, arts and crafts, the creative industries, and information technology. Things that we can look at, in which we can generate jobs, generate businesses, generate wealth that will improve the livelihoods of our people. That is what we want. We want people to be able to provide for themselves, and they don’t have to swallow their pride or do worse indignities in order to go to a politician or somebody in a senior office to beg them for a favour as if the country is theirs and not yours. We have to change that.
We have in this country some people who are doing fantastically well. Some of them are becoming millionaires before they are thirty. Some people are doing very well. But who are they doing well for? They’re doing it on the backs of the people of this country. And that is what we are facing. You ask yourself, can we go back into that? We have a choice. Can we go back into that for another five years? Absolutely not. All over you go, that’s what people are telling me.
You know what gives me the greatest hope for this coming election is that the young people are the ones who are now saying, I am going to take the responsibility, Dr. Friday. We are going to join with you to bring the change in this country, and we are going to hold you to the promises and the hope that you have helped us to keep alive in our hearts. We are going to hold you to that to make sure that you deliver, and I say to them all the time, I don’t expect anything different because we put together a team because we intend to deliver for the people of this country. And we know that it will happen.
We have so much potential in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Our farmers need roads. They want to get there efficiently, where they could drive and carry things in and bring things out. If the farmers have to pay somebody to put produce on their heads to bring it out, that’s costing them more money. By the time the farmers go to sell, they can’t make any money. They haven’t built any new feeder roads, and those that they have met, they allow grass to grow on the roads so you don’t have access.
The NDP built a fisheries centre here in Chateaubelair. When they came into office, it was a brandnew facility. The only thing I was told was that they ever used was the ice machine. And when the ice machine broke down, the whole thing ‘mash’ up.
Last sitting of parliament, I asked a question on behalf of the fisher folk in North Leeward. ‘When are they going to fix that facility to make sure that the fisher folk can use it?’ And they had a bold face to say that they did all kind of studies, that they’re going to fix this one, and not only that, they’re going to fix the one up in Owia, and why I didn’t ask about the one down in the Southern Grenadines and the one in Bequia because they’re going to fix all of them too.
They will come with all kinds of things now. Every pothole, they will say wait, tomorrow, we’re going to fix it. But we know that all of that is just the old tricks of trying to mamaguy people. Election is coming, and they feel that the people of this country are gullible.”
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Accountability, transparency, and truth
“Transparency increases credibility and accountability ” — Park Won-soon (19552020) - South Korean politician, activist, and lawyer He was the longest-serving mayor of Seoul, from 2011 until his death in July 2020
WE ARE ENCOURAGEDby the many brave and responsible citizens who advocate for greater accountability, transparency and truth in business, government, the church, and society. Some do so even though they are aware of the likely retaliation that may emerge from individuals who wield financial and/or political power and may take offence as a result of their revelations. The more mature individuals, however, will realize that activists who cry for the display of greater integrity throughout the society often have noble ambitions and desire to see improved systems, structures, and procedures that are fair to all concerned. They appreciate having citizens who are committed to strengthening the fabric of society through highlighting and demanding the need for equity, integrity, and honesty.
Researchers James Kouzes and Barry Posner, in their 2012 best-selling book titled, “The Leadership Challenge”, highlight the importance of the leadership of enterprises creating and sustaining a culture that reflects the principles of accountability, transparency, and truth. They see these as being the cornerstone for ethical conduct and trust. They advanced the 3Cs of leadership to be competence, commitment, and strong character. Honesty is highlighted as a most valuable component in the leadership arsenal. This holds true whether in governance, education, business, or personal relationships. The members of the leadership team that embrace and practice these foundational principles discover that they foster public confidence and discourage corruption. Mistrust, inefficiencies, corruption, and systemic failures are evident in enterprises where these are deficient or absent.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “accountability” as “the quality or state of being accountable; an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one’s actions”. Accountability requires individuals and institutions to be answerable for our actions and decisions. Dr. William Glasser (19252013), the renowned American psychiatrist, in his book “Reality Therapy”, declares that we use the power and privilege of choice to determine how we seek to satisfy our various needs; we choose; we are responsible. And because the choice is ours, we should be mature enough to own up to the actions taken regardless of the outcome of those choices; we are answerable for our actions and decisions. As such, we should acknowledge mistakes and seek to take corrective actions so that we avoid repeating them. We should also be mature enough to face the consequences when our irresponsible behaviours have been evident. In the realm of politics, elected officials are accountable to their citizens — those who voted for them as well as those who did not; those who compliment them as well as those who criticize. In business, managers and leaders are accountable to shareholders, their board of directors, employees, vendors, and customers. Transparency and accountability encourage performance excellence and discourage misconduct. It is therefore imperative that the leadership in our departments and enterprises walk the talk in relation to accountability, transparency, and truth. We must lead from infront; not merely uttering and writing about best ethical practices but displaying those behaviours in and out of the work environment.
Accountability and transparency are closely intertwined with truth; truth is foundational to both. It is a commitment to honesty, integrity, accuracy, and factual representation of data and events. Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), the 16th President of the United States of America, consistently emphasized the importance of honesty, integrity, accountability, and transparency. While he did not explicitly use the terms “accountability” and “transparency” in the modern sense, he demonstrated these in his personal conduct and in his leadership. His speeches and his actions consistently reflected his commitment to fairness, openness, and truth. He is known to have quoted the ancient Chinese proverb, “If you stand straight, do not fear a crooked shadow.”
The systems, structures, procedures, and policies in our public and private establishments must openly display and encourage accountability, transparency, and truth. These include, but are not limited to, access to information, understanding how decisions are made, and how resources are allocated. Gone are the days when such information was restricted to the “privileged few”. While there is need to protect confidential/sensitive data, we must admit that a significant amount of the information that is hidden from employees do not fit in this category. Sharing of non-classified information can engender trust and confidence in the leadership of the respective department or enterprise. Transparency and truth nurture trust by reducing uncertainty and suspicion. There is a tendency for individuals to use imagination when data/truth is absent; that imagination invariably tends to be negative and can therefore impact relationships and productivity levels.
The renowned Caribbean researcher, Dr. Kwame Charles, former Director of Quality Consultants Limited (Trinidad and Tobago), in his February 2025 report titled, “Employee Engagement in the Caribbean — From Data to Insight to Action”, shared his findings generated surveying 100 organizations and 100,000 employees in the English-, Dutch-, and Spanish-speaking Caribbean for close to three decades. When responding to the aspect of the survey that probed in relation to “I usually believe what our Senior Leaders say”, 38% expressed satisfaction, 34% were neutral, and 28% were dissatisfied. This paints a gloomy/frightening picture of how many of our Caribbean leaders are perceived with regard to trust/truth. We have work to do. When trust and truth are deficient, we can anticipate deficiencies in accountability and transparency. However, all is not lost. There is reason to hope. We must avoid the temptation to “sweep the data under the carpet and hope that it will go away”. We can foster the culture that values and encourages accountability, transparency, and truth within our respective organizations. This is of paramount importance and must be given priority. It requires education, civic engagement, institutional checks and balances, and a collective will to constantly demand and practice these values. By consistently applying these values we will build and maintain systems and communities that are fair, resilient, and worthy of trust; communities that demonstrate accountability, transparency, and truth.
Gonsalves’ Emancipation Cricket Festival
LAST TUESDAYevening, Gonsalves and his clans’ men launched their selfstyled Emancipation Cricket Festival. The festival will run over four days. Gonsalves took exception to someone labelling his extravaganza a clown show. The description is apt. He might as well market his most recent highwire event as the ‘Great Kishore Shallow High Fall.’ It will fail. Citizens should ignore him so that the event flops.
The theme of Gonsalves’ festival, which comes at a significant expense to Vincentian taxpayers, is Legacy, Unity and Excellence. Gonsalves is not interested in the proclaimed theme. His primary concern is control and power. Karl Marx famously observed ‘History repeats itself first as tragedy and then as a farce. As to Gonsalves’s rise in Vincentian politics, a case of farce and tragedy fits the bill.
Gonsalves is a fraud. If he had the interest of Caribbean cricket at heart, his ‘festival’ would not be organised in opposition to Cricket West Indies. If unity meant anything more than an empty word, the Vincentian national Dr Kishore Shallow, president of Cricket West Indies, would be front and centre in organising the event in much the same way Gonsalves bear hugged him in the run-up to the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup last year. But no! This festival is an anti-Kishore show. Look at who Gonsalves praised for doing the heavy lifting for the event, Carlos James, his North Leeward constituency candidate, who is poised to be trounced at the polls by Dr Shallow.
He does not want to celebrate our legends. He wants to use them as props. He does not believe in unity; he claims absolute loyalty. Gonsalves has no regard for excellence or independence. His sole desire is to continue his misrule over our land. We must not let him.
An enduring theme of PM Gonsalves is Labour Love. One does not have to look far to conclude that the phrase is devoid of real substance and is nothing more than an empty slogan. Truth be told, Gonsalves, more than any other political leader in our history, has repeatedly demonstrated that he cherishes obedient servants and harbours disdain rather than love for people.
Gonsalves’ relentless assault on Dr Kishore Shallow following his decision to join the opposition New democratic Party and becoming a candidate in the North Leeward constituency in the impending election is clear proof of his malafides.
Mind you, politics is not kids’ play. There is no easy road to power unless you are well-connected. If you offer yourself as a candidate for a major party, expect to be challenged, cursed and lampooned. With Gonsalves, you only matter to him if you abandon your critical faculties and offer yourself as a useful idiot. I will bet my left hand that Gonsalves does not claim as a friend a single person who does not toady up to him or opposes him politically.
In 1982, when he broke with the United People’s Movement (UPM), he argued that if those whom he abandoned had been thrown into the sea, no one would miss them. Today, most of those persons are jesters in Gonsalves’ court–anyone offering
the slightest shade to anything he says or does can anticipate his smallminded, vindictive wrath. Expect to be called a ‘low-down down dutty dog’ or worse.
In the extravagant bid to host games in the 2024 International T20 Cricket Tournament, Dr Kishore Shallow was fit for purpose. Gonsalves described him as a brilliant young man who was a worthy son of our Vincentian civilisation. Dr Shallow, we were told, was the right person for the job as president of Cricket West Indies and a man who made us proud.
All of the public praise for Dr Shallow evaporated after he announced his political allegiance. Immediately, Gonsalves disclosed that he regretted supporting Dr Shallow’s presidency of Cricket West Indies. He doubled down on the nonsense and argued that Cricket administration and electoral politics cannot mix, and Dr Shallow must choose between cricket and politics. He claimed that under Dr Shallow’s leadership, West Indies Cricket has sunk to the worst level it has ever been. In light of the West Indies’ humiliating loss to Australia last week, he bellowed that everyone on the board, including Dr Shallow, should resign.
Absent from the criticism about the decline of West Indies cricket, whose genesis can be traced back to the mid-1990s, is the fact that he, Gonsalves, was the Chair of CARICOM’s prime ministerial committee on cricket from 2016 to 2023. If blame is to be cast, Dr Shallow should be deemed less culpable.
Not in Gonsalves’ world! Dr Shallow is chastised as aloof, detached and unaccountable. CWI is accused of missing essential dates on the West Indies cricket calendar, 1965, when the West Indies Cricket Team was unofficial champions of test cricket following their 2 test to one defeat of Australia in 1965 and the region’s success in the World Cup cricket in 1975. Gonsalves’ proclamation was nonsensical because, in March 2025, Cricket West Indies disclosed that it would bring together the legends of our 1975 triumph and fittingly honour them at a Gala event in Barbados.
Puffed up with vain glory, Gonsalves refuses to admit he was wrong. The self-styled inaugural Emancipation Cricket Festival is his reinvigorated stunt to tame or outdo Dr. Shallow. He accused CWI of insulting our legends with the gift of US$10,000 and a plaque. Is he proposing to offer each legend who graces the Arnos Vale Ground a more fitting gift? At what cost to the national purse?!
News broke yesterday that another of Gonsalves’s devious attempts to outmatch Dr Shallow had flamed out, as the Pete Russell CPL’s Chief Executive Officer directed the government to engage Dr Shallow and the CPL if it expects their endorsement for the ‘festival.’
Rather than get in Dr. Shallow’s way, Gonsalves should let the young man soar like an eagle. It is time for Vincentians to bring down the curtains on Gonsalves’s horror show.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
‘The higher monkey climbs, the more he exposes his naked ass. ’ African proverb
Time to rethink Caribbean Tourism
by LILIA BURUNCIUC, World Bank Director for the Caribbean
FOR DECADES, Caribbean tourism has been synonymous with sun, sea, and sand. These natural assets remain a source of beauty, pride, and economic promise. During my four years in the region, I’ve had the opportunity to experience this firsthand—both in my professional capacity, visiting nearly every country across the Caribbean, and in my personal life, traveling with family and friends to explore its rich culture, landscapes, and communities.
While the allure of the Caribbean is undeniable, the model of tourism that has developed around it is under strain. The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities of tourism-dependent economies. It also created a moment of reflection–a chance to reconsider what kind of tourism serves the region best, not just today but in the long term. Tourism contributes over 22 percent of GDP across the Caribbean and supports 2.75 million jobs–many of them held by women and young people. Yet, despite its scale, the current model has struggled to deliver real economic value. Cruise tourism remains a dominant force, now accounting for more than half of all tourist arrivals in the Caribbean. Visitor spending, however, is disproportionately low. Cruise passengers spend between US$37 and US$140 per on-shore visit but, many don’t even leave the ship, preferring the activities on board. By contrast, overnight visitors spend around US$1,600 per trip, and adventure tourists even more–close to US$2,300, excluding
accommodation, flights and visas. This gap is not just a matter of revenue; it reflects how different types of tourism contribute–or fail to contribute–to local jobs, services, and supply chains.
At the same time, the sector’s economic footprint remains narrow. The proliferation of all-inclusive resorts, often foreign-owned, lead to high leakage–where profits are repatriated and supplies imported, leaving behind few opportunities for local producers or service providers. These resorts also drive intense competition between Caribbean nations, resulting in a “race to the bottom” in the form of generous tax holidays and concessions. Between 2010 and 2013 alone, such incentives cost Caribbean governments up to 7 percent of GDP in forgone revenue.
Beyond the economic inefficiencies, the environmental cost is mounting. Both cruise ships and large resorts generate high volumes of waste, consume vast amounts of water and energy, and place severe pressure on already fragile coastal ecosystems. Overdevelopment has degraded mangroves, coral reefs, and beaches–the very natural assets that attract tourists in the first place.
To remain competitive, Caribbean nations must pivot. Travellers are demanding more sustainable, immersive, and authentic experiences. And destinations that offer these–alongside responsible governance–stand to gain.
The adventure tourism market is exploding in 2025, and industry experts are predicting it will reach a staggering $2 trillion by 2032, driven by a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.5%.
There is growing recognition that the region’s tourism model must evolve–and there is a clear path forward. Strengthening governance is a critical starting point. When investment frameworks are transparent and consistent, they can attract more responsible, high-quality tourism investors. This includes setting environmental and passenger fees at levels that reflect the real cost of maintaining infrastructure and protecting fragile ecosystems–and ensuring those revenues are reinvested where they are needed most: in communities and conservation.
Equally important is rethinking who tourism benefits. More inclusive growth means creating stronger links between tourism and the wider economy–especially for local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. That requires coordination, better access to finance, and investment in skills. There are promising signs of progress. In Saint Lucia, for example, the Tourism Enhancement Fund is already helping channel voluntary visitor contributions into local sustainability initiatives. Models like this can be replicated and scaled throughout the region.
At the same time, the region must look beyond its traditional tourism offerings. Adventure tourism–already accounting for over 30 percent of global leisure travel and contributing more than US$680 billion–is still underdeveloped in the Caribbean. Yet it holds some of the greatest potential for highvalue, low-impact growth. Travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful, authentic experiences, and destinations like Dominica are showing what’s possible. Its Waitukubuli National Trail is a step toward positioning the Caribbean as a serious destination for nature-based tourism, but greater investment and coordination will be key.
All of this will be difficult to achieve without stronger regional collaboration. Competing for investment in isolation often leads to a weakening of standards and missed opportunities. By working together–on tax policy, investment incentives, environmental safeguards, and destination marketing–Caribbean countries can strengthen their bargaining power and build a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable tourism future.
The ingredients are already here: world-class natural assets, vibrant cultures, and a growing body of local innovation. What’s needed now is the determination to make the bold policy choices that will ensure tourism works not just for visitors, but for the people and places that make the Caribbean truly extraordinary.
Shortte wins Business Pitch Comp.
FERIQUE SHORTTE, OWNER AND OPERATOR of Union Food Processing, a startup business, captured the first-place prize in the men’s empowerment project Business Pitch Competition, held today at the Centre for Enterprise Development Inc. (CED) Conference Room. Shortte emerged the winner from among five (5) finalists in the competition, which was held under the Technical Assistance for Men’s Employment and Entrepreneurship
Development (TAMEED) Project being executed by the CED, with funding from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Shortte, whose business produces a variety of processed hams and sausages, will receive a cash grant prize of XCD$15,000. The second-place winner, Eric Clarke of Teric’s Poultry and Meats, which specializes in providing fresh whole chicken and beef, will be awarded XCD$10,000.
The competition was one of the major highlights of the project, which commenced in January. The project was developed by the CED to equip male entrepreneurs with the skills necessary for sustainable growth and development in their enterprises. It is focused on three key components: personal and professional development, mentorship, and financial grants.
The other finalists were Hartiem Farrell of Hartiem Farrell Couture, Jessie DaSouza of Vibie’s Concrete Products and Services, and Rayshorn Richardson of Eknotec Services Ltd.
The TAMEED Project will culminate on Friday, 18 July with the Closing and Grant Awards Ceremony at the Lecture Hall, UWI Global Campus at 9:00 a.m. A total of thirty-six (36) entrepreneurs who completed the six-month project, will receive financial grants that will be used to improve and expand their businesses. (Source: CED)
Ferique Shortte winner of the Business Pitch Competition
Eric Clarke, second in the Business Pitch Competition.
Monsignor Michael Stewart, ‘Fr. Mike’, was one of the first three Vincentians to be ordained Roman Catholic diocesan priests.
MONSIGNOR MICHAEL STEWART,affectionately known as Fr. Mike, celebrates 40 years as a priest.
He was ordained on July 21, 1985, in Kingstown, by His Lordship Bishop Anthony Dickson then Bishop of the Diocese of Kingstown/Bridgetown.
“I was happy to be able to give myself to God for His people,” Fr. Mike told THE VINCENTIAN in a recent conversation.
“I believe that in order for us to understand the significance of life’s happenings for ourselves, we have to get intimately involved with it and in it,” he continued.
Priesthood and valuing people
For Fr. Mike, becoming a priest in the Roman Catholic Church was not so much a thing of prestige, but his response to the invitation to represent God in the community.
He explained that he was able to value what people do by saying yes to Christ’s invitation to follow Him, ie. to become a priest.
“It is what we do that helps us to value and appreciate this great gift that God has given to the Church, and which becomes expressed in the ordained ministry.
“So, I’d say one of the first things I had to reflect on is what am I doing and how do I understand really what I am doing,” he said.
And the priesthood is one way of serving the people.
Being small matters
Fr. Mike acknowledged that the Catholic population in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is small, therefore in the context of a small Catholic population, whatever is done affects and influences the people.
“And so, for me, it was not so much just myself and a small Catholic community [but] what was happening was something which God was doing in the country, in the land,” Fr. Mike said.
According to Fr Mike, one of the things that challenged the indigenous people was how people approached the land.
“The land was always seen as a gift which they had to protect.”
And he said that he saw himself being a part of that challenge as well, to commit himself to the building up of the faith in the land.
“And part of that building is the gift of myself for the people, for the land,” he said.
Responding to the invitation
Responding to the invitation from God to become a priest was not a difficult decision to make.
“I’ve always been involved in religion from childhood; to talk about God and religion is not difficult for me,” he conceded.
And he credited his maternal grandmother, a staunch Methodist, who possessed a love for scripture, for instilling that trait in him.
“She made sure to give her grandchildren and I dare say, her children, scripture verses to read and remember.”
The calling
Fr. Mike celebrates 40 years
The period between 1973 to 1979, while working as a Customs Officer was of great significance to him, he recalled.
“It was a very important period for me because it is there that I, in a way, consolidated my thoughts and reflections and my commitment to God, my love for God and His people,” he acknowledged.
And it was during this period that he convinced himself that God was calling him to the priesthood.
In 1976, during a trip to Trinidad and Tobago to attend a charismatic conference taking place at Mount St. Benedict, an encounter there consolidated for him the acceptance that he was being called to the priesthood.
He also credits the Cluny and Carmelite Sisters as well as the charismatic and Christian movements as being influential in the decision to enter the priesthood.
Sion Hill community’s input
But he also acknowledged his home community of Sion Hill, in which, before his entry into the priesthood, he was intimately involved.
According to Fr. Mike, he was exposed to village life as a youth saying that he had many friends for whom he had great respect.
He was involved in sporting activities in his community, even playing for the ‘Black Hawks’ football team, a Sion Hill football team that participated in the National Football Competition. His involvement in the Sion Hill community also saw him becoming a foundation member of the Sion Hill Sport and Cultural Organisation, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year.
And like most young people then, he enjoyed the occasional fishing expeditions, often journeying to Sion Hill Bay to do some fishing on the rocks.
“It really takes a village to form an individual and I thank God for Sion Hill, and I thank God for the years I spent with my brethren — I usually say I wouldn’t exchange it for anything,” he said.
In reflecting over the past 40 years as a priest, Fr. Mike said that he thinks that society has lost some of its communal aspects.
“We’ve become a bit more individualistic, therefore sometimes we don’t seem to care as much.”
So too, in the same way, it somehow seems that people do not depend on God as much as they should.
‘Fr. Mike’ had a rounded exposure to real community life before he accepted his call to the Holy Orders – i.e. the priesthood.
Fr. Mike with His Lordship Bishop Gerard County, Bishop of Kingstown during Fr. Mike’s celebration of 35 years as a priest.
“Therefore, we need to build a relationship with God, build a relationship with one another,” he said.
“Whoever is a priest, or whoever is a cleric — which includes deacons — we have to answer to the challenge to mould the community,” Fr. Mike continued.
But the work cannot be done by the Catholic Church alone. There needs to be union with the other denominations, towards “taking on the challenge of molding and forming the minds and hearts that are morally and spiritually sound,” he said. (DD)
Thank you, Fr. Mike
AS YOU CELEBRATE THE40th anniversary of your priesthood, we say congratulations to an incredible priest, a faithful steward of God’s grace who continues to share the message of salvation and eternal life to his people.
We say thank you for your service and dedication. We are immensely grateful for your service as Parish Priest in our community of St. John the Evangelist.
We are forever thankful for the way you have helped us grow in our spiritual journey. Your passion and commitment to serve
is truly admirable.
Your guidance has blessed us all with spiritual fulfillment and love. You have been a source of strength, wisdom, and comfort to every one of us.
Thank you for your endless hours spent teaching us about God’s word, leading us closer to Him, and enriching our lives through prayer.
You are not just a priest to us. You are a friend and mentor who always shows us the way of faith and love. We will always remember you fondly.
Father, it has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to have
had you as our priest. Your passion for spreading God’s word has been remarkable, and your teachings have had a lasting impact on us all. Your wisdom and guidance and your devotion to serving God will always be held close to our hearts. We thank you for everything that you have done for us over the years.
Wishing you all the best on your journey ahead.
DOMINUS TECUM (The Lord is with you)
Greg Da Silva
YARA effects repairs to VHF repeater
AFTER BEING TESTED TO ITS LIMITS DURING and after hurricane Beryl (July 2024), the battery system for the Youlou Amateur Radio Association’s (YAR) VHF repeater located in Bequia, collapsed and the cooling system failed early in 2025.
Not only was it down for repairs but more crucially, it required a (new) battery to power the repeater system.
After being made aware of YARA’s needs, Ian Veira of SINGER/CD Veira Ltd., responded to the need and provided assistance towards the purchase of a brand new 200Ah deep cycle lead acid battery.
Locally, radio amateurs operate like an extended family, helping each other with the installation of antennas, and with basic repairs. In discussions with one of our ‘family’ Lavell Mapp — J88LM, he was made aware of our plight (battery) and immediately set out to find a solution. He approached his good friend Ian Veira who, without hesitation, wrote a cheque for the cost of the battery, understanding the need of a functional repeater especially during the hurricane season.
Upon purchase the battery it was delivered on July 04, to Sylvester Tannis J88DT, YARA’s Grenadines Director for safe-keeping, until it was installed in Bequia on July 10, after receiving extra assistance for its installation.
Two YARA members journeyed to Bequia to effect major maintenance at the
repeater site, including reinforcing the antenna system which was compromised by the passage of hurricane Beryl. New solar panel connectors were installed and the repeater site sealed and sanitized from bats which had invaded the building.
The team responsible for restoring the repeater service included Sylvester Tannis J88DT, Eban Olliver J88NGL and Donald De Riggs J88CD. Olliver was mainly responsible for securing the antenna support system, while Tannis focused on securing the building from the bats and sanitizing the building. De Riggs was busy installing new connectors on the solar panels … team work at its best. All tests conducted were successful and YARA members are now happy with the resumption of service of this critical piece of equipment.
According to YARA’s Director Donald de Riggs, the repeater is functional but the base of the antenna is badly corroded and needs to be replaced; not only to ensure continued service of the repeater, but also from a safety standpoint for persons working and
servicing the repeater.
YARA is a volunteer, community service, first responder organization with a special focus on emergency communications. YARA’s membership joins together in extending a heartfelt “thanks” to Ian Veira and the Singer company for their continuing support to our volunteer organization which is this year, 2025, celebrating 30 years of service to SVG and the wider Caribbean.
Donald De Riggs
SAMPASA, Church strengthens ties
SINCE THE MOUNT OLIVE BAPTISTChurch of Centerville Virginia, USA, began partnering with the Saint Martin’s Past Students Association of North America (SAMPASA) Inc. three years ago, to assist students here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, it has been nothing but a relationship of mutual gratification.
That is the assessment of Minister Gairy Leonard, who
led a team from the church on a twelve-day mission, to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, July 12 to 23, 2025.
While the mission of the church is to always spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, the occasion of the visit also lent itself to packing and distributing items to students, families and individuals, as well as ‘to lap’ up all what St Vincent and the Grenadines had to offer.
Leonard related, “Six members of the church are here on this trip. They are lapping up everything, getting to eat your lovely mangoes as well as interacting with the people and getting first-hand experience of the people whom they meet, and people they have put their money to support”.
According to Leonard, it is the unbridled joy that emanates from the faces of the recipients that warm their hearts.
“When I look at the smiles on the people’s faces… that they really appreciate we have touched their lives … that makes us want to do more and more”, Leonard said as he took time off from the packing process at the St. Martin’s Secondary School.
Explaining the process of collecting funding, Leonard revealed it is all about partnership.
“I will send letters out to the members of my church, each just pours monies into the project. Marcus Coombs (SAMPASA member) and my co- workers have a financial
plan. We have a Benevity programme where funds are matched one hundred percent”, Leonard disclosed.
Because of the combined efforts, they have been able to ship tons of items, including food, books, stationery supplies, bags, clothing, which have benefitted over one hundred and fifty families. Buoyed by the expressions of gratitude, Leonard assured that coming to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for another year on the same mission “is a given”.
L
– R) Ian Veira of Singer, hands over cheque to Don de Riggs of YARA, for the purchase of the batter
Eban Olliver J88NGL connecting the repeater to the new battery.
School supplies being sorted
Gairy Leonard
ECCO applauds St. Lucia-Nigeria MOU
The agreement was formally signed on Wednesday
THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN COLLECTIVE Organisation for Music Rights (ECCO) Inc. applauds the Government of Saint Lucia, particularly the Ministry of Creative Industries, for the successful signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Nigeria.
This partnership marks a significant step toward deepening cooperation in tourism and strengthening the Orange Economy across both nations. For Saint Lucia’s creative sector, the agreement opens new opportunities for growth, knowledge-sharing, and international exposure.
“This MOU is a door to practical, tested strategies that have transformed Nigeria’s creative industry into a global force,” said Martin James, CEO of ECCO. “There’s a lot Saint Lucia can learn and adapt to suit our context, especially when it comes to leveraging local content, enforcing intellectual property rights, and engaging our diaspora.”
Nigeria’s creative boom, fuelled by the global reach of Afrobeats and the success of Nollywood, has been supported by proactive policy moves.
The Nigerian Copyright Commission aggressively addresses IP violations, and the National Broadcasting
Commission requires a 70% local content quota on radio and TV, helping local creators thrive. These frameworks have helped launch Nigerian artists onto the world stage and have turned the country’s creative sector into a major contributor to its GDP.
Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa (left) and Saint Lucia’s Minister for Tourism, Culture, and the Creative Industries, Dr. Ernest Hilaire, singed the MOU on behalf of their respective governments.
ECCO believes that similar approaches could drive lasting change in Saint Lucia and across the OECS. Measures like local content quotas, stronger IP enforcement, and better diaspora ties can help make creative industries more sustainable and profitable for artists.
“As a region rich in culture and talent, we must build the structures that allow our creatives to succeed locally and internationally,” said James. “This MOU is an excellent place to start, but implementation will be key. We encourage the government to continue aligning with international IP standards, including those under the Berne Convention, and other trade agreements relating to IP, and to
support policies that give creatives a fair chance at success.”
ECCO also encourages music creators to stay actively involved in their business affairs by registering their works and taking full advantage of the support systems available to them.
The organisation stands ready to work with the government and other stakeholders to ensure that music rights are protected, and that the benefits of this new partnership reach all levels of the creative sector.
(Source: ECCO)
July 2, 2025, during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official visit to the Caribbean nation. In picture, Saint Lucia GovernorGeneral confers highest national title on President Bola Tinubu.
John,
Morissa Morgan and Patlin Leacock (unable to be present) are the proud 2025 recipients of the E. B. John Memorial Bursary.
On Friday 4th, July
Two receive E.B. John Bursary
founder of The Toronto SVG Support Group and staunch member of the Lions Club South.
Sandra Bobb, President of The Toronto SVG Support Group thanked everyone who supports the education Bursary Programme through donations and various fundraising activities. She noted that six students have thus far received the bursary and this was the third year since it was issued.
Head of The UWI Global Campus St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Dr. Resa Noel McBarnett, expressed gratitude to the organisations who honour the former Consulate General of Toronto and Manager of NBC Radio, by assisting
students with an education.
Speaking on behalf of the 2025 recipients, Morissa Morgan conveyed appreciation to the organisations, the tutor Colvin Harry and The UWICG SVG for helping students pursue their dreams.
The first beneficiary of the E.B. John Bursary, Lucinna Poyer also reflected on her journey and communicated her indebtedness to all who made it possible for her to become the initial recipient. (Source: S Garraway)
The Toronto SVG Support Group and Lions Club South made the donation to the students pursing the Public Relations Management online short course, being offered by The UWI Global Campus St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
The bursary is in honour of the late Evans “E.B.” Bernard John, who was a veteran broadcaster and a
President of the Lion Club South Michael John, reflected on the kindheartedness of E.B. John whom he described as a champion of volunteerism.
Michael
President of Lions Club South, Morissa Morgan E.B John Bursary Recipient, Sandra Bobb, President, The Toronto SVG Support Group and Dr. Resa Noel-McBarnett, Head of Site, UWI Global Campus (GC) SVG.
RSS and SGU deepen partnership
THE SENIOR leadership of the Regional Security System (RSS) recently paid a visit to the RSS’ Training Institute’s Command and Staff Course (CVQ Level 4), currently underway at St. George’s University (SGU) in Grenada. Deputy Executive Director of the RSS, Mr. Atlee Rodney, and Director of Training, Lt. Cdr. (Ret’d) Brian Roberts, spent two days engaging with participants and faculty of the programme.
The Command and Staff Course is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required for appointment as Staff Officers at joint or joint/combined headquarters at the operational level. During the visit, Mr. Rodney delivered a presentation on Community and Media Engagements
within the Communications module, while Lt. Cdr. Roberts presented an overview of the RSS Security Framework as part of the Caribbean Security Environment segment.
Emphasising the importance of the course, the Deputy Executive Director noted that the Command and Staff Course represents a vital step in strengthening the leadership capacity of our security forces across the region.
“We are proud of the progress being made by the RSS Training Institute in the development of key courses to modernize its curriculum. I am confident that the knowledge and skills being imparted here will significantly enhance our collective ability to respond to both current and
emerging threats within the RSS Sub-Region, and by extent the wider CARICOM Region,” he stated.
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will earn the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) Level 4 in Management from the Barbados Technical and Vocational Training Council (TVET).
Director of Training at the RSS, Lt. Cdr. (Ret’d) Brian Roberts presented an overview of the RSS Security Framework.
The RSS leadership also met with the Vice President of Business Affairs at SGU to formalise an agreement allowing the continued use of the university’s facilities for future training courses. This meeting reaffirmed the strong and ongoing partnership between the two institutions.
Deputy Executive Director of the RSS, Atlee Rodney, delivered a presentation on Community and Media Engagements.
In addition to their university engagements, Mr. Rodney and Lt. Cdr. Roberts paid a courtesy call to the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) Headquarters, where Commissioner of Police, Mr. Randy Connaught, led a tour of the recently renovated facility and discussed possible collaboration on strategic initiatives and opportunities to bolster national and regional security efforts. (Source: Communications Consultant RSS)
Dear George,
MY HEADis in a tangle and I need your help. I have been long suspecting my wife of having an affair with a childhood friend of hers. I do not have any conclusive evidence but all the signs are there.
What convinced me even more was a dream I had of her secretly sneaking off to meet this guy at a hotel. My dreams are always on point.
How can I get my wife to come clean with her fling with this guy? I know deep down in my gut that she is two-timing me.
Uncomfortable and Suspicious.
Dear Uncomfortable and Suspicious,
It seems that the strongest piece of
‘evidence’ you’ve got on your wife is a gut feeling and a dream. That dream you had was nothing more than your subconscious at work; it should not be used as proof.
And I am not going to advise you to use that as proof of your wife’s infidelity.
Until you get undisputable evidence of your wife’s infidelity, you need to exercise some level of trust. Focus on the relationship to the point where you won’t get distracted by wayward emotions.
George.
You have no real proof Can have it both ways
Dear George,
I CHEATEDon my husband with a mutual friend. Although he has forgiven me I cannot get the experience out of my mind.
This man has the kind of tool I’ve always fantasized about. I was frank with my husband and told him that the only condition I would stay in the marriage is if he agrees with me sleeping with this man at least once every week. I made it clear that I am not in love with him in any way, only with what he has.
My husband refuses to accept my terms. I told him he is selfish and does not care about my happiness. George, I am sure you can speak some sense into him.
At a Loss.
Dear At a Loss,
Let me get this straight. You got married, vowed to forsake all others and to love and cherish him? You were caught stepping outside of the relationship with this other man. Your husband willingly forgave you and now you
are giving him an ultimatum to allow you to continue sleeping with this man, or say goodbye to the marriage?
Marriage is all about having an understanding between the two people involved and doing your (both) utmost to please your partner. Your decision to go against your husband’s wishes and against the dictates of your marriage vows is a clear statement that you no longer wish to remain married. You cannot have it both ways.
George.
A meddling mother-in-law
Dear George,
MY MOTHER-IN-LAWmoved in with us and promised it would be a temporary situation. She was having relationship problems with her husband and wanted a break to clear her mind. I agreed to it after my wife literally begged. Now, I am regretting that decision.
It has been two months since she has been with us and she’s causing problems for me. She is encouraging my wife to go out with another man, claiming her daughter should not be in a marriage that does not allow her to experience life.
She also insists that it is not too late for her daughter to walk away from her “boring marriage” and start a new life.
I told my wife I wanted her mother out of the house, but my wife accused me of being cruel to her mother and of overreacting. I am this close to losing it!
Hot and Boiling
Dear Hot and Boiling,
Once your mother-in-law creates negative waves and presents a direct threat to your relationship, it should not be a debate of whether or not she should go. Her interference in your marriage is totally unacceptable and should not be tolerated. You need to read her the riot act, and sooner rather than later.
Find a way to explain all of this to your wife. If she still fails to see your point of view, then I suggest both of you see a counselor immediately. It is absolutely important that you maintain your cool as you attempt to navigate your marriage back to a sound footing.
George.
Leisure
Aries (Mar. 21- April 20)
Strong willpower will come to your rescue. You will find travel and lectures most stimulating. Don’t start a dispute unless you’re prepared to accept irreversible results. Delve into worthwhile causes that will show results if you put in the effort.
Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21)
You’ll communicate easily and develop new friendships. You can have a great time if you go out with the one you love. Be sure that you have all the facts before you take action.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
Love relationships will flourish. Dig deep, ferret out any hidden concerns before you sign your life away Expect to experience a sudden reversal of fortune. You’re best to avoid disputes.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
Do your own thing without drawing attention to it. Your doubt could lead to insecurity. Your charisma will no doubt attract a lot of attention. Be diplomatic but stem when it comes to giving of yourself.
Leo (July 23-Aug 22)
You can ask for favors or run your ideas by those who will be able to support your objectives. Visit someone who hasn’t been feeling well lately. You may be experiencing emotional turmoil in regard to your mate.
Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Get the red tape and the unwanted paperwork out of the way. Try not to judge too quickly. Help others solve their dilemmas. Entertainment should include your whole family.
Libra (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
Try not to hesitate; act on your initial instincts. Hidden assets can be doubled if you play your cards correctly. Your partner will be emotionally unable to cope. Try not to lend or borrow money or belongings this week.
Scorpio (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
You may find travel to be most rewarding. Weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that will change the conditions you’ve been living under. You can finish projects early, which will bring you praise from superiors.
Sagittarius (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
You will do best to entertain those you wish to close deals with. Try to find another time to present work or ideas this week. Don’t bend to the pressure. You can enjoy entertainment if you join in and follow the crowd for a change.
Capricorn (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
Someone you live with will be quite unreason able this week. Opportunities to get together with people in powerful positions could help you get ahead. Losses are likely if you get involved with uncertain individuals.
Aquarius (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)
Old friends may not like your choices. You will do extremely well if you get involved in competitive activities this week. Take a close look at any contracts you’ve signed in order to be sure exactly where you stand.
Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Uncertain changes regarding your personal life are evident. You should get into programs that will enhance your appearance and help you to be the best that you can. New love connections can be made through group associations.
25. Apartment house, e.g. (abbr.) 28. Curtain holder 29. Building addition 31. Drivers’ org. 32. Prayer finales 34. Sis, for one 35. __ Tin Tin 36. Veto, slangily 37. Bank machines (abbr.) 38. Prom attendees, e.g. 40. Frat house letter 42. Actor Chaney 43. Soothe by indulgence 46. Siamese, now
Keyed up
Powder __
Wanes
Trig or calculus
Remove a stitch 56. Two (Sp.)
Selves 58. Toothpasteaccepting gp. DOWN 1. Chile’s neighbour (abbr.)
Pod dwellers
Gawk
Talent
“Driving
7. Finally figure out (2 wds.) 8. Gdansk’s locale 9. In addition 10. Rearward 13. Window part 18. Car buyer’s concern (abbr.) 20. Actor Beatty and others 23. “__ we forget” 24. Svelte 25. Lounge feature 26. Milk (Fr.) 27. Hamlet, for one 28. Actor Harrison 30. Pounds (abbr.)
Miss __” 6. Wayside hotel
32. __ Domini 33. Identify incorrectly 37. Get ready to shoot 39. Actor Wallach et al. 40. Picture, for short 41. Grant and Downs 44. Green pods for gumbo
45. Actress Beryl
46. Actor Knight
47. Cable option (abbr.)
48. Not in school (abbr.)
50. Stage joke
52. Grade Point Average (abbr.)
Shafiqua sets a new Meet Record
VINCENTIAN SHAFIQUA MALONEY INKED her name as the new record holder in the Women’s 800m of the Ed Murphey Classic.
This, when she timed 1:58.13 at a World Athletics Continental Tour Silver event, in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, last Saturday, July 12, 2025. In the process, she erased 1:58.67 set in 2024 by Addy Wiley.
Maloney, who the previous Saturday, July 5, competed in the Eugene Diamond League in Oregon and placed fifth, in 1:58.49, executed a different race strategy, by running to the front to win last Saturday’s two laps.
She finished ahead of Americans Ajee’ Wilson, who
clocked 1:59.53, and Rachel Gearing, who was third in 1:59.70.
Maloney, who holds the St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ 800m all-time record at 1:57.59 achieved in 2024, has a season best of 1:58.00, but has clocked 1:57.07 on the short track.
Currently, Maloney is ranked 6th in the world for 2025 in the 800m.
Maloney, who became the first Vincentian athlete to reach an Olympic final, placing fourth in the 800m final in France, 2024, is positioned to carry St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ hope at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan this September.
TASVG Summer Camp opens
THE TASVG HIGH PERFORMANCE Athletics Summer Camp got going earlier this week at the Peter’s Hope playing field. Co-ordinator and Head Coach of the Camp - Chester Morgan outlined the objectives of the camp:
1. Athletic Skill DevelopmentEnhance participants’ athletic skills through specialized training sessions in various sports, focusing on technique, strength, and endurance;
2. Reading Engagement - Foster a love for reading by incorporating daily reading sessions, encouraging athletes to explore diverse genres and topics related to sports, teamwork, and personal development;
3. Community Service Commitment - Instill a sense of social responsibility by organizing weekly community service projects, allowing athletes to give back to their local community while
Gordon extends TD contract
THEON GORDON HAS EXTENDED his contract as Technical Director (TD) of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), meaning his tenure will extend into another two years. Towards maintaining the upward trajectory of the sport he started inn 2021, the 39-year-old Gordon has identified key focal areas that he plans to traverse.
Governance
“One of the things I want to look at is governance, creating a structure ….. bringing everybody in the same room and agreeing on what is the way forward”, Gordon shared.
Gordon assesses that creating and determining a clear pathway for St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Football, ties in with the governance structure of his mandate.
Advocating transitional phases in
the sport, Gordon posited, “What happens at Under-10, Under-15 so forth, as it relates to coaching, players, administrators, creating a framework for coaching education are critical”.
Transitioning and Continuity
Another of Gordon’s pathways for any incremental success is ensuring that there is continuity.
Noting that the focus has always been on the senior men’s team, Gordon thinks going beyond that phase is vital.
“We have always focused up to the senior team. What happens next after the senior team? How much focus will we put on our over- 35s, and senior Football for both males and females because there is no sense of continuity”, Gordon said.
Recreational Football
Whilst accepting that building the Football base is important, Gordon
developing teamwork and leadership skills;
4. Character Building - Promote values such as teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship through both athletic activities and group discussions during reading sessions; 5. Physical Fitness and Health Education - Educate athletes about the importance of physical fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, integrating these concepts into daily training and discussions.
6. Teamwork and Collaboration: Enhance teamwork skills through collaborative sports activities and group reading discussions, fostering a supportive camp environment.
The camp is an open event for athletes 5 years and over and runs from July 14th to August 22nd, 2025.
I.B.A. ALLEN
wants some attention given to recreational or “sweat” Football.
“One of the projects I want to work on is the sweat aspect. Since we have become so structured and FIFA ratings, we have just been focusing on club Football, but we have lost the sweat culture, because we only now have a games culture,” Gordon proffered.
Reflections
Reflecting on his stint thus far, Gordon said, “The first three years were about implementation of some of the concepts. We have seen that they can work, but the ability to have it consistently was the issue , coaching education I was really happy about that , but not on the convention side and I was more focused on the technical side of the game”.
For the next two years, “I will be placing more emphasis on
The Camp is under the directorship of regionally and locally renowned athletics coach and trainer of coaches - Chester Morgan.
Gordon
administration, implementation as well as growth of other persons in terms of leadership”, Gordon projected.
Theon
Shafiqua Maloney as she raced away to victory and a record run last Saturday in Tennessee, USA.
St. Vincent Sailors shine in The Bahamas
FROMJuly 1st to 7th, the shores of The Bahamas played host to the first-ever Caribbean ILCA Pathway Clinic, led by
three-time Olympian Andrew Lewis of Trinidad and Tobago.
A total of 32 sailors from eight countries–USA, Canada, Cayman Islands, The Bahamas, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad, Grenada, and Barbados–participated in the intensive, week-long training programme, including Kai MarksDasent and Scarlett Hadley, proudly representing St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The clinic was a high-performance training event designed to prepare youth sailors for major upcoming regattas this summer, providing a comprehensive performance environment that extended beyond sailing technique. With a strong emphasis on fitness, nutrition, and mental discipline, the clinic aimed to equip young athletes with the tools needed to compete at an elite level.
The days began with a dedicated hour of fitness training, ranging from running to swimming, followed by
classroom sessions, video debriefs, and on-the-water drills designed to simulate race conditions and develop tactical awareness.
Scarlett Hadley is preparing for the upcoming Junior Pan American Games in Uruguay, while Kai Marks-Dasent is set to compete at the ILCA UK National and Open Championships in Wales this summer.
“This clinic is a game-changer for sailing development in the Caribbean,” said Sabrina MarksDasent, Vincy Sailing’s Performance Manager. “The collaboration among nations and the shared commitment of these young athletes show the growing strength of our regional sailing community.”
making this initiative possible for the Vincentian Sailors.
A special thank-you goes to InterCaribbean Airways and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee for their vital support in
2025 Breakaway Football gets going
WHEN THE2025 edition of the Breakaway Masters Organisation’s Football Competition got going last Saturday, July 12, at the Richmond Hill Playing Field, twentynine teams had already registered.
Played in four Divisions - Firms, Male Under-19, Male Under17, and Femalessixteen teams have been registered in the Firms Component, six in the Under-19, four in the Under-17, and three in the Women’s segment. However, organizers have indicated that registration is not closed for the Females.
The Firms Division, which began in earnest on Saturday, has lodged in Zone A: KFC Strikers, CK Greaves, Coreas
Hazells, ACADO, Health and Finance, Why Hunger Fisherfolks, National Lotteries
Authority and Transport and Works.
Meanwhile, in Zone B are AIA Combined, Massy Stores, Combined Stores, RSVG Police, Ministry of Sports, Vinlec, Combined Banks and Teachers.
In Saturday’s opening salvo, RSVG Police beat AIA Combined 4-1, while ACADO and defending champions- KFC Strikers played to a 1-1 draw.
Returning as defending champions in the other divisions are System Three who won both the Under-19 and Women’s title in 2024, and United Force, the Under-17.
The Competition had its first edition in 2011, then it was only the Firms Division.
As the first event of its kind in the region, the Caribbean ILCA Pathway Clinic has laid the foundation for a stronger, more united future for sailing in the Caribbean. (Source: SVG Sailing Association - SVGSA )
Phillips, Clasp ready for U15 Outing
KEVON PHILLIPS, a resident of Greiggs, discovered his passion for football at the age of 6. He was, in due course, selected as the firstchoice goalkeeper for the U15 national team training.
This year he is again an essential member of the National U15 training squad from which a final team will be selected to compete in League C of the Tournament Matches of the CONCACAF Championship, scheduled for Curacao from August 2nd to the 10th.
Kevon says he’s “focused and ready,” as he wants the team to come back home with a victory. He’s also determined to one day earn his spot on the Senior Men’s National Team.
Kayfayne Clasp, like Kevon, is a member of the U15 training squad. He is a central attacking midfielder from Sion Hill, who proudly represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines in last year’s Championship.
He enjoys his position because it allows him to read the field well and guide his teammates.
This year, he’s working hard and hoping to make the final selection once again. His ultimate goal is to one day earn a place on the Senior Men’s National Team.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Kai Mark Dasent heads next for the Pan Am Games. (Photo Source SVGSA)
Scarlet Hadley sets sail for the ILCA UK National and Open Championships in Wales this summer. Photo Source: (SVGSA)
Defending Firms Division champions - KFC Strikers.
Kevon Phillips, one of the U15 goalkeepers in training.
Kayfayne Clasp, a central attacking midfielder.
Sports V
Running for liberty
THE STAGE is set for the Emancipation Cricket Festival. The venue is Arnos Vale Playing Field. The dates are set for July 31 to August 4. By the time the competition is over, there will be more things to talk about. For there is never a dull moment in the Caribbean. And with other events on the cricket circle, that Emancipation Cricket Festival is sure to leave more than the occasional discussion. It surfaced amidst swirling so much that it almost never got off the ground.
Accusations and counter displays marked the inauguration. Four teams are in for the showdown.
Kingstown Kings is led by Keswick Williams, with Shakib Al hasan, Obus Plenaar, Desron Maloney, Cosmus Hackshaw, Tijorn Pope, Jarrel Edwards, Kody Horne, Shawn Bacchus, Travian Matthews, Dave Duncan, and Olani Slack.
Grenadines Whalers has Jomel Warrican at the helm. Andre Fletcher, Aaron Jones, Dillon Douglas, Salvan Browne, Sealroy Williams, Othniel Lewis, Jeremy Layne, Rasheed Frederick, Elron Glasgow, Kody Grant, Desmond Hoyte, and Jeremy Haywood complete that team.
Windward Warriors is led Lyndon James. Kyle Mayers, Cameron Delport, Gidron Pope, Ethan Gibson, Alston Bobb, Jordan Charles, Kirtney Franklyn, Sealron Williams, Richie Richards, Devonte McDonald, and Kevin Abraham round up the party.
Leeward Lions is led by Carlos Brathwaite. John Campbell, Steven Taylor, Obed McCoy, Hyron Shallow, Benniton Stapleton, Shamon Hooper, Shang-I John, Tilron Harry, Watson Seaton, OJay Matthews, Jedi John, and Lebron Douglas complete that team.
The event is set for the Arnos Vale Playing Field from July 31 to August 4. It is part of an Emancipation Festival which dovetails with the acknowledgment of two landmark occasions in West Indies cricket.
Legends of the 1975 West Indies squad, which won the first One Day International competition held at Lord’s, are expected to be present. And those of the 1965 series, when West Indies beat Australia at home, will be honoured.
There are items on the agenda, including art, craft, and culture, to add to the indigenous appeal.
There is the projection that the tournament provides a springboard for the revival of West Indies cricket. The matches come at a critical juncture with the region’s fortune enduring a dose of dubious distinction.
Events leading up to this Emancipation Cricket Festival threatened an upheaval. But the tide points to opportunities for potential heroes. Dynamics, and innuendoes about matters beyond the boundary are also on. Observers prefer results before predictions. And that is the thing to do.
Suffice it to say that intrigue is building as the countdown narrows. What is certain is that interest and excitement is reaching breathtaking proportions. How things unfold will be seen in the progress of time.
West Indies cricket humiliated
IN ONE OF THE MOSTastonishing displays of fast bowling in Test history, Australia’s Mitchell Starc ripped through the West Indies batting, for a humiliating 27 runs, their lowest-ever Test total and the second-lowest in the history.
To rub it in, victory came for the Australians on the third day of a day-night Test at Sabina Park, Jamaica on the weekend.
Set a gettable target of 204 on a pitch showing little demons, West Indies lost three wickets in the first over. The left-arm quick Starc struck with his very first delivery, removing opener John Campbell. Four balls later, he trapped debutant Kevlon Anderson in front, before sending Brandon King’s stumps tumbling in the same over. Starc then removed Mikyle Luois, and Shai Hope, and then Jayden Seales to wrap up the innings, with his five-wicket haul coming in just 15 balls, the fastest in Test history. He finished with 6 wickets for 9 runs.
Fellow pacer, Scott Boland picked up a remarkable
hat-trick at the backend of the W.I innings.
The West Indies total, 27 runs, is their lowest total in test cricket and the second-lowest in history behind New Zealand’s 26 against England in 1955 in Auckland.
Scores: Australia 225 - Cameron Green 46, Steven Smith 48, Shamar Joseph 4 for 33, Jayden Seales 3 for 59, Justin Greaves 3 for 56, and 121Cameron Green 42. Shamar Joseph 4 for 34, Alzarri Joseph 5 for 27; West Indies 143 - John Campbell 36, Scott Boland 3 for 34, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazelwood 2 for 24 and 2 for 32 respectively, and 27, Mitchell Starc 6 for 9, Scott Boland 3 for 2.
(Source: cricketwestindies com)
pointing
CARL HOPPER, former West Indies stylish batter, said he is disappointed with the way the current West Indies team has performed, especially in the recently concluded test series against Australia.
The W.I were bowled out for 27, their lowest innings total ever, in the second innings of the third and final test against Australia, a daynight match played in Jamaica.
“I am angry, I am upset, because we were building a good thing a few years ago when the boys came out here (in Australia)…. They had a test match win in Brisbane, had a drawn series and we went to Pakistan and drew 1- 1, fantastic results, and then we had wholesale
Hooper Disappointed: CWI send out SOS
changes. To see this is the end results, is like what we done for the last three years.. trying to build something…it just went up in flames,” Hooper said.
Hooper added, “…Does the coach need to go? …. Someone needs to be answerable; he (coach) is the only selector…. . He has got all the power, so he has to be held accountable.”
And recognising this period as one of a crisis, Cricket West Indies will seek the advice of legendary former players Sir Viv Richards, Sir Clive Lloyd and Brian Lara.
Cricket West Indies president Dr. Kishore Shallow has called for an emergency meeting to review the series and the final match in particular.
Given the side’s ongoing struggles with the bat, Richards, Lloyd and Lara - “our greatest batsmen ever” according to Dr. Shallow - have been invited to attend the meeting, during which they will join fellow West Indies batting greats Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Desmond Haynes,
and former fast bowler Ian Bradshaw, who already serve on the cricket strategy and officiating committee.
“This engagement is not ceremonial,” a statement from Dr. Shallow read. “These are men who helped define our golden eras, and their perspectives will be invaluable as we shape the next phase of our cricket development.
“We intend for this gathering to result in tangible, actionable recommendations.”
(Partial source: BBC Sport)
Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN
Dr. Kishore Shallow, President/CWI, has confirmed that three cricketing legends will be invited to help in reviewing the current state of WI Cricket and making recommendations for remedial and long term action.
Australia took the three-match test series 3-0 and retained the Frank Worrell Trophy.
Mitchel Starc had much to celebrate as he ripped through the West Indies batting.
Carl Hooper did not hold back in
fingers at the coach for the debacle in which West Indies cricket has found itself.
Gonsalves to meet T&T PM
From Backpage
Known as the Piarco Flight Information Region, Trinidad and Tobago presently manages the air space that includes an area from Antigua in the north to Trinidad in the South, and East of Barbados, stretching almost halfway across the Atlantic Ocean towards Africa.
Any aircraft entering or passing through this 750,000 square mile airspace is required to pay fees for air navigation services but according to Gonsalves, this control by Trinidad and Tobago has led to questions about the financial benefits derived from this airspace, as well as concerns regarding transparency and fairness in its administration.
The CLICO/BAICO issue
Dr. Gonsalves recalled that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago had already compensated affected citizens of that country, however, it failed to compensate affected policy holders within the OECS.
Over a decade ago, during PersadBissessar’s first term as PM of Trinidad and Tobago, US$100 million was set aside to compensate affected
CLICO and BAICO policy holders within the OECS, however, only about US$40 million had been paid as subsequent administrations failed to acknowledge the agreement.
Gonsalves said that in communicating with Persad-Bissessar on this issue, he wanted the Antiguan PM - Gaston Browne, to be present as well.
AI REAL ESTATE
by DAYLE DA SILVA
PRIME MINISTERDr.
Ralph Gonsalves said that he is expected to meet with Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, to discuss several issues.
Dr. Gonsalves told a media briefing on July 11, that he met with Sean Sobers, the Trinidadian Foreign Minister while attending the 49th CARICOM Heads of Government meeting in Jamaica, and the Minister indicated that his PM was open to engaging in constructive discussion.
Among the issues Gonsalves said that he intends to raise with the Trinidadian leader are: the issue of trade and
foreign exchange between the two countries, air space and the CLICO/BAICO issue.
Trade and Foreign Exchange
In 2015, the Prime Minister said that St. Vincent and the Grenadine sold between EC$20 and $22 million in agricultural produce to Trinidad, a figure that was almost double a few years prior.
“And we used to get in the earlier period the requisite exchange, but bit by bit, the foreign exchange problem became more challenging in Trinidad,” he said.
“And we will buy about US$60 or $65 million worth of goods from Trinidad,
SECURITY GUARD CHARGED WITH MURDER GONSALVES TO MEETT&T PM
Sixty-year-old male Guardsman security Guard Wadie Simon of Brighton has been charged with the murder of Shernard Gloster, aged 47, of Keartons, Barrouallie.
The charge was laid on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Major Crime Unit, Police Headquarters in Kingstown.
Preliminary investigations indicate that on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at approximately 12:35 p.m., an altercation occurred between Simon, who was on duty as a security guard, and Gloster at the Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union (KCCU) Kingstown Office.
During the incident, Simon allegedly discharged his firearm, fatally wounding Mr. Gloster who was pronounced dead on the spot by a medical practitioner.
Simon was arraigned before the Serious Offences Court on Friday, July 11, 2025, where he was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge. The case was adjourned to Tuesday 22nd July 2025, for a status update on the investigation and to set a
Much of what PM Dr. Gonsalves will raise with PM Kamla PersadBissessar, are not new issues and in fact are issues Persad-Bissessar’s predecessor failed to address.
petroleum products and manufactured goods, and we pay them in hard cash,” Gonsalves continued.
But increasingly, when traders in agricultural produce go there, they cannot get any foreign exchange, and they are paid in TT currency which in turn delays the payment to local farmers.
Air Space issue
date for the preliminary inquiry. Simon was remanded into custody at His Majesty’s Prison.
Meanwhile Guardsman SVG issued a statement on the KCCU incident. It read as follows:
“Guardsman St. Vincent and the Grenadines Limited is aware of the formal charges against one of its employees, in relation to the unfortunate incident that occurred on July 9, 2025 at Kingstown Co-operative Credit Union Ltd.
The Company is actively cooperating with the authorities. The incident stands in direct contravention to the Company’s core values, rigorous training programs and clearly communicated policies.
This isolated occurrence does not reflect the standards Guardsman St. Vincent demands of its employees. The safety of the public and the integrity of our operations remain our top priorities.
The Company’s focus now is on ensuring accountability, reinforcing our values internally, and continuing to serve all our stakeholders with the professionalism and care that they expect.
Wadie Simon of Brighton will answer to a murder charge.
We thank the public for their understanding and patience and extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased. No further comment will be made at this time while the legal process is ongoing.”
This issue involved the upper air space which is controlled by Trinidad and Tobago. Continued on Page 27
