THE VINCENTIAN PDF-09-11-21

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER

19, 2021

VOLUME 115, No.46

Police Force not affected Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

Time for cameras Page 9

Covid style Nine Mornings Page 5

EC$1.50

No hearing for Civil Servants Page 19

MORGAN, NELSON FREED

5th Road fatality Page 32

Nelson’s charge could not be substantiated by the evidence the prosecution presented.

So said Magistrate Pompey.

Senator Ashelle Morgan had insisted that she had been wrongly accused. (Photo Credit: ANN)

assault charge against John.

Magistrate Bertie Pompey, presiding over the Mesopotamia Magistrate’s

by HAYDN HUGGINS Court which was suiting in Calliqua, ruled the charges ASHELLE MORGAN and Karim against Morgan cannot be Nelson were on Thursday (Nov. sustained and acquitted her.

18) freed on charges in relation Nelson, the Deputy Director to an incident which occurred on of Public Prosecutions, was April 13, and which involved the charged for unlawfully and shooting of Cornelius John of maliciously wounding John, Diamond. and unlawfully discharging a Morgan, a government firearm at him. senator and Deputy Speaker of While Magistrate Pompey the House of Assembly, was admitted that he had no doubt answering to a criminal

about John being shot on the day in question, he assessed that the Prosecution — even with its 11 witnesses — had failed to present evidence that Nelson was the one who discharged a firearm against John and shot him.

According to Pompey the Prosecution had failed to establish any reasonable case against Nelson and he, therefore, had no alternative than to free the defendant.

Magistrate Pompey’s rulings were handed down the

day after defence counsels Duane Daniel for Nelson and Ronald Marks for Morgan — had made no case submissions, and after six days of trial.

THE VICENTIAN was able to contact Marks on Thursday; he agreed to make some postverdict comments The lawyer was adamant that from the evidence which was made available to the defence during disclosure by the prosecution, it was clear that the John of Diamond was

NO VACCINE ⁄ NO FREE REGISTRATION

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES at this year’s CSEC examinations desirous of entering the SVG Community College (SVGCC) were in for something of a surprise when they turned up at the College, Villa, for registration earlier this week.

To many of the expectant candidates, the benefit of having their registration fee waived if they had

taken the COVID-19 vaccine, was not something that they knew in advance.

This was, it appeared, Government’s latest incentive to increase the uptake of the vaccine in this country’s quest to reach ‘herd immunity’ status (80%of the population vaccinated) and return SVG to some level of normality.

Not only was there a sign displaying the requirement within the

space designated for carrying out registrations, but those doing the registration repeatedly brought it to the attention of the large number of young people applying for entrance. Continued on Page 3.

shot in self-defence.

But, Marks told THE VINCENTIAN, John’s evidence was so ridiculous, and contradicting, that the case could not even past the half way stage.

It was his hope< Marks said, that members of the public will now be more careful about making comments and pronouncements, before reviewing the actual evidence when it comes out in court.

Continued on Page 3.

Free registration is now available at the SVGCC once an applicant is COVID-19 vaccinated.

2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

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News 3

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021 . 3.

Unvaccinated not affecting the Police Force THERE ARE APPROXIMATELY 1,300 law enforcement officers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

This number includes members of the regular constabulary and all its units, officers attached to the fire services and the complement of the SVG Coast Guard.

Speaking last Monday on Boom SVG 106.9 FM OMG morning prograame, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in addressing the situation as it related to the acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine among law enforcement officers, disclosed that as of Friday 12th November, some 68% of them had taken the vaccine.

Approximating that that number to be a

round figure of 800, the Prime Minister was optimistic that the Police Force could operate adequately with that number on call, should there be the unprecedented action of removing those unvaccinated from their substantial duties.

He qualified that by saying, though, that there would be need for adjustments of one kind or the other, for example, creating a personal protection unit that would relieve the Special Services Unit (SSU) from doing security duties for Judges, Ambassadors, the Prime Minister and others so designated to enjoy that privilege.

All in all Dr. Gonsalves was encouraged by information from the

Morgan, Nelson freed Continued from Frontpage.

He noted that from the inception John was portrayed by certain persons as the victim in the matter, when he was in fact perpetrating acts of violence, and making threats to his wife, Nicole John, to the extent that Senator Morgan sought the intervention of the Ronald Marks, counsel police, because she was for Ashelle Morgan, held fearful that John firm to the view, as would carry out his deduced by the evidence, threat of chopping off that Cornelius John was his wife’s neck, and, shot in self-defence. “sacrificing her head and blood to the devil”.

According to Marks, John’s wife who was helping Morgan to distribute relief supplies to shelters during the volcanic eruption period, complained to Morgan of these threats, but when Morgan sought the assistance of the police, they did not respond for several hours.

Marks disclosed that John was parading up and down the road with a cutlass, outside his wife’s home, and the senator had to call for other assistance. She and two others went to Nicole’s assistance, but when they got to the scene, John charged towards them with a cutlass held upright ready to deliver a possible lethal strike to the Senator, or her two companions.

“From the evidence that was disclosed to the defence, John was clearly shot in self-defence,” Marks reiterated.

Officers currently attached to the Special Services Unit (SSU) could well find themselves redeployed should there be a fallow out as a result of officers not complying with the vaccination ultimatum. leadership of the Royal SVG Police Force (RSVGPF), to the effect that the number of unvaccinated officers would be miniscule, and

even if this number should rise to 100, the Prime Minister declared that this should not affect the operations of the local constabulary

and its attendant services.

The Prime Minister also referenced the soonto-be recruitment of upwards of 100 young

people into the ranks of the Police Force, that would help to cushion any fallout from having to remove officers from their duties.

No vaccine …

No free registration Continued from Frontpage.

And a caravan of health persons were on hand to administer the vaccine for anyone who desired to have it.

Successful registration at the SVGCC comes with a fee of approximately EC$710.00.

In addition to this unsettling news, as one student pit it, lecturers at the College were also greeted this week with a reminder that they had to comply with the November 19 deadline for taking the vaccine.

When one lecturer inquired about the repercussions if he did not take the vaccine, his senior quietly referred him to the government’s ultimatum and informed him that he would have to state clearly his intention, since the College wanted to move quickly to advertise vacancies should the services of any lecturer(s) have to be terminated.

Interestingly, on Thursday the Ministry of Education (MOE) posted the advertisement accompanying this article on its Facebook page.

While it clearly shows the intent of Government as far as its response to primary and secondary teachers resisting the vaccine and the vacuum that that will create given the conditions of the November 19 ultimatum, the same action is anticipated with respect to staff replacement at the SVGCC. In fact, one lecturer at the SVGCC assured the VINCENTIAN that he was told by a faculty member of the SVGCC that they were working expeditiously to compile a list of vacancies to submit to the Ministry of Education, for subsequent advertisement in the local media.

The poster that appeared on the MOE Facebook page last Thursday.

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4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Jarvis’ phones handed over, but…

Assizes takes the handed over to her, as she needed thoroughly, nor was she able to ascertain whether they were break for them to assist in the preparation of ATTORNEY Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, forensically analyzed.

Christmas. her defence. representing murder accused journalist Javis’ matter is still stuck at the Robertson also The items included Jarvis’ cellular and Public Relations Consultant- Junior Case Management stage, and the trial phones, Ipad, key ring, and two keys. told the Court Jarvis, confirmed to THE VINCENTIAN on is not likely to be heard before the She had also requested disclosure of a that, “My Wednesday that she has received three next sitting of the Criminal Assizes instruction is that cellular phone which had belonged to of the items, belonging to her client, scheduled to begin in January 2022. the phones were Lawrence. which the Court had ordered that the Jarvis is awaiting trial for the The state’s claim was that the items supposed to be state hand over to her by Monday, handed over this murder of 39-year-old Bank of St. had to be forensically examined and November 15. morning.”

Vincent and the Grenadines employee, that process had not yet been Junior Jarvis will Bacchus-Baptiste said that two The Court had Randy Lawrence, who was reportedly completed. have another cellular phones, and an Ipad, pro given the state shot several times around 7am, At a Case Management hearing on Case tablet, belonging to Jarvis, were until last Monday February 14, 2017 (Valentine’s Day) at October 15 this year, Justice Brian Management handed over to her at her Law to hand over the Arnos Vale.

Cottle ordered that the items be hearing in his Chambers on Monday. items to Jarvis’ He is also awaiting trial for the handed over to Bacchus-Baptiste by matters before But the lawyer who has been attorney. attempted murder of Josette Smith of Monday, November 15. year end. engaged in another legal matter for Robertson asked Arnos Vale, using a firearm to aid in At the most recent Case the past week, said that to date she that the hearing be the commission of an offences, Management hearing of the matter did get a chance to look at the items stood down so that she could get in entering Smith’s apartment as a which was held at the High Court on contact with Bacchus-Baptiste. trespasser, and at the Monday, Bacchus-Baptiste was not Justice Cottle granted the short time had with him a present but attorney Samantha adjournment, and the DPP said she weapon of violence, to wit Robertson held papers for her. would use the time to inquire as to a gun. He is also accused Director of Public Prosecutions of using force to compel (DPP) Sejilla Mcdowall told the Court whether the phones could be handed Smith from her house at that the state was seeking to have the over the same day.

When the hearing was resumed, the Arnos Vale, and phones forensically analyzed, and DPP confirmed that the phones would assaulting her causing though some progress was made in be handed over. bodily harm. this regard, that process was not yet Justice Cottle then told Jarvis, These offences were completed.

“Your phones will be handed over also reportedly The DPP gave a time line of about today to your legal representative.” committed at Arnos Vale, two to three weeks which she said The DPP also told the Court, “I February 14, 2017. would take the matter into the next PAPER Committal Procedure is seemingly the think it would be important to have Bacchus-Baptiste had sitting of the Criminal Assizes. But way to go, and the murder case of 31-year-old another Case Management before the asked that a number of Robertson said that if there was going Leroy Cuffy of Barrouallie, is an example of this. items which she said to be a time line of about two to three close of the Assizes.

Cuffy, a fisherman, was charged with the Following consultation with both were taken from her weeks for the forensic process to be murder of his cousin Mandreca sides, Justice Cottle set December 10 client following his arrest completed, another case management Soloman, 30, who died of a as the date for the next Case in February 2017, be hearing could be scheduled before the gunshot wound on April 15, Management hearing.

2021.

The offence was reportedly committed at Glebe Hill, Barrouallie on April 15, 2021, and in the space of about seven record, Simmonds had several A 23-YEAR-OLD UNEMPLOYED recovered, following a report to months, Cuffy’s case has gone MAN of Edinboro has been given the boy’s parents. The clothing convictions of a similar nature, past the Committal stage, and one year to compensate a woman was seen hanging from a line at including burglaries at the may possibly be ready for the whose home he recently Thompson’s Home, the St. Mary’s the defendant’s home. next sitting of the Criminal burglarized, stealing a variety of Catholic School, and the Convent Before Burnett arrived at his Assizes. items which altogether valued of the Roman Catholic Church. decision, Lewis, who was called to At a Paper Committal EC$2,096.

When the Magistrate inquired the stand, agreed that Simmonds Procedure on Monday which Senior Magistrate Rickie of Simmonds if he was ever a was in no position to pay lasted about 15 minutes, Chief patient at the Mental Health Burnett, sitting at the Kingstown compensation, as he was Magistrate Rechanne Browne Centre, he said, “No.” Magistrate’s court on Tuesday, unemployed, and his only source committed Cuffy to stand trial Leroy Cuffy in Burnett said he found ordered that Michael Simmonds of income was pittances he got handcuffs as he in the High Court.

Simmonds hanging the stolen compensate Edinboro resident La- from running errands for people.

The witness statements, and was taken into clothes hanging a bit unusual for Fern Lewis in the sum $2,000.

Lewis was of the view that if other relevant material to the custody by the someone of sound mind.

Simmonds is to make the Simmonds was sent to prison, it case were reviewed by police in April, Prosecutor Shamrack Pierre payment by November 16, 2022. would teach him a lesson.

Prosecutor Renrick Cato, 2021. said that as far as he was aware, In default he will go to prison for Lewis said she knew the Cuffy’s lawyer Carl Williams, Simmonds was of sound mind. nine months. defendant well, and used to give and the Chief Magistrate, following which the “If I am going to order “You have to find a job, you him his three meals daily.

She Court gave its ruling. compensation, it’s going to be have to find work to do. You have said she gave him a job to carry Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN after, a whole year to pay her (Lewis). some concrete blocks to her home, about $2,000, and if I am going to Prosecutor Cato said Paper Committal do that, I have to give him about Go by BRAGSA and tell them you but he betrayed her trust. She proceedings are the way to go, and admitted that a year to pay,” the Magistrate want a job,” Burnett told said Simmonds likes cleanliness, this procedure was a major contributing factor to said.

Simmonds, in handing down the and had a love for soap and Cuffy’s case having gone past the committal stage Attorney Grant Connell who penalty. toiletries. in such a short space of time. He noted that the was at the Bar Table, in Simmonds was also sentenced But the Magistrate contended procedure saves (judicial) time, and suggested connection with another matter, to 18 months, but that sentence that prison may not be the best that a Paper Committal proceeding could be was suspended for one year. place for Simmonds, who had told made his input as a friend of the completed within minutes while an oral Court. He recommended The defendant had pleaded the Court that he was taking Preliminary Inquiry, in which witnesses are called compensation, in addition to the guilty to entering Lewis’ twotreatment for a serious ailment. to testify, could last for weeks or even months. storey dwelling house as a Simmonds had earlier given the suspended sentence, and noted that there were instances before Cato said he is pleased that most lawyers have trespasser, between October 14 Court the name of that disease. in which the Court had allowed been agreeing to the Paper Committal route. He Burnett was also convinced and 25, 2021, and stealing a persons up to a year or more to pointed out that if an accused person does not that Simmonds, based on his quantity of groceries valued pay compensation, in cases of a have a lawyer and wants to take this route, he economic situation currently, he $C606, toiletries valued EC$250, similar nature. could inform the Court and the Court could make clothing valued EC$920, a pair of would not be able to pay “Write down his name for the the arrangement to have it done. compensation. burgundy Puma shoes valued ‘road gang’,” Connell suggested, Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche has been “Just gey me some time, I will EC$120, and a pair of Air Nike referring to the Christmas road consistent in support of Paper Committal shoes valued EC$200, amounting work and pay back the money. I cleaning programme, expected to proceedings. He, too, in several interviews with done mek up me mind not to do it to a total value of EC$2,096. All begin soon.

THE VINCENTIAN, described it as, “The way to again,” Simmonds, who was the items are said to be Lewis’ go”. unrepresented, pleaded. property, and some of them were Continued on Page 31.

Burnett noted that based on his Stories by HAYDN HUGGNS

Fisherman to stand trial for murder

Unemployed given chance to payback

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 5.

News

Orande Charles, Chairman of the National Nine Mornings Committee, addressing Nine Mornings stakeholders at the Methodist Church hall last Saturday.

DESPITE THE CONCERNS and threats of the coronavirus, communities across St Vincent and the Grenadines are being encouraged to do their usual Christmas ‘lightingup’.

This will complement Nine Mornings activities which will be concentrated at the

Nine Mornings tailored by COVID-19 Victoria Park in capital Kingstown.

In addition, the Nine Nights Festival at the Botanical Gardens will also go ahead as accustomed.

However, only persons who are vaccinated against the COVID-19 will be allowed to attend the activities at Victoria Park and the Botanical gardens.

These and other announcement were made last Saturday at the Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown, as the National Nine Mornings Committee met with the various community groups, to inform and update them of plans for the 2021 festivities.

Chair of the National Nine Mornings Committee- Orande Charles told the gathering that “We (National Committee) will be going big on the

lights… The Lighting Competition will be on,” but disclosed a shift in attention for this year, noting that private homes will get the greater focus.

“This year we will be focusing on the private homes …There will be five positions for each zone this year,” Charles said.

The Nine Mornings Committee Chair added that apart from encouraging more private homes to light up, they are soliciting persons to light gardens, business premises and community squares.

On the other hand, Charles enunciated: “We will be discouraging the staging of live concert activities in the communities where we are not able to exercise those safety and health protocol controls.”

However, in a subsequent conversation

An INÑERE -KIMYSTICCLO Collaboration

by GLORIAH… COME NEXT FRIDAY, 26th November, two prominent enterprises from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) will collaborate to showcase what is said to be unique interior design and fashion designs.

This collaboration, dubbed a ‘Pop-up Shop’, will feature INÑERE of the BVI with its principal interior designer and artist Vincentian Ms. Pamisha Wright, and Kimysticclo, headed by renowned fashion designer- Kimon Baptiste-St. Rose.

Even as enthusiasts can expect to be enthralled by what they will see and are moved to purchase, they will also have the opportunity to pitch their ideas for renovations and transforming spaces with Ms. Wright, who will give short, free consultations to interested persons.

Ms. Wright is eager to interface with the Vincentian public and

has expressed a desire for persons to familiarise themselves with ‘the person they see on social media.’

About the collaboration, she told THE VINCENTIAN, “I’m super excited about the upcoming event and working alongside Kimon to make this event a memorable one that will benefit both parties.”

Similarly, Baptiste-St Rose expressed her pleasure with and anticipation of the collaboration.

She stated: “I am extremely excited to partner with INÑERE as this young Vincentian launches what I think would be a very successful brand in St

Pamisha Wright of INÑERE. Left: Kimon Baptiste-St. Rose of Kimysticclo Vincent and the Grenadines. This partnership is also in line with my vision to create amazing synergies and elevated experiences with other entrepreneurs.”

The Showcase will offer deals on products on show, chances to win cool prizes and lots of sweet festive treats, Baptiste promised.

The ‘Pop-up Shop’ will be hosted at the Kimmysticclo location upstairs the old ‘Y. DeLima’ building in Kingstown.

with THE VINCENTIAN, the Chairman disclosed that recommendations are currently being explored for one activity on the Leeward and one on the Windward side of the island.

“What we do not want,” he was adamant, “is for random stages to be put up and persons gathering at [nonrecommended] venues across the country.”

As for the health protocols, Charles informed: “Persons will be required to be vaccinated to attend these Festivals … We are

making accommodations for the presentations to be live streamed and broadcast. …We will try as much as possible to include as many of the familiar themes, but given the fact that we are still in a pandemic state, some features will not be applicable at this time.”

Commenting on the move to Victoria Park, Charles remarked: “We would try as much as possible to recreate what persons have become accustomed to at Heritage Square at Victoria Park, so the aesthetics …, the

cultural features will just be transferred to Victoria Park. … .”

Charles assured, “Our focus will be on ensuring that communities are safe, everything will flow from the perspective of health and safety… As such we are seeking to create safe spaces, bubble spaces where persons can enjoy features of the festival, the cultural aspects of the festival.”

The theme for the celebrations which run from 16th to 24th December is, ‘Keeping the Christmas Spirit Alive’.

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6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Education

Flow donates tablets to Red Zone students

TELECOMMUNICATION Company Flow has donated 75 tablets to the Ministry of Education, to be used by students in the Red Zone – northeast and northwest communities on mainland St. Vincent.

During a handing over ceremony at the company’s main office in Kingstown, Flow’s Acting Country Manager, Shelly-Ann Toney said the idea of the donation is to help students who had either lost or damaged their tablet.

The donation was made possible through the Cable and Wireless Charitable Foundation which was launched in 2017 as part of the company’s commitment to doing business in a responsible and sustainable way. Toney said that since its launch, the Foundation has donated millions of dollars to local, regional and international agencies to deliver relief and recovery projects, including relief and recovery contributions made during and after the eruption of the La Soufriere

volcano.

Attention, Toney said, was now focused on providing access to devices and providing connectivity to ensure that the students stay connected to online learning platforms.

Minister of Education, Curtis King, who received the donation, expressed the ministry’s gratitude and describing it as a “welcomed one.”

He stated that use of devices the issue of connectivity were important given what obtains with respect to approach to instructions.

“In order to access via online or the virtual world there must be internet connection and there must be a device that would allow access… so what Cable and Wireless St. Vincent and the Grenadines is doing here today is indeed magnanimous, and it is welcomed and appreciated by the Ministry of Education, said the Education Minister.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Myccle Burke

(L-R:) Myccle Burke - PS/MOE, Shelly-Ann Toney – Flow Country Manager (Ag) and Curtis King, Education Minister at the handing over of the tablets. also expressed appreciation to FLOW saying, inter alia, “Today what we are witnessing is a company not just honoring their corporate responsibilities, but a company that feels the pulse of a nation; that feels the pulse of the Ministry of Education

(system) and has stepped up to lend its support and we are immensely grateful.”

Burke appealed to parents to ensure that the tablets are used for the purpose intended. (KH)

The blended approach: Challenges and Hope

by Gloriah…

THE BLENDED format of educational instruction was introduced here on Monday, November 1, 2021 in schools where a greater percentage of their teachers were vaccinated. The format, though preferred by many teachers, parents and students, over online teaching/learning, brought with it a number of problems.

Mrs. Andrea GaymesMohess, Counsellor and Lecturer at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, as she spoke on NBC Radio’s Face to Face programme on Monday, 15th November, said that indeed some parents, teachers and students are finding it very difficult to adjust to the blended learning format.

The counsellor revealed that anxiety and fatigue are two of the mental health problems observed among teachers and students as they try to transition to the blended approach.

Mrs. Gaymes-Mohess agreed that the difficulty exists where a single student will have classes both in school and at home, and the transition could become difficult when students become tardy in preparing and

engaging in at-home and in-school classes. “Being in mental health,” she opined, “some of the opposite observations and feedback that I’m receiving, it’s a lot of anxiety in terms of making that transition.

You have a lot of fatigue as well. I think sometimes we also overlook that our children and our people have gone through so much in the last six months.”

The counsellor felt that despite the challenges, the blended format has provided relief for the majority of students who are given the opportunity to return to school upon their schedule. She felt that it was creating positives among many.

“Also, you see where you observe where students are actually looking out for each other while in the faceto-face setting, where they’re checking with each other to know: ‘Did you get the work?’,” she proffered.

“I think parents too can breathe a little sigh of relief because where before you would have had that every-day checking in - and I think different schools have different methods based on the Ministry’s policy but there is that gap — a little angle of hope that they don’t have to monitor as much; that

Mrs. Andrea GaymesMohess, Counsellor and Lecturer at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College. the teacher and the classroom setting can give them that sense of break and relief and …. they have a little more interaction with their students unlike being in a full online setting as well.”

The blended format of instruction continues until further review from the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health.

This format saw students of entry and exit classes having instructions at the school plant for the greater part of the week, while other students were engaged there for a fewer number of days. Online instruction was also given to these two groups.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

That vaccine ultimatum THE GOVERNMENT’S rather heavyhanded imposition of compulsory vaccination on frontline workers has demonstrated yet again its lack of understanding and respect for the workers so categorised.

That said, some of those frontline workers who had opted to join the ranks of the ‘vaccine hesitants’ or ‘vaccine non-receptors’, seemed to have been jolted into something of a reconsideration, when the Prime Minister reminded them recently that the deadline of November 19 was drawing nigh, and if they didn’t step up to the plate before then, come November 19 they would be out of jobs.

(To digress a little. Are the lawmakers aware of the real possibility that a thing like a mandatory vaccine can make it unnecessarily difficult to persuade people to join the (health) care-giving profession?

At the very least, this is an additional barrier the sector could do without.)

Back to what is our reality: Are there not some questions of unfairness attached to this rather draconian measure? After minimal if any consultation, the Government moved to pass legislation to amend the Public Health Act and impose a S, R & 0 in accordance with that amendment, that all but imposed mandatory vaccinations upon health care workers, home care workers, police/prison and customs officers… a list of other public sector workers they chose to categorise as frontline workers, i.e. so classified given their contact with the public.

Would it not have been fairer to consult all these frontline workers on the question of a mandatory vaccine before imposing a mandatory requirement and an ultimatum?

Not to have taken that road speaks to a government making up its mind on the matter well in advance, because it knew politically speaking, that opposition would be minimal because the frontline workers are not in fact vociferous, obstreperous or long-lasting opponents.

Where is the sense of fairness and “all in this together” in that?

Are we really going to reward

these workers for all their bravery and sacrifice throughout the highs and lows of the pandemic, with the threat of losing their job or being ‘redeployed’?

And if the dangers posed to those they serve is so great why must the frontline workers be obligated to take the vaccine and not those whom they serve?

Of course we understand why the Government has taken this decision.

The vaccine is vital and it is playing a key role in the country overcoming COVID-19. And with its prevailing threat to economic stability, it is understandable that the Government might think this worthwhile.

The reality is that those who succumbed to COVID-19 did not die because some frontline worker with whom they interacted was not vaccinated. Sadly, they died because, amongst many reasons, testing was not mandatory at the outset of the pandemic and COVID-19 got into homes through many different ways.

This publication has stood in support of the vaccine because it is a proven way of helping a country return to normality.

But our support has been conditional. We also hold firmly to the position that in a free country, the idea of being forced to have a vaccination or face losing your job or being redeployed does not sit well.

It simply runs amok of what is the basic right of every individual to choose.

As it stands (and as alluded to earlier), more and more people are getting vaccinated and given a little more time and greater efforts at persuasion, we could probably get to that threshold which we desire without the need for threats and warnings. Instead, the Government has decided to use the blunt instrument of legislation to force care workers to be vaccinated.

What a shame it cannot be as decisive when it comes to properly understanding the social/health care sector and giving it the longpromised reform for which it is crying out. That reform should be mandatory, with a deadline, or they should lose their jobs!

Budgeting for the Enterprise Fund CWSA IN THE WAKE OF LAST YEAR’S unprecedented wave of deserters, another outbreak of Dengue Fever, the COVID-19 Pandemic, and the Eruptions of the La Soufriere Volcano, CWSA made a sizeable down payment on building Goodwill among its customers. The Board offered generous discounts to the customers. They later deferred disconnections for nonpayment or later payment. They even discontinued billing customers in the “Red Zone” until services resumed and customers could return home from the various camps. These generous and emotional responses to the physical, economic, and social crisis created by these disasters could lead to financial disaster if not managed carefully.

CWSA’s ability to offer these discounts and deferrals is a testament to the superior and robust management of the organization.

Thank you, Mr. Saunders. As you prepare for the coming budget year, it will not be unreasonable to see some attempt to recoup some of those lost revenue. Please do not yield to that temptation, Mr. Manager.

Still, at some point, the utilities will have to collect that money. Slow and steady is the way. The utility rates should always be structured to collect only as much money as was needed to run the operations. So I am going to ask a few uncomfortable questions: 1. What was the total cost of the discounts and billing forgiveness this year?

2. Did we use funds designed for growth and infrastructure replacement to cover this loss of revenue?

3. Did customers not directly affected by the volcano eruption take advantage of your generosity and not pay their bills promptly? In short, did your delinquency rate increase last year?

4. Are you going to honour any union-negotiated benefits, like a salary increase this year?

5. Did you or are you going pay any bonuses to the employees for the excellent job and services they provided this year?

You see, Mr. Manager, these are some things that concern me as we

prepare for a new budget year.

Regardless of your answers to these questions, the show must go on. I can only hope that you will recover from these losses in a manner that would not require a dramatic increase in the monthly charges. Now could we talk about next year’s budget and a few things that concern me?

With all the changes last year, are you planning to conduct a comprehensive rate study/analysis update? You should be. One of the things I hope we learned from the volcano eruption is the need to reinforce and decentralize the delivery system. I am concerned about our capacity to deliver reliable water needs to meet the demands of the projected growth in the tourism and industrial sectors. By my estimates, we are planning to bring online between 1,500-2,000 new hotel rooms in the next two to three years. Are we ready to deliver water to these developments without adversely impacting the current customers?

Another concern is the rivers in the traditional water catchment area. Are we expecting them to recover to preeruption levels? What is the geologist telling us? Will that be sufficient water to meet future demands? If not, are we ready to begin the discussion and planning for a desalination plant? In my opinion, it’s not too early to dust off that old plan and restart that conversation. I know this will be a costly venture that will have to be debt-financed. We should update that feasibility study, revisit the possible plant locations, and develop concept plans now. If nothing else today, we need to protect those ideal locations identified in the previous study to maximize our options and minimize future costs.

My experience tells me it will be much easier to get grant assistance when plans are complete. And depending on the time lapse between planning and implementation, some grants or favorable borrowing rates could be applied to these early planning costs.

Horatio

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 9.

10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 11.

Letters

Now you know my name A FEW WEEKS back I highlighted the problem we faced because no one is bothering with us, apparently because you think we have no name.

For your information, we not only have names but characters and personality also.

In colonial days we were well cared for. The King, and then Queen

Elizabeth left the District Officer in charge of us. In fact, individuals and sometimes whole gangs pandered to our every need. There was a structure for our maintenance in place.

Whenever someone noticed any of us bruised or broken, a report was made to the authorities,

and soon thereafter corrective measures were taken.

Independence does not mean that we dismantle the good local government structures we inherited since independence. Now that we are on our own, we must maintain what we have and take pride in making it better. Some of us will identify ourselves and the place where we reside with the hope that something will be done.

It was not a matter of the scarcity of money because money was

limited in those days.

Even if the repairmen came on a donkey cart, they got the work done.

If you find yourself in Union Island you can hail up the Clouden Pot Hole in Point Look Out. In Murray, you cannot escape the Oleman Pot Hole. Drive carefully when passing the Mother Allen Pot Hole near Vinlec. If you must pass Jones Hill, be careful because you must navigate the several Matron Pot Holes. They may frighten you whether you are

vaccinated or not. Going down the hill you may encounter Tanty Amy Pot Holes. Do not think you can get a loan from GECCU to cover the Ven Pot Hole, you will not succeed. You are better off walking up the Badeau Road towards Tanty Leotha. The days when people used to take off their shoes on their way to church are here again. The jolts you would get from the congregation of Anglican Church Pot Holes should be sufficient to cause you to reflect, confess, and

TWO ISSUE ago, my fellow letter writer Thomas raised quite a few questions about traffic here. One of the things he raised was the use of the ‘check-on-yourbus (computer-phone) facility which commuters can use to see if ‘their’ bus is heading into Kingstown (or wherever), and how soon it will be there.

I gathered from what Thomas was saying or implying that the system even though it was up and running, was not being used to any appreciable degree.

Then a friend told me that it was a case of having the minibuses register with the system or else the system would be of no use.

If it is that the facility is not being used, then you can’t blame Thomas for saying that we swallow this thing so that we could give the impression that we reach…. that we developed.

I wonder, even as we hope that this ‘check-onyour-bus’ facility would be better subscribed, why we couldn’t get the Taiwanese to fund, give and install for us, a camera system that would monitor traffic and traffic accidents. The truth is that most if not all traffic accidents whether they are fatal or not, happen where the police are not present.

When the case goes to court it is the word of one driver against the other, and the police in the middle trying to give evidence, so to speak, about something which they did not witness

firsthand. How can any decision be fair in a situation like that?

Now, if we had cameras strategically placed along our roadways, we wouldn’t have to bother about some traffic officer embarrassing himself by

trying to make conclusions about something he didn’t see.

Further, if we had traffic cameras on our roads, particularly at known trouble spots, motorists (especially minibuses) will think twice about overtaking

Rebuilding the West Indies Cricket Team Time for Traffic Monitoring Cameras REGARDLESS of the amount of criticism that was poured on the West Indies team to the recent T20 World Cup and its selectors, many of us were expecting a better performance. The performance of the team was disgraceful. The players looked like a bunch of tired men, and in some cases school boys learning to play the game.

The unfortunate and hurtful thing is that many of the younger players who performed creditably in the recent CPL were home, while the tired, old men were embarrassing the whole Caribbean.

This makes us wonder where we are at in terms of progressing, and if indeed there are both insularity and politics influencing the selection of the team.

Be that as it may, that is history now; West Indies cricket has to go on. So looking to the future, the process of rebuilding and reshaping a team should begin now. Proper and honest evaluation is necessary.

Looking in from the outside, I will like to offer some simple recommendations. Bearing in mind that hard decision must be taken in order for progress to take place.

Amongst the many recommendations are: * The replacing of the selectors with those who are committed to West Indies cricket and have the interest of its upward movement, without bias and insularity. * The management team, including the coaches, should be removed. From observation it would seem that the coaches had no influence on the team performances. Maybe they were influential in the team selection. * The replacing of the current captain with Nicholas Pooran should be done soonest. We have seen from the previous games in which Pooran was captain that there was more togetherness and a commitment to win. His field placements and tactics were much better than Pollard’s.

More can be added, but I will stay there for now. Suffice it to say that the rebuilding must take place sooner than later. Therefore, considerations must be given to the following players as those expected to be an integral part of rebuilding team: Nicholas Pooran(Captain), Evin Lewis, Kennar Lewis, Shemron Hetneyer (Vice Captain), Sherfance Rutherford, Jason Holder, Raymon Reifer, Kemo Paul, Dominic Drakes, Odean Smith, Akeal Hosein, Roston Chase, Hayden Walsh Jr., Fabian Allen and Obed Mc Coy. Also, Omari Shepherd and Keswick Williams should be given some considerations.

It is better to loose with these men than to be embarrassed by tried, tested and experienced guys, who are millionaires from the game.

As a West Indian I will like to see us rise again and be counted. Let us rally round the West Indies.

Kennard King

repent of all your sins.

The choir of pot holes sing, “Fill me Now.” Anthony Stewart, PhD

long lines of traffic and committing other traffic infractions. This practice is an accident waiting to happen.

In short, camera evidence will bring the real occurrence to court.

Just a thought.

Charles, Edinboro

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12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The atomised individual (An Excerpt from the publication by Dr. The Hon. Ralph E. Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines entitled “The Atomised Individual, the Social Individual and the Covid Vaccine”) IN ITS MOST PRISTINE form the “atomised individual” insists that the interests of the individual should take precedence always over the public interest, the society and the social groups therein, the nation, and the State. The “atomised individual” extols selfishness, his or her own individual interest, personal self-reliance bordering on autarky, and his or her own personal independence with little or no regard for others. These ideas and perspectives of the “atomised individual” lead him or her to proclaim absolute, or near absolute, individual rights with little or no limitation or restraint, without a sufficiency of regard for the public interest or anyone else’s individual interest or rights.

As such, the “atomised individual” advocates total or near total freedom from government regulation in the pursuit of his or her economic goals, personal agendas, or interests, including little or no regulation of the right or freedom relating to his/her person, expression, assembly, property, religion, the right to bear arms (in the context of the USA), and so forth, or of any subject in which the community or public has an interest reasonably required to be protected and advanced.

The atomising forces of global capitalism, the increasing homogenisation of modern culture, the glorification of individual personalities, and the revolution in information communication technology have so mesmerised large swathes of our population that many hanker, uncritically, for what they mistakenly believe to be “the good life” of the atomised individual. Paradoxically, these very persons consider that this atomised individualism delivers unto them the largest possible expanse of personal liberty or freedom and personal acquisition of material things, when in fact it does nothing but enthralls them to, and subjugates them under, the impersonal forces such as global capitalism and intelligence-gathering by monolithic corporations, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Such atomised individuals, unwittingly, become easily manipulated in the social laboratory of life, living, and production by their impersonal masters in very much a similar way as the scientist manipulates the atoms in the scientific laboratories. If one doubts this sociopolitical manipulation in the social laboratory, please look at the nefarious work of Donald Trump and his Republicans in the USA, Cambridge Analytica, Strategic Communications Laboratories, (inclusive of its activities on behalf of the opposition New Democratic Party in St. Vincent and the Grenadines), and imperialism’s “Deep State”.

In a fascinating essay entitled, The Death of Community and the Rise of Individualism (July 16, 2018 — The Internet), a political scientist Sami Omais, aptly explores the phenomenon of “social atomisation” as follows: “One ....... phenomenon that we often fail to reflect on is the disintegration of our social fabric, namely, social atomisation, or the basic unit of society being broken down into smaller parts........ Today, the joint effects of technology, the principles of modern citizenship, and relatively open borders give people the ability to decide where to live, with which nation to align, and what lands to call home. As individuals become accustomed to frequently moving and breaking ties with their community of birth, communal identification becomes transient. People lack deep links to any singular culture; globalisation makes the individual a sponge that soaks up the norms and beliefs of whichever locale they find themselves in. The result is the absence of a clear and permanent identity, without which the individual cannot truly/fully belong to any community.

Without community, they have no culture to provide shared customs and understandings that create common links and trust between a people.

Overall, ties of community dissipate and the individual becomes the basic unit of society.” [My Emphasis] As Omais correctly observes: “The underlying cause of this atomisation and the overall ideology that encourages this development in the western world is liberalism; a classical philosophy that posits individual autonomy and equality between individuals as the two ultimate moral values ....... Liberalism’s unit of analysis is the individual, caring neither for the community nor any collective. As such, economic, political, moral, and legal questions are resolved with the individual in mind, making it unsurprising that it was in liberal parts of the world, namely the United States [of America] and Europe, that extreme individualism first emerged.”

To be sure, the notion of “the individual” in the “Age of Enlightenment” contributed immensely to humanity’s progress in the dissolution of despotic monarchial regimes, feudalism, religious dogmas of Catholicism, and unscientific follies, and in giving rise to worthy achievements, hitherto unrealized, such as representative government, individual liberties, capitalism, religious diversity and tolerance, advanced science and technology, and democratic governance.

These very accomplishments, however, contain multiple contradictions which, if unresolved or left in an unbalanced condition, engender unacceptably high social costs and/or debilitating personal consequences.

Unbridled or pristine individualism has engendered huge socio-economic contradictions in free-enterprise capitalism, the decay of community and soc-ial solidarity, the persistence of poverty and inequality amidst material abundance for a small minority, a resurgence of religious intolerance, the misuse and abuse of aspects of modern science and technology, the undermining of a system of public order and the democratic state based on aggregated community or public interests, and the assault on the quality of life, personally.

From the beginning, it was the genuine quest of liberalism to balance carefully individual interests and public interests. Constitutions and laws were accordingly so framed. However, this balance has been put under immense strain with the emergence and consolidation of a parallelogram of forces which have exalted an atomised individualism over the public good or the public interest. This imbalance is destructive of the very society and the individuals themselves therein.

This reality, and prospect, is evidently manifest among those who claim a jaundiced, pristine or atomised individualism which retards and undermine the fight against the novel coronavirus by their opposition to any effective roll-out of the vaccine, which is the best, and safest, tool in the tool box to defeat COVID-19. Those who embrace an atomised individualism rail against the profound social solidarity manifested by its practitioners. And the established, mainstream science and the governments of the 193 member-states of the United Nations accept and conclude, after careful study and analysis that the vaccine is safe, with its use overwhelmingly beneficial to the individual and society. In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the vaccine is available, and free, to the public, but the anti-vaxxers and the permanently vaccine hesitant deploy every specious, unfounded argument against taking the anti-COVID vaccine, including seductive, but wrong, reasoning grounded in a philosophy of atomised individualism.

East Kingstown state of the constituency 2021- 1st-year report NOVEMBER 5TH, 2020 saw the ushering in of a new Parliamentary Representative in the constituency of East Kingstown in the person of Dwight Fitz Bramble a first-time candidate representing the New Democratic Party (NDP).

Prior to my being elected as the East Kingstown Representative, the constituency was represented by former NDP and Opposition Leader, Arnhim Eustace, whose stint at representing the constituency extended for twenty (20) consecutive years - four (4) consecutive elections all as an opposition MP. Mr. Eustace’s tenure was highlighted by his leadership of the NDP and his consistent highlighting of economic issues affecting St. Vincent & the Grenadines which were emphasized in his robust parliamentary debates. In 2019, Mr. Eustace decided to retire from active politics thereby ending an era of exemplary and statesmanlike service to our blessed country. The standard that he set and left will be difficult to emulate but is a benchmark for quality parliamentary representation in our country. Thank you, Mr. Eustace for your service.

My decision to serve the people of East Kingstown and St. Vincent & the Grenadines was guided by my lifelong principle of ‘equal rights and justice for all’ - a principle rooted in the African philosophy of UBUNTU — Humanity towards others (I am because we are).

Indeed, my mission “to serve the people of East Kingstown with integrity and professionalism; to fight for justice and equality, while striving to implement change for a better quality of life for All Vincentians”, reflects a recognition of the critical elements of development in and for the constituency.

My general plan for the development of the constituency which was enunciated during the 2020 election campaign, and which remains applicable and relevant includes the following: creating new jobs: training young people including better technical training; developing new business hubs; promoting small businesses and investing in local businesses; supporting our tourism industry, boosting our agriculture and fisheries industries; delivering efficient and convenient health care; funding science and technology; improving education in East Kingstown and delivering new and improved sporting facilities.

Furthermore, my portfolio as an opposition MP includes: Foreign Affairs, Sustainable Development, Public Sector, Sports and Economics. These focus areas allow me the flexibility to address the many issues herein highlighted in this report.

The state of the constituency of East Kingstown at the time of the last general elections on November 5th, 2020, left a lot to be desired. Many socio-economic challenges (which mirrored similar challenges nationwide) manifested themselves via gloomy realities: the most troubling reality was the high level of unemployment in the constituency which was estimated at almost twice the size (about 50%) of the national rate a year ago. Youth unemployment in the constituency is estimated at an even higher rate; inadequate and poor health care facilities in the constituency make it difficult for constituents to access proper health care; access to and use of the sporting facilities by constituents’ youths is difficult at best; the level of poverty in East Kingstown is speculated to be higher than the national rate (35%); the incidence of crime is worrying and debilitating on the socioeconomic development of communities in the constituency and the poor condition of the roads in the constituency are arguably the worst in the country.

Unfortunately, this general poor state of East Kingstown has existed and worsened for at least the past decade.

Serious consideration must therefore be given to the causes of these realities and the factors which have led to their worsening. As we move forward with our developmental thrust, those considerations must adequately inform the strategy and process which would be intended to take the constituency out of its socioeconomic quagmire.

Upon being elected to represent this beautiful constituency, I was convinced that immediate action was needed to stop the bleeding of hardship and ‘sufferation’ experienced by its constituents. Resultantly, many of my activities and much of my focus centered on bringing material relief and assistance to residents. Additionally, recognition of the importance of issues such as comprehensive community development; community life and cohesion; empowerment and employment creation; resource acquisition; skills training; sports and cultural development; local government; education; health care; business creation, expansion and sustainability; food production and food security have guided my attempted and intended programs and projects.

The following is a list of activities and initiatives accomplished in 2021: - Over 1000 individuals (residents of East Kingstown and evacuees who sheltered in EKT as well as other individuals from the red zone) have been directly assisted with materials and supplies in the aftermath of the volcanic eruption. Thanks to donations and contributions from friends and wellwishers from home and abroad, I was able to ensure the distribution of food items, items of clothing, personal effects, school supplies, water, and cash money.

- Thousands of dollars of my personal funds were spent in assisting mostly persons from the EKT constituency and some from other areas. Assistance included: medical expenses, e.g doctor visits, purchasing medication, laboratory tests, etc.; purchasing of foodstuff; payment of bills (utilities, rent, etc.); purchasing of school supplies and books; payment of educational fees; assistance with business start-up and operation (e.g., buying inputs for agriculture etc.); assistance for funerals: and assistance to travel overseas for work; - Young Dems Christmas carolling in the constituency; - Mother’s Day gift presentations to mothers in volcano shelters in EKT - Young Dems establishment (now includes about 50 members) and election of Executive, and strategic planning session; - Clothing Distribution drive; - Distribution of about 100 food care packages for the elderly in EKT; - Started the East Kingstown Community Vegetable Garden.

- School supplies drive.

- Sought assistance for flood victims at Rockies (and other general assistance) for people in the constituency; - CSEC online teaching; - Many public appearances (TV, radio, social platforms); - Social protection consultation and workshop; - Constituency drive through for 42nd anniversary of independence; - Other activities (seek assistance from gov’t and other entities) such as pedestrian crossing at Casson Hill, streetlights installation at Barracks road and other locations, many back walls, drains, gutters etc.

The year 2022 will see a continuation and expansion of programs and projects.

These will be based on the premise of Community Development- the way forward. Our approach must be SMART and relevant to the rapidly emerging challenges of our community, constituency and country.

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

Views

The comfort of discomfort

Pfizermectin, only Time will Tell

“Comfort zones are most often expanded through discomfort.” – Peter McWilliams (1949-2000) American self-help author

by Dr Alfred Dawes, Guest columnist

AT FIRST GLANCE it would seem as though this title is a paradox. Readers could quite easily be tempted to conclude that it is impossible to find comfort in discomfort. However, we can generate some degree of comfort from uncomfortable, discomforting experiences. For example, contemplate the value of pain. As uncomfortable as it may be, it provides the individual with warning signals that the body is in some form of danger. In such a situation, we can be comforted by the fact that the warning signals (e.g., pain) can be priceless in alerting us to the need to avoid being exposed to a more dangerous situation.

While the example of the value of physical pain was used to highlight the comfort of discomfort in the preceding paragraph, the same is true in relation to setbacks (discomforts) that occur in our emotional and/or spiritual lives. The path of personal growth often requires a certain amount of uneasiness or distress. We often have opportunities to grow as a result of the setbacks and disappointments that we experience.

It is therefore reassuring when we understand and appreciate that such situations may work out to be in our best interest. We may not understand or appreciate the circumstances when they appear but, in time, we can learn to appreciate and be reassured of the good that can emerge from a bad situation.

The path to personal growth is often punctuated with some degree of discomfort. For example, the accomplished weightlifter is required to lift enough weight to temporarily damage the muscle tissue so that it may heal and become stronger. The discomfort caused by the exertion placed on the muscle is considered necessary for improved performance.

The weightlifter therefore is comforted/assured that the temporary pain is for his good; for his improvement. The athlete who aims at performing at her very best also knows this to be true. She disciplines herself to run miles as she builds physical stamina and mental toughness. She anticipates that her feet may be sore for a day or two after a long run but she endures the discomfort assured of the fact that it will aid her in relation to her speed, strength, and endurance.

It sometimes appears that too many individuals settle for average performance when they possess the potential to accomplish so much more.

We see this in our schools, workplaces, and neighbourhoods.

However, we are encouraged by the many who pursue excellence. They make the sacrifice to do more than is expected as they push their physical, emotional, and intellectual limits.

They nurture a mindset that clearly demonstrates their understanding that pain, sacrifice, and discomfort are often the forerunners to outstanding accomplishments. They remind us of the importance of struggle and pain along that journey

to outstanding achievements. They are willing to make the sacrifices for their noble dreams and ambitions.

They invest the necessary time and effort to practice and prepare. The best negotiators and strategists among us know this to be true. As they dedicate the time to being totally prepared, they experience a sense of confidence and security emerges to give them the best possible chances of success. As discomforting as these efforts may sometimes appear, they are considered essential to our ultimate success.

The foregoing reminds us that there are multiple benefits to be derived when we accept the challenge to move out of our comfort zone; to face life’s varied challenges with gusto and confidence. We can overcome the fear of pain and discomfort (and develop mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual toughness) when we accept the challenge to endure circumstances that may have otherwise floored us; understanding and appreciating that the pain generated by life’s varied detours and disappointments can assist us to better cope with life’s traumas when they appear. By accepting the fact that we will get hurt (i.e., experience discomfort) we are better able to appreciate that, with God’s help, we can be assured (comforted) that it is possible to regroup, to rebuild, following painful and sometime debilitating experiences. We can gain comfort from the discomfort.

We may be tempted to “play it safe” and to avoid taking the calculated risk in search of physical, emotional, or financial growth. However, as my good friend Jesus Pazos (former CEO of Neal & Massy) would say, “We cannot discover distant lands by remaining on shore.” This writer is certainly not encouraging readers to engage in rash judgements and/or to pursue each and every opportunity for advancement. Such behaviours would be rightfully considered as reckless and foolish. However, it is equally foolish for us to remain in our comfort zones for fear of hurt or failure.

There is wisdom in engaging in critical analysis of the situation and the likely outcome as we engage in activities that will take us out of our comfort zone and expose us to some degree of discomfort. Roy T. Bennett (1939-2014) reminds us that, “The comfort zone is a psychological state in which one feels familiar, safe, at ease, and secure. If you always do what is easy and choose the path of least resistance, you never step outside your comfort zone. Great things don’t come from comfort zones.” Personal growth is possible when we embrace the challenge to move beyond our comfort zone and be comforted by the discomfort.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

FOR THOSE WHO HAVE REPEATEDLY spurned and ridiculed doctors and citizens who have promoted the use of repurposed drugs for the treatment of COVID-19, I hope you have been following the news of late. Blockbuster company Moderna has seen its share price slump by more than 27 percent on the NYSE in the last month. Meanwhile, the scion of the big Pharma, Pfizer Inc, made a 20 percent gain as positive news about the expansion of age groups for its COVID-19 vaccine and, most importantly, their release of a pill for COVID-19 hit the airwaves.

GlaxoSmithKline, the original patent holders of Ivermectin, saw their share price climb with the approvals for its own US$700 oral treatment for COVID-19. Now I’m no analyst, but I’d bet that the bears are out for companies whose gains have been on the back of COVID-19 vaccines without a transition to oral treatments.

‘Conspiracy theorists’ have long argued that the suppression of cheap repurposed drugs was the bidding of a cabal of ruthless money grabbers, whose main objective was to save lives via vaccines and vaccines only.

They’ve been ably abetted by career bureaucrats and health administrators who regurgitate talking points handed down from their overlords. We are seeing much clearer the power of money in this pandemic and how easy it is to manipulate the masses.

Ivermectin, a drug developed 40 years ago and is still listed on the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) list of essential medicines, has been reduced to the derogatory designation of a horse dewormer. Advocates who swear by Ivermectin have been lashed as promoting unsafe, unproven cattle medicine. The programming has been so intense that persons with a rudimentary knowledge of third form biology now pontificate on social media about the horse medicine, and denounce trained doctors who support it. So great is their conviction based on news reports that they are sure they’re now the experts.

and hitting benchmarks.

Pfizer’s new antiviral has been labelled a game-changer. It pivots the focus from vaccinations as the only way out of the pandemic to a focus on early outpatient treatment. The drug’s efficacy was so incontrovertible that the study that won its approval was stopped prematurely because it would have been unethical to continue. The drug works by preventing the action of a protease that cuts viral proteins into smaller pieces that are used to make the armour of the virus. If the protease can’t cut the proteins, then the virus will not have the required components to make its armour, and thus new viruses cannot be produced. It is common knowledge that this works quite well to combat viral infections.

What is not common knowledge but is disturbingly shocking is what I have to say next.

Pfizer’s drug was developed in 2003 to combat a virus known as SARSCOV. If that sounds familiar, it is because it is the close relative of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, SARS-COV2. Why was this drug being ignored from the beginning of the pandemic? Was it because vaccines would have generated a more significant windfall in profits? Why did they sit on this drug and not test and release it earlier if it worked so well on a similar coronavirus?

Refused to conduct studies

Ivermectin developers, GlaxoSmithKline, has refused to conduct any studies on Ivermectin as a treatment for COVID-19. Their campaign against their creation lent credibility to the chorus of criticism against Ivermectin. They then released their own US$700 oral treatment. Would this have happened if they found that the cheap repurposed drug was effective? We will never know.

Another disturbing fact is that the Pfizer drug works in the same way Licenses suspended Ivermectin does to stop the viral protease from working. So from 2003, Doctors who prescribe Ivermectin at least, we knew that protease have been hauled before medical inhibitors work. We knew from 2020 councils and had their licenses that Ivermectin worked against suspended. Some of the old guards SARS- COV-2 and had protease have closed ranks on preserving the inhibitor activity. Nobody put two and status quo, that nothing is of use two together, even as hundreds of unless it has passed the test of a randomised, double-blind, multicenter thousands died from the lack of early outpatient care. It is hard not to clinical trial. Anything else is mud. believe that money had no part to While protective of the population play in this genocide. Repurposed against snake oils, that thinking drugs are usually off-patent, and the grants a monopoly on innovation to immense profits that can be made off those with the resources to carry out a new drug over the life of a twentysuch studies. year profits steer research in a Large pharmaceutical companies particular direction. finance most of the high-quality Maybe I am wrong, and this is just studies required to pass this stress a series of unfortunate coincidences. test. In essence, the conservative Or maybe one day, we will look back medical establishment, and health and wonder if the people who authorities that take directives from facilitated this crime against the WHO, have surrendered medical humanity were foolish, gutless or just innovation to entities that are pure evil. Only time will tell. corruptible or corrupt. As that has happened, there has been a transition Send comments, criticisms & from patient care to a focus on profits suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

V SVG – fear and crime everywhere 14. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

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The ULP regime’s begging, borrowing and taxation as a way to run the economy has devastated our society. The ULP regime lacks ability THE FEAR factor is very high in SVG and created a weak economy. There is a of realities we all face from day to day and strong leadership. Businesses also exist in a state of fear, as this weak serious crime is a plague in our nation. positive correlation between a weak in SVG. Many people are in fear of being a victim economy and high levels of crime. The No matter whether it’s day or night, economy offers little opportunity to of crime – murder, rape, burglary, etc. weaker the economy, the greater the you’re young or old, you’re at home or trade and flourish. Vision and innovation are needed to stimulate the and the ULP regime has no solution to amount of crime. We see in SVG that on the street, we are all a lot more at SVG economy, and hence, reduce fear deal with the high level of crime. people fear not only societal risk of being a victim of crime and and crime.

We had 17 years of NDP and then, breakdown, but breakdown within fear. But fear is not the natural state We need to change to a Green rightly so, people wanted change. But families too. of a civilised society. society, for it is only when we are no they wanted change for a better life, It is frustration and this fear that High VAT and other high taxes are not a worse life. In 2017, SVG reached force people into a life of crime, as fuelling crime. The spiralling high cost longer afraid that we begin to live.

Only an SVG Green Party government a record high of 42 murders in one unfortunately, some in despair see it of living is putting people under can take us from this darkness of fear year — virtually 1 every 8 days! In that as their best option to survive. There constant financial pressure and the into the light of happiness. Everyone year, SVG had the fourth highest is fear of falling further into poverty fear of poverty is in many people’s needs a better quality of life and murder rate per capita in the world. and a life of squalor. mind. We have to ask when will it Aside from the people that have We have seen the images of despair, end? When will the instances of crime should have one as a matter of right. been murdered, many others have extreme poverty and fear on TV and in not be a daily issue and when will our We bring our children into this world to experience a good life and that will been victims of violent crime, including the papers in countries such as Haiti minds be at peace? rape. These victims and their families and Zimbabwe. It’s hard to believe Under this incompetent ULP regime only be possible with a strong, Green economy. must live with these terrible that in such a short time under the can you really see an end in sight to We all have a right to live free of memories.

ULP government, the images of fear in this level of fear and crime within our crime and fear!

The incompetent ULP regime has those countries have become the type society?

We need mature leadership to rescue SVG ON MONDAY evening, the 8th of November 2021, I almost choked on my meal of jack-fish and roasted breadfruit, when I heard Prime Minister Gonsalves on TV imploring the nation to clean up their surroundings. I could hardly believe that Ralph Gonsalves, who has been the head of our administration for the last twenty years and who is the architect of the malaise which is overwhelming our people today, could have the “nerve” to be telling the people today that they must pay attention to matters of health and hygiene.

Is it that he is so busy with preparing his speeches that he has not been having the time to see what has been happening around him? And that when he travels the fleet of vehicles of his entourage significantly limits his view of his surroundings?

underlings some of whom had been seen as persons who were principled and who had by their pronouncements over the years, seemed to be of the predisposition that the populace could have had the confidence in to defend their interests.

But the inducements of “PARTY privilege” were too strong to resist, so that today those “strong and principled” men of yesterday have become little better than acquiescing robots to the utterances of their ‘World-Boss’. They will have only themselves to blame, if they are now regarded as irrelevant and ineffectual, as we embark on serious discussions to determine how we are to go forward.

The welfare of the next generations depends on our success.

We could have but …..

A worthwhile starting point, will be to clean up the country. Never before have we witnessed this level of The condition of the capital degeneration in the quality of the Kingstown is clearly reflective of an maintenance of our environment. Look administration that is not concerned at the condition of the drains in our with the development of the people. capital Kingstown, it speaks volumes What has been the reality for decades of the mentality of our present now demonstrates quite clearly that administration. They lack pride, their St. Vincent and the Grenadines has indifference to such elemental areas of lost its way as a nation. We are far their responsibility shows them up as removed from where the people had being unfit to have been entrusted expected that we would have been by with the management of the docile now. It must be conceded now that the citizens of this beautiful country. But people have been hood-winked by they enjoy the privilege of eating Ralph Gonsalves. The realities today delicious meals in cabinet, at the clearly shows that he is primarily people’s expense! about promoting himself and would Even with the setbacks we have had use any platform available to pursue over the last year we should have been his designs. in a better position. Some of the multiIt is remarkable and it no doubt is millions of dollars which were on testimony to his skill and tenacity that “hand-outs” could have been used to maintain a higher level of hygiene. he has been able to so influence his

Influenced then acquiesced

Those persons who had to seek shelter in Kingstown would have been happy to be employed in the removal of the grass and restoring the drains in Kingstown, so that the sanitation workers could clean properly. Twenty million dollars would have been well spent in that area and the positive impact, particularly on the students returning to school after that stressful period would have been worth every cent. Bad management!

After 42 years

Friday, October 29th, 2021 which was captioned “36 years Equal Poverty the Legacy of Mitchell and Gonsalves”.

It is more than pitiable that merely forty-two years after we have become responsible for the management of our country, our elected leadership could be telling the people that Agriculture cannot play a prominent role in our development. They say we must now depend on TOURISM. What treachery! How could two educated men have been so indifferent to the fact, that it was in agricultural activity that the British engaged themselves to have been able to fortify the economy of Great Britain, and to a large degree determines their status today.

It is worth remembering that Ralph Gonsalves used to be critical of James Mitchell’s selling off property in the Grenadines to expatriates but today he is following the same route. He boasted recently of his realizing significant revenue from the sale of lands to expatriates.

The “hand in hand” walk along the Grand Anse beach in Grenada by James Mitchell and Ralph Gonsalves in 2000 brought a resolution to the widespread protest against the Mitchell/NDP government that is now part of the folk-lore of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. History is likely to document that these two men have been to a large degree the authors of the retardation of the socio-economic advancement of the Vincentian society, because of their indifference to the potential of agriculture to play a dependable role in our economic development. They squandered a good opportunity!

I agree with the sentiments expressed by Dr. Gonsalves in his Independence message as printed in THE VINCENTIAN newspaper of 22nd October …… “still, the manysided challenges before us which touch and concern Health, the Economic, the Social (including Education and Security (HESS) will require herculean correctives”. That will indeed require “mature leadership” which could fashion the environment, the atmosphere, in which every capable citizen feels encouraged to make his contribution, to the development of the country.

I am still pained by the memory when subsequent to the recent protests, Dr. Gonsalves our Prime Minister, vehemently declared that if Dr. Friday the leader of the Opposition called him, that he would not respond.

That to me was unfortunately immature and not reflective of good leadership. We have to endeavour to correct that soon!

I must express here my superlative endorsement of the sentiments expressed by the brother Hugh Stewart, in his article which was published in the “News” newspaper of LeRoy Providence

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18. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

RFHL records end of year profits THE CHAIRMAN OF REPUBLIC FINANCIAL HOLDINGS LIMITED (RFHL), Vincent Pereira, announced on November 8, 2021 profit attributable to equity holders of the

parent of US$195.8 million for the year ended September 30, 2021.

Although the performance was 17.3% (US$40.9 million) below the 2019 performance, it represents

an improvement of 44.7% (US$60.5 million) over the 2020 reported profits.

Total assets stood at US$16.3 billion on September 30, 2021, an increase of US$732.3

Vincent Pereira - Chairman of Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) –announced another end of year profit and highlighted the ‘non-banking’ initiatives in which RFHL had undertaken beginning 2019.

million or 4.7% over that of the prior year.

In announcing the results Mr. Pereira said, “In 2021, Republic Financial Holdings

Limited (RFHL) and its subsidiaries (the Group) continued to support our clients across all the territories in which we operate. The Group assisted clients through deferral of loan payments, reduced interest rates and discounted fees.

We participated in various national initiatives to promote higher vaccination rates and to help those adversely impacted by the Coronavirus. The financial impact of this was reduced revenues and increased costs across the Group. Our overall performance was bolstered to some extent by the full year’s contribution of our new subsidiary in the British Virgin Islands, notable improvements in Ghana and the Cayman Islands and lower levels of provisioning.”

He went onto say, “During this fiscal, the Group has also made meaningful steps toward our sustainability initiative through alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

In April 2021, we joined a group of the leading global commercial banks as founding signatories to the United Nations-convened, Net-Zero Banking Alliance. In June 2021, we announced our US$200 million Climate Finance Goal to finance activities that reduce the impact of climate

change and create environmental solutions in collaboration with our clients.”

The Board of Directors has declared a final dividend of US$0.45 (2020: US$0.31) per share, which brings the total dividend to US$97.7 million or US$0.60 (2020: US$0.40) per share for the fiscal year. This represents an increase of 48.2% in total dividend payment, reflective of the increase in profitability in the current fiscal year.

At a closing share price of US$20.40, this dividend represents a dividend yield of 2.93% (2020: 1.90%). The final dividend will be paid on December 1, 2021 to all shareholders of record on November 18, 2021.

In closing Mr. Pereira added, “I thank the Group’s loyal customers, committed staff and fellow directors for their steadfast performance over another year of pandemic-induced uncertainty and look forward to continuing to support the recovery efforts of the economies in which we operate, while executing our sustainability initiatives to secure a future of diversity and equity, environmental protection, conservation of natural resources and stable economic growth. I would also like to thank Shazan Ali for his sterling contribution to the Board over the last eleven years and welcome Michael Noel to the Board of Directors.”

(Source: RFHL)

V PM addresses Nov. 19 ultimatum

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 19.

News

Prime Minister Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves

CIVIL SERVANTS who ignore the November 19 deadline to get the Covid-19 vaccine and continue to do so for a period of ten days thereafter, will be deemed to have abandoned their jobs.

Further they will not get a hearing (if they appeal) in accordance with normal Civil Service Processes and

Procedures.

This was made clear

by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves as he spoke of the Boom SVG 106.9 OMG Programme on Monday morning.

The Prime Minister elaborated on the issue saying, “After the end of that period, unless in the cases of those persons who are outside of the police and outside of the

port authority or Arygle International Airport Ltd., …outside of the teachers, the nurses, the permanent secretaries, heads of departments, people at customs and immigration, the preexisting condition is that if they are deemed to have abandoned their jobs … they would have taken their choice and abandon their job and

Teachers mark another Solidarity Week TOMORROW, SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER, brings to an end the annual commemoration of Teachers Solidarity Week.

This year’s celebration, held under the theme Theme, Teachers Overcoming Obstacles; ‘Making our Mark in Challenging Times’, began on November 14 and as the week has done over the years, it encouraged reflection on the historic events of 1975, when industrial action by the Teachers’ Union resulted in a demonstration of hundreds of teachers being tear-gassed, the imprisonment of the leadership of the Union, and mass dismissals and transfers of teachers who had participated in strike action.

In a message to mark the week, Oswald Robinson, President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers’ Union, said the theme “portrays the realities of our struggles, both past and present and in itself makes a profound statement as a Trade Union making our mark in challenging times”.

He assessed that many of the issues for which the pioneers of the Union had fought for have resurfaced today, but he assured that the SVGTU “continues to standup and fight for our teachers, students and the educational development of our nation”.

Robinson contextualized the ongoing battles waged by the Union within the trauma of threats of mandatory vaccination, the volcanic eruption of La Soufriere, delayed appointments of some of teachers, high cost of living, but posited that despite these obstacles, teachers

Teachers recall the events of 1975 that consolidated the Union as a force to be reckoned with among workers’ organization. Picture shows the local constabulary taking leaders of the Union (including President Yvonne Francis-Gibson (only lady in picture) into custody during the street demonstration of 1975. remained steadfast and dedicated to quality service.

As for quality service, the President referenced the results at the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) and the CSEC results as testimony of this.

“As we reflect on the past and forge into the future, it is imperative that we be resolute in standing united in raising and upholding out motto ‘Hand in Hand, United We Stand’. Let’s not allow the vaccination status to divide us, but let us work together in unity to overcome the obstacles and in so doing continue to make our mark,” Robinson urged his colleagues.

He assured that the leadership of the Union will continue to embrace the legacy of the historic events of 1975, carry out the mandate of the membership and defend and protect the fundamental rights and freedom of its members, and would do so within the confines of the law.

that’s that.”

Singling out the police for particular attention, PM Gonsalves said, “….

In the case of the police force a similar situation would happen after 10 calendar days …. Or the Commissioner may decide to deal with them from the standpoint of desertion. The police officers are historically in a better position because if they resign or if they are deemed to have resigned they have payout, golden handshakes for 10 years of service and 20 years of service. Those are pre-

existing benefits that are not taken away.”

The Prime Minister went on to state that he was happy with the recent uptake of vaccines by officers of the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force.

When asked by the OMG host Bing Joseph whether or not the S R &O which enforces the deadline is unconstitutional, Dr. Gonslaves, himself a trained and experienced lawyer, responded, “Section 3(1) of the constitution addresses

the right to personal liberty and list 10 limitations on that right, one of which is relevant to COVID-19 and vaccine in the following terms.

‘No person should be deprived of his personal liberty save as may be authorized by law in any of the following cases, that is to say …. For the purpose of preventing the spread of an infectious disease’.”

Frontline workers have until today to be vaccinated or risk losing their jobs. (KH)

20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 21.

Techology

DIGICEL+ brings superfast fibre future to SVG WITH OFFICIAL rollout scheduled to begin in November, Digicel+ (the

new name for Digicel’s home and entertainment service) is set to ensure

Fanta Williams, Country Manager Digicel, promises that her Company will work to ensure the best connectivity for the citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

customers across St.Vincent and the Grenadines superfast and super reliable broadband experience underpinned by service delivery that is, of course, second to none.

In a release earlier this week, Digicel+ that its new rollout promises more power, speed and reliability, and an investment of US$1 million to connect households and businesses across the country.

The introduction of Digicel+ comes on the back of the Government’s Caribbean Regional Communications Infrastructure Program (CARCIP) investment in a National Broadband Project. Before CARCIP, 1GB speeds were unimaginable for SVG.

FREE first month

Currently available from Rillan Hill to Ratho Mill on mainland St.Vincent, and all across the Grenadines with new locations soon to come, Digicel+ has a special launch offer to customers, i.e. the first month service for FREE when they switch to Digicel Fibre.

Now, with the technology available, Digicel+ customers will benefit from entry-level packages with speeds of 250Mb, going up to 1GB packages. All that speed, power and reliability translate into a superior internet experience for everyone in the home and on any device. This also means that state-ofthe-art Smart Solutions like Smart Homes and Smart Security are no longer just concepts, but

Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves expressed Government committed its cooperation with Digicel to deliver superfast broadband internet to citizens. a powerful reality.

Commenting on the superfast Digicel+ offering, Fanta Williams of Digicel SVG said; “As an integral part of our Digital Operator model, Digicel+ is the gateway to a Smart Life for our customers. We are super proud of our investment and our offering is literally the best by far in SVG, with more power, more speed and more reliability. We will continue to work with the Government to bring opportunity, supported by the best connectivity, to the citizens of St.Vincent and the Grenadines.

Government committed to digital Commenting on the

Government’s investment, Hon. Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Information Technology said “For a multi-island state like Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and for a Government deeply committed to digital transformation, we are thrilled to further our cooperation with Digicel to deliver superfast broadband internet to citizens. When, as part of the CARCIP project, we signed our landmark agreement with Digicel to provide ICT services, we were envisaging the transformative ways that fast, reliable and affordable broadband could deliver growth, development and innovation to Vincentians.”

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22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Literary Arts

‘Stories from Our Indian Elders’: A History of Indo-Vincentians THE HISTORY OF INDIANS who journeyed from India to St. Vincent and of their descendants is finally available in one easy to read place, i.e. in the book ‘Stories from Our Indian Elders’ which brings together information from multiple sources, interviews and commentary from the author, in an easy to understand style.

‘Stories from Our Indian Elders’ is authored by Dornald Lenroy Thomas, who is from Richland Park, St Vincent and currently resides in Istanbul, Turkey.

He is involved with projects and organisations connected with St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The book summarises the conditions that existed both in India and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) before

the first Indians braved the seas to travel to the Caribbean Island. It highlights the reasons why Indians embarked on this journey, and speaks their lives after landing and the loves of their descendants over the last hundred and sixty years.

The book also points to how Indians in SVG and in the diaspora can connect with their existing families in India and relationship possibilities between SVG and India.

Eight interviews with Indian Elders are featured along with records to corroborate and authenticate this history.

Those responsible for its publication say the book aims to help fill the literary gap that has existed over the

years regarding the history and life of the Indians of SVG, and suggest that It will be very useful to students and others who want to learn more about the topic.

According to Dr. Adrian Fraser, former Head of the University of the West Indies Open Campus, Kingstown, this book “...is really for all Vincentians since the Indian population is a significant part of the nation and has made valuable contributions to overall national development…(and is) a useful document for all Vincentians interested in Vincentian history and nationhood.”

The paperback print of the book is available locally at Bowman’s Pharmacy,

Dornald Lenroy Thomas author of the book (cover pictured at left) Stories from Our Indian Elders’. (Photo Credit: Amazon) Kingstown. It is also available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback and hardcover formats. (Source: Dornald Lenroy Thomas

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24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Regional

Antiguans protest gov’t student vaccine policy REPORTS from Antigua and Barbuda said that some 300 residents had taken to the streets last Tuesday, November 16, in a demonstration against the government’s vaccination policy for children 12 years and older.

The reports said that parents, as well as

students, gathered outside the Ministry of Education Headquarters from as early as 7:30am.

But, it appears that the demonstration did little if anything to change the scheme of things, since Cabinet responded by saying it did not intend to renege on its policy of having

only vaccinated students on school compounds.

According to the administration’s mandate, any secondary school student who failed to receive the Covid-19 vaccine by this date shall not enter onto the premises of their Schools on Thursday, November 11, 2021, until

vaccinated.

“They are a bunch of wicked devils. So, my child won’t get an education because I refuse to have him vaccinated?” one woman

cried while speaking to reporters last Tuesday.

Leading last Tuesday’s demonstration was Franz De Freitas, an opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) named candidate for the next general election.

De Freitas described the government’s policy as “… terrible.”

According to the Antigua and Barbuda government, achieving herd immunity within the secondary schools is a lawful objective intended to keep all students, teachers and staff safe.

“The law requires that parents prepare their

Antiguan parents, students and wellwishers came out on Nov. 16 in protest against government’s policy on the vaccination of children.

(Credit: Dominican Online) children to attend schools. Getting their sons and daughters who are 12 years and older vaccinated, and eligible to attend secondary schools, is the responsibility of parents,” the government said in a statement.

(Source: Antigua Observer, Dominica Online)

Granger not nominated THE CURRENT party leader, former President of Guyana David Granger is notably missing from the slate of nominees for executive positions of the opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR).

There was no confirmation that his absence from the list is because he has indicated that he has no intention of seeking reelection.

Instead, in a release from the party’s secretariat, Guyanese learned that seven persons have been nominated for the position Former of Leader of the party and that President David does not include Granger.

Granger has Those tipped for the top not been leadership position include nominated for outgoing party chairman Volda an executive Lawrence and outgoing General position in his Secretary, Aubrey Norton. Also party. (Credit: in the running are former Caricom.org) Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon, and Parliamentary Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon.

The party’s former Chairman, Basil Williams has also been nominated as well as party executives Carl Greenidge, and Dr. Richard VanWest Charles.

Of the other positions remaining to be contested, the party has received 16 nominations for party Chairman; 30 nominations for the two Vice Chair (VC); and 18 nominations for Treasurer. There are said to have been over 700 nominations for the 15 Central Executive Committee (CEC) member spots.

The party groups will cast their ballots at the 21st Biennial Congress slated for December 11.

(Source: Guyana Chronicle)

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26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Rent arrears raise question

Dear George, MY TENANT owes me 6 months rent and it’s not like she lost her job or anything like that. She is an ambitious young lady who claims to have fallen on hard times and is requesting my patience with the rent.

I want her out but my husband is supportive.

He insists he cannot kick someone out on the street just like that.

I am beginning to believe maybe he is sexually involved with her. He knows we depend on that money to subsidize our mortgage payment.

I have warned her more than once that if she keeps putting off

paying the rent, she will have to leave. I want her out but the problem is my husband. be securing a place to live and therefore ought to put rent payment at Dear Crisis Situation, the top of her list.

Maybe you should advise If, as you say, the non- her to go get some much payment of rent has needed financial implications for your counseling so as to mortgage, then your address how she can husband should begin to catch understand that and be necessarily up on her willing to make the hard payments. decisions.

To you I say, your While it is kind and husband does not have to good of him to be sexually involved with understand your tenant’s her to be that situation she needs to understanding and understand business is patient. business. If your tenant is whom you say she is, George her top priority should

Crisis Situation

Do the right thing to give me one last go with her in appreciation I HAVE THIS friend who for me finding her a husband. I have the is divorced. She and I influence to tell this guy have gotten involved in she is not interested any the past only once. longer but will only do so This good buddy of if she continues to refuse mine has asked me to help him find a wife. His my request. Am I being unreasonable here? wife passed a few years back and since then women have been taking Just Asking advantage of him. I Dear Just Asking, know this friend would make him an excellent If you honestly want wife and I told him about your friend to get a good her and her about him. wife, why then would There is one problem you consider sabotaging though: she is refusing

Dear George,

this opportunity for him because you cannot get to feed your selfish desires?

The refusal to be involved with you sexually is testament to the qualities she possesses. You should applaud her rather than contemplate something as devious as you have.

Be a good person and give these two people a shot at a quality relationship.

George

There is hope Dear George, I WALKED into the office one day and found her taking money from the petty cash pan. Had I told the boss, she would have been fired on the spot. I told her to put it back, which she did, and I gave her what she needed from my personal funds. I advised that she come to me if/when she needed assistance.

She is a single mother of 3 and is known to be a hard worker. After speaking to her I got to hear how rough things were with her. At one point she contemplated suicide or so she said.

Every day she thanks me for not turning her in and tries her best to smile, but I know behind that smile is a lot of pain. How can I help her?

Worried Somewhat Dear Worried Somewhat, Of course it was wrong for your coworker to be dipping her hand into the petty cash but you handled the situation well.

Suggest to her to talk to a counselor at Marion House. There I’m sure she will be pointed in the right direction and get that added support to help her weather the storms in her life.

Continue to be there for her as best as you can, with the intention of assisting to her to get to the place where she can become self-sufficient.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Involvement in groups will be favorable. Business partnerships will prove lucrative. Sudden changes regarding friendships are likely to occur if you have tried to change others.

Don’t push your luck with authority.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Money may slip through your fingers.

Travel for business or pleasure will be enlightening. You may have to take a short trip to visit someone who hasn’t been well. Abrupt action will cause difficulties with relatives.

TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21) You need to do more things that you enjoy. This is a great day to spend with family. Be diplomatic but stem when it comes to giving of yourself. You can expect the fur to fly on the home front.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your family may not be pleased with your decisions. Get together with those you find men tally stimulating. You may find it impossible to get the rest you require. Concentrate on work.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Pleasure trips will promote new romantic encounters. You can offer your mate a commitment or promise that will help stabilize your personal life. Put your thoughts on paper.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You will get along well in social situations. Opportunities to travel will develop through peers. You can expect changes at your work place. Large organizations may try to talk you out of your hard-earned cash.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Social events will be plentiful. Visitors may be likely to drop by. Prove your worth; concentrate on getting the job done and steer clear of office politics and gossip. Property investments should payoff.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Sudden changes regarding your domestic scene are probable. You will feel compelled to do some traveling. Be cautious of making any residential changes this week. You must make sure that all your personal documents are in order.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Stress may cause minor health ailments. Don’t be too quick to judge your loved ones. Your mate may not have been honest with you. Listen to the problems of others and offer suggestions where possible.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) However, you may not attract the kind of interest you had in mind. You will be full of energy and you need to find something constructive to do. Don’t let situations get out of control. Take the time to close deals that have been up in the air.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Take care of any dealings with government agencies. You will have the ability to capture the interest of others.

You can bet that someone in a higher position is watching to see how busy you are.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You should channel your efforts into getting rid of bad habits. Do not sign your life away. Take a look at investment opportunities. Problems with in-laws or relatives may be more damaging than you realize.

ACROSS 1. Tough guy 5. Casserole veggies 9. Chill 12. Smart 13. Circle 14. Assent 15. __ for business 15. Very dry 17. Pull on one’s heart strings 18. Dentist’s request 20. Pontiff 21. Coming 24. “Uh-uh” 26. Quid ___ quo 27. Neighbor of Swed.

29. Watch sounds 33. Grab a bite 34. ___ acid 36. Hard-working insect 37. Worry 39. Jewel 40. At ___, confused 41. Okay!

43. Baby minder 45. River floaty 48. Devise, as a plot 50. Well, well, well……

51. A noble 52. Conniver 56. Stick up 57. Open delight 58. Remote button 59. Commandment pronoun 60. Tickled 61. Bit of sweat DOWN 1. Wee hour 2. With it 3. Occupy 4. Horror, e.g.

5. Rolls Royce car 6. Listening, all ___ 7. ’79 sci-fi thriller 8. Green stuff 9. Gung-ho about 10. Masterstroke 11. Border 19. Natural 20. Fraternity letter 21. Long-armed critters 22. Produce pictures 23. Referendum 25. Very, very tiny 28. Tractor-trailer 30. People of Broadway show 31. Part of the pants 32. Telephone button 35. Cuddled up 38. First mate’s

reply 42. Definitely will 44. There is a rule of it 45. Slightly bitter taste 46. “Oops!”

47. Newborn

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 27.

49. ‘Hood 51. Taunt 53. Seek damages, perhaps 54. Incoming plane stat.

55. Garnet’s hue

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28. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Orville Haslam, President of the SVG Table Tennis Association.

The newly elected Executive of the SVG Olympic Committee: (Seated from left) Jacintha Ballantyne, Stephen Joachim, Keith Joseph; (Standing from left) Kevin Hannaway, Trevor Bailey, La Prise Williams, Geshell Peters.

SVGOC in transition

- Joachim

NEWLY ELECTED PRESIDENT of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC) Stephen Joachim sees the next three years of the organisation as being “transitional”.

Joachim was elected to the top post last Friday night at the SVGOC’s Special General Meeting, held at Hotel Alexandrina’s Conference Room.

Speaking at the end of the meeting, Joachim declared “the next three years will be transitional.”

His assessment came as he identified at least three of his Executive members as getting older and suggested, “we really need to get some younger people in …I was really pleased to see some new young people coming on.”

Among the entirely new faces on the Executive were Geshell Peters, Kevin Hannaway and La Prise Williams.

Joachim, who served as Trustee from 2013 to 2017, also thumbed some of the other areas which have to be addressed within the period of transition.

“What we really need more than anything else on this Executive is a PRO (Public Relations Officer) … Most of the sporting organisations have that same problem,” he lamented.

He noted that with a PRO in place, many of the misconceptions of the mandate of the SVGOC will be alleviated.

“There is a serious lack of understanding among our affiliates and among the general public about what the NOC does and what it can do and what it cannot do …The NOC first of all can’t do anything; we just help the affiliates,” Joachim emphasised.

“The affiliates are the ones who have to develop the athletes; we don’t develop athletes, we provide money, we provide resources, training… that’s what we do…. (help) the affiliates to help their athletes,” the SVGOC President echoed.

Elections

En route to being installed as President, Joachim gained 12 votes. His opponents- Wayne Williams and Vanburn Harry, gained 3 and 2 votes respectively.

Having given notice that he was not contesting for the post of President, a post he held for 24 years, Trevor Bailey was elected Vice—President, beating Rohan Providence 10-7.

Jacintha Ballantyne retained her position as Treasure tipping Nicha Brancker by a whisker, 9-8.

Keith Joseph was returned as Secretary General 12 votes to 5 Better Stewardship over Vanburn Harry.

Geshell Peters triumphed 12—5 Above all, the new SVGOC over Claude Bascombe, to become President conceded that he and the new Assistant Secretary his Executive have to give better General/Treasurer. stewardship to their affiliates and There was no need for a vote the country as a whole. for Trustees as La Prise Williams “You heard the complaints here and Kevin Hannaway were the tonight... The message should be only nominees for the two loud and clear… We have to do positions. better; our affiliates are not The elected Executive will happy,” The new president serve for the next four years. acknowledged.

Haslam: “Should have put my foot down” ORVILLE HASLAM, President of the SVG Table Tennis Association (SVGTTA), has admitted that he should have put his foot down and insisted that coaches and players paid much more attention to practice and preparation.

“With my experience at the administration level and playing at the highest levels on the world stage, I should have put my foot down when I became president of the SVGTTA, at least a year after, but I didn’t.

“I was hopeful that the coaches would have taken the lead in the process… we always blame the players for not performing but you can’t blame the players because they follow the guidelines the Association puts out. I have been aware of the changes and the performances have been lacking in every sense of the word, not that the athletes don’t have the talent, they do have the talent, but the lack of practice and preparation is evident,” Haslam said in perhaps his most telling comment on the sport since his election to the top post.

Having now recognized the areas of neglect as far as the players’ development and readiness are concerned, Haslam declared that going forward, the highest possible level of preparation will be a criterion for selection to any national team.

“Looking at upcoming competition starting next year, the players are under-prepared and the coaches are allowing this to happen, because the SVGTTA has allowed this to continue. … I have to blame myself because I am the head of the organization and I should have put a stop to it,” Haslam reasoned further as the Association contemplates participating in a number of tournaments next year.

While he accepts that this standard should have been implemented some time ago, he urged the coaches to drive this process, and identified the Assessment Tournaments as a means towards this end.

“I expect certain standards…. players who have their eyes on national selection but are not performing, will be replaced by those who perform and meet the standards during the Assessment Tournaments,” Haslam laid down.

I.B.A.ALLEN

V U-20 Head Coach satisfied

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 29.

Sports

Williams’ satisfaction comes in light of having to call up ten replacement players two days prior to travel.

This became necessary after as many as seventeen players of the squad who were in camp at the Brighton Technical Centre, were tested positive for the coronavirus.

“Without having a week training in camp, the entire contingent had to be in isolation… It meant that we weren’t doing any training for a number of days… After losing seventeen of your core players, we had to make the adjustments,” the Coach admitted.

Things got worse, William noted, when two of the players were tested positive two days before departure for the Dominican Republic.

However, the registration of a large pool of fifty players, enabled SVG to make the adjustments, following Bishon Williams outbreak among the players.

As it turned out, “We had one ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines Undertraining day with the new players 20 Male Football team were edged out before we left for the Dominican from advancing to the Concacaf UnderRepublic,” Williams disclosed.

20 Male Championships, but Head Coach Fortunately, SVG won its first Bishon Williams is satisfied that his scheduled game against Puerto Rico by team gave a good account, in Group C of default, resulting in an extra day for the Qualifiers held in the Dominican practice, preparation and fine tuning Republic. tactics.

SVG was denied advancing to the With an unexpected three points next round by Puerto Rico on goal gained from Puerto Rico’s differential. administrative hiccups, Williams

revealed that greater optimism began taking root.

“I was rather confident that we could execute … What would have been my concern was how confident the players would have been, because they were coming in from some reversibility in their fitness level and for the replacement players, it seemed that they were not playing much football after the layoff,” Williams assessed.

The Vincentians were unable to get over Bermuda in their second match, losing 3-0.

Reviewing that match, Williams said, “… the way we started the second game against Bermuda, we should have gained something from that game… The mental condition of the players took a toll on them in that game.”

He admitted that his charges squandered a few opportunities which, if taken, could have made the result different or even closer.

The loss to Bermuda meant that the Vincentians had to beat Barbados by a reasonable score-line and hope Puerto

Rico defeated Bermuda in similar fashion, to bring goal difference into the equation.

“In the Barbados game, we were more tactically prepared ... we did our homework, but we were not clinical in front of the goal,” Williams commented, even as his team came away winner 2-0, via two second half penalties - Oryan Velox in the 61st minute and Bishon Richards in the 68th.

However, Puerto Rico cruised past Bermuda 6-0, to put them 4 goals in favour of SVG’s 2.

Even as he rued the missed opportunities by his team, Williams was pleased with the players’ overall efforts.

“I am pleased that the guys could have stepped up to some level, and the level to which they did, because it was not easy for them; it was not easy for the management staff, it was not easy for the administrators,” he summarized.

Williams identified having to plan with the COVID-19 situation in mind, is crucial to the effort going forward.

Adams looking to improve SVGÊs ranking VASHA ADAMS, head coach of the national senior netball team, is excited.

This, as training resumed for the national squad and Adams is not only ready to “get the ladies in shape,” but to make use of every opportunity to improve the SVG’s ranking on the Caribbean and World stages.

As it stands, this country is ranked 4th in the Caribbean and 21st in the world.

Addressing the current training, Adams said, “We resumed our training doing more ball work while also focusing on fitness. … Before we suspended training we were at a good level of fitness but after two weeks not doing anything, the fitness level fell. … With time I am confident their fitness level will get back to the acceptable standard.”

This round of preparation is geared towards participation in the OECS/ECCB International Netball Series, which was originally scheduled for Dominica from Nov. 12—18, but was postponed. Hopefully that Series will be re-scheduled for 2023 at an early date, Adams projected.

In addition, preparation will focus on getting the team in shape for participation the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games for the very first time, when the 24th edition of the event takes place in San Salvador, El Salvador in 2023, as a result of the advocacy of the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA).

Adams is confident that their 4th place ranking among Caribbean nations will allow them passage to the

Vasha Adams – coach of the national senior netball team.

CAC games.

And on the issue of ranking, Coach Adams explained, “The more games we play and win our ranking will get higher, so we have to take part in more tournaments in order to keep our ranking going up, not to mention regaining recognition among the Caribbean.”

The current training squad is a mixture of a number of Under-23 players and senior players. In order to keep them competition-ready, Adams hopes to organize a series of mini fast-five competitions.

“I am very confident that with this group of young people who are hungry for netball and are very competitive, that we can return to the World 10th place ranking in the world we once enjoyed or even higher,” Adams suggested.

Coaches Woodrow Williams and Chester Morgan are assisting Adams.

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

30. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Jules Anthony THREE YEARS ago there was no COVID-19, but there was Julius Anthony. If there was anything that I wanted to know as regards to sporting developments, Jules would have updated me.

In this situation where cricket fans are demoralised by the failure of the West Indies ream to get into the semis, we would have found strength in each other. That would have inspired him to deepen his programme to nurture the North Leeward youngsters.

His aim was high and he encouraged youth to aspire to the top. He was reaping some success, for North Leeward grafted their way into some units of Windward Islands Cricket.

November 16, 2018 marked a turning point in the Vincentian calendar. That’s when the shock was recorded of Jules’ death. He was found dead at his home in Clare Valley early morning. His burial was in early December. Three years after, his memory remains for as the saying goes his footsteps have so planted that they are hard to erase.

His name pops up in many circles for many reasons. Perhaps it is a case of missing the water when the well runs dry. Not that the North Leeward well is dry, for there will always be those anxious to carry on the legacy. But there is only one Jules Anthony, and who will follow, but the template Jules established is hard to be replicated.

How Jules managed to fulfil his duties is one of the mysteries people are still trying to unravel.

There was an extra energy installed in Jules.

Besides his creativity and knack for organisation, there was sense of instinct in him. He foresaw obstacles and overcame would be difficulties with ease.

His versatile upbringing made him into a wellrounded individual and used his sense of intuition to ensure the enhancement of his environment.

His family, immediate, must have pondered as to his programme. For he embraced the human family as his own. Everyone fitted into his itinerary. Having been familiar with the art of organisation acquired through practical Trade Union activities, Jules blended his industrial relations approach with his sporting, musical and farming upbringing. His sense of awareness served the nation in good and he was the genuine article as far as media relations were concerned.

Before the social media took off, Jules was one persons relied upon to know the activities in North Leeward, or anywhere in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for that matter.

Before cell phone usage was commonplace, Jules was around the state with his video camera providing footage for the television station.

His technical outlet kept those in the diaspora informed. He was the genuine ambassador and adopted the Cumberland Playing Field as his own. When international cricketers came to Cumberland, Jules conducted interviews with them and shared with the world.

Jules’ e continues to have a huge impact. A series of events have since added to a dismal tale of events as they roll over. Jules was of a positive mould, and he would shrug off any hindrances if they popped up. That is the best lesson he imparted to me.

Alexander: Retired but re-focused ONE OF St Vincent and the Grenadines’ most illustrious athletes, threetime Olympian Kineke Alexander, is approaching a new chapter of her life.

“Coming back home has always been a pleasure. … I look forward to mentoring the young athletes. ... I see it fitting to give back to the sport that has given me so much,” Alexander shared during a recent but short visit home.

During her short visit, she admitted to not doing much given the short period of the visit but about previous visits, she related, “I went to the different primary and secondary schools and talked to the kids, giving them the history of my achievements, where I came from and my journey. Hopefully it

will generate interest in the sport…. In short, I try to get them on the right path, because right now the way the world is going, the kids need to make the right choices.”

After a career of 27 years of active track, Alexander made it clear she was fully retired from the sport, giving her time to focus on, among other things, her responsibilities of being the Chair of the Athletes Commission of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC).

“I am now the Chair OF NACAC Athletes Commission and I am putting my efforts towards helping the athletes in the NACAC region so their voices can be heard, and to make

sure the world continues to follow our progress,” she said of her role with NACAC. As for coaching, Alexander has no intention of entering that area. She said, “Everyone asks me that question, but not because you were a good athlete you will be a good coach, so I don’t think I am that kind of person. I am pretty satisfied with the role I am playing now as Chair of the NACAC Athlete Commission.”

But Alexander had an interesting additional comment with respect to her future. “Once the opportunity presents itself, I would also love to pursue a career in nursing, so let’s wait and see how that goes.”

Kineke Alexander represented this country

Kineke Alexander will now focus on fulfilling her responsibilities as Chair of the Athletes Commission of NACAC. at the Summer Olympics in Beijing (2008), London (2012) and Rio (2016).

She contested the 400m on each occasion.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Roban heads to Penn State VINCENTIAN middledistance athlete Handal Roban has been granted an Athletics scholarship to attend Pennsylvania State University, USA. The 19-year-old, a former student of the Pamelus Burke Primary School, the Georgetown Secondary and the St Vincent Grammar School, spent the last two years in Jamaica, attending the Jamaica College.

Indications are that Roban had as many as ten offers from USA Colleges/Universities, before settling for Penn State.

As he reflects on his progress to date and what lies immediately ahead, Roban said that apart from his personal goals of “working harder and getting better,” he wants to make a way for other Vincentian athletes.

And as he looks back on his achievements, the young man acknowledged that he could not have done it without the help of others.

“I would like to thank

my family and friends…

Special thanks to Coach Rawlson Morgan and Suzanna LeigertwoodOllivierre, my current Coach- Duane Johnson, as well as all my former teachers at the Georgetown Secondary School and my Jamaica College family, Team Athletics SVG and all who have been wishing me well over the years,” he expressed.

Roban is coming off a stellar year, reeling off St Vincent and the Grenadines’ records at will.

He became this country’s all-time record holder in that event when, at the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Nairobi, Kenya, he clocked 1:48.37 to eclipse Eversley Linley’s 1:48.60, achieved at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

Also, during 2021, Roban earned a gold in the 800m and silver in the 400m at the North American, Central American and Caribbean Under-18/Under-20 and Under-23 Championships in Costa Rica in July.

These add to his Junior Carifta Games gold and bronze medals and his bronze at the NACAC Under-18 bronze medal.

Regionally, Roban is the Male Under-20 record holder for the 800m at Grenada’s Whitsuntide Games.

Locally, he holds the records for the Under-20 800m and 1500m, as well as the 400, 800 and 1500m of the Intermediate Division at the Inter-Secondary School Athletics Championships (ISSA).

Roban is part of the quartet that has the National Under-20 4 x 400m in their grasp.

Before leaving for Jamaica, Roban

Handal Roban competed for the X-Cel Track Club, headed by Rawlson Morgan.

V Unemployed given chance to payback

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021. 31.

Classifieds

Continued from Page 4.

Burnett did not say whether he would go as far as writing down

Simmonds’ name for the road cleaning programme, but he ordered compensation.

The facts in the case

had revealed that Simmonds had seized the opportunity to burglarize Lewis’ home, during the time the complainant was staying at a shelter, due to damage to her home caused by the eruption of the La

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER

19, 2021

VOLUME 115, No.46

www.thevincentian.com

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SVG RECORDS ANOTHER ROAD FATALITY

There was nationwide outpouring of sympathy on the passing of Jaden Bobb.

by KENVILLE HORNE ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines recorded its 5th road fatality for 2021 when Jaden Bobb, a seven-year-old student of the School for Children with Special Needs, Kingstown, died at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital on Wednesday morning (November 17), where he was taken after being struck by a minibus.

According to a police release of Wednesday 17th November, the child was struck by motor vehicle H-6405, driven by 40-year-old Leron Gordon, while the bus was making its regular route from Chateaubelair to Kingstown.

The accident is reported to have

The Noah van which injured a bystander, was extensively damaged giving an indication of its velocity.

occurred on the Keartons, Barrouallie main road, at about 7:15am, as the child was being accompanied by his grandmother to board transportation to take him to Kingstown.

A video circulating on social media platforms showed the bloodied body of the boy being lifted apparently to take him to a vehicle for transportation to the hospital.

The police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. The driver is in police custody assisting with that investigation.

Troumaca man injured In a related incident, a former minibus operator, known as “Proverbs” a resident of the North Leeward community of Troumaca, is currently recovering at the Male Medical Ward of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, where he was rushed to on Thursday 11th after he was injured by a Toyota Noah minivan.

Sometime around 2:30pm an elderly man, who earlier was patronizing one of the bars at Little Tokyo, was seen to enter the minivan and occupied the driver’s seat. In moving the vehicle, it appeared he accidently accelerated and loss control. The van, a taxi, collided with a jeep before hitting the Troumaca resident who was on the walkway, just across from the lotto booth at the exit of the Windward bus terminal.

Persons in the vicinity rushed to the assistance of the injured person while others moved quickly to turn off the van’s ignition and put out what appeared to be flames emitting from the engine.

As expected, the incident attracted much comment from bystanders, commuters and the many patrons of the bars at Little Tokyo.

WAR HEROES NEED AN APOLOGY example, have the Governor General, government officials and other “THE NATION has failed those men dignitaries visit the cenotaph at and women of the soil who fought and different times to lay their wreaths. died in battle, and an injustice has “But we could have had a been done by not having the activity ceremony and when we pass the at the cenotaph on November 14 cenotaph, we would have seen that (Remembrance Day) to honour those those wreaths were in laid in honour brave souls.” of those who died,” he remonstrated.

That, inter alia, was the view According to the Opposition expressed by Opposition Parliamentarian, it is not just that Parliamentarian, St Clair ‘Major’ the protocols ought to be respected.

Leacock while speaking on the ‘New But the way society was developed Times’ programme on November 15. and organized, the Remembrance Day “It is an embarrassment, and an event was an important one. apology is deserved and all who Leacock maintained that should have played a part in the November 14, 2021 was not good for correct decision making, they should St Vincent and the reflect on it and make sure it doesn’t Grenadines and an happen again,” the MP for Central apology ought to be Kingstown said. forthcoming from “I think the whole nation did an those responsible for injustice to our men who wore the the organization of uniform and who are wearing the the event. (DD) uniform now and for whose service we should be grateful,” he continued.

There were Remembrance Day activities in 2020, months after the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in St Vincent and the Grenadines, but with the recent surge in cases and the severity, protocols implemented by the Ministry of Health have restricted mass St Clair Leacock (inset) - Parliamentary gatherings.

Representative for East Kingstown and himself a However, Leacock remained adamant that person of a military formation, cried foul on nation for not having any semblance of an activity something could have (as pictured) to mark Remembrance Day 2021. been arranged, for

by DAYLE DA SILVA

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.