FRIDAY, JANUARY 21,
2022
VOLUME 116, No.03
SVG getting like Haiti Page 5
by HADYN HUGGINS “THIS COUNTRY is a country of contradictions.” This is the view of defence lawyer Roderick Jones. He expressed the view on Tuesday while mitigating on behalf of 25-year-old Marvin Albert, a Grenadian national who pleaded guilty to possession of 222 pounds of marijuana with intent to supply,
and possession for the purpose of drug trafficking. He enhanced his view
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Hotels being built Page5
stating that while some people will benefit from what is described as Medicinal Marijuana, poor people’s children can still be jailed if they are found in possession of the same herb. Albert, who was appearing before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court, was found in possession of the herb in the waterfront area at Ashton, Union Island, during a police action on January 14, 2022. And in referencing this country as “a country of contradictions,” Jones alluded to Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar and the Medicinal Cannabis Authority (MCA) recently boasting about St. Vincent and the Grenadines becoming the first country in the
Mia again in Barbados Page 13
Organization of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), to be granted permission to export medicinal marijuana. But the lawyer stated that “Marijuana is marijuana,” whether you call it marijuana or something else. “The rich can benefit from having an export license but the poor can still be jailed if they are found in possession,” Jones said. “We cannot have (some) people benefitting from marijuana in this country, while the children of poor people continue to go to jail,” Jones emphasized.
Albert’s challenge He said that Albert came to these shores with the hope that he would get employment, so that he could take care of his mother and his seven younger siblings in Grenada. He worked here as a gardener for a while. “This is the responsibility he took at a very young age. For
Defence lawyer Roderick Jones has cited the disadvantageous position that ‘poor people’ face in relation to the laws governing the possession of marijuana here.
EC$1.50
Japan’s Ambassador visits Page 14
the period he was here, 2019 to 2021, he never ran afoul of the law. What changed his life was when his mother called and said she was homeless,” Jones said. According to the lawyer, Albert’s mother was recently told that she had to remove her ‘shack’ (home) from its current location. It was obvious, Jones told the Court, that Albert, in trying to do good, made a wrong decision in trying to get some marijuana sold to help his mother and siblings, and this took precedence over his own safety. “When Marvin was apprehended here and beaten by the police, he told them the weed was his,” Jones said. “His (Albert) need to help his family took precedence over his own safety. I am asking you to be as lenient as possible,” Jones pleaded
Attorney Grant Connell has made it a personal crusade to advocate for revision of the laws related to marijuana.
Two protestors arrested Page 28
with the Magistrate.
The law and marijuana possession In rebuttal, Prosecutor Renrick Cato stressed the large amount of marijuana with which Albert was found. He also highlighted the seriousness of the offence. “This is 222 pounds of cannabis. It was found in Union Island in the area of the beach, and by the own words of the defendant, his intention was to take it out of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” the prosecutor told the court. Continued on Page 3.
2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 3.
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Baptiste answers the call RENÉ BAPTISTE TOOK LEAVE of active politics in 2010, having served two terms with the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime. Up to last week Friday morning, she was Speaker of the OECS Assembly. On that Friday, Baptiste, who had resigned the position as Chairman of the St. Vincent Electricity Service (VINLEC), accepted the position of Senator in a dramatic development in the House that morning, replacing Rochard Ballah as one of four Government Senators. Later that afternoon, Baptiste endorsed the 2022 Budget presented
by Finance Mister Camillo Gonsalves, Monday January 17. Baptiste’s contribution wrapped up a series of presentations by elected parliamentarians and Senators who ensured a quorum. That facilitated the passage of the Appropriation Bill, as well as the Public Sector Loan Bill. Prime Minister Gonsalves expressed satisfaction with the progression of events in his recent radio address. The Bills have been assented to “open” the tap for steps to be taken René Baptiste return as a Government senator towards implementing having previously served as an elected member of projects mentioned. the House for two terms.
Counting the cost of La Soufrière’s wrath THIS COUNTRY RECENTLY GOT an impression of the cost of infrastructural damage, i.e. physical damage that was wrought on mainland St. Vincent in particular, by the series of eruptions of the La Soufrière volcano. As part of his 2022 Budget Presentation, Finance Minister
Camillo Gonsalves pointed to a figure of over $315 million as the estimated physical damage to facilities here. That figure, the Minister said, was one arrived at by a PostDamage Needs Assessment prepared by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the government.
Of the $315 million, damage to houses accounted for the most significant single amount, accounting for an estimated $263.5 million. Damage to bridges and roads was put at $30 million and damage to schools at $14.6 million. Agricultural and healthcare infrastructure was said to have incurred a value of $3.5 million and $3.2 million respectively. A $1 million figure was apportioned to physical setbacks to public utilities and tourism infrastructure.
Two more deaths TWO (DEATHS WERE RECORDED over the reporting period — January 18 — 19, bringing the total of COVID-19 related deaths to 90. A 74-year-old female tested positive for COVID-19 on January 6th, 2022, she was admitted to the isolation ward at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and died on the 18th of January of COVID19 pneumonia. An 83-year-old male presented at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH), with symptoms typical of COVID-19, he tested positive for COVID-19 on January 19th, 2022, and later died at the MCMH. He was determined to have died of COVID-19 pneumonia. Both patients were unvaccinated. As of January 19, there were are currently no patients admitted for COVID-19 at the Argyle Isolation Facility but twentyeight (28) patients were warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, two (2) of whom are pregnant and one (1) of whom is younger than eighteen. Six (6) of the admitted patients at the MCMH were vaccinated, two (2) patients partially vaccinated, and twenty (20) patients unvaccinated. As of January 19, six thousand six hundred and fifteen (6615) cases of COVID-19 and five thousand and six hundred and fiftytwo (5652) recoveries have been recorded in St. Vincent and the Grenadines since March 2020. Eight hundred and seventy-three (873) cases are currently active.
‘A country of contradictions,’ says lawyer Continued from Frontpage.
Rebuilding the houses, roads, bridges damaged by as a result of the eruption of La Soufrière’s will be a prolonged undertaking, definitely in excess of a year.
“I am sure that he (Albert) enjoyed the hospitality of the people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. That’s why he had not returned to Grenada,” Cato said. As it stands, persons caught with 56 grams (two ounces) or less of marijuana, will not be subject to incarceration. Instead, they will be fined a maximum of $500 and be subject to other measures including being given educational material about cannabis, counseling and rehabilitative care. This provision was among several amendments made to the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act 2018. However, lawyers, in particular Grant Connell who is frequently before the Court offering defence services in marijuana-related cases, have repeatedly called for fundamental changes to the law, stating that the penalties for marijuana possession are much too high. The maximum penalty in the Magistrate’s Court for marijuana possession is seven years in prison, while the maximum penalty in the High Court is 25 years.
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4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Court
Student jailed for gun, ammo
Ozem Olliver had a previous suspended sentence activated by the Serious Offence Court.
However, Olliver had three years added to the sentence he received for A 19-YEAR-OLD STUDENT possession of the firearm, who told the Serious after Chief Magistrate Offence Court he had Rechanne Browne passes in seven CSEC informed him that a subjects and is currently three year suspended pursuing studies in Auto sentence he received at Repairs at the Technical the High Court, October and Vocational Division of 2021 for robbery, and the St. Vincent Community possession of an College, will spend the imitation firearm was next six years and seven activated. months in prison. Those offences were Ozem Olliver was on committed August 10, Wednesday at the 2018 at Glen. Serious Offences Court, Before handing down sentenced to three years the penalties for the and seven months in recent offences, the Chief prison for possession of a Magistrate reminded black firearm, make and Olliver of what Justice serial number unknown. Cottle had told him and He was also sentenced to two other young men, eight months for before handing down the possession of six rounds three year suspended of ammunition. The sentences on each of sentences will run them. They were concurrently. teenagers at the time Stories by HADYN HUGGINS
they committed those offences. Olliver was 16. Reading from a document, the Magistrate repeated what Justice Cottle had told Olliver and the two others at a High Court sentencing hearing in October, 2021. Justice Cottle had told the youngsters, “Gentlemen, you have the keys to the prison in your hands. If you behave yourselves for the next three years, that will be the end of that. However, if you breach the terms of suspension, you would go to prison immediately for the robbery, in addition to whatever sentence is handed down for the additional crime.” Olliver had breached that suspended sentence, three months later,
disobeying the High Court order.
The ordeal Police had executed a search warrant at his home in Glen around 3:45 pm, January 13, 2022, and found a black firearm, make and serial number unknown, in a shopping bag in a bedroom. It was loaded with two rounds of .9mm ammunition. When cautioned, he told the police, “is my gun,” adding that someone had given him the firearm to protect himself. The search also uncovered one round of .99mm ammunition and one round of .380mm ammunition in another area of the bedroom. When questioned, he replied, “Ah my shots.” When Olliver initially appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, he said his cousin was shot some years ago and he kept the firearm for protection, as it was only him alone in the house. “I was not killing
anybody. I was not walking with it on my person,” he told the court. On his return to court on Wednesday for sentencing, Prosecutor Renrick Cato said that when Olliver was given the three year suspended sentence at the High Court in October, 2021 for robbery, and was spoken to by Justice Cottle, he knew he had the firearm and ammunition at his home, but said nothing about it. “The defendant in my opinion, had no level of respect for the sentence given to him by Justice Cottle,” the prosecutor said and recommended that the Court send a strong message to persons who are in possession of firearms, or who have the intention of doing so, and to show the Court’s zero tolerance for firearm related offences. “You have no respect for the order of the Court,” the Magistrate told Olliver, basically repeating what the prosecutor had said. Browne outlined her
starting point as 6 percent of the maximum sentence, and did the calculations. She indicated that the aggravating factors outweighed the mitigating ones. Olliver had pleaded not-guilty to the firearm and ammunition charges when he initially appeared before Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, when the matter was transferred to the Serious Offences Court. He, however, changed his pleas to guilty when he appeared in that court on Tuesday. He was unrepresented. “Use that as a period (prison time) of reflection, and see how you can rehabilitate yourself,” the Magistrate told Olliver after handing down the penalties.
Grenadian jailed in Ganja haul TWENTY-FIVE YEAR OLD MARVIN ALBERT of Paradise, Grenada, received two prison sentences at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday, in connection with a major marijuana haul at the waterfront area in Ashton, Union Island around 10:30 pm, on January 14, 2022. Albert was sentenced to one year and one month for possession of 222 pounds of marijuana with intent. He was also jailed for one year and three months for possession of 222 pounds of marijuana for the purpose of drug trafficking. The sentences will run concurrently. The accused, who pleaded guilty to both charges, received the sentences on Wednesday following a sterling mitigation plea the previous day at the Serious Offences Court, by his lawyer Roderick
Jones. (See related story on this page) Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne had adjourned sentencing to Wednesday. In arriving at the penalties, the Magistrate in following the sentencing guidelines, outlined her starting point as 35 percent of the maximum penalty. Marijuana possession carries a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment, in the Magistrate’s Court. She then weighed the aggravating and mitigating factors and did the calculations. The Magistrate highlighted that it was a significant amount of marijuana, but noted that there was no sophisticated level of concealment, others were not exposed to the drug, and no weapon was involved. In relation to the defendant, she cited his youthfulness; that he
had dependent siblings and he had no previous convictions before the court. The Magistrate concluded that in relation to the offence, as well as the defendant, the mitigating factors outweighed the aggravating ones. Albert also earned a one third discount on his sentence for pleading guilty at the first instance. He was also sentenced to three months each on two charges of illegal entry, but those sentences will run concurrently to the sentences he received for marijuana possession and trafficking. Albert was found in possession of the marijuana during a police action at the waterfront area in Ashton, Union Island around 10:30 pm on January 14, 2022.
More on Page 27...
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 5.
News
SVG is getting much like Haiti
HUMAN RIGHTS LAWYER MICHAEL WYLLIE said that he is fearful that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is on a path towards becoming another Haiti. Wyllie spoke with a degree of confidence having worked in Haiti as a member of a joint
Organisation of American States (OAS) and United Nation i(UN) International Civilian Mission to that country, following the ousting of Haitian President JeanBertrand Aristide in a 2004 coup d’état, led by right-wing ex-army paramilitaries.
Now back home in private practice, Wyllie is among a handful of lawyers retained to provide legal services to persons who were arrested during and after protest actions here. Wyllie, speaking at a Rise Hairouna press conference via Zoom on
Former MP questions Speaker and CMO’s role FORMER MP FOR NORTH LEEWARD — Roland ‘Patel’ Matthews has questioned the ‘authority’ of the Speaker of the House- Rochelle Forde, and the Chief Medical Officer — Dr. Simone Keizer-Beache. This, after Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves turned up in Parliament (Monday 10th January) despite a number of lawmakers on the government side testing positive for COVID-19 and some members of his security detail. By Wednesday 12th January, it was confirmed that a total of eight lawmakers had tested positive for COVID-19 and therefore were absent from the House in accordance with the COVID-19 isolation/quarantine protocol. Notwithstanding the surge of COVID-19 cases among members of the government side, the Prime Minister attended parliament and urged a continuance of the budget debate. Following the presentation of the Leader of the Opposition, the sitting of the Hose was adjourned to Friday, 14th January. However, the suspension of the House did not lessen the focus on the prime minister with a number of persons. on why the Prime Minister was not advised to quarantine or isolate. One of those persons was former MP ‘Patel’ Matthews who took to Facebook to express his concern. Matthews posted: “The speaker of the House of Assembly was exposed in early January to someone who tested positive for COVID. As a result, parliament was postponed. A few days ago, two ministers who attended a wedding on Palm Island tested positive for COVID. PM Ralph and also minister bridegroom were there. Today, two more ministers tested positive for COVID. As PM, Ralph had to come in contact with all the persons who
Roland Patel Matthews, former MP for North Leeward has seen reason to question the application of COVID19 health protocols in the House of Assembly. tested positive. The question is, why isn’t the PM isolated for a few days until it is certain that he doesn’t have COVID.” He continued: “Instead, he is in parliament behaving like a school yard bully. What does this say about the Speaker who isolated herself because of coming into contact with an infected person? Furthermore, where is the CMO in all this drama? After all PM Ralph says he speaks to the CMO for advice, at least three to four times per day. There is a law for some people but this law doesn’t apply to Ralph Gonsalves. He is higher than the law of the land”. (KH)
Tuesday, said that he was annoyed by what he saw as human rights abuses taking place here. (Rise Hairouna has been at the vanguard of ongoing street protest here.) “Some of the things that I see going on in St. Vincent here, if they were occurring in Haiti there would have been serious consequences for our leaders,” said Wyllie. “What I see going on here is an outrage. We are getting close to being a dictatorship and I think that Vincentians have to start playing closer attention and do what is required to save guard themselves,” said the Lawyer who did not hide his support for the opposition. Wyllie, who also has a
Michael Wyllie, a lawyer for persons arrested in protests here, had a strong warning for SVG. background in law enforcement shared that, “One of the things which bothers me a lot is the non-observance of our rule of law and our constitution… . The things that the police get away with here, in United States police will
be sued and damages (will be claimed) for millions of millions of dollars.” He repeated, “If things continue the way they are, we are probably going to end up in a Haitian situation.”
V Government focuses on housing 6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Government
The units at Lowman Bay are said to be in a state of readiness for occupation.
AS GOVERNMENT MOVES to commence works on the modern Cargo Port in Kingstown, 49 families from Rose Place are expected to be relocated to new homes by the end of January. The families will move into recently constructed homes — single units and duplexes — at Lowmans Bay. The units are said to be ‘far superior in quality and size than the ones that have been vacated’.
The Port is expected to traverse that downtown area, and has therefore necessitated the relocation of families, especially those who occupied place of abode close to the shoreline at Rose Place. The 49 families as referred will increase by another 29 as government moves to relocated households around Rose Place and in the vicinity of the Milton
Cato Memorial Hospital, so as to allow for the beautification and transformation of the ‘Bottom Town’ area. The expected return other than increased and improved Cargo Port facilities, is that the Rose Place and its environs would see an increase in commercial activity. In related news, government has estimated that it will repair upwards of 700
houses and provide new housing for over 150 families, as part of its response to the damage wrought by the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano. The 2022 Budget 2022 has provided $6 million towards procuring building material for
homeowners to repair their houses, but there was some doubt with respect to this amount being adequate. In addition, government has allocated $1 million towards assisting in replacing damaged household appliances.
A statement by government said it was collaborating with a number of international NGO’s and local businesses towards meeting the required funding for house repairs and construction, especially in the Red Zone.
Mt. Wynne, the site for the Marriott Resort, remains one of the pristine spots in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Hotel construction to intensify IN ADDITION to what it has earmarked for the construction of and repairs to the housing stock here, government has allocated some $43,4 million dollars towards the construction of two hotels on mainland St. Vincent. According to Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves during his 2022 Budget Presentation, government, government intends to lead the construct of two hotels — one at Diamonds and the other at Mt. Wynne. As far as the one at Diamond is concerned, which will carry the brand name of Holiday Inn, site preparation work (drains, roads) is already complete. It is expected that the Holiday Inn will be linked with the Hospitality Training Institute at Diamond”, as an onsite training facility. The Mt. Wynne project, is deemed to be a Resort and will carry the
international brand name Marriott. That project will be part financed through a soft loan of US$50 million already procured from the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan). Commencement of work on the Marriott Resort was set for 2021 but disapproval of the original design as it related to cost and the challenges that were occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic, brought a halt to the original plan. Government is hopeful that whatever is to be ironed out with the design and costing, will be resolved in the quickest of time, so that site preparation can begin earliest in this fiscal year. The two hotels together promise to add 342 rooms to the hotel capacity of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In addition to these two projects, work on the Beaches Resort at Buccament should begin in earnest during the early months of 2022.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 7.
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Chipping away at the Budget AS EXPECTED, OPPOSITION leader Dr. Godwin Friday, in his almost five-hour long response to the 2022 Budget as presented by Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves, found much therein about which to express concern. In chiding the government for having “lots of talk,” Dr. Friday contended that the Budget did not speak “honestly and convincingly to our people.” He likened the Finance Minister’s presentation to a show… referencing the Minister to a performer on stage seeking applause rather that dealing with the people’s problems, and stressed, “Budget is serious stuff. People ought to be able to rely on it,” and that “the presentation must be aimed at the ordinary people.” All in all, Dr. Friday assessed that the Budget offered “little that Dr. Godwin Friday, Leader of the was inspiring,” …. was filled with Opposition, as expected, found much in “verbiage,” and void of any the 2022 Budget about which to be “..concrete proposals,” with perhaps concerned. the biggest disappointment being that it paid “lip service,” to developing anything to that effect. He suggested that it was a ploy to the Blue Economy. “balance the budget” and urged the government to “tell us some areas the Crime and its impact money is coming from.” Dr. Friday condemned the The situation as it related to crime government for increasing the national did not escape the Opposition Leader’s debt and noted that “constant attention. borrowing is risky.” He said he was worried about the He surmised that 41 cents out of prevalence of crime and alluded to a every dollar the government gains is recent shooting incident in his reserved for debt payment and homeland of Bequia, Northern deduced that, “… that leaves very Grenadines, his constituency, and little to enjoy the services that we noted further that the wave of crime need.” raised security concerns “on land and The Opposition Leader also sea.” Opposition Leader Friday purported highlighted failure by the government to “reconcile” accounts from the that the country had an “unreliable Accountant General and the Banks criminal justice system, and over the period 2010 to 2016, which he apparatus,” and questioned “the level said added $18.5 m to a total of independence” within the unaccounted figure of $95M. jurisdiction. He noted that the situation came in for constant Ottley Hall – Geothermal highlight in newspapers. Friday referred to a high crime rate Not for the first time, Dr. Friday that “pains not only the victims,” but waded in on the neglect of the Ottley “frightens away investors.” In that light, the Opposition Leader Hall Marina and Shipyard by the Unity Labour Party government. disclosed plans of a New Democratic He accused the government of Party government to set up a Ministry “having no shame” as to the situation for the Private Sector. He contends that his party will focus on creation of there, and referred to the holding of a Commission of Inquiry into that jobs and reduction of poverty. project and a failed attempt to “tarnish He continued by taking issue with the government for competing with the the image of Sir James.” For him, it was a “sin to see the business sector. “Business persons waste” in which the Marina and have been humbled by this Shipyard is left to wallow. administration because of politics,” He maintained that the concept is Friday stated. good, and there is “so much potential “If you don’t tow the political line, there,” but that the “scene of rust and 40/50 can go home,” Friday surmised. decay is appalling.” He lamented the lack of real Other receipts, national debt… attention to the Ottley Hall project especially in light of the government’s Friday pointed to the matter of “other receipts,” which was estimated attention and investment in an to account for EC$265.4 million of the “experimental project for geothermal exploration…,” which has since proved financing of the budget. futile, another example of diversion of He questioned the source of this funds for a failed undertaking. (WKA) money since the budget did not say
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8. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Right to Protest, Again...
the Commissioner of Police to being an order from the “top” —the Prime Minister who is also the Minister of National Security with THE VINCENTIAN’S Editorial of July responsibility for the Police Force. 16, 2021 stated, inter alia, “…. Sadly, there was more citizens of this country have the right unexpected police action to come. to gather and to protest… a right Apparently, in response to a show enshrined both in the principles of of resistance, or so one police democracy and furthered in our source shared with this country’s constitution.” publication, two protestors were Expression of this sentiments arrested and kept in police was prompted by street protests mounted in capital Kingstown over custody overnight. For whatever reason(s) they the preceding four weeks or so… were singled out as having first called by Rise Hairouna, a non-government organization, and committed the sins of ‘resistance’ and standing ‘firm’ in their later the opposition New disgust with the administration. Democratic Party (NDP) which They were the only two of many appeared to assume leadership of more present who were deemed to the protests that ensued. Yes, those protests continued to have participated in an illegal year’s end and resurfaced early in gathering/meeting. Images of previous police action the New Year. of searching the homes of and Last Friday, January 14, 2022, arresting so called ‘protest when the Parliament met to wrap organisers’, came rushing back to up the debate on the 2022 Budget the protestors who assumed a and pass the Appropriation Bill, more aggressive attitude and less than a hundred citizens voiced a raucous objection to the mounted the latest street protest police action. in Kingstown. This publication repeats its Reports said that on this position that it is the right of each occasion there was little or no and every citizen of a ‘free’ society cacophony enhanced by drum to protest against what he/she beating or bellowing of protest considers to be an action not in slogans and encouragements by the interest of the citizens; one persons using ‘bullhorns’. that is clouded with intent to But this “quietness’ was victimize, and one shaded with interrupted when a mixed colours of denial of a right. contingent of members of the One is wont to ask: How long Royal SVG Police Force’s Special will this tit for tat continue? How Unit Service and Rapid Response long would the people of this Unit took up station outside the country allow their rights to be perimeter fence of the Parliament tarnished if not denied by an Building yard, and proceeded to administration that should remove a handful of protestors who otherwise feel safe and secure in had taken up position there, its self-professed claim, that it has having removed themselves from done the most (and undoubtedly it the main block of protestors who has done much) for the people of this multi-island state. were on the pavement outside the The country cannot, as it braces Central Market. itself to face the challenges This developed into an act of occasioned by the ongoing provocation and high-handedness coronavirus pandemic and in the when the police officers took to taking the placards away from the aftermath of a volcanic eruption that wrought not only physical protestors. This had not been a damage but also traumatized practice employed previously and thousands who were forced to the reason(s) for such (action) at leave their places of abode, to this juncture of what is a create any unnecessary instability. sustained demonstration against There will come a time if this the Unity Labour Party childish reaction of the state administration, remains one of persist when all might simply fall speculation among protestors — down. varying from being an order from
Striving for Gender Equality in the RSVGPF Why is attaining Gender Equality in the they have child, and no one to take care of the child.” Royal SVG Police Force so difficult? IT IS WELL DOCUMENTED how I feel about the management of our Police Force. In short, I think the Police Chief lacks vision and creativity. A friend told me that I am too hard on him. Sorry, I cannot accept that anyone who graduated from St. Martin’s Secondary School missed the lesson on taking responsibility and ownership for anything we get to do in life. So, when I hear the Prime Minister (PM) on the radio making excuses for the discriminatory hiring practices of the Police Force, I quiver with disappointment. “We are limited in the number of women we can hire as police.” This was the first excuse given on behalf of the Chief. He then went on to say that some of the older police stations lack suitable accommodation for women. He said the training facility also had limited capacity to accommodate women trainees. And some of the older police stations lack adequate housing for women. These issues have been present since the Chief joined the police force over twenty years ago. A poor excuse for not hiring qualified women to serve as police officers. My question: Why are you, Mr. PM, continuing to make excuses for the Commissioner of Police? You hired this man to run our Police Force. Please, let him do his job. Give him the tools he needs and get out of his way. It is his responsibility to put forward his needs annually like everyone else in the government. He should be justifying his needs and advocating for his people. He should be responsible for all aspects of his operations, including providing adequate facilities for his employees. To make matters worse, rather than stopping after these excuses, the PM went on to say something unacceptable in my mind. He said it was relayed to him by the leadership in the Police Force (I am assuming the Commissioner): “One of the challenges in the Police Force, the leadership advises me, is that at the interviews women will say yes they can work the hours as men but very often when they actually get in the office, they can’t work until a certain time because
There is nothing to be said about this sexist comment to make it an acceptable excuse. The rest of the world has long recognized that the deficit in hiring women is holding us back. The presence of women in police forces/services enhances community policing, among other things. You see, like it or not, women are more likely to show empathy with victims of crime, especially in cases of crimes against children. I find it interesting that we are quite anxious to militarizing our Police Force like some developed nation of the world, yet we are unwilling to follow some of the other progressive people-oriented elements like gender neutral hiring. Gender equality in the workplace is essential as we grow and develop our country. Now is the time to put things in place to avoid discrimination. Studies have shown that an integrated workforce is more productive and will alleviate workplace conflict. Gender equality is vital to capture the skills, ideas, and perspectives that each gender offers. This is what diversity in the workplace means. This year is an excellent year to start the correction. Let’s review our current predicament. A few months ago, the PM said that we could effectively provide security for the nation with as low as 800 police officers. We currently have authorized 1,100 positions. We lost about 100 officers during the year due to natural attrition and a few early retirements due to conflict over the vaccine mandate. Given the current high rate of unemployment among our young people, we will have no problem filling the training academy. However, in your words, Mr. PM, we do not need all these officers. Therefore, I’ll say this is a great year to begin fixing the gender imbalance. Why add another twenty new positions to a Force that you and I both agree is fully staffed? Why not use the funds budgeted this year to upgrade the stations and the training facility to give our young women a fighting chance to serve our nation? Horatio
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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 9.
Views
I was appalled
MINE MIGHT BE A MINORITY OPINION but I will stand by it. The recent shenanigans in our Parliament were an affront to decency and fair play. There was no doubt that there was an outbreak of the deadly COVID-19 among the Members of Parliament. However, from where I stood, or should I say from what I heard emanating from the highest law-making body of our nation, I was led to believe that no one seemed to have
recognised this. After all, am I wrong in saying that in the face of this surge that there were still members who felt we should continue the sitting as though it was business as usual? If this outbreak had happened anywhere else, the establishment would have had to ‘close down’ for the prescribed period of time, and sanitized before the persons employed were allowed to return to their respective posts. It seems, Mr. Editor, that some persons feel that
The Book Bag
Hero, they have broken a sacred promise to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I would like to think that the next National Hero should be George Mc Intosh and I am certain that the majority of Vincentians here and overseas support his. So Mr. ULP, get off your rear end and put this thing in motion and stop playing politics with the issue.
AS A PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENT, my father bought me a leather book bag. That bag lasted forever. I do not know what became of it. Perhaps it eventually got lost. Some book bags are very durable and will last a very long time. However, in recent times I was disappointed in the brand-named book bags I bought intending that they would last a very long time. One had a problem with the straps and the other developed holes in the bottom. There is clearly a market for durable book bags and the necessary research could be done and assistance found through loans, to help some enterprising persons to set up this small business. Primary schools seem to require students to carry more and more books to school and the heavy book bags may be taking a toll on their backs now and for the future. Who is liable if a Law Suit is to be brought for damages caused? The parents, in the first instance, because they would have packed the bag with excess weight. The Teacher and School because they would have timetabled that many subjects and required the students to bring the books in a book bag to school. The Ministry of Education would have recommended the book list and must be culpable also. The Tablet is meant to replace books but it has added to the weight of the book bag. Add to this lunch, water, and sanitizers, then it would become attractive once again to return to the tried and tested Pencil and Slate.
Charles, Edinboro
Anthony Stewart, PhD
because they have been elected to the Parliament and because they have the majority, that this gives them the right to run roughshod over some members and to speak on behalf of others, and, it seems, to subtly direct the Speaker. The sitting of Parliament for the presentation and debate of the 2022 Budget should have been suspended from Monday, for at least 5 — 10 days. That’s my view. L. J.
The children and another hero MR. EDITOR, thanks for allowing me a little space to get two points off my chest. The first has to do with our school children and the COVID-19. It seems like every other day I hear of some child or children coming down with this COVID-19. Some schools have sent home the classes in which the COVID-19 positive children are and I am hearing that some schools have gone back to online instructions in a big way and some might just have to close completely. I don’t know what’s really happening but the bad thing about this is that I don’t think we are getting
the truth from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health about COVID-19 in our schools, and if we don’t, all the speculation will not do us any good. Is it that we rushed into face-to-face instruction too quickly? I am only asking. My other point, Mr. Editor, has to do with another National Hero. In your issue of Friday 7th January, 2022, a letter writer Thomas, raised the issue about another National Hero. A few of my friends thought that Thomas was a bit ‘rushy’ in raising this issue so early in the New Year. I told them
that as far as I was concerned, it was a very good time to be raising the issue. As Thomas said, we elected the ULP on a promise that they would, by now, have named at least one more National Hero. They have not and I agree with Thomas that it looks like because some of the ULP big boys can’t get their way with naming Milton Cato as a Hero, that they have pushed the issue to the back burner. Well, let me tell the ULP: If they fail to name at least one more National
begs the questions: Where are the mothers and fathers? What discipline and training have been instilled in these teenagers? Were they left on their own? I know it is debatable, but however we look at it, it is a reflection of a poor home and these girls are products of the home from which they come. There is definitely a breakdown in the home in terms of influence, discipline, respect, love and training. Many of the crimes committed are as a result of the homes from which those committing crime come. Come to think of it, many children grow up without a father figure and influence, and many times the mothers are too weak to take a firm stand in terms of discipline. Children who suffer emotional pain and seek love and attention, are reflections of the homes from which they come. Much is lacking in the homes from which they came.
The homes from which they come
THE HOMES FROM WHICH THEY COME play an important role in how a child behaves and what he/she becomes. While the aforementioned is debatable, we cannot deny the fact that the home plays an important role in the development of a child. Yet, we continue to hear of issues involving children where, for example, a child is sexually molested by her father and the latest being two teenagers who are believed to have been in a relationship with an adult, is said to have attempted the murder of the adult. In all of these incidents, little is heard about the mothers. This begs the question: What kind of homes are they living in? These incidents are not isolated ones, and have been present amongst us for sometime now. The difference is that given
the rapid rise in availability of technology, things are more exposed than before. A closer analysis would point to the weaknesses that exist in the homes. For a man to sexually interfere with his daughter in the home which the mother lives is unacceptable. Something definitely is happening in the home that needs both investigations and help. This incident would definitely have a physiological effect on the girl. She, like many other girls who were sexually abused as children, can grow up to become criminals, prostitutes and even suicidal. Society then looks down on those girls, failing to realize that it is the homes from which they come that are responsible for their upbringing. On the incident with Kennard King the two teenagers, it 4857324
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10. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
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Budget 2022:Lessons In Leadership And Protecting Democracy his creativity in leadership and his THE CONCLUSION OF THE DEBATE on ability to “see the revenues and expenditures of Saint around Vincent and the Grenadines for 2022 ended on Friday, 14th January 2022 with corners” in averting the attempts at obstruction. The fact that the comrade the passage of the Appropriation Bill 2022 and the Public Sector Investment was able to ensure the presence of a Loan Bill. These two (2) bills, apart from quorum in Parliament on Friday 14 the general significance of providing for January, 2022 to vote in favour of the two Bills instead of shutting the governments expenditure for this year, included a number of continuing support proceedings down, delaying the business of the people of this country, is a perfect mechanisms for poor and the workingexample of the mantra, “we must learn class Vincentians impacted directly by the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano. to live well with Covid”, in action.
Introduction
From the beginning of the debate, Prime Minister Gonsalves discussed the importance of ensuring that the Bill was passed, and suggested that based on the circumstances with members testing positive for COVID-19, it would be prudent to arrive at an agreement on a method to allow for absentee voting. It is noteworthy that international organisations, public and private sector institutions have all adjusted their mode of operations to accommodate virtual participation as COVID-19restrictions have made in-person participation at events problematic. A number of governments have also allowed their employees to work from home during lock-down, utilising the available technologies that provide for virtual participation. Leadership demands responsive and responsible actions to adapt to the constant challenges that threaten progress and development, and this requirement is even more acute in the management of the open economies of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The decisive and pre-emptive actions of Prime Minister Gonsalves during the 2022 Budget Debate offer practical examples of excellent leadership that were able to repel attempts at hijacking our democracy.
Protecting our Democracy
Our parliamentary democracy, with its limitations has served us well and has been the system used since we gained independence from Britain to facilitate the peaceful transfer of power through democratically held elections. The fundamental principle that the party that secures the majority of seats in the General Elections forms the executive and therefore determine national policies is a foundation of our Constitution. Possessing the majority in the Parliament presents a high degree of certainty that the government will be able to see its legislative agenda find passage through the House thus giving them the opportunity to fulfil the mandate given them by the electorate. It was therefore beyond obscene that the opposition NDP sought to take advantage of the extraordinary circumstances of the illness of parliamentarians in the government side, to engage in their usual attempts of obstruction. By his refusal to agree on allowing members who were absent because of COVID19 infection to vote virtually, the leader of the opposition sought to derail the agenda of the government Decisive Leadership in Action and ultimately the work of the people through postponement of the budget From the onset of the pandemic, our debate. In their desperate attempt to ULP administration assessed carefully obstruct the passage of the Bill, they the circumstances at work and very refused to attend the meeting of carefully crafted policy responses to Parliament hoping that the absence of address those circumstances. The goal a quorum would make a vote on the was to limit the impact of this very deadly virus on the lives of Vincentians Bills impossible and hence force a postponement. This attack on our through carefully thought out and implemented health protocols as well as democratic institution by the minority to seek to impose their will on the keeping the economy going by avoiding Parliamentary proceedings, was foiled lockdown and stimulating economic activity. It was acknowledged by health by the foresight and creative thinking of Comrade Ralph. It was yet another officials that the pandemic would not shameful, and unpatriotic attempt by disappear any time soon, hence the the opposition to obstruct our nation’s discussion shifted to encouraging our progress for political gain. Through citizens and residents to adjust our the powers vested in the comrade by attitudes and responses. The the Constitution of Saint Vincent and government recognised that the continued presence of COVID-19 meant the Grenadines he was able to ensure that the quorum was present in that as a people we needed to address Parliament and the vote on the Bills our minds to the reality that we would was done, allowing for their safe have to learn to live well with Covid, and that life, living and production must passage. go on. It was in this context that the suggestion by Prime Minister Gonsalves (to make provisions for possible virtual voting by MPs who were absent from the House due to COVID-19) was presented for consideration and agreement by both sides. The idea that illness of MPs, should prevent the passage of the Bills, through postponement of the budget debate is ridiculous. The unpredictable nature of the pandemic means that at any time, including immediately on resumption (following any postponement) any number of MPs could test positive prompting further delays and as such the call for postponement was not one to be contemplated by Comrade Ralph. The failure of the opposition to agree, (which should not come as a surprise as it is consistent with their obstructionist politics) allowed PM Gonsalves to show
Conclusion The number of times the NDP has opposed progress in this country, opposing policies designed to benefit Vincentians are many. Their opposition to disadvantaged student loans, their opposition to the motion on the education revolution, the protest march designed to prevent Taiwan from contributing financially to the airport, writing ECCA to prevent the opening of the AIA, are just a few examples. The people of this country can rest assured that the ULP remains committed to the sustainable development of this country and will defend us against all forces, local or foreign, intent on attacking our democracy, with determination, vision and strong leadership.
The 2022 Budget debate was a fiasco! (Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s Press Statement) AMIDST EIGHT CASES of COVID-19 infection among government members, the ULP government has shown a lack of depth and unpreparedness in the ensuing uncertainty regarding the safety of persons in the House, as Prime Minister Gonsalves rushed to pass the Budget on Friday night. This undue haste and reckless disregard for the health and welfare of members and other workers in the House resulted in the abrupt termination of the Budget debate, before more than half the members, including seven from the Opposition, had an opportunity to make their contribution. The Finance Minister was also absent and could not use his allotted three hours to conclude the debate. Ralph Gonsalves wrapped up the debate on Friday night speaking uncharacteristically for just over two hours. As Prime Minister, he is allotted 4 hours to speak on the Budget. The Budget debacle started on Monday January 10th, 2022, when Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves presented his Budget address and spoke for five hours. He did not wear a mask. The applicable COVID-19 protocols at the time did not require vaccinated members to wear a mask while speaking — despite protest from the opposition. They were only required to wear a mask when they were not speaking. To add to the chaos, the COVID-19 protocols originally emailed on December 29th, 2021, to members by the Clerk of House ostensibly set by the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and released officially by the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), went through several changes between January 5th and January 11th. Following the initial document on December 29th, 2021, the document was revised on January 5th, 2022; January 8th, 2022; January 9th, 2022; and again on January 11th, 2022. On Monday, January 10th, 2022, Finance Minister, Camillo Gonsalves, presented his Budget around 5:00pm. During his presentation, four members of the Opposition were present — the Leader of the Opposition- Dr. The Honourable Godwin Friday, the Honourable Terrance Ollivierre, the Honourable Shevern John and the Honourable Fitzgerald Bramble. Dr. Friday, as Leader of the Opposition, was scheduled to make his response to the Budget on Tuesday, January 11th, starting at 9:00am. Shortly before that time, the Speaker telephoned him to say that the CMO had changed the protocols and that all Members of the House were now required to take a rapid antigen test, and to report a negative result before they could enter the House. No written release by NEMO was presented to members prior to the commencement of the sitting that day. Notwithstanding, all members of the Opposition complied and took the rapid antigen test, and were all negative. However, three Members of the Government - Finance Minister, Camillo Gonsalves, Senator Julian Francis and Senator Rochard Ballah - tested positive. Following this development, the situation in the House became unclear and chaotic. No one present at the time knew what would happen and whether parliament could continue under the circumstances. There was a lack of information and direction from the government side and from the Speaker as to what would follow. Given the fact that several members of the government who had been in the House on Monday January 10th and on Tuesday morning had tested positive for
Covid-19, members of the Opposition were understandably concerned about the risks to themselves and to other workers in the House of contracting the virus. Therefore, the Opposition members left the House and gathered in the courtyard. Gonsalves later suspended the House until the following day, Wednesday January 12th 2022. Again on Wednesday morning, when the rapid antigen tests were administered, two more members on the government side tested positive for COVID-19. All Opposition members tested negative and were ready to take part in the Budget debate. Despite their negative status, the Speaker of the House informed Senator Shevern John, the Honourable Terrance Ollivierre and the Honorable Fitzgerald Bramble that they were not permitted to enter the House for a period of five days because they had been exposed to someone who had tested positive for COVID-19, namely Camillo Gonsalves. That exposure was said to have occurred during the presentation of the Budget by Gonsalves on Monday evening, before he was declared COVID-19 positive. When the Honorable Terrance Ollivierre entered the House on Wednesday morning, the Speaker instructed him to leave. The exclusion of the Opposition members was presumably done under the latest revised version of the Covid19 protocols that was prepared on January 11th, 2022 — a day after Camillo Gonsalves presented his Budget. The Opposition questioned the decision to exclude the members and challenged the basis as being contrary to the science, since Minister Gonsalves had presumably submitted a negative PCR test like other members before entering the House on Monday afternoon. He was therefore apparently COVID-19 negative at the time. The Opposition members called for a suspension of the House until all members could participate in the debate and also to promote the safety of all persons present in the House. The Speaker maintained that the directives had come from the CMO and had to be followed. On Wednesday afternoon, when the Opposition members returned to Parliament following the lunch break, they learned that Health Minister St. Clair Prince, who had been in the house earlier that day, had tested positive for COVID-19 and that all members were now required to take PCR test before entering the House. This was in the absence of any official communication to the members of the Opposition and without a directive from the CMO. According to the Leader of the Opposition, upon his arrival at the House, he was stopped by a junior member of the House staff and told he would have to take a PCR test before entering. Major Leacock reported that he was instructed similarly. The next day, on Thursday morning, the Clerk of the House informed members by email that the protocols had been changed and that all members had to present a negative PCR test less than 48 hours old to enter Parliament on Friday 14th January, when the debate was set to continue. There was still no official release from NEMO provided to the Opposition indicating that the testing protocols had been changed from requiring a rapid antigen test to now requiring a PCR test from all members. Under the circumstances, the intended testing change was not properly communicated to the Opposition.
V Honesty is its own reward
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 11.
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“Honesty is more than not lying. It is truth telling, truth speaking, truth living and truth loving.” James E. Faust (19202007) – American religious leader, lawyer, and politician. CABLE TELEVISION and the Internet now make it possible for the speedy transmission of reports involving the dishonest activities of leaders in government, business, the church and society at large. We readily discover that the perpetrators emerge from varying ethnicity, gender, and nationality. Some engage in such activities in search of power, position, and/or wealth. However, regardless of the motive, we welcome the reminder from the philosopher Seneca who, writing in a Louisiana newspaper in 1955, noted that “there is no right way to do a wrong thing”. The end does not justify the means. Michelle Obama (born 1964), wife of USA’s 44th President Barack Obama, notes that, “We learned about honesty and integrity - that the truth matters... that you don’t take shortcuts or play by your own set of rules... and success doesn’t count unless you earn it fair and square.” These principles of honesty and integrity help to keep the moral fabric of society strong. Conversely, societies are weakened when individuals, especially those in leadership positions, seek to make right appear wrong and wrong appear right … usually for selfish gain. In doing so, they twist the truth and strangle goodness and decency. Many professions (especially in the accounting field) now require members to say and sign an oath to uphold honesty and integrity. During the last two decades, many businesses require their senior officers to sign a Code of Conduct attesting to their commitment to behaving in an ethical manner. Some more progressive governments have insisted in having their Members of Parliament sign Codes of Ethics and to declare their assets prior to engaging in public service at this level. However, news reports too often reveal serious character flaws as such individuals succumb to the temptations to do wrong for personal or corporate gain. These infractions are not limited to citizens in developed countries. Records reveal that such occurrences are also evident in developing countries. We are reminded that “people are people are people”. In other words, the temptation to do wrong exists everywhere. People will be tempted to do wrong regardless of the level of education they have attained, the colour of their skin, their religious beliefs, gender, and so on. The onus is therefore on us as a society to engender a love for honesty and integrity. As best we can, we must encourage citizens to see honesty as its own reward. Easier said than done! This is likely to be the response of many of this column’s readers. This is not to be interpreted as being pessimistic. Such a response may be the result of an understanding of the magnitude of the problem. However, it is not beyond us as a society to enshrine such noble and desirable principles within and among our people. There is still a lot of goodness that exists within our citizens and our society. We can be disciples of this goodness that we desire to see. Each of us, in our own little way, can be beacons of hope as we advocate and live the truth that honesty is more than not lying; it is truth telling, truth speaking, truth living, and truth loving. The following story emphasizes the value of
this truth: Once there was an emperor who was very concerned about the future leadership of his nation. He was determined that the rightful successor would not necessarily be a member of his family or one of his loyal assistants. He wished to widen the possibilities to include every young adult in his country. To this end, he summoned all of the young people and explained to them that one of them could be the next emperor regardless of their family name, intelligence, or previous accomplishments. They were all shocked having noted that their community had never selected an emperor before. The emperor presented each of the attendees with a seed and a large flower pot. He instructed them to care for the seed for an entire year. He noted that when they reassembled on the anniversary of the assignment, he would determine who will succeed him as emperor on the basis of the plant. There was a youngster named Ling who was among the youths gathered at the emperor’s residence that day. He faithfully watered the seed each day. However, there was no sign of growth by the end of the first week. He observed no growth at the end of the first month. He was therefore most disappointed and depressed as he listened to the glowing reports that the other young persons shared. However, encouraged by his mother, he continued to wet the seed in anticipation that it would eventually grow. One year later, the youngsters gathered at the emperor’s residence to showcase their plants. Ling’s flower pot was the only one that did not have a plant growing. His embarrassment magnified as many of his competitors mocked and heckled him. He subsequently slipped to the back of the crowd with his empty pot. The emperor greeted the congregation and noted that they had grown some great trees, flowers, and plants. However, having noticed Ling at the back of the group he invited him to come to the front of the assembly. Ling, afraid and embarrassed, slowly approached the emperor fearing for the worst. The other contestants laughed and teased as he slid past them. The emperor enquired about his name and wished to know why his pot was empty. Ling relayed his experiences with daily wetting the seed and being frustrated that it did not grow. The emperor then announced to the gathering that Ling would succeed him as emperor as a result of his faithfulness and honesty. He explained that he had boiled the seeds prior to distributing them the previous year. As a result, all of the seeds distributed were infertile; they would never grow. The participants who used alternate seeds were therefore being dishonest in anticipation of a lucrative reward. We are reminded and encouraged that, regardless of the circumstances that we face, it is always best to be truthful and honest. Honesty is its own reward. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
Thinking about the law THERE IS A LOT OF IGNORANCE about the law in SVG. The Bar Association offers no help in explaining the law to the people. It does not even bother to meet. The Human Rights Association, which did so much good work when Lawyer Victor Cuffy was alive, literally died with his passing. The people are left to think it out on their own. Small wonder the level of misunderstanding of law is so high. During her address to mark the opening of the new law year, Chief Justice Janice Pereira lamented the fact that many countries in the Eastern Caribbean keep their laws as a closely guarded secret. She called on governments to make their laws available to the public. She claimed that the non-availability of the laws online makes it difficult for even the court to do its work. This problem takes on new importance in light of the Covid Pandemic. The Court of Appeal, which travels from the BVI in the north to Grenada in the south, cannot move around as usual. Therefore, it relied on telecommunications technology to hear cases. Addressing the issue of access to justice, Justice Pereira criticised state authorities across the region for their failure to produce transcripts of court proceedings. She noted that many accused persons sometimes spend the entire sentence, even where they appealed their conviction. She explained that this is an unsustainable state of affairs which must be speedily corrected. Justice delayed is justice denied. In St Vincent, it is normal for convicted appellants to wait upwards of 5 years to receive transcripts. Increasingly, prisoners are forced to find thousands of dollars to pay a private transcriptionist abroad so as to gain access to their trial records. The court cannot hear an appeal if it does not know the evidence from which the convicted person is appealing. In St Vincent, a set of laws is priced at over $10,000, way above the reach of many practising attorneys, let alone the ordinary citizen. Therein lies the basis for the many uninformed comments uttered by concerned citizens. P. R Campbell, for two decades, through his Law and You program, offered timely and necessary advice. Now that he has passed on, someone has to fill the void. A few weeks ago, a grown man committed a grossly indecent and obscene sexual act on his 4-year-old daughter. Many Vincentians were incensed. Apart from wondering what depraved mind will sexually exploit his daughter, many took the magistrate to task for sentencing the accused man to 4 years imprisonment. The sentence came after a guilty plea. Many thought the sentence was too lenient. Some wanted blood. However, the magistrate did her job. For such crimes, the maximum penalty is five years. In neighbouring Grenada, such an act would have attracted a sentence of no less than ten years. The entire case and the reaction brought the need for legal reform into focus. The last revision of our laws was in 2009. And even then, the 2009
edition was more a compilation than an authentic and meaningful revision of our laws. Many of our laws are archaic. They go back more than a century. Most of them were inherited from colonial times, and there has been no real and concerted effort to renew or revise them. Our property law is based on the English property law of 1886. The English have modernised their property law. As a veteran attorney remarked recently, in doing a deed of conveyance, attorneys must research the root of title for as far back as sixty years. In the UK, they go back only 15. His view was that it’s a waste of time to research so far back for the root. Reason: the possessory title law allows the rightful title owner of a property to be ousted. A squatter need only be in open and continuous occupation of the property for 12 years. Or take the case of consent. A young girl can consent to sexual intercourse at 15 but cannot marry before 16 without the permission of her parents or guardian. The same girl cannot be employed or obtain a driver’s license before 16. And she cannot legally drink or vote before her 18th birthday. The law cries out for standardization. One can get a maximum of 5 years for engaging in a gross sexual act with an infant. But if someone is successfully prosecuted for possession or distribution of a video of the act, the penalty is far greater. There has been some reform in areas of the law. However, the postindependence effort leaves much to be desired. The creation of the Family court was expected to assist in this regard. Sadly, family court is a neverending movie of drama and horrors. The president is uniquely qualified for the job. She possesses the patience of Job and a true paternal touch that helps to mediate and judge difficult situations. But she needs more tools. A five years ago, a much-needed revision in the law dealt with domestic disputes. These problems often lead to the neglect and exploitation of children and women. Violence is very prevalent. All too often, the swift action by police depends on who makes the complaint. The victim or complainant’s racial, economic or social class still counts. A man of worth and status can gun butt his handyman and stroll out of court. The son of a prominent business family can shoot his baby mother in the leg and escape prosecution. Expatriates can tape the Vincentian infants on beaches across this country and avoid arrest or investigation by police. We can do much more to bring about a greater understanding and functioning of the law. The government must promptly offer public access to all of our laws. The Lawyers’ and human rights associations must do more to educate and enlighten citizens. Such an education will contribute to a far more informed citizenry. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
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12. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
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Renewable energy could supply 100% of electricity OIL PRICES ARE AT THEIR highest since 2014 and some analysts believe that oil prices will continue to rise until at least late 2023. This is very bad news for Vincentians, as so much of our electricity is still produced from oil. Many households could see their electricity bill become too high to pay. Some households could end up having their electricity supply cut off. Children of the poor should not grow up in darkness. Both the ULP and NDP regimes have failed the people of SVG by not using renewable energy for 100% of our electricity needs. Given the natural resources our country has — sunshine, rivers, wind — we should have been using 100% renewable energy to provide 100% of our electricity needs from as long as (at least) 20 years ago. The ULP regime wasted millions of dollars on geothermal drilling. That money should have been invested in solar, wind or hydro projects. The geothermal project was dead before it started and
was a silly idea. Producing electricity from oil is unnecessarily draining households of money that they cannot afford to lose. The money that households have to allocated for (unnecessarily) high electricity bills, should be used to buy food and send their children to school. A Green Government would replace oil and make SVG 100% electricity produced from renewable energy - solar, wind and hydro — resulting in electricity bills being much, much lower. And every household would have access to mains electricity. A Green Government would cut the price of electricity by 50%. The first 200 KWh of electricity used each month would be free. Renewable energy is virtually a free source of energy and provides thousands of jobs. Swedish energy giant, Vattenfall, says 100 (wind) turbines should generate 300 megawatts (MW) of power enough electricity for up to 240,000 homes. Approximately 3,500 jobs were created by the
manufacture, construction and regime is making installation of this wind farm in our people suffer by Sweden. continuing with oil electricity production With an SVG wind farm as a main source of electricity businesses. Solar renewable industry of only 25% the size of production. Households have energy can be obtained the Swedish one, renewable high electricity bills anywhere in SVG, biogas can be energy could provide thousands unnecessarily. A Green obtained from agricultural and of jobs and electricity for all Government would focus on household food waste and wind SVG homes and businesses. renewable energy, so energy is available everywhere Household electricity bills could households get cheap electricity too. be reduced to virtually nothing. and we have mass employment With oil prices at an 8 year Our country is in a prime area for the people of SVG. high and set to continue to rise, for wind farm renewable energy A Green Government would SVG must become self-sufficient production. abolish VINLEC’s monopoly on in electricity produced from A windfarm in England took selling electricity in SVG, so renewable energy in order to only two years to construct. that Vincentians can set up build a strong, sustainable Under a Green Government, it their own renewable energy economy. is possible that high household electricity bills could be phased out in ON THIS PARADISE ISLAND where It doesn’t matter how educated you SVG within 3 pirates and buccaneers once roamed, I may be or how eloquently you speak, in years. Cheap realized that fantasy and illusion had the eyes of the white supremacist you electricity long preoccupied the minds of our are still a Nigger! If you think I’m lying, would people. Their minds got clouded by the ask Barack Obama. He almost got stimulate the glittery light of the television medium smack from a feisty white woman who creation of from North America, which had attempted to assault him. We have to small retarded their mental faculty from tell the truth and stop sugarcoating it. businesses and discerning fake from reality. Tell the folks back home that you must make the SVG A few months ago, I was sitting on have guts to make it in the white world. economy my veranda in quiet contemplation stronger. The Harsh Reality when I heard the voice of a furious The ULP -They don’t know the racism and the woman, tongue whipping one of her overseas based relatives, saying that she deplorable conditions in which many of their people lived. Not to mention the had to thank God for Soufriere! The crime-filled neighborhoods of gangsters, ‘blaggard’ woman stated that if La Soufriere didn’t erupt, she would starve pimps, and all kinds of criminal elements that their relatives are to death! She cried aloud in an angry surrounded by in these chronic tone to her family overseas. “Al-yo depressive concrete jungles of North doesn’t even send anything for me! Me America and Europe. dey down yah, ah catch hell! Ah, can’t even pay me light and water bill, or find The One-eye Monster money to buy food. Oh God, ar-yo ah The crux of the matter is that the treat me bad as if ar-yo don’t know me! one-eye television monster gives the Why can’t al-yo help me? people a false perception that the grass Hearing the woman plead, I thought is greener on the other side… a false of the ‘chosen ones’ in parliament who narrative of the life given by live wantonly off the sweat and brow of the people who catch hell! I also thought highlighting the rich movie stars. And those folks who come back home, of myself once having an ill-informed, perpetuate this falsehood by acting as if myopic mindset of relatives living they were Canadians, English, and overseers, thinking they were living in paradise and not knowing many of them Americans. They easily forget where they came from, bashing our dialect and were living from hand to mouth. food. Even to dry foot ‘Luluhu’ comes The Misleading Assumption The woman had the assumption that home acting Uppity. life overseas was a bed of roses and that her relatives were in the Promised Land A Solution I plead to those who want to sit on drinking milk and honey, picking up their rear, refusing to till the soil, we dollars from off the streets. But who is to blame for the way some people think? can’t always depend on barrels from our relatives. A dependency could cause a I blame the locals who return home as tourists, giving people the impression nation to suffer starvation and malnutrition. that life is easy as 1, 2, 3 in the They don’t know that Uncle Sam/USA metropolitan countries. has been using the media to impose This is in stark contrast to the fact that these so-called first-world countries, cultural imperialism on the so-called such as the United States, Canada, and Third World countries. It is a fact that life is tough in St. Vincent. My eyes Europe, are racist and mean as hell! Some of us are clueless about the hustle have seen widespread poverty and bustle and stressful life you have to throughout the country. But we can make it if we join hands and hearts go through in those cold countries to together; we will see a brighter day. make a buck. Also, the racism and bigotry that minorities have to endure The White Man Country from the Nazis, ‘Rednecks’, and the Living in the white man country is white supremacy groups. Don’t mention not a bed of roses. I knew of folks who the Klu-Klux-Klan, who live by the ended up homeless and crazy. Some motto that the best Nigger is a dead were fortunate to achieve materialism Nigger! Yet, the naive gullible Negro but others are living from paycheck to fails to tell their folks back home the harsh realities of the miseries they face paycheck. The American dream can be a nightmare. in these cold metropolitan countries.
From Independence to Dependence
Tell It, Like It Is.
By: Carden A. Michael
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 13.
Regional
Mia Mottley addressing supporters at BLP headquarters in the wee hours of Jan. 20, 2021 after the party completed a clean sweep of the election. (Credit: newsamericasnow)
Mottley and the BLP once more
THE BARBADOS LABOUR PARTY (BLP) began a celebration of national proportions on Thursday, after what was another landslide victory at the polls. Prime Minister and Leader of the BLP- Mia Mottley had called a snap general election (well in BLP supporters gathered at the party’s headquarters to revel in their landslide victory. advance of the constitutionally hours of Thursday at the due date in 2023) because, she said, headquarters, Mottle told them, “We Barbados should not begin the New stand today on the morning of the year “as a divided nation,” especially going forward amidst the coronavirus 20th of January confident that the people have spoken with one voice pandemic. decisively, unanimously and clearly.” Significantly, last Wednesday’s At time she became inaudible, as election was the first general election she could not overwhelm the cheering since Barbados became a republic last crowd. year by removing Britain’s queen as In a victory speech broadcast sovereign head of state. online, she said, “We want to thank And as it turned out, the BLP won each and every one of the people of all thirty seats up for grabs at it had Barbados for the confidence that they done in the previous general election continue to repose is us,” she said in in 2018, albeit with one victorious the victory speech broadcast online. candidate — Bishop Joseph Atherley Mottley snap election call was leaving the party in the course of time, tested in the Court when fragments of to become the lone opposition voice in the opposition sought a court the country parliament and leader of injunction to stop the vote on the the Alliance Party for Progress, which grounds that “holding vote amid fielded 20 candidate in last pandemic restrictions violated suffrage Wednesday’s poll. rights. The landslide victory for the BLP The claim was that up to 5,500 also meant that Verla De Peiza, who people who were in isolation due to was leading the main Opposition COVID-19, could not leave their Democratic Labour Party (DLP) into a homes and therefore would be general election for the first time, lost effectively barred from voting. in her bid to win a seat, as did Bishop The Court found no ground(s) on Atherley. which to rule that the calling of When thousands of BLP party elections at this time had infringed supports gathered during the early any existing, relevant law(s).
V Japanese Ambassador Hirayama happy to help 14. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
News
JAPANESE’S AMBASSADOR to CARICOM, His Excellency Tatsou Hirayama, who is resident in Trinidad and Tobago, looks at his country’s response to the hardship Vincentians faced as a result of eruptions at La Soufrière, as continuing the chain of solidarity in times of disaster. While he noted similarities between his country and St. Vincent and the Grenadines even though they are miles part, he acknowledged that small islands are prone to natural disasters and even though efforts are made to reduce the impact as much as possible, “disasters happen.” The Japanese Ambassador was at Orange Hill last Tuesday afternoon to “kickstart” the clearing of a site for the retrofitting of a building to house elderly persons, under a project dubbed the Lewis Punnett Retrofit Project. That facility is expected to house 50 persons, abandoned by relatives during the evacuation period. “We have to assist by saving lives,” Ambassador Harayama pointed out, adding, “We are happy to help in times of disaster.” The Japanese government contributed US $1.6m to the La Soufrière relief efforts. He reflected on the 2011 earthquake which devastated his country, and of the assistance received from the international community. He expressed delight in knowing the “outcome of our assistance to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.” And as he announced that his three-year stint ends in February, he expressed that he was pleased with the warmth that characterised the relationship between Japan and the Caribbean, not least being that with St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Ambassador Hirayama was accompanied by Second Secretary Sato Katsuya.
essentials items.” Bailey explained, “Ensuring that those most vulnerable and in need are able to meet their food and essential needs is at the heart of the work of the World Food Programme and its partners,” Bailey stated. Recognising that the road to recovery is not a short or straight path, Bailey assured that the WPF remains “committed to supporting the government and people of SVG on this road to recovery, and preparing for the risks to come by working to strengthen emergency preparedness and response systems, social protection and livelihoods.” She highlighted that “Caribbean states are on the front line of climate change (manifestations)” and that it is “our responsibility and privilege to help people in the Caribbean.” She confessed that activities
The Japanese Government is a major benefactor of the Lewis Punnett Retrofit Project.
The building that will the centre of the retrofitting towards becoming a Home for the Elderly.
here have “scaled-down, and “our mandate is we go where the needs are.” According to Bailey, a USA citizen who has served with the WFP for the past 15 years, the WFP began operations here two days after the April 9 eruption of La Soufrière Working with other agencies explosion. Jan-Willem Wegdam, Hirayama was pleased to Emergency Response work along with the World Coordinator St Vincent Food Programme (WFP) as Volcano Eruption at IOM - UN well as the International Migration, Organisation for Migration pointed to the Orange Hill (IOM). project as driven by its Sarah Bailey, Head of mission: ‘Creating a Programme - WFP Caribbean welcoming, safe and ecoMulti-Country Office, friendly home for Vincy highlighted Japan’s generosity Seniors.’ which she said, “provided Wegdam notes it is a more than 18, 000 people with challenging project. access to food and other “Retrofitting is never a certain
Ambassador His Excellency Tatsou Hirayama addresses the touring party last Tuesday at the Organge Hill site.
venture,” he warned as he pointed to the inclusion of solar energy, air conditioning and recycling facilities in the building. Head of Lewis Punnett Home- Marie Davis, PhD looked at the project as a fulfilment of God’s wishes and endorsed the spirit of generosity. “What we give is a loan to the Almighty God,” she affirmed. Karla Paz Sans, Project Manager, Ambassador Hirayana and Jan-Willem Wegdam, of the IOM ‘testing’ Global Emergency one of the pieces of heavy-duty equipment on the site. Relief Recovery and Reconstruction (GER observed the “breath-taking provide a holistic approach to 3), another partner in the landscape” and sees the event caring for the elderly.” Orange Hill renovation, as a “great opportunity to
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 15.
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16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Tribute
Benjamin Wilberforce Prescod Highlights of his life; and Memories from a Young Brother
criticize my other brother Pat when he played more technically difficult and BORN IN GEORGETOWN, St. Vincent, lighter sounding music from composers Benjamin died peacefully at home in like Bach. Such was my admiration for Nassau, Bahamas on Wednesday, my hero, Ben. January 12, 2022, three onths after his But Ben also excelled in jazz music, 98th birthday, and following a long battle performing as the pianist for the with complex health issues. Ben, as he Island’s Melotones jazz band. I was fondly called, was my proud eldest remember his best friend and brother, and loving husband to Evelin saxophonist in the Melotones, Arthur (Gloria). He was predeceased by his (Tom) McIntosh — Dr. Frankie parents, C.W. Prescod and his wife McIntosh’ father — had nicknamed Louise Prescod; also his treasured Ben, “The Count”, after the famous siblings Clara, Norma, Cynthia, and Pat. jazz pianist Count Basie. A few years Among the many relatives left to mourn, after Ben left the Grammar School, he Vincentians of this generation would be went off to New York where he most familiar with Ben’s nephew Ian successfully completed a summer jazz Glaude, and Ian’s son Imari, as well as program at the famous Juilliard cousins Karl John and Lynette Glasgow School. While there he was fortunate and their families. to meet with Paul Whiteman, a wellknown American bandleader, who was My hero’s love of jazz called the “King of Jazz”. Now our father, C.W. Prescod did I, as the youngest of C.W. Prescod’s not readily endorse Ben’s association children, always looked up to Ben as with jazz and popular music, as it the oldest of my siblings, and I generally meant playing out until late admired him for everything that he at night. In later years, Ben often told did — he was my hero. Growing up in a tales of those years in which our religious family, Ben had stints as a mother would sometimes discreetly lay-preacher and as organist in sneak him out of the house and the Methodist Church. He was a facilitate his re-entry while Daddy was talented musician, playing both asleep. In spite of this, the Melotones classics and jazz on the piano as his often practised at our house, as Daddy main instrument. He was often was usually too busy at another part of the featured performer at local the house where he conducted classes concerts, where he played classical in typing, shorthand and bookkeeping. music. At a young age I was easily I also remember one occasion when impressed by his execution of I had just entered the Grammar thunderous, loud, and intense music School, and I sought permission to go from composers such as Rachmaninov; to a steelband panyard to listen to a and in later years I would even steelband practice, Daddy’s reaction by FRED PRESCOD
was, “Why don’t you do your homework instead of hanging around with those boys”. Well, Ben saved the day for me, as he was able to convince Daddy that the steelband players in question were indeed musically inclined boys, and that they even played some classical music.
From Georgetown to London Ben had attended primary school at the Georgetown public school, where our father, C.W. Prescod had been head teacher. In those days Daddy meted out punishment not only at school, but also at home, where he used a “leather strap” which he called “tickler”. Well Ben survived that and went on to attend the Boys Grammar School. He was most always at the top of his class, and successfully passed the London matriculation examination at a very early age. After Grammar School he went on to complete a period of employment in the Civil Service, working at the Agricultural Department and the Customs. He left for England shortly after I entered the Grammar School. While he was away in England, I was elated when I was allowed to occupy his bedroom. I distinctly recall being fascinated by the literature in his bookcase located at the bedhead. I poured through the old Grammar School magazines, as well as back issues of Reader’s Digest and Time magazine. One of the books which thoroughly fascinated me was one on Astronomy. After looking through it
Benjamin Wilberforce Prescod several times, I became quite familiar with the constellations in the night sky. Another highlight of my occupancy of his bedroom was that I soon began wearing some of the clothes he left behind. One garment that stands out in my memory was a pair of cream coloured bell-bottom flannel trousers, which I proudly wore on special occasions, virtually until I left for Canada. In England Ben pursued legal studies and was later called to the bar in that country. He frequently played in the night club circuits in England and Europe to help pay his way through law school. I was aware of this when he once sent home a clipping from a French newspaper with a photograph of him playing the piano, all dressed up in a “hot shirt” and wearing a widebrimmed straw hat. In the background was Boscoe Holder of Trinidad dancing the limbo (those interested could look up Boscoe Holder on Wikipedia). Subsequently Ben worked in government positions in The Gambia (West Africa), Montserrat, St. Lucia, and the Bahamas in that order, variously as Registrar General, Magistrate, and Registrar of the Supreme Court. He last retired from service in The Bahamas, where he had married Evelin (Gloria) Stewart. He and Gloria eventually moved to Canada, but kept their ties with The Bahamas. Gloria especially will miss Ben, as he was the quintessential life partner to her for their 45 years of marriage. She lovingly cared for him at home during his waning years of suffering from a variety of health issues, as she fortunately had a background in nursing. Indeed we will all miss him, especially for his winning personality, honesty, sincerity, and his engaging stories of times gone by. Gloria and I take this opportunity to send immense gratitude and respect to the many family members and friends for their support and love throughout Ben’s difficult years of suffering. We will cherish his memory forever; and may his soul rest in peace. His body is being cremated, and a small private ceremony will take place in Nassau, Bahamas.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 13.
News
From the Police files
Two students charged for wounding APPHIA SOLYEN, 17, of Green Hill, and Faith Da Silva, 12, of Old Montrose, both students, were arrested on January 11, 2022, and charged with wounding. According to a police release, Soleyn and Da Silva unlawfully and maliciously wounded a 24-year-old Tattoo Artist of Green Hill, by
stabbing him about his body with a knife. The incident is said to have occurred on January 7, 2022. When the young men appeared before the Serious Offences Court
on Wednesday, January 12, 2022 to answer the charge, they both pleaded guilty. They were remanded into custody until Friday, January 14, 2022 for sentencing.
Female on wounding charge ON JANUARY 11, 2022, police have arrested and charged Shanell CottleHarry, a 40-year-old unemployed female of Canouan, with the offence of grievous bodily harm. The accused is alleged to have inflicted wounds to a 54-year-old businessman of Canouanm by chopping him on his left hand and back with a cutlass. The incident occurred at Barbruce, Canouan on
18.07.2021 When Cottle-Harry appeared before the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday, January 12, 2022 for arraignment, she pleaded guilty. She was granted bail in the sum of $2500.00 with one surety, and she was ordered not to have any contact with the virtual complainant. She will reappear in the court for sentencing in February.
A protest not a public meeting such as the arrest cannot go DIRECTING HER unmentioned attention to the recent and certainly Nailah John, President of Rise arrests, John said, Hairouna was assertive in saying unnoticed. “Brute force is never Meanwhile, the activity of January 14, 2022 was not a public meeting. necessary especially Veteran when you are dealing Lawyer Kay Colin John, and Head of with peaceful protestors Bacchus- Baptiste said … but we saw on Friday, she is totally fed up with the Criminal Investigation Division a squad led by Sergeant the way the ULP (CID)- Clauston administration is Caine, being very François, but neither treating protestors. forceful and detaining returned her calls or She told the press two of our protestors and messages. conference that when she we are simple not very She said that she got the information that pleased about that.” eventually called the protestors were locked Williams, though, (see accompanying story CID and spoke to an acknowledged the role officer on duty, who on this page) up for policemen and women confirmed that protestors holding placards, she play in maintaining a were in custody. She reached out to the civil society. However, was able to speak to the she noted that situations Commissioner of Police- two detainees. Continued from Backpage.
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20. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
Going both ways
Dear George, GEORGE, MANY WOMEN IN Vincy are bouncing with women now and this has hit home to me quite directly. My ex-girlfriend has repeatedly told me that my wife was cheating on me but I keep pushing that aside. One day she asked me if I would like to see pictures of my wife with another individual. I said yes and I was shocked stiff to see my wife of 3 years in bed with my ‘Ex’. My ‘Ex’ even went on to show me pictures of my wife in action with other ‘big shot’ women I was even more shocked when my ‘Ex’ told me that my wife will be proposing that I keep her as my wife but agree that she could have her fling with her, i.e. my ‘Ex’. That way, my wife could have me and my ‘Ex’ at the same time. George, I am so confused right now. What do I do with all of this?
Unsettling
Dear Unsettling, It is extremely important that you address this matter urgently and preferably with a marriage/relationship therapist. You have a right to the truth about your spouse and her plans as they pertain to the relationship. All of what is happening could well be a distraction arising out of a situation over which it appears your ‘Ex’ has been given a great deal of control over your marriage. This makes it even more urgent you stop everything and get to bottom of it. Hopefully in the end you would find a workable solution to get your marriage back on track.
George
A woman beater search to include a woman who is submissive. If your idea of submission is to I AM NOT PRESENTLY IN a blindly obey you then you need to do a relationship and this is because my rethink. Abusive behavior does not past keeps coming back to haunt me. vanish into thin air. You need to get To be truthful, I was a woman professional counseling to understand beater. My last three girlfriends all suffered physically from my hands. I why you see physical punishment as the likely consequence for am not proud of my past but I would like everyone to know I am a changed disobedience. Begin the process and start working man and no longer get satisfaction on yourself. That’s something that from hitting women. I reason I hit the women in the past need to be done before you think of getting involved. was because they embarrassed and made wme look weak in public. A woman is not supposed to challenge a George man period, especially publicly. As it is, I’m looking for a woman who understands Dear Vex vex, Dear George, me and who knows how to be Both you and your MY GIRLFRIEND AND I friend are taking risks submissive. How are from the same village can I get potential doing what you are partners not to look and work at the same doing… you charging for company. I know for a fact sexual favours and she for at my past? that she is stealing from stealing from your the company steals in employer. Getting Tired order “to make ends meet.” You have to be careful I have ignored what she that she does not implicate Dear Getting Tired, is doing but my husband you in any way by showing You say you have keeps urging me to report that you have knowledge gotten over that the her but I have reasons for of her action, etc. I staying in my lanes. The suggest you seek some tendency to hit thing is that she knows I legal guidance on the women, but have performing sexual matter and that you also something tells me favours in return for cash, address the moral side of that you are not which I need to make my the situation. ready for a ends meet. Each of you will have to relationship. If I report her she is be ready to face the By your own likely that she would rattle consequences of your admission, you still me out to my actions should things cone believe that the husband. How unfair! Do out in the open. Are you? women in your life you think I should report One thing I do know is ought not to have her to her boss for secrets do not sit well with their own opinion stealing? relationships. It’s over to and challenge you, you now. and you have Vex vex narrowed your George
Dear George,
Birds of a feather…..
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Social events will be rewarding. Don't hesitate to sign up for creative courses or physical fitness programs. You may find that female colleagues will be more help than you anticipated. Your partner may be somewhat irritable this week.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will enjoy socializing and unusual forms of entertainment. Abrupt action will cause difficulties with relatives. You can enjoy entertainment if you join in and follow the crowd for a change.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Look for something entertaining to do. You've got that competitive edge. If your lover tries to curtail your freedom, it may lead to conflict. Keep on your toes when dealing with others.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You have so much to offer; open up and let your thoughts be known. Keep your cash in your pocket and offer them sound advice rather than your financial assistance. You may want to try your hand at a little creative writing.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Your determination and stamina will make your work look flaw less and effortless. You will have the getup and go to con tribute a great deal to groups of interest. Curb any jealous fits if your partner has been flirting with someone else.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Changes in your home may be disruptive and upsetting. Old friends may not like your choices. You must try to lay your cards on the table. Talk to your mate and tell them how you feel. Real estate investments will pay-off.
CANCER (June 22-July 22) Resist any idle chatter. Empty promises could be likely where work is concerned. Your personal partner may be less than willing to accommodate you this week. You need to look into some private
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your temper may get the better of you if a colleague has tried to ruin your reputation. You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation. Your communication skills will bring you popularity and increased self-esteem.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Don't let others put unreasonable demands on you. You will be too quick to point your finger at your mate. Attend seminars that will bring you in contact with the right people. You may have difficulties with in-laws or family members.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Trips will be enjoyable, and communication with your lover will clear up any misconceptions. Family get-togethers will be interesting. Your ability to visualize will help you convince others of the possibilities.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Underhandedness regarding legal matters or contracts must be counteracted. Confusion regarding other people's money and joint ventures will come to a head. This will not be the best day to try to push your ideas or concerns.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Don't involve yourself in the emotional problems of those you work with. You can make extra money. Rewards will be yours if you put in the overtime required. Be careful not to overexert yourself. Someone you care about may not be too well.
ACROSS 1. Did laps, say 5. Print pitches 8. Mortarboard 11. Long pleasure walk 12. Incite hostility 13. Beep 14. Infantry group 15. Yonder lass 16. Disagreeable smell 17. Religious doctrine 19. Having two parts 21. Wise one 23. They’re seen with trains 27. Olympics no-no 31. S. Pacific sea 32. Eclipsed 33. Musician’s gift 35. Purpose 36. Double-___ sword 39. Impaired 42. Judged 44. Assent 45. Yet another time 47. Pondered 51. Asian tongue 54. Tin container 56. Topic of many songs 57. Lord Grantham, on “Downton Abbey” 58. Gray naturally 59. Elm or fir 60. Vision organ 61. “Is it soup ___?” 62. Broadcast DOWN 1. Word with”up” or “out” 2. Dinner drink 3. Similar in nature 4. Falling star 5. Wood for oars
6. Lost power, as an engine 7. Cancel, slangily 8. Philanderer 9. “A long, long time ___” 10. Respectively 13. Jonas Salk’s vaccine 18. Couple 20. Softball pitch path 22. Utter a falsehood 24. Disease attacker 25. Comfortable state 26. Kind of dog 27. Gardening tools locale 28. Beach washer 29. Head start
30. Typical sitcom character 34. Campaigned 37. PC letter 38. Room for board games, maybe 40. Pie maker 41. They’re all grown up 43. Wear down
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 21.
46. Conduct 48. Put out 49. Squared up 50. Safe deposit box item 51. Golf meeting place 52. Silo store 53 “__ you listening?” 55. Cyberspace
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24. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Football, Squash hard hit by COVID-19
astonishment that while structured Football is being halted because of the stipulations, “sweat Football”, is taking place untethered. “Football is played all over the country, in a disorganized and uncontrolled environment. However, what is surprising to me is that there has not been moves by the authorities in any way to stop it”, Dickson observed. Whilst Football, an outdoor Football Unfair requirement sport has its issues, Squash, which is an indoor sport, is not President of the SVGFF Carl spared from the protocols as Amber Glasgow – Dickson noted that two of the elucidated by its spokespersonCommittee Member of the disciplines hardest hit are Football Amber Glasgow. SVGSA Executive – spoke of and Cricket, which require all Glasgow noted that having to Carl Dickson – President of the SVGFF – cited as participating players and officials to be share the facility with the day-to- the intensified inhibitions of having their facility housed unfair the protocol requiring all footballers and vaccinated. day operations of the National in the same building as officials to be vaccinated. Dickson questioned, “Why are we Lotteries Authority, has put the other operations. being asked to achieve a 100 percent sport in a difficult position. players lumped, the sport has suffered status before we can play?” “Our biggest challenge is our immensely. He assessed this demand as facility, as we share the same entrance ‘sweat’ profusely, use the same ball and unavoidably make contact with “We have lost a number of our “…unfair and needs to be revisited.” and exits and share the same one another, this adds to the athletes due to Covid… Before the Dickson proffered that physical bathroom facilities,” Glasgow shared. pandemic, we had probably the largest activities can assist in starving off the As such, the sport is impeded by the difficulties in adhering to the membership we ever had,” Glasgow coronavirus. lack of space to implement some of the protocols. “According to the protocols we were informed Saturday’s meeting. “My own sense of learning and protocols. required to wear masks indoors whilst The consensus at last Saturday’s understanding of how viruses operate, “We do not have any outdoor space playing Squash …For competition, encounter was that the protracted tells me that exercise and outdoor … We (also) share the space with they mandated that players wear a layoff occasioned by the COVID-19 activities are natural combatants of Lotto, so we cannot be moving mask as well, that is impossible… Our pandemic has accounted for up 95 these viruses … Some of what we are around,” Glasgow lamented. players are not accustomed to training percent in loss of members in some doing are really counterproductive,” he Glasgow also highlighted that with masks,” she complained. instances, among sporting associations said. because Squash is a sport in which Glasgow revealed that when all here. And he noted with an air of AS THE VARIOUS NATIONAL SPORTING ASSOCIATIONS focus on getting their respective disciplines going in 2022, their representatives met last Saturday at Hotel Alexandrina, under the aegis of the SVG Olympic Committee, to discuss the negative impact COVID-19 related protocols are having on sports. Two of the sporting bodies making presentations in this regard were the SVG Football Federation (SVGFF) and the SVG Squash Association.
SVGOC to set up Sports Commission THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES OLYMPIC COMMITTEE (SVGOC) is expected to intensify the monitoring of the operations of all its affiliates, through a Sports Commission. According to President of the SVGOC- Stephen
Joachim, the Sports Commission will be made up of independent persons and “will monitor and evaluate the activity levels of all sports.” The appointment of a Sports Commission will follow the appointment of
a Gender Equity Commission, Sports for All Commission, the Communications Commission, the National Olympics Academy and the Athletes Commissions. These Commissions, for the most part, are chaired by members of the Executive. Chairing the Gender and Equity Commission is Assistant Secretary General/ Treasurer — Geshell Peter, with Committee Members — LaPrise Williams and Kevin Hannaway, taking the lead roles in the Sports for All Commission and the Communications Commission. General Secretary — Keith Joseph is the Chair of the National Olympic Academy. Kineke Alexander, a former St. Vincent and
Geshell Peter chairs the Gender and Equity Commission. LaPrise Williams takes charge of the Sports for All Commission. the Grenadines middle distance athlete who is currently the Chair of the Athletes Commission of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC), will chair the Athletes Commission. And as Joachim and his Executive prepare for
Kevin Hannaway heads the Communications Commission. an April AGM of the SVGOC, he assured that they have met with the auditors to ensure that audited financial statements would be ready for the AGM. Work is ongoing on a Budget to be discussed by the Executive and presented to the General
Council in March, Joachim confirmed. “We have commenced our one-on-one meetings with affiliates to determine their needs and to be updated on their plans,” Joachim disclosed, even as the SVGOC competition schedule has been reviewed, inclusive of 2024. Chefs de Missions have also been appointed.
V Glasgow in CWI womenÊs squad
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 25.
Sports
VINCENTIAN JANNILLEA GLASGOW has been included in a West Indies Women’s 18-member squad for the One Day International (ODI) series against South Africa Women at the Imperial Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg from January 25 to February 7. The right-arm medium pacer is one of three uncapped players selected for Jannillea Glasgow –right the tour, the others being Guyanese arm medium pacer – Kaysia Schultz, a left arm orthodox become the fifth Vincentian bowler and Mandy Mangru, a rightto be selected to a Senior handed batter. CWI Women’s Team. Coach and Training sessions for the CWI Senior Women are said to have been The three newcomers were members of the West Indies Women A team The squad reads: Stafanie intensive and consistent. which played against Pakistan Taylor (Captain), Anisa Fletcher, Cherry Ann Fraser, Ramharack, Kaysia Schultz, Shakera Women’s A Team last year. Mohammed (Vice Captain), Aaliyah Jannillea Glasgow, Chinelle Henry, Selman and Rashada Williams. Glasgow follows in the footsteps of Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Kycia Knight, Mandy Mangru, Hayley Cordell Jack, Jenelle Greaves, Juliana Shamilia Connell, Deandra Dottin, Afy Matthews, Chedean Nation, Karishma I.B.A.ALLEN Nero and Phernal Charles as Vincentian Women cricketers to be selected on the senior West Indies Women’s team. VINCENTIAN SHAD THOMAS recorded his versus Louisburg in the National Junior The West Indies tenth double–double tio further enhance , to Collegiate Athletic Association Division II Women were due enhance his fledgling basketball career with championships. to arrive in South Africa the Catawba Valley Community College Thomas’ 13 points helped his college on January 16 for a (CVCC), in Hickory, North Carolina, United beat Louisburg 92-76. training camp ahead of a States. The highlight of Thomas’ night was his warm-up match and the This he achieved in his recent outing 21 rebounds, a career high. four-match ODI series. Additionally to his double-double of points and rebounds, Shad Thomas he had 2 assists, 3 steals and 2 block 13.9 points and 11.7 rebounds per game. shots. He is shooting 56.4% of his field goals, BUOYED BY THE CANDID We have to get our young Thomas’ latest 56.6% of his free throws and three-pointers people playing sports again,” expressions of the affiliates performance on the at 7.1%. at last Saturday’s encounter, Joachim impressed in court continues his Thomas, a forward, has started in 11 summary. President of the SVG good run of form. games accumulating 335 minutes on the Since the declaration of Olympic Committee- Stephen Last month, he court. the coronavirus pandemic in Joachim said that his notched up a Player A former student of the Union Island March, 2020, there have committee’s next move is to of the Week Award, Secondary School, Thomas left St Vincent been restricted national collate the concerns as for his scoring and and the Grenadines in 2019 to attend the expressed, in preparation for sporting events, whilst some rebounding. Salem Baptist Christian School in North national associations have a conversation with the In his 13 games Carolina. not been able to convene any relevant authorities. for CVCC, Thomas He moved to the CVCC last year on competitions for the past two President of the SVOC“We need to find a way to has a averages of Stephen Joachim receiving a scholarship from that college. years. bring moral suasion, persuasion to the government and health authorities … It has been two years now and we need to move in a ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES 2022, RWC Sevens qualifiers different direction … We Men’s Rugby team will have to wait a bit in June 2022 and the 2022 need to get back to normal longer for their first taste of international Commonwealth Games in and live with the reality of competition as this year’s RAN Super 7s Birmingham, England in life,” Joachim suggested. Rugby Tournament which was scheduled 2022. Joachim, though, is for Mexico next month, has been RAN hopes to re-schedule mindful that a balance must postponed. the tournament to a later be struck between the health A release from the organizers stated: date in 2022. of the nation and the return “RUGBY Americas North (RAN), in Leonard Mathews, of sports in a wholesome conjunction with Mexican Rugby President of the SVG Rugby manner. Federation, and after discussions with Union said he accepted the “We have to work with the RAN’s Medical Committee, took the reason for the postponement, government… Work with the decision to postpone the tournament and believes it will give the CMO (Chief Medical Officer) which was scheduled for February 11-13 players more opportunities … We need to do something due to the ongoing COVID-19 global to prepare for the Members of the SVG 7s Rugby team will be kept busy better… We need to have pandemic, … as the Omicron variant rescheduled date. with the bringing forward of the local 7-A-Side better protocols… We need to continues to surge around the globe”. “I had planned to start tournament. be realistic …Covid is The two-day tournament was set to be our local 7-A-Side standard for selection, another impacting all the sports … If the biggest event in RAN’s history with Tournament in March but due to this opportunity to compete for a spot on the we have another year like more than 25 teams registered to compete development we will bring forward the team,” Matthews said. what we had last year, there across three divisions, on two fields. tournament to February. This will keep will be no sports and it is The tournament was also certified as a the players in a state of readiness and I.B.A.ALLEN hurting our young people… qualifier for the Centro Caribe Games in also give those who weren’t up to the
Shad Thomas on a high
Working towards a wholesome return
RAN 7s Rugby Tournament Postponed
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26. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
Cricket and the public WITH THE ELECTIONS OUT OF THE WAY and Mia Motley securing another clean sweep, there will be mixed moods in Barbados. For the island, recently thrown into the spotlight with its move towards Republicanism, last Wednesday’s event raises the stakes. There is the legacy of the cricket culture, nothing more British. Bajans have mastered the art of British culture. At one time, a Barbados cricket team was good enough to challenge a World’s best squad. Barbados thrived on its British connection and used the platform to shape its identity. Changing the image of the Barbadian society ushers in a new era of political consciousness. Cynics raised eyebrows and some, including Sir Garfield Sobers, felt betrayed by the removal of the royal status. There must have been some connection between the staging of the elections and the prospect of an English touring on hand for a T/20 series. With the gloom of a Covid 19 hue engulfing the atmosphere, the need for extra safety measures becomes more acute. Crowd restriction, and compliance with more fluid protocol will perhaps cause anxiety. Adjusting anything different from typical Caribbean spontaneity will be a challenge for visitors and natives alike. With cricket in the neighbourhood, it will be hard to ignore such an activity, and at the same time, the energy and vibe from any regional event are enough to spark off repercussions. Formerly, those were not of a pandemic nature, and any apprehension would have been a personal reflection. But Bajans, Caribbean people, are not allowing any situation to derail them. When a nation is moving in a certain direction, there is hardly anything that can stop them. The West Indies Cricketers have an opportunity to provide their fans with reasons to join the celebration. The squad has to rebound from the Ireland series and be match ready from the start. There must be lessons from the last World Cup when they bucked a trend with a dismal opening encounter against England. England will be smarting from their Ashes fall out. There are differences in time and format. Whatever the contracts there will be questions as to the culture of cricketers, and potentially sporting personality. Players have to be disciplined, in all aspects of life. It is their obligation. It can be a matter of course that after every game, or especially a series, there is a release of pent up energy and emotions. That is an order than has become common place. That is a pattern that underlines a successful personality. People have to take their role seriously and appreciate the impact of their behaviour on fans and admirers. The Barbados election and results define a shift for a country having shrugged off the trappings of British symbolism, to being prepared to use the tools of its inheritance to build its legacy. The cricketers can use the platform of the Barbados landmark to translate their action into a display worthy to be proud of.
Ballantyne anticipates productive season
PAMENOS BALLANTYNE, athletics qualifying time for the coach, is looking forward to an CARIFTA 100m and active year for competition among Lawrence has already the local athletes. achieved that mark. He And he is looking forward to all expects both to compete in athletes, those under his guidance the 2022 CARIFTA and to do and those affiliated otherwise, to well. grab the opportunity once Ballantyne is also keeping competition resumes. his eyes on his student “The world governing body was Shantel Williams who is able to host the Olympics in currently on scholarship in Tokyo last year. This will give the USA. the athletes some hope that the She has recovered from an major event for the younger injury which curtailed her athletes will take place this year,” competition last year and Ballantyne told this publication, Ballantyne predicts that she in reference to the 2022 Junior will be improve her time in CARIFTA Games that will be the sprints as the season hosted by Jamaica. progresses. And he is hopeful that with a Track and Field coach Pamenos number of young athletes now I.B.A.ALLEN Ballantyne expects that those athletes studying and training in Jamaica, under his care and others will have a that the SVG productive 2022. contingent would give a good account of themselves. In the meantime, on the home front, the WEST INDIES coach is CRASHED to a expecting more disappointing twoschools to take wicket defeat in the part in the final of a 3-ODI series, schools meets to give Ireland an as well as historic 2-1 lien on more athletes the series. competing in In last Sunday national series decider in the events, CG Insurance Oneincreasing Day International (ODI) series, played competitions at Sabina Park, for places on the CARIFTA Jamaica, West Indies, chasing a team. As for those victory target of 215, were bowled out in under his 44.4 overs for 212, direct care, Shai Hope leading, Ballantyne The victorious Ireland ODI team. identified Kyle 53; Jason Hold, 44; and Akeal Hosein,23. Lawrence and the issues plaguing the All-rounder Andy McBrine Andros Dennie embattled one-day side. took 4 for 28 with his off “It’s very, very of the SVG spin after top scoring with disappointing,” Pollard Community 59 in Ireland’s 214 for 8 in said following the loss. College, and 44.5 overs. Harry Tector got “…. I think overall we Malacy Nero of 52; Paul Stirling 44; with the St. Akeal Hosein taking 3 for 59 have a batting problem in Martin’s and Roston Chase, 3 for 44. the Caribbean in getting runs on the board. We Secondary The 2-1 result gave can’t hide from that. … I School as Ireland their first ever win don’t think we’ve been up being very over the West Indies, and to standard within the consistent. their second win against a last few months.” full ICC member, after He holds Yet, even as he Zimbabwe at home in 2019. out great recognized the W.I. The visitors collected 10 things for mediocre top order more ICC ODI Super Nero, Kieron Pollard, W.I ODI batting, Pollard said he League points to move them projecting Captain, pointed fingers at his had no reason to question victory for him to fourth place on 50 points. the commitment of batters for the team’s West Indies are eighth in in the Interconsistent bad results. players. “I can say the Schools’ senior the 13-team table with 40 desire is there. I can’t Getting rid of one or two 400, 800, 1500 points. fault the guys in their work individuals is not going to In post-match comments and 5000 change it because different West Indies Captain- Kieron ethic….” meters. As for the way forward, persons may come in and it Pollard described Sunday’s Dennis, he series defeat as a “bitter pill the captain said, ‘It’s a might be the same.” matter of us putting our feels assured to swallow” and warned with make the there will be no quick fix to heads together and finding I.B.A.ALLEN the right combination.
Ireland beat W.I. in historic series win
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, 2022. 27.
Court/Classifieds
$50,000 bail offered on ganja charges
MICHAEL SCOTT will appear at the Biabou Magistrate’s Court today (Friday) in connection with the seizure of 222 pounds of marijuana with intent to supply, and possession of the drug for the purpose of drug trafficking. Scott who is from Glen but resides in Union Island, was jointly charged with Marvin Albert of Grenada, but while Albert pleaded guilty during their appearance at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, Scott maintained his innocence. Prosecutor Renrick Cato informed the Court that while the prosecution accepted Albert’s guilty plea, they would be
proceeding against Scott. Scott was granted $50,000 bail with one surety, with reporting conditions, and ordered to surrender all travel documents. Stop notices are to be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and he is
not, to leave the state without the permission of the Serious Offences Court or a higher court. The matter was transferred to the Biabou Magistrate’s Court where he would receive further direction, with regard to his trial.
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 21,
2022
VOLUME 116, No.03
www.thevincentian.com
EC$1.50
EX PUBLIC SERVANT AMONG TWO ARRESTED
34 years and was dismissed for not taking a vaccine. A MAN WHO WAS DISMISSED from his “I did not get a December salary. I post of Customs Officer for refusing to am not entitled to any pension, take the COVID-19 vaccine after more gratuity or any kind of benefits; they than thirty four years of service, was adjusted whatever paper works to do among two persons arrested during a that. So just being strong is the only protest staged in Kingstown Friday 14th thing I do … and I will continue January, 2022. protesting….. St. Vincent has been Both men were, on Monday, brought going down a slippery slope, before the Kingstown Magistrate’s everything in St. Vincent just going Court, charged with separate counts of from bad to worse,” the former gathering illegally near the Customs Officer said. Parliament building last Friday 14th. Crosby had some advice for the Ex Customs Officer Dave Crosby, population at large, saying, “If people 53, of Cane Garden, pleaded not guilty don’t stand up in 2022 … I don’t think when he appeared at the Kingstown they will have anybody around left to Magistrate Court on Monday, charged stand up in the next three years when with, that on January 14, 2022 he they have elections.” knowingly failed to comply with the He was adamant that the direction of Station Sergeant of Police authorities were targeting Dave Crosby, dismissed Customs Officer Richard Jacobs, better known as Julian Cain, when directed to disperse “independent-minded people.” with over three decades of service, has Ras Oba Chatoyer, is a wellfrom an unlawfully held public vowed to continue protesting. Jacobs expressed gratitude to Rise known social/political/cultural meeting, which was held within 200 Hairouna and those who visited them activist. from Mrs. Baptiste, it made a big yards of the High Court Building, while in police custody. He said that Crosby who he described as being where the House off Assembly was from the moment he received a phone difference in my resolve because I “unflinching in his discipline, courage knew from that moment we weren’t sitting, contrary to section 8(3) (a) of call from Lawyer Kay Bacchusand support of me being the elder alone.” the Public Order Act. Baptistehe felt better. persons in the cell.” Jacobs was particularly thankful to The other persons arrested and “From the moment I got the call similarly charged was Richard ‘Ras Oba’ Jacobs, 72. He was reported to have failed to follow the instructions of Sergeant 403 Nigel John. Both offences are contrary to public meeting as purported Section 8(3) (a) of the Public by the police but a protest, on Order Act, Chapter 396 of the January 14, 2022. laws of St. Vincent and the She stressed that the Grenadines, Revised Edition constitution accorded the right 2009. to protest and that no The men pleaded not-guilty permission is required to to the charges when they stage same. appeared before Senior PRO Nekeisha Williams, Magistrate Rickie Burnette on speaking at the same press Monday. They are on station conference, said that the bail and will return to court on protest as referenced was March 29. meant to protest a number of The men spoke during a issues in the country, press conference hosted last including: the arrest of two Monday by Rise Hairouna, the protestors during a protest organization that spearheaded held on Friday 14th January; last week Friday’s protest. reforming the constitution so Crosby also expressed that sex offenders can face thanks to all those who gave stiffer penalties for sexual their support to Jacobs and offense; the termination of himself. public servants who refused He said that he was able to mandatory vaccination; draw on some strength, saying Protestors were removed from this area immediately outside the perimeter fence of the questioning the $95 million that being strong is the only Court House. (Photo Credit: Donald De Riggs) said to be unaccounted for by thing he has right now. the government; and police Crosby shared that he SPEAKING AT A TUESDAY Hairouna, a non-governmental protests here, Nailah John, brutality among other issues. worked at the Customs and 18th January virtual press organization that has been at President, noted that the Exercise Department for over conference hosted by Rise the vanguard of street organization did not have a Continued on Page 17. Stories by: KENVILLE HORNE
A PROTEST NOT A PUBLIC MEETING
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