FRIDAY, AUGUST
27, 2021
VOLUME 115, No.33
www.thevincentian.com
Prison Officer’s fate in the balance Page 4
Too many youngsters with H licenses Page 4
KIND-HEARTED
EC$1.50
NTRC My App workshop completed Page 13
Soufrière Trail: No Ground for Trial - Page 14
BRIGHTON MAN KILLED
Samuel in happier times. Stories by KENVILLE HORNE THE SHOOTING DEATH of Edward ‘Bush Man’ Samuel at his home in Brighton on Wednesday 18th, has left many residents in that East St. George community and surrounding areas in a
state of shock. Samuel was known to be a kind-hearted and generous man; one who had a special kindness for the children in the community. He was employed as a member of the maintenance team at St. Vincent and the
and was pronounced dead at the scene by the District Medical Officer (DMO).” A farmer who tends to his animals close to where the deceased was living, said that Samuel built a small house many years ago behind the park (now the SVGFF facility) and lived by himself. “He use to pass and go by Monique shop. He don’t drink rum and Samuel’s best friend thing so but he does George O’Garro. smoke e little weed. His mother use to work on Grenadines Football the estate for ‘Das’ Federation (SVGFF) DaSilva,” the farmer facility in Brighton. He shared. was also a painter. When THE Samuel was a regular VINCENTIAN visited patron of Monique’s Bar Monique’s business in Brighton, and his place, there was an fellow patrons recalled atmosphere of sadness. his regular routine of In remembrance of drinking two Guinness Samuel, two bottles of Stouts, watching a movie Guinness, partially and conversing with his hiding the words ‘RIP friends until he was Bush’, rested on the seat ready to go home. of the stool Samuel On that fateful usually occupied. Wednesday, some The deceased’s best community members friend, a dread lock man said it was not more that by the name of George fifteen minutes after he O’Garro, recalled his last left the bar that shots moments with Samuel. rang out from the He said that about 26 direction of his abode. minutes to 10pm on Checks by residents Wednesday he and his revealed that he was friend left the Bar. shot. Samuel, O’Garro said, According to a police told him he was going release, “….some home to make tea and unknown person(s) fry half a breadfruit and armed with a gun, shot fish. Samuel multiple times about the body. He Continued on Page 3. succumbed to his injuries
Shon ‘Sean Paul’ Browne
FRIEND’S BETRAYAL RESULTS IN HOMICIDE A 33-YEAR-OLD-MAN was killed after confronting a male friend whom he discovered in a compromising position with his girlfriend. Police confirmed that they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Shon Browne aka ‘Sean Paul’, a 33 year old labourer/auto mechanic of Stubbs. Browne is said to have died on Sunday 22nd August, sometime around 5pm, in Diamond. According to a press release from the Royal SVG Police Force, preliminary investigations revealed that on the Sunday in question, the deceased and the accused male allegedly got into altercation which resulted in the accused receiving a chop wound to his left hand. During the tussle, the accused is said to have stabbed Browne multiple times in his chests with a knife. Browne was pronounced dead at the scene of the altercation by the District Medical Officer (DMO). Browne was described as easy going and willing. Linley Butler, a friend of the deceased, said that he was the person who had given Browne the place to stay in Diamond. The property was registered in Linley aunt’s name. He described Browne as “easy going and willing,” adding that he and Browne would undertake “mechanic jobs” as a team. Linley, though, admitted that he had warned Browne on several occasions about the number of Continued on Page 3.
Friend Linley Butler.
2. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
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News 3
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 2021 . 3.
CARPHA introduces online form to report adverse vaccine events by a vaccine. Dr Joy St. John, Executive Director of CARPHA THE CARIBBEAN PUBLIC HEALTH elaborated, “The reporting of an AEFI AGENCY (CARPHA), through its CARPHA does not mean the event has been Caribbean Regulatory System (CRS), has caused by the vaccine, or that the launched an online reporting form to aid person who gave the vaccine made an immunization programmes within error, but it is an important part of Ministries of Health in the region in helping the national authorities to collecting of case reports of adverse identify events that may need to be events following immunization. investigated further. The information The World Health Organization from investigations and data analyses describes an ‘adverse event following will assist Member States in immunization’ (AEFI) is “any identifying the types of reactions that untoward medical occurrence which persons are experiencing, and any follows immunization and which does additional monitoring or regulatory not necessarily have a causal actions that may be needed.” relationship with the usage of the Additionally, neither is it confined vaccine. The adverse event may be any to COVID-19 vaccines as, according to unfavourable or unintended sign, CARPHA, the “form may be used for abnormal laboratory finding, symptom any vaccine, including COVID-19 or disease.” vaccines”. All reports will be received This reporting therefore, is not by CARPHA-CRS and then sent on to confined to only events directly caused the respective Ministries of Health where immunization programme by GLORIAH…
personnel will do local follow-up. CARPHA has expressed the belief that this undertaking will reduce the need for a physical presence at health facilities. Any person wishing to report an AEFI experience may speak with a health professional for advice on the medical aspects, and/or assistance in completing the online form: VigiCarib Vaccine AEFI Form. Questions about use of the form may be sent via vigicarib@carpha.org The CRS is an initiative of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) and is managed
as a regulatory unit within CARICOM’s regional public health body, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), with support from the Pan American Health Organization and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. About the CRS https://www.carpha.org/What-WeDo/CRS/Caribbean-Regulatory-System
Ministry of Kind-hearted Brighton man killed Education launches education recovery efforts that she would miss Samuel. She too attested to the type of person He knew nothing about what Samuel was. She said that he transpired that night until would give the children his last Thursday morning when his dollar and stay without. neighbours told him that his “It just senseless… you try to friend was killed. make sense of it and you can’t and According to O’Garro, “That the sad thing in this whole man dey don’t trouble nobody. He situation they are not going to don’t get involve with no drugs lock up anybody,” said the because he nar support coke grieving woman. (cocaine) and them thing dey. Monique’s daughter, Trachelle, When he come in the shop ah two also expressed that she would Guinness he ah drink and he will miss the deceased. buy more than two Guinness give “He use to call me Beyonce or anybody else.” Chiney or Japanese,” said He said that nothing was too Trachelle. much for Samuel to give and that Reports are that Samuel was almost every child in the supposed to collect some money community can give testimony of that day and some residents have how nice his friend was. speculated his death might have Business woman Monique said been the result of a robbery by a Continued from Frontpage.
by GLORIAH… A TWO-YEAR RECOVERY PROGRAMME intended to assist students in catching-up on learning lost as a result of the limitations presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and the explosive eruption of the La Soufrière volcano, was undertaken by the Ministry of Education, beginning on Monday 23rd August with Recovery of Learning and Emotional and Psychological Support (ROLES). According to the Ministry of Education and National Reconciliation, the ROLES initiative which is funded by UNICEF, seeks to “help with the knowledge and skills that students have missed, but it also takes into consideration the social, emotional and mental well-being of the students”. It is expected that educators, families and school communities would function as critical players in this endeavour. The ROLES programme began with vacation session for students needing remedial work and those entering exit levels in the upcoming school year. Students will go through three weeks of academic and non-academic activities mixed in with traditional and modern learning strategies. As the programme expands into the academic year, the following goals are cited: building core skills through Literacy and Numeracy; enhancing Science, Psychosocial and Life Skills; understanding Special Education and Disabilities; and improving self-awareness and personal development through Music Education. The official launch of the recovery efforts of the Ministry of Education is Tuesday 31st August.
The house where Samuel was killed. person or persons, who apparently thought he would have already received the money. Samuel’s death was recorded as this country’s 26th homicide for 2021.
Friend’s betrayal results in homicide Continued from Frontpage. persons he was inviting to his residence, and with whom he would indulge in “drinking rum.” He also said that he had warned his friend about taking back his girlfriend every time she ran away from his residence. According to Linley, it was Browne’s girlfriend who brought the accused to the house and Browne and his alleged killer were friends who, along
with a number of females, would often meet at Browne’s place to have some drinks. Butler said he was even detained for a while last week Thursday after he had to remove one of the girls from the property. She reported to the police that she was injured after she was thrown out by Butler. “Sunday morning a man came to me and say he have a car break down and he want arwe to fix up. Me tell ‘Sean Paul’ let arwe go and fix the car for the man. He
tell me he staying at home to clean up the yard,” Butler recalled. “When me dey pon de work now, all after 5pm, them say ‘Sean Paul’ dead. Me watch it pon a man phone…, see ‘Sean Paul’ lie down in a yellow jersey and blood full up the whole place,” he said on how he found out that his friend was killed. He added that later that day, Sunday, he was told that Browne had returned from the shop and found his girlfriend and his friend, known as Short Man, in a
compromising position. The rest is now history. “‘Sean Paul’ is a good man. If you send him America three times he go walk go and come back. He is a man now he go make his little minor trouble but he wasn’t a man who like violence. He was a good man and I feel real bad,” said Butler about his friend. “Somebody needs to bear the penalty,” he sighed. Browne’s death marks the twenty-seventh (27th) homicide for the year 2021.
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4. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
Court
Prison officerÊs fate in the balance
Prison Officer Louis Cupid Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS CLOSE TO two years after murder accused Veron Primus was sentenced to 16 months in prison for escaping lawful custody at Her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, prison officer Louis Cupid is awaiting his fate in connection with the matter. On Monday, following closing submissions by Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche, and Cupid’s attorney Grant Connell, at the trial, which has been ongoing for several months at the Serious Offences Court Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne reserved her decision until Tuesday, August 31. Cupid is facing charges of conspiracy and corruption brought against him following Primus’ prison escape between September 29 and October 2, 2019. Primus was discovered missing from the prison around 9 a.m. on October 1, 2019. The Senior Prosecutor who led the case for the prosecution, submitted on Monday that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt. He pointed out that footage was shown in Court,
during the trial, of Primus and Cupid interacting at a desk in the prison, and of Primus subsequently climbing down an area. The Prosecutor added that when Cupid was taken into custody, he gave a statement to Sergeant Biorn Duncan who was party of the investigating team, and in that statement, Cupid admitted that he assisted Primus to escape. Delpleche said Cupid decided to speak to Sergeant Duncan, and Duncan made notes of what Cupid said. In that statement, which was read in evidence at the trial, and referred to, in part, during Delpleche’s closing arguments, Cupid was quoted as saying, ‘Officer let me tell you the truth. I assisted Veron Primus to leave the prison, but I did not give him no key to the cell, or open the cell. He told me he wanted to go out, and he wanted to escape, but I did not give him a positive answer’. Based on what Cupid is reported to have said in the statement, Delpleche was of the view that he omitted his duty as a prison officer. “Here is a prisoner on remand on a murder charge, telling a prison officer he wanted to escape, and you did not report it”, the prosecutor queried. Delpleche also made reference to another part of the statement in
which Cupid said, ‘I told him if he wanted to go out he will have to come up with his own plan and go through with it’. Delpleche said that Cupid also told Duncan that he worked the night shift on September 30, 2019 and around 2 a.m. on October 1, Primus came out of his cell and told him he wanted to leave, and he (Cupid) told him he could leave how he wanted. “Isn’t that tantamount to conspiracy. A man telling you he want to leave, and you said, leave how you can”, the prosecutor questioned rhetorically. “Is not an ordinary man on the street telling him that, is a prison officer”, the prosecutor said. Delpleche contended that there was enough evidence to prove the charges of conspiracy, and corruption, beyond reasonable doubt, as both charges interlocked. But Connell in his arguments, said that while Cupid may have been negligent, in not reporting Primus’ intention to escape, it did not amount to conspiracy and his statement to Sergeant Duncan, showed that there was not agreement or common design between them to escape. He pointed out that the investigator, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Elgin Richards failed to provide any evidence to the Court from Veron
Primus, the man whom Cupid is said to have conspired with, and the prosecution did not even mention that Cupid had told Junior Prison Officer Alban Edwards to write a report for him, with the Superintendent of Prisons permission, following Primus’ escape, because of his (Cupid) vision problem. The lawyer said that the report made no mention of any agreement between Primus and Cupid, but the investigator seemed not to have even spoken to Edwards at all. Edwards and Commissioner of Police Colin John were called as defence witnesses. Connell noted that the dates on the video footage from the prison were wrong. “In fact one of them was in daylight. Was that the day of the escape? It shows Louis Cupid, but did not show what day it was. It shows cells open, and prisoners walking up and down. They did not provide evidence to show you that they were not just on a fishing expedition, taking dates from a hat. “Where are all the diaries? None of these documents were presented. There is a dormitory diary that reports all the activities at the dormitory”, Connell hinted. “Would the diary reveal who last had the keys to Primus’ cell, and
did this man have the key to the cell? Did Veron Primus have a key for his cell for weeks, and was in and out of his cell? Where are the diaries? The diary at the dorm will detailed the activities at the dorm”, the lawyer submitted. He noted that the defence requested disclosure of the diaries, but the investigator said they could not be located. He recalled that retired Superintendent of Prisons, Brenton Charles, who was Prison Superintendent at the time of Primus’ escape, told the Court, in evidence that the diary for the dormitory existed, was written in, and updated, and when Charles was questioned about the diaries not being filled out for three years, he said that if anyone was to say that, it would be a lie. Connell contended that the prosecution’s case was hinged on Cupid’s statement to Sergeant Duncan, and does not show that there was an agreement, or common design between Primus and Cupid. “The ASP was to go and follow up on this to show if the dots connected. “It’s called independent evidencte. “The defence humbly submits that the investigator failed or refused to investigate the matter properly”.
Labourer charged in Diamond stabbing death DELROY QUASHIE, the man who is accused of causing the death of 33-year-old Shon Browne, of Stubbs, also known as ‘Sean Paul’, will make his next appearance at the Serious Offences Court on November2. Browne, 40-year-old resident of Sally Spring, originally of Layou, was taken before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne on Wednesday after being charged with murder. He was not required to plea to the indictable charge, and was remanded. A police release stated that, according to preliminary investigations, sometime after 5 p.m on August 22, at Diamond, Browne, also a labourer, and Quashie, had an altercation during which Browne was stabbed in the chest. Quashie also received a chop wound to his left hand. Browne was pronounced dead on the scene by a medical authority. Prosecutor Renrick Cato told the Court on Wednesday that the investigator informed him that he had about nine witnesses.
Too many youngsters with H licences DEFENCE LAWYER Grant Connell thinks the law with regard to the granting of H licenses, should be amended, as too many inexperienced drivers are Grant Connell driving H vehicles. Connell commented on the issue at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday while mitigating on behalf of his client J’Lani Douglas, a 26-yearold minibus driver, who had pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, committed on May 28, 2021. It was revealed in Court that this
was Douglas’ third conviction for dangerous driving, and that he had a horrific driving record. But Connell is of the view that too many youngsters with very little driving experience are driving H vehicles. He said that when these young inexperienced drivers are granted H licenses, and they are of control, the Court cannot fix the problem. “You have to amend the law. The problem is within the law. You can fix the problem with sentences you pass now. That is like putting a plaster on a sore”, he opined. “We see it too often for young drivers with H licenses to clog up the Court. Maybe they should not have H licences at all. I have seen young men 18 and 19 driving container trucks.
“The law needs to be fixed”, he suggested. According to Connell, “When you look at his (Douglas) character in general, he is not a hardened criminal, he is a good boy”. Connell commended Sergeant Jones who prosecutes traffic matter, adding that he (Connell) always say to minibus drivers that Sergeant 444 Kenny Jones means good, and his advice to those drivers is, “You don’t demand respect, you command respect”. Douglas was fined $2,500, and was disqualified from driving for nine months. But Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne told him that had it not been for the sterling mitigation plea from
his lawyer, he could have been facing permanent disqualification, as he was convicted three times for dangerous driving. Browne thinks that the term of imprisonment for Douglas could be a renewal for him, as well as a reflection of his attitude. “That could be a stern message for all van men now”, Connell responded. Section 48(2) (c), Chapter 483 of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, revised edition of the laws of SVG, 2009, states that a person, on their third conviction for dangerous driving, may be disqualified permanently. Douglas was one of several persons who appeared in Court on Monday on charges of dangerous driving.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. 5.
News
No subsiding of Virgin Atlantic Flights; says Beache “WE WOULD NOT BE SUBSIDING VIRGIN FLIGHTS to St Vincent; we are having a marketing arrangement with them, we have joint marketing plans with the airline. There are two things. One, the contract with Virgin is very confidential as to what is in it, for obvious reasons. Two, we do a joint marketing campaign. So let’s say we put in 150,000 GBP into a marketing campaign; Virgin has to match that, so the campaign comes to Glen Beache, Chief Executive Officer of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority.
300,000 GBP,” he further added. Those were sentiments expressed by head of the St. Vincent Tourism Authority Glen Beache during an interview on BOOM 106.9 FM last Monday. He added that the Virgin Atlantic inaugural flight to St Vincent on 13th October
would be part of a tag flight, which will see aircrafts making stops in Barbados first, then on to the Argyle International Airport before making the journey in reverse. Speaking on the OMG Morning Show on BOOM 106.9 FM, Beache said
the inaugural flight would leave Heathrow London for Grantley Adams Airport Barbados, then onto the Argyle Airport. He said the only country in the Caribbean which was a one-stop for Virgin out of the United Kingdom was Barbados.
However, as it stands now, it’s going to be a two-stop. “All flights out of the UK into the Eastern Caribbean are tagged flights; it may very well include St Lucia soon as there are new arrangements with that country” said Beache. (KH)
6. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
V Persons need to return home
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. 7.
News
SCHOOLS ACROSS the country are expected to re-open on October 4, and there is a push for those schools that are currently being used as shelters, to be ready. And although it may be delayed by a week or so, there needs to be a deadline. There were some persons who were still residing in shelters and whose homes may have sustained Level One damage and have not gone back to do any clean-up. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said on NBC Radio on August 25 that there were still 31 shelters open, housing some 1,134 persons. And of the 31 shelters, 24 of these were schools, the prime minister said. “Because we are scheduled to open schools on October 4, which means
that we would want to be in a position to put in furniture and do other repairs,” Gonsalves said. Government gave permission for persons to return to areas North of Rabacca after August 23, after being evacuated due to the eruption of the La Soufrière volcano in April. But according to Gonsalves, there were some who were of the view that it was better for some to remain in the shelters than to return to their homes on the Northeastern side of the island, because of the condition that their houses were in. “Well, the truth is that some persons are in the shelters either because they are ill, or because their homes are not ready to receive them so they are not able to move, but a significant number of this 1,134 can
MOE launch initiative to help students “catch-up” IN AN EFFORT to help students “catch-up” with learning lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the volcanic eruptions, the Ministry of Education has begun the roll out of a two-year recovery programme. A release from the Agency for Public Information (API) noted that after pinpointing some areas in which students need support, the ministry is partnering with a number of agencies to put suitable measures in place. One such strategy that will be used is the Recovery of Learning and Emotional and Psychosocial Support (ROLES) initiative, funded by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). According to the release, “the initiative is not only designed to help with the knowledge and skills that students have missed, but it also takes into consideration the social, emotional and mental well-being of the students. Educators, families and school communities are also recognised as critical players on the road to education recovery”.
The programme began on Monday, August 23 with a three-week vacation session, particularly for students in need of remedial work and those entering the exit levels in the new school year. The students will be engaged daily Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 1:30 pm and they are expected to benefit from a range of academic and non-academic activities, as well as traditional and modern learning strategies. The programme, which is projected to extend into the academic year, is focusing on: Building core skills through Literacy and Numeracy, Enhancing science, psychosocial and life skills, Understanding Special Education and Disabilities, Improving self-awareness and personal development through Music Education. The Ministry of Education’s recovery efforts will be officially launched on Tuesday, August 31 with a live broadcast on Facebook and Channel 114 on cable TV. (KH)
Stop abandoning the young and elderly THERE HAS been another appeal to persons to desist from abandoning elderly relatives or children when vacating the shelters. According to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the issue was a challenging one as many of the abandoned elderly were ill or suffered from dementia. “Please for heaven’s sake, don’t abandon your children and don’t
abandon your father, or your mother, or grandfather or grandmother,” he said while speaking on NBC Radio on August 25. He said that there were as many as 14 such elderly persons abandoned at the JP Eustace Memorial which was being used as a shelter for persons displaced by the eruption of La Soufrière back in April. The prime minister
said that government had commenced the process of cleaning up and doing some repairs on the facility at Orange Hill that temporarily housed the Mental Health Facility. The said facility has the capacity to house between 30 and 40 individuals, Gonsalves said, and will be an extension of the Luis Punnett Home where additional staff will be hired. (DD)
still move,” he contended. The recent heavy rains would have prevented persons from moving back Gonsalves admitted, but if individuals waited until everything was 100 percent, the nation’s children would not be able to return to school for a long time, Gonsalves said. The effects of the disruption in faceto-face interactions for students was not going to be felt now, but in the long-term he continued. “Which is why it is important for us to address the educational issue properly.” According to Gonsalves, there was a plan to further decrease the numbers of persons still living in shelters although there were a minority of individuals who were saying that they were not leaving the shelter until they get a house. “I caution them again, although this is a caring government, you cannot try to game the system like that,” he said. Gonsalves explained that damaged houses were assessed and placed into one of four levels with Level One referring to minimal damage and
PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves Level Four referring to either rebuilding or relocation. At the moment, the government has started to construct 27 houses and this project is expected to be completed by the middle of September 2021, he said. Land is also being made available to persons in Orange Hill, Colonaire and a section of Sandy Bay the prime minister added. In the meantime, Gonsalves said that the Red Cross had pledged to make resources available to cover the short-term rental for persons for a period of two to three months which would give some time for their homes to either be rebuilt or restored. He said that government was looking to secure at least 200 homes to accommodate such persons, and this he said, should deal with a number of those still residing in shelters. (DD)
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8. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Incitement? What next? Editor’s Note: This piece was written before the charges of ‘illegally organising a public protest, etc.,’ were brought against the Kings.) WELL, WELL, IT DIDN’T TAKE US LONG to swallow that Yankee pill which we are wont to accept as the correct remedy all, if not most of the time. It seems like it was just yesterday that the ruling political bloc in the USA was calling for the prosecution of President Trump for inciting a riot, the key word being ‘inciting’, when a swarm of Trump supporters stormed the seat of Government causing mayhem, and leaving a trail of destruction and injury as they departed. Yes, we have added that word ‘incite’ to our political lexicon here with the recent arrest of two young persons - Adriana King and Kenson King — for their roles in support of a cause they believed to be right and demonstrated in what they deemed to be legitimate action on the streets of Kingstown that, in one instance, resulted regrettably, in injury to the Prime Minister. Correct us if we are wrong but wasn’t the first indication from the authorities, as per reasons for the arrests, that they were taken into police custody on grounds related to ‘incitement’? It would not be far off the target to surmise given the surgical move on these two young activists and others, that some persons in positions of authority assessed that what transpired on the streets of capital Kingstown over the last five or so weeks, was an indication of some sinister plot to overthrow the government, including to assassinate the Prime Minister as has been purported by Unity Labour Party members; and that the two Kings played a leading role in that plot. If these are the grounds for the action against the Kings, then they seem rather flimsy and speak to an
intention by the authorities to use high handed means to quell what is undoubtedly a testing time for the Unity Labour Party’s hold on government. What other grounds, unless there are mitigating circumstances that state intelligence has thrown up, are there on which to close in the two young persons who have been, if the truth be told, two of the more ‘vocal’ opponents of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, his Cabinet and Party Executives. But just what is this criminal act that we call incitement? Incitement is understood to mean the encouragement of another person to commit a crime. If this be the definition that we accept, we dare say that there have been many before now who could well have been similarly taken in by the SVGPF. There have been demonstrations of opposition to state and government throughout our modern political history. No one, to the best of our memory, has ever been charged with incitement - a serious criminal charge if there is one. But it would serve those who are behind this recent move, to bear in mind that the bar required to prosecute someone for incitement is very high, and for good reason. At the very heart of the charge of incitement is the right to free speech so that whatever Criminal Law is applied, one cannot exclude the Constitution in any argument of law. If this is not accepted as being enshrined as protection for the people, then we are biased in our separation of government and protection of the people, by making it too easy for any government, aggressive or otherwise, to charge someone for angry hyperbole that calls into question the conduct of government. Did anyone else hear a direct call for violence during any of the recent street protests here?
Political cricket Gonsalves’ style (An abridged version - first published in THE VINCENTIAN of November 14, 2014.) I AM DEAD SERIOUS. I thank P.M Gonsalves for using his formidable talents in so abusing and insulting the intelligence of the Vincentian people, as to awaken them to the danger which he poses. Gonsalves could easily have gotten away with many infractions that his government has committed over a dozen years, but over the last two-year period he has grown overbearing and persists in his folly with his hang-ups on the weaknesses of Black people still intact, whom he has forced, almost in spite of themselves, to observe matters through eyes from which the scales has at last begun to fall. Even so, because of my current maladies over the last six months I had not the time, energy or inclination to peer properly into a multiplicity of his misdeeds, only viewing with alarm the direction in which he is taking this country, like nobody’s business. He is in for a rude awakening. In spite of his capacity to outsmart and beguile listeners with his silver tongue, beguiling language and smooth demeanour, an observant person may detect a subtle change of style: he is reaching out more, less reassuring and, for the first time hinted at his coming defeat in saying that the people must not vex him or he might call elections and let whoever wins deal with the international airport. THIS WEEK focuses not on the failings of the ULP government but on one aspect of the Doctor’s tool-kit, which is pleasant and innocent-looking, but could be devastatingly effective. I refer to his constant exploitation of the game of cricket which West Indians, including our own people, love with a passion. As far as I know, Ralph had not a clue of the game. He may not have played even back-yard cricket though he came to use its language fluently and effectively. For instance that even his original rival for North Central Windward seat, Vincent Beache who came from South Rivers was not fit for test cricket only for coconut bat version.
But to stretch the analogy, Ralph never played the game of “ins” and “out” which politics is, nor by the rules that govern it still less by the umpire whose word is final like an electorate’s decision. But to start at the very beginning, Ralph first played cricket for the Lawyers’ team under skipper Kenneth John in a match played at South Rivers, before he had been called to the bar. He had come up from his home at Colonarie as a camp-follower, when he was asked to fill the eleventh spot vacated by Parnel Campbell who had twisted his ankle just before the match on the rough terrain of an apology of a playing-field, which was really an old river bed subject to flooding, misnamed pasture! So Ralph’s entry into political cricket was facilitated by PR whose boots were too large for him! The pair eventually became, at various times stretched over the years, political rivals and closely knitted comrades, calling each other all sorts of names, from the devil incarnate to a chameleon As a cricketer Ralph was indifferent but exceptionally keen, for he had long calculated its political value. When we played country side the following made speeches on behalf of the lawyers- P.R., Ralph, Arthur, Andrew Cummings and Stalky John. All together we visited places including Richland Park (women), Dubois and Petit Bordel. With deft handling by the Captain, the Team including the “professionals” like Kens Dougan, Stuart Nanton and Clem Ballah, survived the vicissitudes of two elections-1979 and 1984 emerged from the scrimmages with the patchedup MNU. Dr. Gonsalves manoeuvred his charges through stormy seas by skillful captaincy in 2001 to the political kingdom. True to form, however, especially in the vicinity of a most significant elections, Gonsalves’ historical sense, notwithstanding his aged and ailing bod, planned a festival match at South Rivers, to start his 2015 campaign. But the rains washed out the game, as if nature was saying, “Enough is Enough?”
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. 9.
Letters
LetÊs talk cricket WEST INDIES CRICKET team continues to flip-flap especially when it comes to test cricket. Sometimes they bring joy and at other times they make many loyal fans angry. In analyzing briefly, one of its many failures is the batting and in particular the opening pair. For years we have been struggling to find a solid and dependable opening pair. Except for Skipper Braithwaite, no one seems to deliver with any consistency. Therefore, I want to recommend a crazy suggestion to aid with the aforementioned.
rather than a bowler who can bat a bit. In doing so it would strengthen the batting and still Having tried many recognized batsmen in that position with little or allow room for the same amount of front line bowlers. Added to that he no success, as crazy as it seems, I think Rakheem Cornwall can be given would be able to bowl and so strengthen the bowling line-up while a try at opening the batting. If one should observe, he has a good defense not weakening the batting with an extra bowler. and some array of shots. History Kyle Mayers needs some help would show us that some of the technically as well as many of the leading batsmen started out as other batsmen. He made a great debut spinners batting low down the order. with a double century, but since then Among them are Sir Garfield Sobers has faltered and faltered badly. I and Steve Smith. After all, it would do no harm to let would therefore recommend that he be replaced with Shai Hope. Also him open the innings. He can play primarily as a batsman who can bowl Alazzari Joseph has the potential for
Double standards I NOTE, via an alternative medium, that Mr. Leacock is calling for the removal of 2 ULP election posters at Frenches Gate, based on the fact that they refer to the 2020 election and are now not relevant. It is noticeable that within the outlying regions of Kingstown there are still various NDP election slogans, in large letters and bright yellow paint, that date back to the elections of 2010 and 2015. These are daubed on a number of roads and walls. I would suggest that before Mr. Leacock chastises the
ULP regarding their 2020 posters he puts his own political party in order. By arranging some sort of clean-up of these slogans that predate the ULP billboards by some 5 and 10 years. It is sheer hypocrisy to castigate the ULP for posters that are not quite 12 months out of date but to ignore their own slogans that, as stated, are now 5 and 10 years out of date. To conclude, I would remind Mr. Leacock of the adage “people who live in glass houses should not throw stones”.
A. W. Indupp
becoming a very good batsman to go along with his bowling. He too, must be given the opportunity to bat higher and given more games. It is also my firm belief that Jason Holder should be given the opportunity to bat higher up the order. Of late, it has been mainly the lower order carrying the weight of both bowling and batting. Therefore, serious consideration must be given to reshuffle the team and its batting order. This is just my two cents on West Indies cricket. I wish them every success and it is my prayer that they would rise and one day regain the number one spot in the ICC rankings. Kennard King
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10. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
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Resettling and rebuilding lives after the eruption Introduction THE EXPLOSIVE eruption of the La Soufriere volcano on April 9, 2021, caused significant disruption to the lives of thousands of Vincentians living in the northern part of mainland Saint Vincent, designated as the Red Zone. Once the evacuation order was given, the process of moving for more than 20,000 Vincentians began, and for many what would happen next was uncertain. In the months leading up to April 9, 2021, since the beginning of effusive eruptions in December of 2020, much consultation and information sharing had taken place, to prepare residents in the Red and Orange Zones especially for what would happen in the event of an explosive eruption. The truth is, that no amount of advisories and simulations could have fully prepared residents for the eventuality of the eruption. However, every care was taken by the authorities to ensure that proper monitoring of the volcano was done and timely updates given. The National Emergency Management Organisation, with the expert assistance of the Seismic Research Centre within the University of the West Indies provided regular updates to citizens on activities at La Soufriere that would assist in their own planning and preparation. Once the eruption occurred, most residents knew where they were to go, either to a designated shelter or in the case of others, to previously arranged private accommodation. This began a period of uncertainty for all citizens, but especially those who had to leave their homes and their livelihoods, having their lives disrupted in ways unimaginable and not knowing how long a period this disruption would be. During the period of the explosive eruption and immediately after, heavy ash falls and lahar flows caused much damage to infrastructure and private property in the red zone. As it all began to sink in, many residents realised that they would not be returning to lives as they knew it preeruption, as for some it would not just be the task of resettling, some would require a rebuilding of property and of their lives essentially.
Easing the burden of resettling Once the all clear was given, based on the advice of the experts monitoring the volcano, residents who remained displaced were given timelines within which they could return to their homes. The government, through NEMO provided continuous updates to assist those who would be returning to their homes after almost 5 months away, to prepare themselves. Some residents had used the opportunity previously to visit their homes and make assessments, and where practicable, begin the process of removing ash and other debris on their property. Some residents were faced with the harsh reality that they would not be able to return to their property immediately because of damage to the physical structure, while others would not be able to return to that property because of extensive damage, or the threat posed to property based on the location. The government is ensuring that those who have returned home are offered assistance during the process of resettling and NEMO, working with the Ministry of Social Development and other ministries and department is providing support for
those residents. The residents returning home, are practically restarting their lives and while there may be moments of anxiety, the government is providing much support and assurances that together we would get through this. From the provision of transportation for residents and their personal items, to ensuring that food packages are immediately available once they have settled, the government has put things in place to ease the burden and address whatever anxiety our brothers and sisters may be experiencing.
Rebuilding and relocating Comrade Ralph has spoken publicly on the government’s intention to assist the worst affected residents whose homes have been significantly damaged or are in areas deemed unsafe and unfit, by relocating them to areas that are safer. Lands have been identified, and the process is in an advanced stage for the construction of homes for those who are to be relocated to this new location. This is just another of the many examples where our ULP administration has provided assistance in the form of housing to nationals impacted by natural, and in some cases, manmade disasters. Engineers and other experts from the Ministry of Housing and BRAGSA are already making assessments and doing the necessary preparations to begin physical work on the construction of these homes. To this end, contractors including those closest to the Red Zone are encouraged to register so that they can be included among the workers used to carry out the construction work that will begin shortly. The efficiency with which the government has gone about this exercise will no doubt give hope to those who are most impacted as they see the work being done by our government to assist them. In the meantime, those residents who are unable to return to their homes continue to benefit from assistance provided by NEMO and other partners, as they are housed in shelters and offered excellent care considering the circumstances. The period continues to be fraught with challenges for our nation and even more acute for those who had to leave everything behind and must now face the reality that they will not be going back to what they left, but together we will rebuild even better.
Conclusion Most Vincentians may not be able to relate to the emotions being experienced by residents in the Red Zone who have moved back to their communities this week and their attempts to get their lives back on track after the La Soufriere eruption. Our government has however committed to making this transition as seamless as possible, for those residents who were most severely impacted, by providing much needed assistance. As we work together; government, residents, contractors, it is important that residents exercise patience, as the government does the work in providing the support needed to restore their lives back to preeruption status and put this nation on a path to recovery after a very challenging period.
SVG is falling apart ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES is falling apart. That is the general consensus of most Vincentians. The Unity Labour Party (ULP) has failed the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and eight months after the general elections, most Vincentians are demanding that the ULP must go. On July 6, hundreds of Vincentians took to the streets to express their dissatisfaction with the ULP government and to demand change. The people’s anger was particularly fueled by the manner with which the alleged shooting of Mr. Cornelius John was being dealt with. Moreover, they were angry with the government’s failure to manage effectively, the COVID-19 pandemic and the fallout of the eruption of La Soufriere. Vincentians have had enough of the lack of accountability, high rate of unemployment, increasing crime, deplorable condition of our roads, demise of agriculture, poor health care, high cost of living, mismanagement of this country’s economy and the serious allegations of corruption that are levelled against state officials. The people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines want jobs. After twenty years of the ULP government, unemployment has skyrocketed. The overall unemployment rate has increased from 20 percent to 26 percent, and 46 percent of young people are unemployed. Those figures were before COVID-19 and the volcanic eruption. We were told by the Minister of Finance that since COVID-19 the situation has worsened with some 420 businesses ceasing to operate and 2,754 jobs lost. The ULP government has no clue as to how to solve the current unemployment situation. The ULP government is not working in collaboration with the private sector. It appears that they are against private sector development. After 20 years, the ULP government has not facilitated any significantly new jobs in Vincy businesses. According to the World Bank, it has become harder to do business in St. Vincent and the Grenadines under the ULP government. Our ranking has fallen from 103 in 2015 to 130 in 2020. The report reveals we are one of the hardest places in the world for businesses to find credit and register property. The ULP has neglected fisheries and agriculture. They have taken these sectors for granted and have failed to deliver on their promises to support these crucial industries. Agriculture used to provide 30 percent of our (GDP). Now it struggles to reach 3 percent. For twenty years, the ULP has failed to remove the blacklisting of St. Vincent and the Grenadines from selling fish to the European Union. Our balance of trade in agriculture is the worst it has ever been, with many key crops in decline. Many farms once under banana cultivation are now covered in bush and are unproductive. There has not been an agricultural census in over twenty years, so the ULP does not know where our farmers are, what they are growing, how they can help them to improve their yields or even what land is available. The ULP government received some $37 million
from the European Union to assist in diversifying agriculture after the removal of preferential treatment for bananas. The resulting projects are still incomplete and are yet to help farmers. More and more people are saying that the ULP has little or no regard for our laws governing financial accountability and financial management. Accountability is fundamental and critical, as it goes from the top to the bottom of the business of government. It crosses all sectors and it connects to everything else that happens in the business of ‘running the country’. The lack of accountability erodes public confidence in government. We recall the problems associated with: the PetroCaribe funds where $112 million was left off the books according to the International Monetary Fund; the misuse of the overdraft facility; the abuse of Special Warrants especially during the years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 when the government spent over $100 million under the Special Warrant facility but failed to come to parliament in a timely manner to get approval. And, there was also the lack of effective accountability during the construction of the Argyle International Airport.
Eruption aftermath Indications are that residents of the Orange Zone are dissatisfied. The government has told them to return to their homes - up to the Rabacca on the Windward side and to Petit Bordel on the Leeward side. We have already begun to hear many accounts of shortcomings in the process of returning people to their homes. Though many have returned home, there is still a significant number who will continue to live in those temporary facilities, away from home, for some time to come. We have a duty to make their lives comfortable. The partisanship must stop. Every displaced citizen has a right to expect support from the government. Cases in which people are made to feel that they are not entitled to the support provided by so many donors at home and abroad, must be exposed and rooted out. No partisan consideration should be used to decide who gets help, when they get help and what sort of help they get. In other words, the donated supplies must be given out according to need. It should not be that the best is given to some politically favoured persons and the remainder to rest of the people. The same goes for the supplies bought by the government with the money allocated for the purpose by Parliament in the Supplementary Estimates. For example, the allocation of $1million for purchasing appliances for persons whose appliances were destroyed or damaged and the $6.5m allocated to repair and rebuild homes raise the questions: Who will get those appliances? Whose home will be rebuilt or repaired first or at all? And, how much will politics determine the answers to those questions? These issues and more forced Vincentians on the streets of Kingstown. Undoubtedly, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is in a crisis. It is falling apart.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. 11.
Views
Content and Context
“The frame, the definition, is a type of context. And context, as we said before, determines the meaning of things. There is no such thing as the view from nowhere, or from everywhere for that matter. Our point of view biases our observation, consciously and unconsciously. You cannot understand the view without the point of view.” ? Dr. Noam Shpancer, Professor of Psychology, Otterbein University IN TODAY’S WORLD OF “FAKE NEWS” it is not surprising to observe how many individuals are misquoted and their thoughts thwarted by persons who take their statements out of context. Such individuals may duplicate the content but take it out of context in an effort to encourage readers, listeners, and/or viewers to misinterpret the thoughts that are being shared. Words taken out of context could be quite misleading. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “context” as “the parts of a discourse that surround a word or passage and can throw light on its meaning.” The word means, “to weave together”. The implication here is that we communicate in a manner that the words used fit neatly in place so that they convey our thoughts in a manner that is clear. However, while words play a major role in transmitting our thoughts these are often aided by other variables such as stories, anecdotes, and body language. To merely extract words from another’s discourse may result in misunderstandings and misinterpretations. To be effective, we must be able to communicate clearly. This is virtually impossible if/when we take things out of context as we seek to exchange thoughts with others. This is sometimes done carelessly (innocently). At other times it is done deliberately as in the case where a statement is made to sound menacing in an effort to tarnish someone’s reputation or to ignite an emotional response. Such thoughts, especially when they are linked to a prejudice, can result in tremendous personal and/or societal damage. It is possible that individuals could misunderstand something that is said, written, or viewed. In their ignorance, it is possible to relay misinformation. However, there are individuals (especially in the realm of politics and religion) who would purposefully take a thought or statement out of context with the clear intention of misleading the reader, listener, or viewer. When this happens, the real victim is truth. Such distortions deflect truth. These are considered most dangerous when they are “tinged with a bit of fact”. A classical Biblical misquotation is the reference to love of money. The bible records that, “The love of money is the root of all evil …” (see 1 Timothy 6:10). However, we too often hear individuals misquote the passage by conveniently deleting some words and quoting the segment as saying, “money is the root of all evil.” This deception of editing the content and thereby changing the context understandably provides a glaring example of how the thoughts surrounding the statement could be altered. There is nothing inherently wrong or evil about pursuing wealth
via honest means and through hard work. However, if this desire for financial or material gain is allconsuming (i.e., as is the case where some individuals pursue it at all means — even if/when it involves unethical behaviours) we can appreciate why the love of money is perceived as “the root”, the foundation, of all evil. The example used in the preceding paragraph (1 Timothy 6:10) is extracted from a more extensive set of thoughts that the Apostle Paul was sharing with Timothy in relation to how the pursuit of wealth could cause some to “err from the faith and pierce themselves through with many sorrows.” To gain a full insight of the thoughts shared in this regard, it is useful to read all twenty-one verses of 1 Timothy 6. The pearls of wisdom shared in that passage that was written over two thousand years ago are still priceless today. Researchers, journalists, and students writing papers/articles must be especially careful when seeking to extract content from others in an attempt to strengthen the thoughts that they (the writers) are seeking to convey. While it is admirable to provide evidence of having done extensive research on the particular topic, the content extracted must accurately convey the writer’s thoughts even as efforts are made to communicate that extensive research of relevant literature was conducted. Such actions (i.e., taking the content out of context) will misrepresent the meaning of the utterance having altered the original context when perverting the setting in which the statement appeared. Stewart Stafford, an accomplished actor, reminds us that, “Separate text from context and all that remains is con.” The foregoing cautions us to be especially careful when seeking to decipher situations predicated on “third party information” (i.e., details that are provided by an individual who obtained it from another source). In such instances, it is absolutely essential that we seek to examine the accuracy of the content being shared as well as the context in which it appeared. Failure to do so may result in our jumping to conclusions based on details that may not necessarily be accurate. The true position having eluded us, our judgements may therefore be impaired. This, in turn, may result in our having a biased view of the particular situation. We must avoid being naive and/or gullible when presented with information that is channelled from another source. Thus, there is wisdom in probing, asking the right questions, in an effort to ensure the accuracy of the content as well as the context. Context is so very critical in assisting us in determining the true meaning of things. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
When Rhetoric meets Reality PM GONSALVES was not always combative and dismissive when dealing with workers. There was a time when he offered meaningful advice that was intended to bring real and lasting change. You can be the judge of what happened as time passed. In a brilliant address at the 29th Annual Conference of the Caribbean Public Service Association in 1999 Gonsalves declared, ‘In the final analysis, the public worker individually and collectively must put all the relevant issues on the agenda. An apathetic public service that is easily cowed by the powers-that-be will not be able to do more than survive. Those public workers who take no interest in their union or who fail or refuse to tackle aggressively their own concerns will be trampled upon by a manipulative, Machiavellian government. Public workers must support their unions; pay their dues: participate fully in their collectives or branches; display utmost vigilance in their hard-won rights; build the requisite industrial and political alliances on an ongoing basis; and serve the public well and faithfully. When all that and more is done, the public worker will not only survive; they will prosper and advance. In short, the public worker has to take up his or her bed and walk. To be sure, the weight of the public workers will be less to carry if there is a government that embraces their concerns demonstrates the practices of good governance.’ Those were the lyrics of a politician yearning for power. During that address, Gonsalves told regional public servants that many problems retarded the growth and development of the public service. Among problems cited were: 1. The manipulation and coercion of public servants by highhanded Ministers of Government and a few senior public officers who have the ears of the Prime Minister; 2. Undue political interference occasioned due in part by the imprecise demarcation of political and administrative roles but also because of the unwieldy quest for excessive administrative powers by the politicians; 3. The lack of popular controls and the inadequacy of existing formal controls on the public service; 4. A condition of anxiety and insecurity among public servants as a consequence of their alienation, loss of self, despair, apathy, loneliness, pessimism, powerlessness, meaninglessness and isolation. 5. A lack of motivation on the part of a significant number of public servants; 6. Insufficient resources to meet all the pressing demands in the civil service and a lop-sided or skewed distribution of the existing resources; 7. Too much waste in the public administration of the country: 8. The failure or refusal by the competent authorities to find a proper
role for the Public Service Union (PSU) in the administrative machinery; 9. Inadequate remuneration and poor conditions of work for too many public servants; 10. The lack of participatory involvement of the population in the state administration.’ Reading these words 22 years on, a keen observer could easily conclude that not much has changed even as we enter the 21st year of ULP and Gonsalves in power. In the same address, Gonsalves calls for a participatory governance model, intensely political societies that do not yet have a tradition of independent Public Service Commissions. But some governments do not even try.’ Gonsalves also opined that ‘the public worker requires a political framework of governance which is responsible, which is responsive to democratic imperatives and demands, which is corruption-free and which does not lurch from one crisis to another without a solution.’ Pointing to the centrality of the consent of the governed, Gonsalves, in a scathing critique of the Mitchell government noted, ‘it follows that the ruling regime has had to use undemocratic means or practices, whatever their legal clothing, to govern. These means have included the cynical manipulation of the democratic institutions of the state, political victimisation of citizens, including public workers, reckless political propaganda, bribery and intimidation, and even threats of physical coercion in unjustifiable circumstances. In such a climate, a state of virtual paralysis or siege envelopes the public service. And no bull-in-a-china-shop approach by any [government] Minister can remedy this. Much more is required that is positive.’ The bull in a china shop analogy most aptly describes our current political reality regarding, leadership and governance. Ten years before his address to the regional public servants Gonsalves penned a letter to the Vincentian newspaper titled ‘Fear stalks the land.’ He lamented that ‘too many public servants, teachers, policemen, prison officers, and even lowly place government employees are trembling in their boots in the face of a seemingly all-powerful governmental authority. Their mouths are muzzled by the food they eat to live.’ A similar argument regarding Gonsalves’ method and style of governance. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
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12. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
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SVG should go 100% renewable energy for electricity production
supply alone. The Nordic country is known for its many steep valleys and rivers, as well as increased rainfall due to climate change, meaning hydroelectricity is bountiful. With the second highest supply of renewable energy, Brazil is the leader in biofuel and waste energy. These sources account for 32 per cent of its total energy supply. IN JULY 2021, oil jumped to its highest equality and all households to access taxes on equipment and parts needed Renewable energy sources account price level in six years after talks mains electricity. to generate electricity by solar, wind, for 42 per cent of New Zealand’s between OPEC (Organization of the Where we already have hydrohydro and waves. With electricity energy supply. It is a world leader in Petroleum Exporting Countries) and its generated electricity, we could produced by solar, wind, hydro and wind and solar energy which make up oil-producing allies were postponed increase our capacity by having wave processes, electricity will be 25 per cent of its energy supply. indefinitely, with the group failing to consecutive turbines along the river. cheap. That is the best way to ensure The Leader of SVG Green Party, reach an agreement on production policy The same water used to power a hydro that every household has access to Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal for August and beyond. The price of oil turbine upstream can be reused to mains electricity. was its highest since November 2014. power more hydro turbines as it flows An SVG renewable energy industry BSc (hons), MSc, MBA, says that the reliance on oil for electricity High prices of oil result in high to turbines located further would create thousands of jobs and production is draining our country of electricity charges for our people in downstream. We should build two electricity for all SVG homes. money as it flows abroad to oil SVG. SVG Green Party Leader, additional hydro units in series at Household electricity bills could be producers. This is money that should Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal South Rivers and at Richmond. reduced to virtually nothing. Areas be invested and spent in SVG to BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, very strongly We should remove the monopoly such as North Windward, North believes that SVG should go 100% that Vinlec has to generate and sell Leeward, Central Leeward and South strengthen our economy. If SVG went 100% renewable energy for electricity renewable energy for electricity electricity in SVG, so that households Leeward are prime areas for wind production, then less money would be production, as this would make and Vincentian-owned businesses are farm renewable energy electricity lost abroad. electricity cheaper and make our allowed to generate and sell electricity production. We must make SVG electricity country’s electricity production produced by renewable energy. Having Norway, Brazil and New Zealand sustainable in the long-term. more suppliers will create a market are all world leaders when it comes to cheaper and sustainable. In the longterm, oil will become scarce, and Decades ago, we should have phased where electricity prices would come renewable energy. They came first, therefore, more expensive. We have an out the use of oil to generate electricity down. second and third respectively in the endless supply of free sun, wind, water in SVG. Thousands of households in To make it easier and cheaper for global rankings. and sea, so it makes sense for SVG to SVG have no mains electricity, households and companies to produce Norway utilises hydropower more go 100% renewable energy for because it is too expensive for them. electricity in SVG from renewable than any other country around the We need policies in SVG that enable energy, government should remove all globe - it accounts for 45 per cent of its electricity production.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. 13.
Technology
First of two NTRC MyApp workshops completed THE FIRST OF TWO ‘MYAPP’ WORKSHOPS put on by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) is now complete. Students from the Canouan Secondary School participated in the 2021 NTRC edition of the programme, which is now in its sixth year. During the weeklong event — August 16 to August 20 — participants learned the basic concepts of coding, programming and how computers, machines and robots work through the use of the micro:bit controller. “These pocket-sized computers which are used around the world are used to introduce youths to the world of programming with its simple to use block coding design,” Cyron Cyrus one of the facilitators of the programme said at the close of the programme on
August 20. The skills acquired can be applied in a wide array of jobs, Cyrus explained, and although it was challenging teaching the concept to a group of students with no previous experience, he said that was optimistic that they grasped the information put forward. After all, we are now living in the digital age and according to Cyrus, there would be the need for more programmers in the future. Patricia John, Branch Manager — Bank of St Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG) explained that the banking sector was presently being transformed and that many financial institutions were using IT to update its online banking platform. And with the introduction of cash
Participants in the workshop with NTRC personnel.
applications, such as the recent launch of ‘DCash’ meant that there is now the demand for persons to become technologically innovative and knowledgeable in areas of programming. “To have knowledge of coding and application design today is really golden because it opens a new horizon for you,” John said. She commended the NTRC for the initiative saying that the programme gave students the opportunity to be able to lead. “The future is digital and we continue to invest in you the young people.” And that was the objective of the myApp programme. Apollo Knight, Director of the NTRC said in the feature presentation that
Mikhaila Johnson, Valedictorian in the NTRC My App Summer Programme, receives laptop - one of her prizes from NTRC Director Apollo Knights. the entity he heads embarked on such a programme to inspire young people to venture into different areas in IT. “So, some might become coders, while others will get to better appreciate the use of software,” the NTRC Director said. The summer programme was also used as a steppingstone for the ‘Icode’ competition, which is scheduled to be held in September. “It is all part of the bigger mandate of the NTRC for connectivity,” he said. Not just being connected to the internet and having access to sites from other countries, but according to Knights, it is to be able to connect to goods and services locally. “Therefore, we need people like you to build apps to connect persons together…we at the NTRC are playing our little part in that,” he continued. The expectation was not that all the participants would become software developers, but it was anticipated that some will Knights told the participants. Nineteen participants ranging in ages 13 to 18 completed the workshop, with Mikhaila Johnson selected as the Valedictorian of the event. The next myApp workshop is scheduled to be held at the Spring Garden Resort and is expected to wrap up today, August 27. (DD)
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14. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
News
Make sure it works
EASTERN CARIBBEAN CENTRAL BANK GOVERNOR, Timothy Antoine is pleased with the adoption of the digital currency platform. He is
convinced that this is the direction in which members ought to be moving. That formed part of his presentation at the August 12 launch of the
facility in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Antoine promoted the institution as a credible outfit, supported by reserves assured by the Bank. There has been
diligent attention to creation of the App, used to provide the service, and there are guarantees to the safety of users’ assets. Antoine is pleased with his institution’s introduction
of large scale leading edge technology. Security is such that questionable transactions can be tracked and alert triggered. The financial network must be incorporated for this venture to succeed, Antoine contends. (WKA)
Governor of the ECCB Timothy Antoine is pleased with the introduction of the new App.
Soufrière Trail: No Ground for Trial THERE HAS BEEN SOME RESTORATION to the trail leading to La Soufrière volcano, but Professor Dr. Richard Robertson is advising persons not to take the adventure. His comments came in the wake of reports submitted to the Professor Dr Richard National Emergency Robertson has urged Management persons to desist from Organisation of works taking the hike up to the carried on the path. La Soufrière volcano as it Robertson is still not safe. reminded listeners and viewers to his broadcast of the ongoing activity at the volcano, and that the uncertainty of the terrain posed threats to adventurers. Prime Minister Dr. Gonsalves pointed to realignment needed for easier and safer access for scientists monitoring the volcano. A team from National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority is spearheading the landscaping drive. Eruptions of the volcano, pitched over four thousand feet above sea level, have been known from 1718, 1812, 1902, 1971, 1979, and 2021. Intensity in recent activity triggered December 27, 2020, after indications of unrest. Events came to a boiling point on April 9, 2021 with outburst of steam and ash. That pattern prevailed over two weeks before slacking. Given the unpredictable nature of the volcano, no one can predict the next phase. The scientists attached to the Seismic Research Centre based at the St. Augustine wing of the University of the West Indies have been the authorities, keeping the Vincentian government updated on the state of affairs with the volcano. A Mapping exercise is being done to warn and also help planners with the rebuilding and recovery programme. Heavy rains in recent weeks have provided conditions for lahar flows, an aftermath of the explosions. (WKA)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. 15.
News
Soroptimist gears up for new action School Library and masks given to van drivers and fisher-folk at the Kingstown Fish Market. A fundraiser, ‘Taste of Christmas’ was held at the Farmer’s Market while the annual Christmas presentation was made to the female wards of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. Additionally, ‘Love Box’ distribution to several homes for the elderly; the Annual Christmas Vice President - Donnette O’Neal President and Federation parties at the Glebe Day Councilor - Ikarmola La Borde Nursey and at the Helping Hands Centre at Montrose; care packages delivered to the female inmates at the Prisons were success stories. Gift vouchers for school uniforms and books were given to Secondary School students from disadvantaged areas to meet needs for the 20202021school year. During the period Development Officer – René M. Baptiste- IPP Programme Action Chair – Lavina Gunn Shannon Durrant-Samuel November-December, the Comfort Station at Heritage Square was refurbished with support from BRAGSA. This facility is the only one of its kind, built by Soroptimist in 1991. Following the eruption of La Soufriere, Soroptimist International of St. Vincent and the Treasurer – Christine Secretary – Josie-Ann Membership Officer – Da Silva Small Keisha Fraser
The elected executive to serve for the 2021-2022 year. Soroptimist International OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES RECENTLY HELD ITS VIRTUAL 34TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. THE FOLLOWING PERSONS were elected to serve for the year 2021- 2022:
President and Federation Councilor - Ikarmola La Borde; Vice President Donnette O’Neal; Secretary – Josie-Ann Small; Treasurer – Christine Da Silva; Programme Action Chair – Shannon Durrant-Samuel;
The refurbished Comfort Station at Heritage Square which was built by Soroptimist in 1991.
Development Officer – Lavina Gunn; Membership Officer – Keisha Fraser; and René M. BaptisteIPP/SICN Representative.
Programmes Soroptimist International of St. Vincent and the Grenadines had a very active year despite the limitations brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and the La Soufriere eruptions. President Ikarmola Laborde’s report revealed that the club successfully hosted the award-winning program “Girls On Fire” during the 2020 summer, adapting it for residents of the Guadeloupe Home for Girls in Marriaqua. Library books were donated for Literacy Day, to the Sion Hill Primary
Grenadines has rendered assistance at shelters; delivering disaster relief supplies donated by local Soroptimists, Soroptimists sisters from the Caribbean, UK, Germany, France, Martinique and Guadeloupe: and to families in private homes, shelters, and other organisations such as the SVG Netball Association, Helping Hand Centre families, from friends of Soroptimists in UK and elsewhere, Freewinds Cruise Ship, and British Airways.
Mrs Annelle Thomas
100 years since the inception of Soroptimism and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Club has received international recognition through the distinguished service of Soroptimist Mrs. Annelle Thomas who was named by the Federation among its outstanding members over the 100 years of its standing, celebrating her for making a difference in the lives of women and girls. The Club lost 2 active members: Nina Maloney and Zeitha Hadaway; but initiated 6 new members Other engagements in May, 2021: La Fleur Quammie, Andrea The Club engaged Gaymes-Mohess, with its Caribbean sister Kimberley Cambridge, clubs through the Sabrina MurphySoroptimist International Bascombe, Avyeng Caribbean Network Murphy and Samantha (SICN). Activities Browne-Cordice. centered around For the 2021-2022, the establishing AntiClub would be engaged Human Trafficking in programs geared Banners at Airports in towards Women’s the Caribbean and Enterprise lobbying CARICOM for Empowerment with its Consultative Status Women in agriculture in and Observer Status at particular; Helping various Women Behind Bars; Caribbean/CARICOM Education; Youth Skills fora in keeping with the development along with Civil Society Charter of its usual Annual CARICOM. programmes and This year will mark activities.
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News
Culture, Creative and Performing Arts at the Cave Hill Campus in Barbados. It’s a seminal moment in the regional reparations movement. Bridget Freeman should be celebrated as a citizen who has broken ranks with British white supremacy, conservatism and has become an activist reparationist. Bridget has accepted her Editor’s Note: The following US$500,000 to the University’s responsibility and willingness to be statement is issued by Professor development fund – through its held accountable. In this regard, she is Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice2021 Global Giving campaign. a reparations hero, and we hope that Chancellor of The University of The philanthropist described the millions of other British citizens in the West Indies, and Chairman of being ‘horrified and touched’ by her position will step up, come forward, the CARICOM Reparations the discussion on the impact of and participate in the healing and Commission. slavery on the region today. She agreed that reparations should be development that is reparations. The reparation investment will be ON THE HEELS OF THE UNIVERSITY paid by those who benefitted from directed to needy students in order to OF GLASGOW’s agreement to enter the crime against humanity. “It is sustain the access revolution that is into a £20 million reparation not right”, she said, “We owe it… central to Caribbean development and programme with The University of the giving back just seems so to the University’s strategic plan. the West Indies, apologizing for its obvious.” financial participation in the Bridget’s family married into Caribbean slave economy, an the Barbados slave-owning class Right: Bridget Freeman is of the English woman has agreed to pay and became involved in its view that those who benefited reparations for her family’s development. As an accomplished from Slavery in the Caribbean involvement in slavery. musician, she has also declared should pay reparation. Bridget Freeman, a British an intention to contribute to the citizen has agreed to contribute newly established Faculty of
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18. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
V Successful Inaugural Vincy Day in Brooklyn Diaspora
Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT Organizers have described as very successful the inaugural Vincy Day in Brooklyn, New York. Hundreds turned out on Sunday 22nd August at Seaview Park in the Canarsie section of Brooklyn, for the inaugural event that was hampered, almost at picnic’s end, by torrential downpours from Tropical Storm Henri. “I love it,” Chairman Vilard ‘Mr. Cool’ Samuel, told THE VINCENTIAN adjacent to a tent, under which popular Vincentian DJ Supa Eyes blasted Caribbean vibes, in the company of members of his organizing group, dubbed ‘Cool and the Gang’. “The original group, Vincy Day USA Inc., was not doing anything,” added the New Montrose, Kingstown native, “so we decided to come out and do our thing. It’s just to have fun. “It’s a different community,” continued Samuel, contrasting his group’s event with the massive Vincy Day USA, Inc.’s annual picnic that takes place at the 1,657acre Heckscher State Park on the shore of the
Great South Bay in East Islip, Suffolk County, Long Island, a New York City suburb. The annual Vincy Day USA, Inc.’s picnic was suspended for the last two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Everything is free,” Samuel said. “We’re having fun. We’re celebrating life. We’re not charging anybody anything. He said that once COVID-19 abates, and the situation returns to normal, his group will adjust its picnic date to avert any potential conflict with the grand Vincy Day USA, Inc.’s picnic in Long Island. The latter usually takes place on the third Saturday in August. “We’ll have Vincy Day in Brooklyn next year, but not on that particular day,” Samuel said. “We’re not fighting with anybody; we’re just having fun,” he stressed. Soca artiste Edson ‘Lively’ McDonald, originally from Lowmans Windward, had the crowd gyrating to some of his hits, including ‘Old Bottle’, ‘Tek Dat’, ‘We Drinking’ and ‘Big Thing’. “For a short notice and the first-time event, it’s a great turn-out,” he told THE VINCENTIAN. “Everybody just came
Vincy Soca artiste Edson “Lively” Mc Donald performs “We Drinking” at inaugural Vincy Day in Brooklyn. together.” Community activist Laverne Williams, originally from Cemetery Hill, Kingstown, said that, in light of COVID19, the picnic was most welcome. “It’s good,” said the executive member of the Brooklyn-based Vincy Liberators, Inc. “After COVID held us down, we still have a little camaraderie. “They could have it (picnic) twice,” she added. “Have one in Brooklyn in July then the real thing in Long Island — Heckscher State Park — in August.”
Issue with a Name In lieu of the annual, Continued on Page 22. Members of the organizing group, ‘Cool and the Gang’, L-R, front row: Brianna Lowman, Vilard “Mr. Cool” Samuel and Evard Lewis; back row: Rodger Mulzac, Donald Jarvis, Francelia Durrant, Lenford Mornix and Bennett Straker.
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20. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
Just a pity kiss? Dear George,
SOMEONE reported to me that she saw my girlfriend kissing another man. Of course, I got extremely furious about it and confronted her straightaway. She had the gall to admit that it was true, BUT the man she kissed was her former boyfriend and she did it because he begged and begged her for one last kiss, simply because he missed kissing her. She said she did it because she felt sorry for him. George, she sent this guy packing over a year ago for cheating on her. Now my problem is I do not know what else he begged her for and how much pity she had for him then. I simply cannot trust her again and once this man is still alive I do not trust her with him. I really thought we had a strong bond of love between us but this opened my eyes.
Bitterly disappointed Dear Bitterly disappointed,
disappointed and to lose trust in your girlfriend. She displayed very poor judgment and should not be going around kissing her Ex out of pity for him and meeting his selfish and lustful desires. He blew his time with her and should have been reminded by her that he no longer has the privilege of touching her the way he used to. That privilege is now extended to someone else, not him. Maybe, with some timely counselling you two can get past this. Sometimes in relationships, people do mess up, but in the final analysis you are the one who has to decide whether or not this action by your girlfriend is a deal breaker. One thing is certain, getting past this should make your relationship stronger.
George
You do have sound reasons to be
Bucket list confusion I would not want this to be the thing to mash up my marriage. I am wondering whether or not I should tell my boyfriend any of this and if so when is the best time to do so.
you are ready to wholly and solely commit to your partner, forsaking I HAVE BEEN with my all others. If you are not boyfriend for two years there yet and have your and we have recently doubts, then I advise you started discussing to take all the time you marriage. I know deep think you need. While down there are a few you are waiting, your things on my bucket list Curious Cat boyfriend has the right that I would like to try to be told the reason for before I settle down, but Dear Curious Cat, any prolonged wait time. I have this fear that if I If at this stage of your do one of them it might It is not for me to tell relationship you are not change my feelings for you to go out and do your comfortable discussing my man forever. trial runs before getting any and everything, then I have been told by a that is another few people that once you married, but what I would tell you is, indication that maybe engage in this activity marriage is a serious you need more quality there’s no turning back. time together before I have this deep desire to step and before taking this step you have got be taking that next step. be with another woman and I want to do it before absolutely certain it is I get married, all because what you want, and that George
Dear George,
Had it up to here Dear George, MY WIFE has decided to change her life and live a Christian life. I do not have a problem with that. Where I have the problem is she telling me that we can no longer have sexual relations due to her new status and it would be sinful for her to sleep with me. She tells me how “unclean” I am and she is going to keep herself from me until I become a Christian. Many times I would try to touch her only to have her respond, “Touch not the lord’s anointed...” George, I have news for her. I will have no problem looking for a woman who wouldn’t mind sleeping with a sex starved married man. I have never cheated on my wife and if she wants to destroy her 22 year old marriage in the name of Christianity then she can go ahead. I have had it up to here. Annoyed husband Dear Annoyed husband,
Your wife quoted the Bible out of context, and took her new-found Christianity too far, allowing it to interfere with her marriage. Marriage is ordained by God and as a wife, there are instructions in the Bible for both husband and wife to follow. These pertain to obedience, submission and detail how each partner should love the other. Once your wife is a principled Christian, she should have no problem putting them into practice. I suggest you have a talk with her Pastor about your situation regarding roles of spouses in marriage. I further suggest you resist the temptation to step outside your marriage to appease your sexual urges. If there is no resolution after visiting the pastor, see a professional marriage counselor. The onus is yours to try saving your marriage. Your wife has the same responsibility. This issue can be resolved once you both see the marriage worth saving. George
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Your versatile mind and common sense will allow you to come up with various solutions. Get on with your life. A long, quiet walk alone may help you sort out your thoughts.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Your ideas are right on the mark and your work commendable. Be careful not to divulge secret information this week. Your added discipline will help you complete the impossible at work.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Leave things as they are for the moment and focus on reaching your highest potential at work. Get involved in creative projects that will enhance your earning power. Try to be precise in your communications.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Avoid disputes with family; their complaints can't change anything anyway. Express your interest if you want the relationship to progress. Friends and relatives can give you good advice.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Get help to finish a project if you need it. You will be highly sensitive to comments made by your lover. Travel could bring you the adventure and excitement you require.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Overindulgence may be a problem. Be discreet and don't reveal any personal information. You may have difficulties while traveling or problems dealing with close friends or relatives.
CANCER (June 22-July 22) Your input into their activities will help bring you closer together. Money can be made if you are willing to take a chance. Try to take some time to listen to their complaints, and in turn, do something to appease them.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Spend time getting into physical activities with your lover. Get into fitness programs to keep in shape. Your ambitious mood may not go over well with loved ones.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Put your efforts into your work or money making ventures rather than your emotional life. Use your quick wit to win points and friends. If you haven't planned a vacation, then at least try to get away for the weekend. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You will accomplish the most through or. Don't take advantage of your expense account. Don't hold back. Take a short business trip if possible.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) The distance may make you both appreciate each other more. You will have to make changes in order to eliminate the tension. You can anger others quickly this week. Avoid overspending on items for your home. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You may find that your family responsibilities are piling up. You will be up and down emotionally. You will have a greater involvement in groups; however, they may not be to your advantage.
ACROSS 1. First-aid set 4. Metered auto 7. Eye part 9. Mall lure 10. Gridiron maneuver 12. Holiday decoration 15. Yellowstone herd animal 16. Plains shelter 18. Boot tip 19. Sweet beverages 21. Stylish 22. With 11-Down, “M*A*S*H” star 23. Genesis figure 25. Sampled 27. Opponent 29. Bolt fastener 30. Watched 33. Pleasant 36. Go beyond 37. “Spare” bone 39. Solid fuel 41. Tanker filler 42. Cheroot or stogie 44. Apply 45. Give power to 47. Concealed 49. Close in distance 50. Towel designation 51. Garden wetness 52. Harsh chemical DOWN 1. Punted
2. Provoke 3. Pinball violation 4. Tender love 5. Pub serving 6. Fab Four member 8. Appear 9. Norway neighbor 10. Social drink 11. See 22-across 13. Leaping amphibian 14. Fowl female 17. Stew vessel 20. Bank vaults 22. Upstairs room 24. Cut (grass) 26. Celestial heat source 28. More surreal
30. Egotistical 31. Sea-surrounded mass 32. Wield a shovel 34. College class 35. Make lighter 36. Spooky author
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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38. Strike mightily 40. Permit 42. Scratch (at) 43. Fishing spool 46. Nectar collector 48. Bawl
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22. FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
News
SVG Red Cross donates generators to the RSVGPF
ON FRIDAY AUGUST 21, 2021, the SVG Red Cross Society donated three (3) portable power generators to the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), at Police Headquarters, Kingstown.
The donation was made by Mr. Bernard Morgan, President of the SVG Red Cross Society to Commissioner of Police, Mr. Colin John. Mr. Morgan acknowledged, “As part
of the national emergency management system in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the SVG Red Cross Society is always happy to support and partner with the police in improving the
President of SVG Red Cross Mr Bernard Morgan makes presentation to Commissioner of Police Mr Colin John.
security situation in our communities.” Commissioner John thanked the SVG Red Cross Society for the tangible and timely
donation. “The RSVGPF is very grateful for receiving the generators at this particular time”, he noted, “as you are aware, the country is in the hurricane season. These generators will assist us to respond more effectively to emergency situations that can occur
during this period.” The Commissioner also noted that the SVG Red Cross Society has been a very reliable partner in the area of disaster management and the gift to the RSVGPF was not the first. (Submitted)
Successful Inaugural Vincy Day in Brooklyn Continued from Page 19. massive Vincy Day USA, Inc. picnic, Chairman Raymond O. Lewis, a Frenches, Kingstown native, said his group held a “Food Sale BBQ” on Saturday to help defray the cost of the annual extravaganza. “There wasn’t a heavy presence of patrons, but we had a fairly decent flow of patrons purchasing meals and leaving,” he told THE VINCENTIAN about the event, which took place at Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center on Logan Street in Brooklyn. “ “As it was the first time that we gathered in that capacity, because of the pandemic, there was a moment of silence for persons who passed on over the last 18 months or so,” Lewis added. Those remembered included Junior “Soca” Jones - past Vice Chair and founding member of Vincy Day USA, Inc.; calypsonian,Winston Soso, who was always available to perform at Vincy Day; and Ferrand ‘Randy D’ Dopwell, who served as an MC at Vincy Day on many occasions. At the same time, Lewis took issue with the use of the words ‘Vincy Day’ in the promotion of another Vincentian picnic in Brooklyn. “First off, Vincy Day Family Fun Day is an undertaking that is done by the Vincy Day USA Committee, Inc.,” he said. “We are not opposed to anyone having a gathering or such, but using the term ‘Vincy Day’ is very misleading, because it gives the impression that the Committee is putting on the family fun day and not informing the general public.” Lewis said it costs over $40, 000.00 to host the event. Expenditure include park permits, stage, dumpsters, clean-up crew, park police, insurance, medical personnel on stand-by, security and portable toilets. “We also have a responsibility to our sponsors to be good corporate citizens, because it’s been pretty difficult over the past couple of years for many businesses to generate income, much less to have disposable income for sponsorship,” Lewis said. “And seeing that most of the community organizations draw from the same sponsors, we have to be diligent and find creative ways in which to raise funds for the event.” Nonetheless, he said Saturday’s fundraiser was “successful, despite the circumstances”.
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Vincentians shine in AntiguaÊs Cycling Championships
Amber Glasgow Elite top three: Albert Quammie (left), Jeffrey Kelsick (centre), Ghere Coates (right). lone female listed in the Championships, thus giving the Vincentian an easy win. Glasgow’s efforts saw her clocking 3:14.04.46 in which she did the Time Trial, along with 20 laps or 29.2 miles and 21.8 miles in the road race. And, St Vincent and the Grenadines’ other podium finish Desron Bynoe (left), receives his awards from St Clair WilliamsPresident of the Antigua and Barbuda Cycling Federation. ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES placed first and second in Masters Category, took the Elite Female and was second in the Elite Male, when the Antigua and Barbuda Cycling Federation staged the Subway Three Stage Invitational Championships, last Saturday and Sunday. Desron Bynoe, in his maiden representation at Cycling for St Vincent and the Grenadines, copped the Masters Title, thereby dethroning fellow Vincentian- Peter Durrant, who triumphed in 2019. Bynoe was second in the Time Trial, but won the Criterium and the Road Race. In total, Bynoe’s time was 4:15.11.99. Second place - Peter Durrant’s overall time was 4:25.38.46. Third place went to Patrick Peters of host country Antigua and Barbuda, whose time was 4:32.53.15. The Time Trial was 4.1 miles, the Criterium consisted of 25 laps or 36.5 miles and the Individual Road Race 43.6 miles. Meanwhile, Amber Glasgow was the
came via Albert Quammie, who was runner-up to Antiguan Jeffrey Kelsick in the Male Elite Category. Quammie’s time was 5:11.6.98, while Kelsick’s clocking was 5:10.49.86. Taking the third spot was Ghere Coates - 5:11.39.80. Apart from Bynoe, Durrant, Glasgow and Quammie, the other
St Vincent and the Grenadines’ representatives were Cammie Adams and Zefal Bailey, who competed in the Elite Male and Martin Bollers, the Masters. The Elite Males did the 4.1 miles Time Trial, a 43.8-mile Criterium, made up of 30 laps of the circuit and the 67 miles road race.
Handal Roban holds SVG’s 800m all-time Record
Handal Roban has once again set a record for SVG. HANDAL ROBAN, despite not reaching the Men’s 800m final at the World Athletics U-20 Championships, last Saturday, at the penultimate day of competition, in Nairobi,
Kenya, set a new St. Vincent and the Grenadines all-time record over the distance. Competing in the first of two semifinals, Roban finished fifth in 1:48.37, which is the best ever from any Vincentian athlete. He thus eclipsed the 1:48.60, done by Eversley Linley, at the Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain in 1992. In addition to the national record, Roban rewrote his own national Under-20 record. In Thursday’s heat at the World Athletics U-20 Championships, Roban had
set a new mark of 1:49.41, which earned him a place in Saturday’s semi-finals. Saturday’s feat by Roban, was the sixth occasion that he was re-establishing the Under-20 record. Roban is also the holder of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Under-20 1500m record, and has the best times in the 400, 800 and 1500m of the Intermediate Division at the Inter Secondary School Athletics Championships (ISSA). He is also part of the quartet that holds the National Under-20 4 x400m record. Since bursting on to the scenes in 2018, Roban has copped 800m gold and bronze medals at the Junior
Carifta Games. He earned a gold in the Under-17 Division in 2018 and won bronze at the 2019 edition, when he moved up to the Under-20 age group. In 2019, he took bronze in the 800m at the North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) Under-18/ Under23 Championships, staged in Mexico. And, last month Roban gained a gold medal in the 800m and silver in the 400m, at the North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) Under-18/ Under20 and Under-23 Championships, held in Costa Rica.
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Sports
Four Vincentians in Kings CPL Squad FOUR VINCENTIANS are expected to feature for the St. Lucia Kings, formerly the St. Lucia Zouks (2013–2016, 2019–2020) and St Lucia Stars (2017–2018) in this year’s Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the region’s premier T20 cricket tournament. The 2021 tournament officially bowled off yesterday, Thursday 26th August, and will run until Wednesday 15th September. All the matches are taking place in St. Kitts and Nevis. The four Vincentians turning out for the St. Lucia Kings are fast bowlers Kesrick Williams and Obey McCoy; and top order batsman Sunil Ambris, and leg spinner Keron Cottoy. Williams, one of the leading wicket-takers in the CPL, will be looking to transfer that status to his new team, having turned out for the Jamaica Tallawahs previously. McCoy, a regular in the West Indies T20 squad, will be looking to continue his rise among the regional fast bowlers who will be on show. Ambris is expected to approach this year’s CPL with a determination to amass runs and force himself back into contention for a place in the West Indies squads across all formats. McCoy, a right-arm leg-spinner currently contracted to the Windward Volcanoes, last played in the 2019 CPL for the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots. He returns to the St. Lucia Kings after representing this franchise in CPL 2015, then St. Lucia Zouks. The Saint Lucia CPL franchise is now owned by K.P.H. Dream Cricket Private Limited, principal investor in Punjab Kings franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This new ownership occasioned the name change from Zouks to Kings. Defending champions Trinbago Knight Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors were scheduled to feature in the opening match yesterday. St. Lucia Kings begin their CPL campaign today Friday 27th August,
Fast Bowler - Kesrick Williams
Fast Bowler - Obed McCoy
Leg Spinner - Keron Cottoy
Batsman - Sunil Ambris against Jamaica Tallawahs. The St Lucia Kings team reads: Faf du Plessis (captain), Andre Fletcher, Kesrick Williams, Wahab Riaz, Rakheem Cornwall, Keemo Paul, Javelle Glen, Mark Deyal, Alzarri Joseph, Jeavor Royal, Obed McCoy, Roston Chase, Usman Qadir, Samit Patel, Keron Cottoy, Kadeem Alleyne, Tim David and Sunil Ambris. I.B.A.ALLEN
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Sports
Sending the right signal REGIONAL cricket stakeholders have to come to grips with some of the subtleties of cricket which tend to strengthen aspects of racism. The St. Lucia Kings, formerly the St. Lucia Zouks, are into the quest for this year’s championship. That change is a consequence of the alignment with the Indian based franchise interest. So whoever is responsible for team has to cater to the interest of the investors. Image matters. So that’s the reason why du Plessis has to be in charge. Or was it that there was no one else eligible. The squad includes: Rakheen Cornwall, Andre Fletcher, Roston Chase, Tim David, Marky Deyal, Keemo Paul, Samit Patel, Wahab Riaz, Usman Qadir, Obey McCoy, and Kesrick Williams. The Caribbean Premier League should be the breeding ground for as many indigenous players as possible to hone their skills. And that should include opportunities to captain. Overseas players could enhance the competitiveness, but has to be a balance and a concerted thrust towards youth development. The youngsters are not going get experience unless they are exposed. St. Lucia Kings, whatever the composition, is the team which Vincentians will be keen on. We will watch with interest how the duo McCoy and Williams combine. McCoy has become something of a weapon according to Andre Russell as a result of the T/20 series against Australia. The issue with Williams is one of the mysteries of the region for, even with his record at the international level, Williams appears to have been the subject of some subjugation in recent times. Who can forget the battles with Virat Kohli and Williams, so much so that commentators wait with anticipation for that confrontation. Williams will love to return to that stage at the World Cup. His note book will not be far out of reach. But far away, or a figment of my imagination. It will be a sense of national significance for bot McCoy and Williams, to be in the West Indies World outfit. They can prove their value at this CPL. The chances are open for everyone to stake their claim to the West Indies party. Those with the greatest appetite, or indeed fortune will find favour with the selectors. Make no mistake about it, selectors, or even those in positions of authority can determine one’s career. We have seen it before and there are reasons to believe that it will continue. It is a reality of human frailties. It will be fascinating to hear the du Plessis’ version of culture which engrossed the South African circles in the post-apartheid era. Disclosures by Paul Adams during the Cricket South Africa’s Social Justice and Nation-Building hearings has caused ripples. Adams recalled referred to as ‘Brown shit’ and placed in the centre of a ring as part of the team ritual. The question of racial discrimination has surfaced as a bone of contention especially recently. Ironically, cricket and sports, were/are supposed to be platforms where equality and respect for human dignity should be the order of the day. But that appears more and more a distant reality, for as much as we may want to be frank, racism is an entrenched aspect of present reality.
Joseph remains positive SHE IS NOT included in the West Indies Female Cricket training camp in preparation for a South Africa tour starting later this month in Antigua, but Vincentian Japhina Joseph remains positive, describing her omission as motivation to work harder. Joseph, who represents J.G Tigress and Sons in local female tournaments, was part of the training camps for the Pakistan and Sri Lanka series earlier in the year, and went on to play one match for the West Indies A team against Pakistan. “I was happy for the opportunity and will continue to work harder to get back into the mix.
Being in that unit at the highest level wasn’t hard but it was a challenge. …Batting-wise, I have also made some improvements as well as accepting my responsibility and role in a team,” Joseph told THE VINCENTIAN. The Regional Female Cricket Tournament is expected to bowl off in Guyana later this year and Joseph is looking forward to displaying her skills and get back into the West Indies setup. “I look at this Tournament as an opportunity to impress the selectors again as I did in the West Indies Under-19 Tournament held in Trinidad a few
years ago….This tournament is an important one for me,” a cheerful Joseph added. Joseph is thankful for the assistance from some of the senior regional players. She singled out Anisa Mohammed, Shakera Selman and Stafanie Taylor for special mention, saying “They were always there for me as big sisters, sharing cricket ideas and when I needed a shoulder to lean on. They definitely impacted in a positive way during my time in the camp and I am very grateful for their help and support.” I.B.A.ALLEN
Nero aims for the top
to develop. And he has his focus on the very top of his sport, sharing, “I would also like to be an Olympian one day like my coach Ballantyne and carry on his legacy, but I will have to be committed always… never give up… consistent and disciplined if I want to achieve that goal.” As for training with Ballantyne, Nero assured that “this was very comfortable. He is family but he is also supportive during my training and school work as well. He knows what is required to get to the top.” As for what stands immediately before him, the Sandy Bay resident is eager to compete in the Inter-Secondary Schools Track Malakye Nero, upcoming middle distance athlete. MALAKYE NERO, a forth form student at the St Martin’s Secondary School is keen to make his mark in track, following in the footsteps of Pamenos Ballantyne. Nero, an 800m specialist, is coached by Ballantyne, a former OECS sports personality and a stalwart of the Caribbean road race circuit; is hoping to carry on the legacy of his coach. “I began training last year with Ballantyne whom I met when I was in Form Three at St Martin’s Secondary where he is the coach of the School team. I was the School’s Intermediate Champion with two Gold medals and one Bronze at the School’s sports.” Nero is committed to adopting and practicing “the positives during training” as he continues
Japhina Joseph, West Indies A team player.
and Field Championship. He also eyes “going abroad to compete” with “the Commonwealth Games in the mix in a few years’ time” and “one day obtaining a scholarship”. He added, “…meaning, I can think of what I want to do and how I want my race to be, so after the first 400 meters I just have to sprint home, after you done your planning and thinking. My goal now is to compete in the Intermediate especially in the Inter School Sports and going abroad, at least going to the Commonwealth Games in a few years’ time”. I.B.A.ALLEN
Edwards suspended by SVGCUA CORNELIUS EDWARDS, a member of the SVG Cricket Umpires Association (SVGCUA) and a West Indies qualified umpire, has been suspended by the SVGCUA for a "Pitch Siding Affair". The website www.crackittoday.com defines pitch or court-siding as ‘having somebody inside a sports venue and passing on immediate match-related updates to, for example, a bookie’, i.e. someone who facilitates gambling, most commonly on sporting events. The incident involving Edwards is said to have taken place during the 5th T20 International between West Indies and South Africa in Grenada earlier in this year.
Pitch Siding is not an offence in the West Indies but it is against the tenets of the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). As such therefore, the matter as referenced, is currently under investigation by the ICC ACU. And as the SVGCUA awaits the outcome of the ICC investigation, a release from that Association said, “…the Executive of the SVG Cricket Umpires Association met … and took the decision to suspend umpire Edwards from all activities related to umpiring, for a period of one (1) year.” Edwards has also been relieved of his position as Secretary of the local Umpires Association. I.B.A.ALLEN
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Classifieds
ZARIQUE ARTURO CHAZ MAY
VERONICA MARY EDWARDS Friday, 20th August, 2021 Faith Temple Church New Montrose Viewing: 9:00 a.m. Service: 10:00 a.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery
Saturday, 21st August, 2021 Apostolic Faith Church Campden Park Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Chauncey Cemetery
CORNIS PRIMUS JAMES Sunday, 22nd August, 2021 Barrouallie Evangelical Church Viewing: 12 noon Service: 12:30 p.m. Interment: Glebe Hill Cemetery
REINFORD STEPHEN DELSPECHE Saturday, 21st August, 2021 Pray & Faith Assembly Church Rose Bank Interment: Dark View Rose Bank
BETTY DICK Saturday, 21st August, 2021 St Matthews Anglican Church Biabou Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Biabou Cemetery
ARNETT RODFRED PATTERSON Sunday, 22nd August, 2021 St Bethel Spiritual Baptist Church Chateaubelair Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service:11:00 a.m. Interment: Fitz Hughes Cemetery
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FRIDAY, AUGUST
27, 2021
VOLUME 115, No.33
www.thevincentian.com
PUBLIC SERVICE WORKERS
EC$1.50
TO WITHDRAW SERVICES the workers will mount a street protest on Thursday 9th in front of the vegetable market. PUBLIC SERVANTS, including workers in the health “We have the letter going out to the care system, are expected to engage in industrial Commissioner (of Police) according to Public Order action for three days, to demonstrate their objection to Act to inform him of such,” assured Boucher. the amendment of the Public Health Act, which was He further assured, “We have served notice to the passed in the House of Assembly in the early morning Governor General that the essential services, and I hours of Friday 6th August. mean workers at the hospital - nurses and some Speaking on Hot 97.1 AM Mayhem programme doctors - have indicated that they are ready…. You last week Wednesday, President of the Public have the nurses in the communities …. All of the Service Union (PSU) Elroy Boucher said that in a persons working at the hospital, modern medical meeting held two weeks ago, the union members and district hospitals .. we have served notice that took the decision to withdraw their services. from the 7th there will be a withdrawal of service, Additionally, the union met with the nurses who and that is to strictly demonstrate our objections to also agreed to take industrial actions “to defend the law I think is now in effect, …that has stripped their fundamental rights.” away very important fundamental rights and The workers have set the period September 7 to 9 freedom,” said the PSU president. during which to withdraw their services. The President noted that because the majority of While the first two days are expected to be ‘quiet’, public servants do not fall under the Essential by KENVILLE HORNE
Action from the last protest.
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
PSU President Elroy Boucher. Services Act, they can more easily withdraw their services. Turning his attention to the Public Health Amendment Act, Boucher stressed that the Act did not simply affect workers in public service, but that it affected the entire country. “…The super majority of Vincentians opposed it (Act as referenced), yet the minority went ahead and ignored the majority and passed this amendment that is now law,” said the PSU President. He said that he expected a push back from the government, “because if you listen to the Prime Minister there seems to be no sense that anybody else opinion really matters,” and he proceeded to contrast the actions of Prime Minister Gonsalves against those of Prime Ministers Mia Mottley of Barbados and Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica, and the leadership of St. Lucia. Boucher contended that the leaders and leadership in those three territories “are listening to their people. They have met with their people and the majority of people in those countries have indicated that’s not where we want to go and therefore, they have adopted different approaches to achieve (increased vaccination).” It is not something that he relishes saying but, according to Boucher, “When you listen to the Prime Minister and the members in his Cabinet, they have zero respect for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.” Protest action on Thursday 5th August against the proposed amendment to the Public Health Act turned violent and resulted in Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves sustaining a head injury when someone is alleged to have pelted an object in his direction, after he alighted his vehicle and was making his way to parliament. Protesters, it was reported, were also manhandled by the police.
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