FRIDAY, JANUARY 28,
2022
VOLUME 116, No.04
Cocaine dealer fined Page 4
www.thevincentian.com
McIntosh’s stamp Page 5
A wise woman Page 7
EC$1.50
Mia reduces Cabinet Page 15
Mason on murder charge Page 24
TEACHERS NOT GIVING UP alluded to suffering WEDNESDAY 9TH FEBRUARY is expected members of the to be a day of reckoning as it relates to profession are the impasse between the government of enduring as a St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the result of their St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers decision to Union. refrain from That is the day set for taking a vaccine. commencement of a hearing of a legal Even with the challenges in the high court, filed by situation before the Union, to seek judicial review of all the court, the wrong that teachers are facing as a Robinson is result of the Statutory Rules and adamant that Order (SR&O) in respect of the law should Government’s mandatory policy be repealed and regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. that teachers During a press conference last who have been Tuesday, Oswald Robinson, President dismissed, be Oswald Robinson, President of the SVGTU, assured that the Union Otto Sam, a former of the SVGTU, referred to the hearing reinstated with had no intention of giving up in its quest on behalf of dismissed President of the SVGTU, and confided that an executive all their teachers. called for a softening of committee meeting of the Union had benefits. hearts on the part of given the green light to continue the “We will not cited that “vaccination is not John noted that two government. battle. give up this salvation.” months had passed since the In that regard, Robinson spoke of fight until we He called for a Christ-like approach teachers who refused to be plans to file a constitutional motion. know we have achieved our goals,” the to the issue and suggested: “We must vaccinated have gone without pay. The Union President took issue with President promised. love one another.” He underlined the danger that the government on the matter of the He was supported by his Industrial Sam, who himself had successfully persons have been exposed to as a COVID-19 vaccine for teachers. He Relations Officer Andrew John. fought government on a wrongful consequence of their loss of earnings, dismissal matter, recalled that noting , among others, the nonTeachers were tear-gassed in 1975 for payment of mortgages, others bills, attempting to improve working children schools fees and other expenses, plus denied opportunities for conditions. He admitted that he would prefer tear gas any day rather than study and completing examinations. having to be dismissed. On the issue of completing courses He deemed the government’s action of study and examinations, John as “economic strangulation” and highlighted that some teachers who expressed the view that “he (Prime are doing their final year, whether at Minister Gonsalves) has it within him university or teachers college, have to rectify the situation.” been prevented from entering the The teachers were joined by respective institutions. President of the Public Service Union “So what you are seeing here is not Elroy Boucher. He noted that some just a matter of stopping a job, we are teachers who were attached to the St. halting the progress of our people,” Vincent and the Grenadines John added. Community College were left without Otto Sam, a former Teachers’ Union benefits, and that teachers who sought President, appearing in the role of a exemption on religious grounds were Junior Pastor, described the action told that suitable accommodation taken by the government as an error. (L-R): Andrew John - Industrial Relations Officer of the SVGTU, and Elroy could not be found. Sam appealed to the government to Boucher, President of the PSU, waded in with reference to the ‘suffering’ “climb down,” and “soften hearts,” and dismissed teachers have had to endure. Continued on Page 3. by WILLIAM KOJAH ANTHONY
2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. 3.
News 3 The myHAZ-VCT App to be launched
by GLORIAH...
TODAY, FRIDAY 29TH JANUARY will see the launch of the myHAZ-VCT Application at the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) Conference Room. The activity will be conducted by The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (SRC) in collaboration with NEMO. This information was shared by Geologist Professor Richard Robertson as he spoke on NBC Radio on Monday 24th January. The Professor explained that the myHAZ-VCT App will utilize the same Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) system used by the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO), to alert the general public before, during and after the La Soufrière volcanic eruption, the hurricane season and other emergencies The myHAZ-VCT App is described to be a citizen science platform for sharing observations of natural hazards and environmental phenomena in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; a mechanism for capturing and sharing information relating to hazards. Users will be able to post their own pictures and other information relating to these hazards that they have witnessed, allowing other persons to become aware of what is taking place. Professor Robertson, though, issued a word of caution to persons to “safely report on observations you have seen” and to desist from putting themselves in danger to achieve shots. He said, however, that persons who could relate to similar experiences as those posted may also add their descriptions or experiences to further elaborate the conversation.
myHaz-VCT Platform that allows users to report, manage and explore natural hazards and environmental phenomena. The mobile App has been made available to both Apple and Android users and could be easily downloaded from the Google App Store. Persons using the App are guaranteed to receive disaster alerts as soon as they
are issued by NEMO. “When NEMO sends out a CAP alert, you will be alerted too. It also will notify you about new postings people make that,” Professor Robinson assured.
Don’t visit La Soufrière “THE LA SOUFRIÈRE site remains closed for restoration.” That confirmation came from Director of the National Parks Rivers and Beaches Authority, Andrew Wilson, who appealed to persons to desist from hiking to site. In an interview aired on NBC Radio 705 on 24th January, Wilson, among other things, updated the nation on the rehabilitation of recreational sites which were damaged during the eruption of La Soufrière volcano in April 2021. Wilson said the work undertaken last year under phase one of the rehabilitation work, was primarily to facilitate access to the volcano for the scientists and monitoring team. He explained that although there was substantial site trail cleaning and trail path realignment under phase one of the rehabilitation and
restoration programme, there was critical and necessary work still to be carried out, to render the trails safe for recreational hiking and visitor use. He implored, “We appeal and reiterate that La Soufrière is still closed and should not be visited. Additionally, the sites have to be officially cleared by NEMO with the necessary guidance by the UWI Seismic Monitoring Team with being safe to access, especially up to the summit.” Andrew Wilson, Director of the The Director revealed that the National Parks Rivers and Beaches restoration work was expected to be Authority, has urged persons to completed this year, given the desist from visiting the La Soufrière provisions in the government’s 2022 site until clearance has been given to budget and available resources do so. through grant funding. Wilson concluded that the second by individuals, and tour companies. phase included “required approved Until such time, everyone should clearance” for La Soufrière to be comply with the temporary visitation officially reopened to allow for hiking closure currently in effect. (SG)
Teachers not giving up Continued from Frontpage. “..A true leaders is one who is humble enough to admit his mistakes,” said Boucher as he called on the Prime Minister to admit his mistake and reinstate all the workers with their benefits. And as he contended that the passing of the Budget was not important while teachers were thrown on the bread line, he expressed the view that mandatory vaccine has not achieved its objective.
OOPS!!! In an article headlined ‘SVG is getting much like Haiti’ and carried on page 5 of THE VINCENTIAN of Friday 21, 2022, we referenced that ‘..President Jean-Bertrand Aristide was ousted in a coup d’etat in 2004.’ This should have read ‘..in a coup d’etat in 1991.. .’
V Cocaine dealer escapes prison sentence 4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Court
Stories by HADYN HUGGINS
RODNEY THOMAS, a 33year-old sailor of Owia, was yesterday (Thursday) fined a total of $64,000 on charges of cocaine possession and trafficking. Thomas was fined $34,000 for possession of 3.6 kilos (3,623 grams) of cocaine for the purpose of drug trafficking. He is to pay the fine by August 31 or go to prison for one year. Thomas was also fined $30,000 for possession of the same amount of cocaine, with intent to supply to another. He is to pay $10,000 of that forthwith, with an alternative of six months in prison, and the balance by May 2, with an alternative of 11 months behind bars. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne handed down the penalties at the Serious Offences Court after following sentencing guidelines, weighing the aggravating and
mitigating factors and doing the calculations. The Magistrate contended that cocaine as described by the lead attorney Grant Connell, in his mitigation plea, was a “wretched drug’ which has caused irreparable damage to many persons. She added though, that each case is decided on its own merit and has its own set of facts and circumstances. In relation to the offence, as well as the defendant, Browne concluded that the mitigating factors outweighed the aggravating ones. Thomas was also given a one third discount on his sentence as a result of his guilty plea. The penalties were handed down following a sterling mitigating plea from Connell, and a response from prosecutor Renrick Cato. Thomas had pleaded not-guilty to the charges when he initially appeared in court on
Monday. He was granted $30,000 and a trial date was set for April 4. However, the case took a sharp twist on Tuesday when Connell told the court that Thomas wanted to change his plea to guilty. The matter was then adjourned to yesterday to have the investigation and exhibits present. The facts as presented by Prosecutor Renrick Cato revealed that around 5:30 a.m. on January 22, Police Constable 893 John was among a party of officers from the Narcotics and Rapid Response Units, who, acting on information received, went to Thomas’ home at Owia to execute a search warrant in respect of controlled drugs. On arrival, his mother Gloria Thomas opened the door. The warrant was shown and read to her and she consented to the search. The police went to her bedroom and found a Nike knapsack in a gray barrel. PC John
became suspicious and the defendant, who was also at home, was summoned to the bedroom. He complied, and PC John opened the knapsack and found two black plastic bags with rectangular taped packages. They were cut open revealing the cocaine. When cautioned, the defendant replied, “I take full responsibility for the bag and its contents.” He was arrested and taken to the narcotics base.
Caution statement and mitigation In a caution statement to the police, read in court by the Prosecutor, Thomas said, “I went along with four males to help with a boat that was having problems at Duvalier. We went to dig out sand out of the boat, and tried to get it to start, but it did not.” Thomas also stated, “As I was about to go back to Owia, a man came to the shores of
Pastor’s son gets sound advice GASNEL SOBERS, a 26-year-old mini-bus driver said to be the son of a pastor, has been advised to change his attitude and let his light shine. The advice came from Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne on Wednesday, while presiding over a matter in which Sobers was found guilty of overtaking another minibus in Kingstown on the left side, instead of the right side. During the trial on Wednesday, Police Constable 1040 Hunt of the Traffic Department told the court that he was on foot patrol duties, dressed in his uniform, along Bay Street around 4:10pm. on April 3, 2021. “The flow of traffic was light and while standing in front of Coreas Car Park, I observed a red omnibus driving relatively slow, coming towards my direction, then I observed motor vehicle HW614 come up behind that vehicle, slowed down, pulled on the left side of that red omnibus, and overtook that vehicle on the left side, coming towards my direction,” PC Hunt said. Sobers was the driver of HW614. Hunt said he quickly signaled to that vehicle to stop and the driver complied. He approached the driver and asked him what type of overtaking was that, to which the driver replied, “You na see de man dey stop in de road, and you nah
tell he nuttin.” Hunt said he tried to explain to the driver that there was no problem in him overtaking, but it should be done on the right side of the vehicle instead of the left, but the driver continued to argue, and told the officer, “You a police, uphold the law, and you know if you carry me court with this, me a go win you.” Hunt said he then told the driver that overtaking vehicles on the left side is an offence, for which he would be reporting against him. The officer requested his license, but the driver refused to comply and instead gave his name as Gasnel Sobers, and address as Campden Park. Sobers told the court he did not know that what he did was an offence. “You said you did not know that was an offence? I have a mind to revoke your license,” the Magistrate told him, adding, “You have to behave yourself.” Journalist St. Clair Charles who was sitting in the audience, then informed the Magistrate loudly from where he was, “Your Ladyship, he is the son of a pastor.” Sobers did not deny this. When the Magistrate asked Sobers if he played any instrument in the church. He said, “I play anything playable.” The Magistrate told him that his
attitude towards the police was not necessary. “I am a Christian myself, and there is no better way to live,” Browne assured, acknowledging though, that there would be challenges. “You have to let your light shine. There is no dishonor in being a pastor. You have to change your attitude. There is no need to be rude. Speak to people with courtesy,” the Magistrate advised. Sobers pleaded with the Magistrate not to revoke his license. “I have a temper,” he told the court, but the Magistrate based on her assessment of the defendant, did not find him to be someone with a temper. Sobers was very calm throughout the hearing of the matter, and spoke in a calm and respectful manner. “You don’t have a temper. You know what temper is?” The Magistrate asked rhetorically and advised, “You don’t have to prove anything. Live a satisfying life. Do onto others as you will like them do unto you.” “You are ministering, so you want to be the best in that regard, and some nice young lady must be looking at you. You understand how blessed you are?” Sobers was fined $200 to be paid forthwith or two weeks in prison.
Rodney Thomas leaving the Serious Offences Court on Thursday in the company of his mother and lawyer Grant Connell (partly hidden). Duvalier and gave me a bag to give (name omitted). “Maybe someone saw me with the bag. I had the bag in my room and someone told me police was in the area and I placed that bag in a barrel in my mother’s room.” But, in mitigation, Thomas’ lead attorney Grant Connell reading from the same document, said Thomas had also told the police in that statement that he thought it was marijuana in the bag when it was given to him on the shores of Duvalier. According to Connell, the prosecutor left that out when he read the facts. “He (Thomas) thought it was weed in the bag. He can’t walk around with weed. He does not have a Medicinal Marijuana license. There are many people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines who walk around with several pounds of weed under the guise of having a medical license.” Connell noted that his client pleaded guilty, had no previous convictions, was extremely remorseful from the beginning, and the drug was not concealed in any sophisticated way. He admitted that the charges were serious, that cocaine was not locally grown, and had destroyed the lives of many persons here, including one of his friends. He described it as a ‘wretched drug’.
The lawyer however, contended that his client was a man of good character and very productive. He said Thomas was currently unemployed but had some money saved from when he used to be a sailor, and asked the court to consider a fine. Prosecutor Cato, in making recommendations in relation to sentencing, highlighted the amount of cocaine with which Thomas was found, and noted that one kilo of the drug was valued between EC$20 and $25,000 wholesale. He asked the court to impose a penalty that would send a message to all cocaine dealers or would be dealers, and which would reflect the court’s zero tolerance position for the drug. In relation to what Connell said about him leaving out the part of the statement, in which Thomas said he thought it was marijuana, Cato said the omission was not deliberate, but he was trying to omit certain things and he left that out accidentally. Cato said Connell could have brought that to his attention before, as the statement was disclosed to him, but he deliberately waited until he was mitigating to mention it. The court has the power to fine an offender three times the value of a drug according to the law.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. 5.
People
McIntosh marks 25th anniversary of Commemorative Stamp by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT BROOKLYN, NEW YORKBASED VINCENTIAN MUSICAL giant Dr. Franklin “Frankie” McIntosh has begun celebrating 25 years of a Commemorative Stamp in his honor by the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Dr. McIntosh — a preeminent Caribbean musician, arranger, composer, musical director and producer — told THE VINCENTIAN exclusively Sunday night that was “difficult for me, in 2022, to describe the emotions experienced 25 years ago, when a commemorative stamp bearing my image was issued by the then government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” under the New Democratic Party (NDP) administration of late Prime Minister Sir James F. Mitchell. “Neither can I vividly recall all the particulars surrounding its issuance,” said McIntosh, who, in December 2020, was conferred the Doctor of Letters (D. Litt), honoris causa, by the University of the West Indies (UWI). “Although the government’s gesture was highly valued, I didn’t consider it necessary to proclaim the good word to the general public,” added a very humbled Dr. McIntosh, who was musical arranger, keyboardist, technical producer, pianist, music software programmer and conductor for some of the most prominent Caribbean calypsonians, such as Alston “Becket” Cyrus; The Mighty Sparrow; Explainer; Calypso Rose; Obstinate; Short Shirt; Shadow; Swallow; Lord Kitchener; Crazy; Winston Soso; and Duke; among others.
“Only close relatives and friends were informed,” continued McIntosh of the commemoration. “That remained the case until a few days ago, when my sister, Cheryl, took the initiative to post a photo of the stamp on her Facebook page, thereby triggering a groundswell of congratulatory messages. “I beg your indulgence in permitting me to extend, via this forum, a heartfelt ‘Thank you’ to all well-wishers,” Dr. McIntosh said. According to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Postal Corporation, the Frankie McIntosh Stamp was issued on Jul. 24, 1997. “‘Good news travels slowly but arrives in the end, thank goodness. Bad news always arrives a day too soon’,”said McIntosh, quoting Halldór Laxness (1960). “Could Mr. Laxness have had foresight of my commemorative stamp, released in 1997, but making news headlines today, 2022?” He said that it was on a Wednesday, when Cyprian “Cyp” Neehall, the editor of THE VINCENTIAN, called him in New York from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, stating that he was “instructed, by whom I don’t recall, to convey the news that the government had plans to put me on a stamp, but would need a photo by Friday.” Dr. McIntosh said he rushed to a photo studio close to his Brooklyn residence, “and, in regular home clothes, took a few half-body shots. “These were sent to Cyp on Thursday,” he said. “I first saw the stamp one year later on a visit back home.” More than a decade later, Dr. McIntosh said his Boys’ Grammar
School (secondary school) comrade, Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves, incumbent Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, personally recommended him for a diplomatic passport and a UWI honor. “These gestures made it clear to me that both governments, like the people of SVG (St. Vincent and the Grenadines), valued my work on its own merits and not because of the color of my T-Shirt,” he said. “I am profoundly grateful and proud of this. It speaks well for SVG that artists were being recognized for such honors decades before the practice became fashionable in the region.” Dr. McIntosh said none of his forebears was born with the proverbial “gold spoon,” stating that they all “worked hard to achieve whatever they accomplished, and I have tried to follow their example.” He said while the commemorative stamp bears his image, it represents his family, friends, supporters and associates. “It represents my musical influences from SVG, Trinidad, the USA and elsewhere - the support of the general public, my immediate family, musical associates and other friends,” Dr. McIntosh said. “Once at Kennedy Airport (John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York) a customs officer became overwhelmed on examining my passport and discovering a stamp which I had placed inside,” he added. “He had ‘never met anyone on a stamp before’ “As my contemporaries pass on, the inevitability of death becomes a stark reality,” Dr. McIntosh continued. “However, I
feel gratified that legacy of this stamp, and other honors, will tell the story to my descendants that their ancestors did something in life, which was appreciated by others. “Through music, he imparted joy and love to the world, at least in some small measure,” he said, speaking about himself. “And, perhaps, that would serve as an inspiration.”
Frankie McIntosh on commemorative stamp. (Photo courtesy: Dr. Frankie McIntosh)
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6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
To forgive and forget “FORGIVE AND FORGET and life will be much easier.” So said a Chinese sage of time past and while his words have transcended generations in his and our western culture, there are many, national leaders inclusive, who do not find it in their ‘makeup, to forgive and forget. It is undeniable that forgiveness is not always easy and the more a situation hurts, the less prepared a person will be prepared to forgive and forget. Persons may accept the lessons learnt from a hurtful situation, but find it difficult to forgive the person causing the hurt, far less to forget the incident. If we accept that “To err is human, but to forgive is divine,” then we are also accepting that forgiveness completes the healing process. This is not necessarily so since we need to forgive and forget if we are to be truly happy and if life’s cycle is to be made complete. The first step is to understand clearly that forgiveness is not a favor we are granting to others, but truly a gift we give to ourselves. The human psyche being what it is, mankind will have a tendency to dwell upon the occasions of hurt and foster negative feelings about the person or persons who have cause that hurt. This process of brooding will more than likely overtake the rational part of our thought process. The individual is then drawn into a cycle of self-pity and depression. To help ourselves to let go of negative emotions, we need to push away our hurt and, accept the fact that we need to heal ourselves. Forgiving allows us to move ahead in life but to forget what we perceive to be transgressions against us will make us better
human beings. The process is not so easy, if the truth be told. If we are to move on: * We must be determined to put the past behind us; take a rational view of the situation; weigh the benefits of moving ahead. To forgive and not forget is to continue to entertain bitter thoughts that only serve to relive the painful moments and put a person further down. * We must accept that we have control over ourselves and our thoughts and actions but not over that of others. Each individual is responsible for his or her actions. We do have a choice not to be affected by anybody’s negative actions. Letting go of the past becomes easy. * We must see both sides of the situation that has caused hurt. If we stop to think why a person reacted the way he or she did, we understand the motivation behind the other person’s action. Often, we might have reacted in the exact same way as the other person. Empathy opens the doors to understanding, forgiveness and leads to forgetting the hurt. * We should learn to live in the present, not linger in the past. If we invest in ourselves and live in the moment, we move into the light and do not allow the past to cast its dark shadows. Thus, we can not only forgive but we can then forget. * We must find reasons in our life to be happy and grateful for the joys each day brings. We have the power to make the choice to either dwell on the pain caused by others or to forgive and forget and decide to move on. That is the true essence of our humanity… our manhood. It was Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who said, (in paraphrase), that while forgiveness might be the attribute of the strong, it takes an even stronger person to face pain head-on and forgive and forget. Nuff said!!
It’s in the budget “IT’S IN THE BUDGET.” It is a phrase many of us use to argue for or against a particular programme. However, this phrase gives me reasons to be anxious. I heard a lot of good things in the Minister of Finance presentation. I also heard something that gave me some reasons to want more details. Unfortunately, between Covid and the Opposition, we had no chance this year for any details. Some may say that’s a good thing. We did not have to listen to every minister of Government and the members of the Opposition trade insults at each other. But I missed it because in between those deplorable moments, we usually get an opportunity to understand better what the Government has planned for us in the coming year. For example, we missed an opportunity for the Minister of Finance to tell us how he proposes to bridge the $50 million deficit gap in the budget. Where will that money come from, or what will be eliminated if these funds do not materialize. When will we know if these contingency projects will be funded? Will all departments observe this deficit? Or do we have some programmes that will simply not move forward if our revenues do not exceed budgeted estimates? I would have liked to know exactly how many new positions were added to the Government this year and in which area. I can only hope that a significant amount of the new jobs are in the effort to help with “Digital Transformation.” Because speaking from personal experience, the last attempt to convert some of our records from paper resulted in me not obtaining a National Identification Card. (I still don’t know if it is a National Identification Card or a Voter Registration Card). Two out of six close family members ended up with new birthdays and one with a new name. I missed hearing from the opposition which programmes should be eliminated to balance the budget. After all, isn’t that a part of the role of the opposition? Hold the governing party responsible and accountable to the people? Another thing I did not understand from the budget message is using the “NIS administrative capacity” to process the various government subsidies. By my reckoning, the NIS processed about $16.5 million in payments. What is not clear is how much of these funds were taken from NIS, if any. What else did this budget tell us? It said to us that we lost about three
hundred jobs over the last two years. Not bad when compared to the rest of the world at large. It also pointed to some early signs of imbalance in our NIS system (where) payments are exceeded contribution by about $15 million. Where is the proposal for pension reform? Somehow, I was expecting it in this budget. Tax relief for the wealthy and uppermiddle class — that is the only way to categorize the reduction in taxes for an automobile. No estimates were provided on the revenue lost or the economic value of this tax relief. I am baffled by this move. Why are we reducing taxes with no clear financial goal while maintaining a current budget deficit? I need some help on this one. Somebody, please help. Again we were told that close to $200M in this year’s budget is for debt service. I reviewed the debt management plan (and) while providing some answers it generated a few more questions. I was able to deduce that the average interest rate on our long-term debt is about 7%. It was not clear what was the average maturity on the outstanding amounts, but from other writing on this topic, I guess it’s about 25 years. All I can offer today is that it’s time to consider refinancing some of our debt with higher interest rates. Seven percent is not low in today’s environment. This would result in lower annual payments. Providing a government guarantee on loans to the fishing community is a bold and commendable move. But, why are our Government picking winners and losers? That is what I call choosing KCCU to guarantee loans for fisherfolks. Why KCCU? Why not the Kingstown Fisher cooperative? This is a perfect opportunity to build and strengthen a group already in existence. A fairer move would have been to offer all creditable financial institutions the same guarantee. Horatio
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Views
A Wise Woman
should help to ensure that the traditions associated with the rich “EVERY WISE WOMAN history of our British buildeth her house: but the style Democracy are foolish plucketh it down maintained. with her hands” (Prov Ms. Rochelle Forde, 14:1). Speaker of the House of Women occupy Assembly, should be nonprominent and important partisan and should be positions in our society, able to command the and how they conduct respect of both themselves greatly Government and influences their impact Opposition on the country. Parliamentarians. Our Dame Susan Dougan British tradition dictates is our Governor General that the Speaker be — Head of State impartial. Our representing Her Parliament needs to set Majesty Queen Elizabeth the example in how 11. She should be above debates should be reproach and should conducted, and how command the respect of parliamentary rules are the entire country. applied. The air needs to Although her role is be cleared on whether symbolic, the our Speaker will impartiality of her office entertain a Motion of No (Edited for purposes of length)
Confidence in the Government as is practiced in all British, and Western Democracies. Ms. Renee Baptiste, apparently came in to lead Government Business when Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and 8 other cabinet members were apparently Covid-19 positive and saved the day for the ULP Government because they would have been outnumbered by the opposition parliamentarians. Dr. Simone Beache apparently prolonged the life of the Government by recommending changing the Covid-19 protocol of Parliament to keep Opposition Parliamentarians, who
Independent thinkers the fence and make an independent decision. The proposed new constitution is another a THE NUMBER OF case in point. Many INDEPENDENT persons gravitated THINKERS in this country is small. This is towards rumors because one of our weakness and of political affiliation, rather than trying to shows signs of immaturity. Often times accumulate as much knowledge as possible we fail to think for ourselves and are easily and then make an intelligent decision. led astray both The same can be said politically and about religion. Some religiously. persons simply accept An independent what the Preachers say, thinker would do accepting it as gospel research; listen to both before doing their own sides of the argument research. This has led to and then make a decision. However, after so many conflicts in Christianity, so much so forty—two years as an people don’t know what independent nation we to believe. are still easily led by We need to educate politicians on both sides of the fence. Depending ourselves much more on which party we than we are doing. We support we often take need to be do our own what they say as the research and gospel. investigations. In addition, radio talk Having said that we show hosts and the social have to admit that media influence many because today children persons’ thinking. Very have so much readily few would check out the available information, information they hear or they don’t work out a read before making a problem because with decision. one click everything can Take for example the be made available; there COVID-19 vaccine. is no need to think. There are those who Another reason why support taking it and therefore entertain only there is hardly any encouragement for those who promote it. On the other hand, those independent thinkers is who anti-vaxx would look the perception of society. If someone chooses to not for research to support agree, let’s say with a their view. Seldom do we listen to both sides of policy or programme (Edited for purposes of length)
either from the church or political party, that person is frowned upon. I think it is time that we grow up as a people and become more independent in our thinking and not be led astray by politicians and/or religious leaders. Let us educate ourselves and be able to make informed decisions. Doing so does not mean that we are not loyal. Kennard King 4857324
tested negative for COVID-19, out of the House at a time when they could have brought a Motion of No Confidence and cause the Government to fall. A growing number of women are joining the Police. They are usually well read, better educated and more rational. As they take over, we can expect that they would leave the manly mistakes behind and apply the law without fear or favour. The majority of Nurses and perhaps Doctors are female. They should bring their natural caring attitude to the profession and improve patient care. Most Teachers and Principals are female. The future of the Nation is in their hands. They
need to take the Education Revolution in their hands. No child should be left behind. Discrimination against disadvantaged students must end. Most Church Members, and a growing number of the Clergy, are women. They lead the way in setting and upholding our nation’s high standard of Ethics and Morality. Their voices must be clearly heard as we develop a disciplined society. Women head many households in our country. “The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world” (William Wallace). Women in households are excellent in raising children and getting their fathers to assume their role. They are the
most stabilizing force in society and all efforts should be made to ensure that they are well prepared through education. We need to empower our women so that they can shape our country the way it ought to be. Anthony Stewart, PhD
My final warning THIS WAS SHOWN TO ME on the night of on 22/1/22. I was walking in the area of the Diamond Diary but there was no road as far as your eyes could see. The whole place was like a piece of land ploughed up for planting, and the soil was black. There were also no buildings, no cars, or vans, since the whole place was ploughed up. Then I arrived near a gutter in which about four men were standing. One asked me if I wanted a job and pointed to one of the others and said that he was the boss. The boss looked at me and I looked at him but said
nothing. I was wondering if I started working, who was going to pay me. Then I awoke out of my sleep. The other day when it was said the volcano was asleep I had it published in the papers saying that this was not so, for the volcano is watching us. Sometimes when we watch one another and one of us blink, we say he or she is giving a sweet eye, but when the volcano blinks at us that won’t be a sweet eye, but instead it would be very bitter. GOD HELP US ALL. R B Harry
Maurice Bishop vs Ralph Gonsalves THE LAST CONVERSATION we had on Mitchell versus Gonsalves motivated some readers to ask me to write something on Maurice Bishop versus Gonsalves, seeing that Gonsalves said early on in his political journey that he was going to take up from where Maurice Bishop had left off. Maurice Bishop’s four year revolutionary reign is light to Ralph Gonsalves’ twenty years of darkness. Parents did not pay for their children’s uniform, books, transportation, snacks and lunch. University education was free. Teachers used to go to the farming communities to help in the literacy/adult education programmes- even helping them with their business plans, etc. (similar to what went on with JEMS under the Mitchell reign in SVG). Dental/Medical care was paid for by the state of Grenada.
Under Bishop’s reign the crime rate went down, poverty and illiteracy was almost zero. The people of Grenada were united under Bishop’s leadership, but a few Marxist-Leninist communists caused the untimely death of one of our great Afro-Caribbean leaders, Maurice Bishop. Under Ralph Gonsalves our people are divided, and it was proved by the last election where the majority voted against Gonsalves’ leadership. Children out of secondary schools can’t read and analyze properly. Nationals have to pay for dental/medical care. The rich and well-to-do seek medical care overseas. There was no national agricultural plan for the past twenty dark years of Gonsalves’ reign. Farmers now live on handouts. If you look into the first exporting of medical cannabis from SVG by Caribbean Cannabis
Company, you will see the son of a Caribbean prime minister in the ownership, while the traditional marijuana growers are living like fish out of water. The main difference between Maurice Bishop and Ralph Gonsalves is that Bishop was a servant-leader and Gonsalves a manipulator and dictator. Then you ask how under the heavens was Gonsalves able to manipulate the people for such a long time? Weak opposition leadership. Every general election, the opposition is crying, “Ralph thief…” The productive engine under Gonsalves has stopped working. Even the clock on the Financial Building in Kingstown stopped since Gonsalves’ reign. Long live the memory of Maurice Bishop. Christian Democrat 432-2562
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Excerpt From Budget 2022: Ministry of Education lacks creativity On Agriculture, Forestry And Fisheries and foresight Introduction WITH THE PASSAGE OF THE Appropriation Bill 2022 in Parliament on Friday January 14, 2022 the apparatus of government was set in train to begin the implementation of a number of initiatives necessary to put this country back on a path to sustainable development. The challenges of the last 2 years, especially those brought on by the impacts of the eruption of La Soufrière, rendered the need to pass the bill urgent so that Vincentians who are dependent on support from government were not put in a worsened situation. This week, the focus of this article is an excerpt from the budget address of the Hon Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Finance, where he addressed the sectors of agriculture, forestry and fisheries outlining the government’s plans to rejuvenate those sectors after 2 years of severe battering by the disasters. For completeness, all are encouraged to read the full document that’s available online, however in the interim, this column would publish excerpts of the address over the next few weeks, highlighting specific sectors and the plans of the government for each. Below is the selected excerpt from the address under the heading “Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
$500,000 of that project is scheduled to be spent in 2022. A three-year, $1.6 million Forestry Enhancement Project was slated to begin in 2021, but was derailed by the volcanic eruptions. Budget 2022 allocates monies from that project to purchase drones and upgrade computer systems that will help to map the damaged forest, and properly plan its restoration. Within the VEEP, an additional $3 million will be spent to properly equip forestry officials, assess forest biodiversity and restore watershed areas. Further, Prime Minister Gonsalves has held fruitful discussions with the Government of Colombia, which has recently-announced its own ambitious reforestation to protect their incredible biodiversity. The Colombian Government has kindly agreed to assist our own reforestation efforts. Concurrently, Minister Caesar has pursued similar efforts with friendly European Governments and private sector entities; details are to be hammered out. These initiatives represent an unprecedented Government-led effort to repopulate our Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries scorched mountains and watersheds. The $7 million budgeted over the next “We begin, as always, with three years on forestry is a drop in the agriculture. From an agricultural bucket compared to the loss and damage standpoint, the blessing and the curse of inflicted by the volcano, but Mother La Soufrière is that its periodic deposits Nature has an incredible capacity to are partially responsible for our heal herself. unusually rich and fertile soil. However, The volcano’s impact on our its eruptions also destroy agricultural biodiversity has been vast, but is production in the short-term. The Red currently unassessed. Let us take a and Orange Zones of highest volcano moment here, Madame Speaker to hazard coincide with the heart of our acknowledge Honourable Minister agricultural belt. This year, our farmers Saboto Caesar, whose decision to and fishers felt the full brunt of La relocate a small number of our Soufrière’s fury. According to Vincentian Parrots to an overseas preliminary UNDP estimates, the aviary for precisely this eventuality has eruptions damaged over 4,200 acres of now proven prescient. In the wake of productive agricultural land, displaced the eruptions, and in addition to the 2,875 registered farmers and 308 money being spent to restore forests and fisherfolk, and caused a massive $230 watersheds, we must give nature the million in loss and damage to the space and time to complete its recovery. agricultural sector. Over one-third of the As such, the Government has accepted total preliminary estimates of loss and the passionate argument of Minister damage from the volcano was borne by Caesar that we must allow for an our agriculture sector. It is a ecological reset in Saint Vincent that devastating blow. The need for involves a temporary ban on the budgetary interventions to support hunting of wild meat. affected farmers and fishers is selfWe take seriously our duty to restore evident. So too is the urgency of fresh and preserve our forest and mountain initiatives to build productive capacity, ecosystems. The Government, through emphasise areas of the highest growth regulation, investment and potential, and attract additional international cooperation, will do what entrepreneurial activity to the sector. it can to speed up the restoration, in the Budget 2022 rises to the urgent interest of our biodiversity, our climate challenge of the moment, and reminds and our farmers. our hardworking farmers and fishers, Just as an economic recovery is once again, that this Government impossible without first confronting considers you to be the enduring COVID, our developmental aspirations cornerstone of our future development. are similarly futile unless they are built The previous discussion of the Blue on the solid foundation of a vibrant, Economy has sufficiently outlined our diverse and fully-recovered agricultural fresh initiatives in fishing fleet sector. Our farmers, fishers and forest expansion, training, technology, have probably never faced challenges of production support, and the repair or a similar magnitude as the ones we construction of new fishing facilities. As have confronted over the last two years. evidenced by Budget 2022’s heavy Yet, through it all: through drought, investments in the sector, our belief in the transformative potential of fisheries through pandemic, through hurricane, and through volcanic eruption, this in this post-COVID, post-volcano Government has stood with you. In economy cannot be overstated…” ways large and small, tangible and “Budget 2022 signals the postintangible, we have supported you eruption start of what will be a during the rough times, and invested in multiyear effort to rehabilitate our your recovery. Budget 2022 continues forests. A fresh initiative, called the that pattern of support and solidarity. “Forest Restoration and Protection” We will never stop believing in the project, allocates $2.5 million over the transformative power of our farmers next three years to analyse and and fisherfolk”. replenish our tree cover. The first
(Excerpts of the Hon. Terrance Ollivierre’s Budget Presentation) THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC has left longterm mental effects and distressing experiences relative to education in this country. The context in which schools operate has undergone numerous, rapid and drastic changes because of the COVID19 pandemic. Undoubtedly, the government via the Ministry of Education has been scrambling to put appropriate measures in place to mitigate against the impact of the pandemic on education. They lack the foresight to do so. We in the New Democratic Party recognize that the process must ultimately involve Recovery, Revitalization or (Renewal) and Transformation, to safeguard the future of learning and schooling in our blessed country. Over the past 2 years, teachers, students and parents have experienced much stress and anxiety with school and examinations. The emotional and mental impact (anguish) — must be adequately addressed and dealt with throughout the educational system. Access to mental health services must be readily available to those who are in need of such services to avoid mental health issues. The Minister of Finance in his budgetary address said, and I quote, “As a population, our students were forced to deal with unprecedented disruptions, uncertainties and stress.” (p. 47). Marion House has been trying to meet the needs of some of those affected. It must be remembered that our children were not just affected by physical schooling (which hinders the natural socialization process among children) and examinations, but some have lost parents and family members due to COVID-19 and may be adversely affected or traumatized. It must be remembered that the volcanic eruptions also contributed to the anxiety of students, teachers and parents. Studies show that children who have been isolated or quarantined during the pandemic have higher chances to develop acute stress disorder, adjustment disorder and grief. While the focus is evidently to control the pandemic by implementing various preventative strategies, psychological support services for those students who may need extra support, especially regarding anxiety and depression is critical. No child must be left behind. What have been done from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health to assist students and teachers to cope? I implore the relevant ministries to put the necessary resources in place to deal with these mental health issues. Without doubt, our solutions must ultimately include the Re-engineering of the education system through the use of technology, to create a transformative environment that caters to the needs and success of all. The education system must create a multiple-faceted pathway of success for the diversity or varied abilities of our students at all levels, in our schools. The use of the technology is inextricably linked to the delivery of the curriculum during this period of the pandemic and times of emergencies. Our students’ success is dependent on it. At such provision, the government has failed. There is obviously a widening gap in access to technology, education and learning between the haves and the have-nots. Indeed, while remote learning has enabled some students to continue their academic journey; others
have fallen behind because of the lack of vital resources such as: devices for students — some not working, not sure of the present status of the program; reliable internet connectivity; electricity connections; adequately trained teachers in use of technology in delivery of curriculum; on-line platforms to take our educational institutions ahead of the curve; access to nutritional meals on the school feeding program —while schools were closed and the lack of educational institutions that are properly outfitted and equipped for physical and virtual learning. The Minister of Finance alluded to another aspect, which we in the New Democratic Party have acknowledged as having contributed to the failure of online learning as implemented by the Ministry of Education. The Minister remarked, and I quote, “While teachers received at least basic instruction in the delivery of remote education, most students were involuntarily thrown into virtual classrooms and forced to adapt on the fly to new expectations, technologies and behaviours.” (pg. 49) Long before the pandemic, we in the New Democratic Party had advocated for teacher training in the use of the technology for the delivery of the curriculum, in addition to utilizing persons who are technologically versed to work with teachers within the classroom to implement what is required. Keep in mind, the Minister of Finance said that teachers received at least basic instruction in the delivery of remote education. The New Democratic Party had also recommended that during the holiday period and shut down of school, that teacher training was essential to a successful implementation of remote learning. We had also recommended that recruits at the Teachers’ College be trained accordingly. We anticipated the need and had the foresight to make the recommendations. Indeed, the lack of creativity and foresight speak directly to the government’s failure in the digitization of schools and educational institutions; in addition to, the one laptop per child initiative implemented in 2010 — 2011 and 2013 — 2014 which has failed miserably. The Minister of Finance said, and I quote, “Remote and online classes forced students to attend school from home, where many had to cope with enormous distractions and other domestic issues. These distractions and domestic issues produced unacceptably high absenteeism rates at some schools.” Up to this present time, internet access in some schools remains dismally poor. As a result, some students face difficulty in accessing internet connectivity to engage in on-line learning and also to meaningfully participate in examinations. Because of these and other issues, some students may have fallen through the gap/cracks, while others are left behind. A major priority as we move forward, will be to address the needs of all those students who were left behind due to difficulties faced because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the volcanic eruptions. There will have to be some level of assessments to develop remedial programs. This is particularly relevant for those who live under dire economic circumstances and suffer setbacks in learning, because they did not have internet access, a learning device, a proper space to study, and suffering from socio-economic problems.
V The Past is not a Prologue
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“It is difficult to live in the present, ridiculous to live in the future, and impossible to live in the past. Nothing is as far away as one minute ago.” Jim Bishop (1907–1987) US author, journalist. IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO LIVE in the past but there is value in looking back at the past. It is important that we have a deep appreciation of our history if we are to create a better future. Students of philosophy will concur that an examination of the writings of such renowned thinkers as Plato, Aristotle and Confucius (to mention a few) reflect the thoughts and aspirations of modern man even though these were penned centuries ago. We can readily conclude, therefore, that although times have changed man’s basic desires, habits, and weaknesses remain the same. This being said, looking at past behaviours and failures can assist us in plotting a better, brighter future. Let us insert a word of caution here though: the past is not a prologue. This writer could quite easily have renamed this article “The past is but a prologue” and develop the idea that what has gone on before becomes a foreword, an introduction, to where we are now. We could then show a logical link, a sequence of the events that have led us to where we are today. It is true that where we are in life today is as a result of the choices, the decisions, we made yesterday. However, I wish to take us along an alternate route and get us to the point where we realise that yesterday is no more; yesterday is dead and gone. And as hard as we may try, we cannot change the past. We must be prudent in our decisions today as we make adequate preparations for tomorrow and beyond; the past is not a prologue. The previous paragraph provided some mental stimulation. Some readers will attest that they had to reread some of the sentences in an effort to grasp the concepts proposed. We may wish to revisit the ideas unearthed there and continue the debate as some of the arguments for and against my pronouncements may appear to resonate and beacon for increased illuminations. That is okay. As a matter of fact, regular readers of this column will attest to the fact that many of the articles that emerge here tend to do just that; stimulate thought (some would say “provoke thought”) with the view of having us consider how best we can move to a higher plain of contemplation and behaviour. In a true sense, behavioural change is imperative if we are to create and sustain habits that allow us to develop the attitude, the culture, of constant and never-ending improvement; the CANI attitude. Now, we return to our discourse on this most interesting topic. Why would this writer venture to assert that the past is not a prologue; a foreword; an introduction? Simply this: Whatever you and I accomplished yesterday, and whatever failures you and I experienced, are now behind us. While both ends of the spectrum may influence who we are perceived to be, we must not let those limit or retard our plans for maximizing our accomplishments today and the way we prepare for
tomorrow. There is always a temptation to pat ourselves on the backs when we have accomplished some great or desirable feat. This may be related to some academic pursuit. It may also be achieving some weight or fitness goal. In some instances, we may be feeling good about a new-found relationship or one that we have laboured hard to repair. While these may be considered good and desirable, we have to understand that neglecting any of these areas will result in a reversal or retardation of the same. In other words, we should not become so complacent (even as we celebrate the victories) that we disregard the significance of maintaining the momentum in the present. Let us examine the flip side of the above scenario. We move from the positive experiences and accomplishments of the past and consider some of the negatives. Memories of yesterday may create flashbacks of failures and foibles. We may not have made adequate decisions in relation to our time and/or money management and this may have resulted in serious negative social and/or economic consequences. There may also have been moments when we embraced indiscretion and ventured into areas of immoral or unethical conduct. Sometimes we can spend so much time looking back at these blunders that they paralyze our thoughts and actions in the present. Yesterday is gone; and its failures too. Yes, the mistakes of the past may linger to haunt us and “punish” us (for truly we must bear the consequences of bad, indiscrete, choices that we made). However, we cannot move ahead with energy and confidence if we are constantly looking at what we have left behind. We should not be so focused on what we have lost that we fail to maximize the use of what we still have left. Consider the lives of individuals who were once successful (in whichever way you describe success) but today appear to be physically, spiritually, socially or emotionally arid and shrivelled. Many have given up, thrown in the towel, because of some financial, social, spiritual or emotional setback. And yet, consider those who may have faced some traumatic experiences but refocused and are now blooming socially, financially and spiritually. Such individuals realised that mistakes will be made and that life will sometimes be unkind. However, maybe aided by the wisdom of friends, or the reading of positive books, or listening to encouraging audio tapes or CDs, or viewing uplifting television programmes, or simply pondering on the realities of being able to regroup and rebound after a bout of failure, they reset their sails and head for new lands, new discoveries realising that the past is not a prologue. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
Our debt burden THE ISSUE OF DEBT, public and private, highlighted during the recent budget debate needs to be taken seriously by citizens. Most of us may not be able to do anything about it. However, all of us need to have a basic understanding of the opportunities afforded by debt and more so the dangers. Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves disclosed that the public debt is EC $2.8 billion. To personalise the debt problem means every man, woman and child is saddled with $25,455. Opposition leader DR, Godwin Friday reminded the nation that the public debt is about 98 percent of GDP. On top of the public debt burden, a private debt is estimated at $1.6 billion to banks, credit unions, businesses and other lending agencies. Compared with some of our neighbours, as of 2020, St Lucia has a public debt of $4.77 billion or 84 percent of GDP. Grenada’s is $1.9 billion or 71 percent of GDP and Antigua’s is $3.7 billion or 101 percent of GDP. International agencies maintain that a reasonable and sustainable debt is 60 percent of GDP. The USA, UK, France and Germany are the world’s leading debtor nations with the USA indebted for US$29 trillion or 128 percent of GDP. But debt doesn’t tell the whole story for debt is not all bad. No serious person will conclude that the USA is economically worse off than St Vincent because of its huge debt. Most nations are indebted, but some are in grave danger of contracting or collapsing than others. St Vincent and other countries in the Caribbean are in serious economic straits, and there is no end in sight. St Vincent, like its neighbours, therefore has serious problems. If not for the growing credit economy, citizens would be worse off. Even with access to credit, many still find it exceedingly difficult to survive. With national unemployment above 25 percent and youth unemployment over 40 percent, we get a greater appreciation of the problems families find themselves in. With poverty pushing up to 40 percent, the nation’s economic condition is stark. With an increasing debt burden, the state finds itself with less money to spend on education, health, infrastructure development and security. Since we pay the debt, especially to foreign economic concerns as they become due, the government has less than 50 cents from each dollar budgeted to spend on essentials. This explains why there are complaints that money allocated to ministries and departments is not forthcoming each year. The debt problem has been made even more acute with the eruption of the La Soufriere volcano. Money has to be found to rebuild after the destruction of our agriculture and infrastructure. Compounding this situation is the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. The economy continues to suffer as commercial activity has come to a virtual halt since 2020. Tourism, on which we
depend heavily, is only now staggering back to life. As Deputy PM Montgomery Daniel said, ‘what can we do’ to get out of this challenging situation? The situation is so depressed that it is inconceivable to ask citizens to tighten their belts. Begging is now very commonplace among young and old. More and more people are defaulting on small loans and are brought to magistrate court by creditors to enforce payment. The entrepreneurial spirit of our people is literally oozing out of their pores as many find ways to make ends meet. Young men and women can be found all across town selling something. In every village and town, there is some small-time economic activity. Increasingly more of us depend on friends and relatives abroad for assistance. This is evident from the long lines at the Western Union and MoneyGram outlets. But that’s not enough. Social prostitution is rife as increasingly young men, and women sell themselves to survive. Praedial larceny is at an all-time high. Farmers and other landowners are not enjoying the fruits of their labour or property. Daily, young men are seen with buckets of fruits that they sell to vendors. Crime is high and rising. Kingstown is now a laundry. Corruption of the private and public space is accepted and justified. Because of its open borders and expansive seascape, St Vincent remains a transshipment point for illicit drugs. Somebody is making lots of money, and it is not the people. Frustration is rising. Employment on cruise ships has fallen off with the pandemic. Our young people are increasingly looking to migrate to make a better life. Covid restrictions have placed a damper on such plans. Something has to give soon if we are to avoid a social explosion. Barbados PM Mia Mottley has blamed a ‘faceless few’ for pushing the world towards a climate catastrophe, thus imperilling small developing states like ours. Months before, at the UN General Assembly, she lamented that rich countries gain access to financing much more effortlessly and on better terms than developing nations. The faceless few are recognisable and well known. Mottley was afraid to name them for fear of retribution. Unless there is a radical restructuring of the legal, financial and economic architecture of the trading and banking system, countries like ours will not see the kind of development that we dream of. The system is rigged unfairly against developing countries. Our politicians may express concern about the growing public and private debt each year, but lip service is all it will be. Debt has now become our lifeline. Without it, SVG will stagnate further and choke on itself to a slow and painful death. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
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SVG needs better health facilities THE HEALTH SERVICE IS FALLING apart and is underfunded. When Gonsalves needs serious hospital treatment, we’ve seen him jump on a plane and fly abroad for treatment. For the poor of SVG, this is not an option. It is a sick mindset whereby a government burdens the poor to support the country, and lets the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan live a life of ease of tax and luxury. There is a serious shortage of revenue in SVG, but Gonsalves still gives multimillion dollar tax and customs duty exemptions to the superrich of Mustique and Canouan. In this time of Covid-19, it is more important than ever that our people have access to good and free hospitals and health centres. Gonsalves’ economic policy
of begging and borrowing is not sustainable and is turning SVG into Haiti. There has to be a positive change in our mindset, so that we put the people of SVG first, especially the poor. We need a Green economy to create jobs and prosperity for all. We need to create revenue for the country so that we have a proper, free national health service. We cannot have people dying or suffering ill health, just because their wallet is empty. In the Budget Estimates, expenditure for health is always very little. Clearly, the nation’s health service is being starved by Gonsalves. The health system should be free, especially for poor people. For some of the poor, they are forced to go out on to
the street, in a state of illhealth, and beg people for money for medicines. This is an appalling state of affairs and disrespectful to all Vincentians. We must provide a suitable medical care system for SVG citizens. How can the poor be expected to earn money to feed their families, if there are no jobs and they must spend their limited finances on medicines? This is unacceptable and immoral. Only spending a few dollars per year to cover a person’s health and medical needs is not enough by the ULP regime. Our health centres and facilities need to be modernised. We need more doctors and nurses in SVG, and all health services such as dentists, opticians, medicines,
hearing tests, physiotherapy, etc. need to be free. SVG needs a healthy population to have a working and industrious population. Having poor health can lead to an inability to work, income loss and an inability to support one’s family. Having a high number of people who are unwell can affect a country’s overall productive capacity and it is also likely to adversely affect a nation’s development prospects. Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party, says that long-term underfunding of health facilities in SVG by the ULP regime has been very bad for
our people and our country. Spending a small percent of the budget on health is an insult to the people of SVG. It creates more hardship than it solves, as the country creates less revenue than it should do and wastes money paying interest on unnecessary loans. Public finances should be invested in creating a healthy population. A Green government would invest substantially more in health. We would build more hospitals and health centres. We must be better equipped to deal with pandemics and other national health issues.
Scaling up Customs Digital Transformation by embracing a data culture and building a data ecosystem: International Customs Day 2022 INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS DAY is globally recognized where Customs Administrations come together to remember and celebrate the contributions made by Customs in protecting the economy, health, and security of the nations, and to commemorate the first session of the Customs Co-operation Council held in 1953. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Customs and Excise Department (CED) will once again join the World Customs Organization (WCO) in celebrating International Customs Day on January 26th, 2022. The WCO will devote the year 2022 to contributing to the establishment of
a more global digitalized customs environment that is more data-driven. As such the slogan for this year’s celebration is “scaling up Customs Digital Transformation by Embracing a Data Culture and Building a Data Ecosystem”. The uncertainties of the global economy because of climate change, natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, volatility of oil prices and the rise in freight charges have impacted the global supply chain and caused tremendous shock on our local economy. Moreover, the ongoing pandemic and recent volcanic eruption have further exacerbated economic
challenges, forcing the Customs Administration to become more creative in collecting tax revenues. Nonetheless, revenue continues to be consistent from year to year and with foresight, good strategy and the dedication of staff, the Customs and Excise Department can look forward to even greater successes in the future. The volcanic eruption of April 9th, 2021, brought to the fore sheer dedication, commitment and true Vincentian spirit of the entire staff which saw us working from Sunday to Sunday to ensure that the much needed relief goods smoothly transited the port to all importing parties. Officers recognized the need to take care of each other and stepped up to serve their country in a time of need. The dedication shown by staff during these times of uncertainty and disaster is indeed commendable and deserves recognition. While the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the work force as well as the international supply chain, the customs staff has demonstrated tenacity as we put country before self in facilitating and sustaining international trade and travel. Moreover, in mitigating these challenges, the Department employed a number of risk management strategies and was able to collect approximately thirty-three million dollars ($33,000,000.00) a record collection for any December month. As a result of this success, the Department has now recorded the highest revenue collection for any fiscal year in the history of the Customs and Excise Department. This achievement was accomplished on the backdrop of a fiscal year that was punctuated with massive concessions in the form of relief goods stemming from the volcanic eruption, spanning three quarters of the financial year of 2021. Despite the internal and external challenges, the Customs and Excise
Department remains committed in carrying out its mandate with pride, dedication, and commitment. The Government of SVG, through the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP), intends to implement an Electronic Single Window for Trade (ESWFT) to manage the regulatory processes impacting the importation and exportation of goods. The main value proposition for having a single window for St. Vincent and the Grenadines is to increase the efficiency in trade and investment through time and cost savings for traders in their dealings with government authorities, for obtaining the relevant clearance and permit(s) for moving cargo across St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ national or economic borders. In the current presingle-window environment, traders have had to contend with visits and dealings with multiple government agencies in multiple locations to obtain the necessary papers, permits, and clearances to complete their import or export processes. This digital infrastructure would ease doing business with the Customs by providing a one stop shop for importers and customers to process all import and export documents. The CED hoped to celebrate throughout the week of January 26th with several activities. However, due to the current COVID-19 spike, this year’s celebrations would be scaled back in an effort to maintain the health and safety of the staff and the public. The Management of Customs would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the staff and thank them for a job well done in a very challenging time. We ask for your understanding and support as we move into 2022. We would also like to thank our customers and stakeholders for your cooperation and understanding as we look forward to working together in the future.
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V We will do things better: Hull
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referred to, among other things, the doubling of internet connection in homes here; and development of mobile services allowing customers to keep their numbers enabling use of internet connectivity. “We have a solid track record of facilitating innovation,” Hull boasted and he pledged that Flow will improve its networks products and services. “We will do things better,” the Country Manager assured, and promised that the Flow team “will lift our game to make you satisfied customers.” Andrea Liverpool, Head of Small and Medium Business viewed the launch of Wayne Hull, Country Manager seen handing over a Flow Business as a computer to Nicole Ballantyne, promised that his response to company will always be on the lookout to improve its customers’ appeals. network and services.
PERSONS CONNECTED TO THE Flow telecommunication network can look forward to progress and opportunities for growth. Wayne Hull, Country Manager gave the assurance on Wednesday, January 25, as he addressed the launch of Flow Business. Hull, in highlighting his company’s achievements over the last five years,
There are Essential, Advanced, and Elite packages, she promised, and pointed out that each plan provided reliable connectivity and Flow Business team members (L-R) :Andrea Liverpool, digital tools Recardo Jackson, Lorna McDonald-Kydd, Rodika Jones, needed to Ranford Francois and Applianna Smith. succeed. She committed Association Kim Halbich hinted at her company to delivering more plans to rebuild the industry, and provisions aimed especially at training staff to adapt to the changing businesses. And they can relay on circuits. She is looking forward to “hassle-free business class support.” Flow’s support and welcomes the new Dwayne Samuel, Manager B2B, thrust. She outlines that “education” Barbados and the Southern Caribbean, to fill the needs of the times. noted his company’s link with the The Flow Business Team comprises: region spanning 100 years, and built Ricardo Jackson, Ranford Francois, on “technology, tried, tested and Applianna Smith, Lorna Kydd, Rodika reliable.” Jones, and Andrea Liverpool. He assured that there is an News reporter at SVG TV Nicole understanding of the challenges faced Ballantyne, carried home a Laptop, by businesses and promised to deliver won in a raffle of persons invited to solutions to ensure success. the event. (WKA) President of the Hotel and Tourism
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Regional
PM Mottley cuts cabinet THE NEW CABINET OF THE Mia Mottley-led government of the Republic of Barbados will number 20, a cut from the previous 26 members. Mottley led the Barbados Labour Party to a second consecutive sweep of all 30 seats in the Parliament, in that country general election of January 19, 2022. And she has offered two seats in the Senate to the opposition parties. On Monday, Mottley also revealed plans to amend the constitution to allow for the appointment of 18-yearold Khaleel Kothdiwala as the island’s youngest senator. And for the first time, Mottley named a deputy prime minister, Santia Bradshaw. “We face simply too many critical challenges for us to continue with business as usual,” said Mottley, unveiling her new development agenda ‘Our Barbados, Owning Our Future’. She said while there would be need for “constructive engagement,” debates should be in the cause of advancing the nation not merely to add to the discussions and the noise, nor to sow division. And speaking after her swearing in, Mottley thanked the people of Barbados for the clear and decisive mandate given to her party. “We shall treat it with care as we have done before and we shall endeavour to continue the process of transformation if our country is to be able to meet the challenges that we expect to face next 10 to 15 years. We laid out a number of these but we also recognise we live in a very dynamic environment and apart from those challenges there are still those aspirations of development we set for ourselves as a nation
Mia Mottley is sworn in as Prime Minister when we became of Barbados for the second time, this independent in 1956,” time by President Sandra Mason. she said. In addition to being prime Minister, Mia Mottley will assume the portfolio, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, with responsibility for Culture, Security, Public Service, CARICOM and Development Commissions.
PM Gonsalves extends congrats In related news, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has congratulated Mottley on her unprecedented second consecutive sweep of the polls. In offering his sincerest and heartiest congratulations to his “dear friend Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley” for the massive electoral victory, he described the 30-nil victory as “simply extraordinary.” He added, “What this victory indicates is Caribbean people are not prepared to tolerate noises, discord and noises, from persons who don’t represent individuals in the country but who are about maligning people and going to the lowest levels and the people prefer an uplifting developmental narrative.” Dr. Gonsalves said it was heartening to see people listening and voting for what is structured, organised, uplifting and with quality leadership. “I spoke to Mia on Monday (two days before the election) to find out how things were going and I must tell you I kind of was partly expecting something close to the 30 nil... but the 30 nil I didn’t quite expect a repeat because it is a phenomenal political achievement.”
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16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
People
Union Island community leader recognized UNION ISLAND RESIDENTSTANFORD COY, was last Thursday recognized for his sterling contribution to life on the island, especially in the area of Disaster Management. Coy, who began his unbroken tenure with the Island’s Disaster Committee in 1990, was the toast of honour at a pomp ceremony held at the Richmond Beach on his native Union Island, Thursday, 20th January, 2021. The well decorated venue, the glowing speeches, tangible tokens and the presence of family members and others from the community, were
befitting of the impact Coy has had in his many years of community service. Organised by the Union Island District Council, the turn of events on the day was filled with emotion, Coy included. Noting that he did not perform his duties on the Disaster Management Committee to be recognized, Coy disclosed that he just loves serving. “I love it, so it was not tedious to me … It was not strenuous, because I love to do what I was doing,” Coy stated. Detailing his responsibilities as Chair
of the Committee, Coy confirmed, “My duties were to open up the shelters, control where the storage is, get everybody organized when there is a pending storm , co-ordinate all the frontline workers, such as airport staff, police officers and so on.” Although last Thursday’s ceremony signalled the end of his tenure, Coy said he will still be around to assist as the need arises. “I am and will be always there once health and strength with me and called upon. I will be there because I love Union Island and I want to thank everyone for
this occasion,” Coy committed. Coy, however has more to come, as there is another recognition ceremony planned for him, this time by the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO).
Total Surprise Coy’s emotions on the day, went through different gears, from being upset, to surprise, to elation. This, as he had no inkling of the ceremony. Recalling the eventful day, Coy, who is also a church leader, said he was informed that he had to go to the venue to
Stanford Coy (right) accepting one of his many tokens from former Parliamentary Representative of the Southern Grenadines- Stephanie Browne. do the opening prayer for a Marriage Renewal. “At first, I was really mad because of the late invitation to perform such a duty, but I still went… When I got there they were all waiting on me, they put me to sit with my wife…When they announced what the occasion was all about … I got emotional and I
started to cry,” Coy related. “My children and grandchildren were there …It was a surprise to me… I was very emotional, but at the end of the day, I was elated,” he added. Coy thanked all for making the occasion a special one, one that he will always cherish.
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. 17.
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18. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
For the sake of peace
Thrown off my bed Dear George,
Dear Seeking a Solution, in the best interest of the
child. While you must be There is a difference there for your child you between giving up your right for the sake of peace have got to safeguard against being and being controlled. manipulated one way or There needs to be clear the other. Your girlfriend communication between has to allow you to be the you, your child’s mother best father you can be to and your present your child, and must not girlfriend pertaining to the care and well-being of let her insecurities get in the way of that. your child. All three of you have to agree to work
decided to stay at home but not before organizing a ride for my child. I BROKE UP WITH MY I am tired of giving up CHILD’S MOTHEr 5 years my right for peace sake ago but we continued to communicate for the child’s but continuing to live in constant war. How do I sake. My present live-in make things better? girlfriend insists that I cut this communication but I refused and it is causing a Seeking a Solution problem in the relationship. Things came to a head a few weeks back when my child’s mother called in the middle of the night for me to take my child to the hospital. I was about Dear George, to get dressed when my MY BOYFRIEND AND I pretty much girlfriend told me that if I love each to the point and we are left the house, I would not thinking about getting meet her when I got married. However, a problem has back. Uncertain about recently arisen. what to do, I eventually I want to learn to drive and I had
Dear George,
George
A driving problem this friend who was teaching me. That was until my boyfriend stepped in and said he cannot trust him that close to me. In fact, he has a problem with all male tutors and is of the view that I am so soft headed that somehow I am going to end up getting into bed with them. He wants me to either get a female tutor or wait until he gets around to teaching me. He has been meaning to teach me for well over a year now. Continued on Page 23.
MY WIFE AND I LIVE in a one-bedroom apartment. Her sister visited us from the States and she insisted her sister must stay with us for the two weeks she planned to be around. It was my intention to have the sister sleep in the living area on a sofa bed but my wife’s sister had other ideas, and was solidly backed by my wife. My wife asked me if I expected her to sleep on a sofa bed when there was a Queen Size bed in the bedroom. She insisted that I should sleep on the sofa. My wife supported her by letting her know she cannot let her sleep anywhere else but in the bed with her. My wife knows I made a vow never to let anyone else sleep in our matrimonial bed. Things got very tense in the home for all of us but I kept reminding my wife that it was all her idea in the first place, so deal with the fall out. How am I wrong for saying that?
Puzzled Dear Puzzled, You were handed the perfect opportunity on a platter for you to be a gentleman and you blew it completely. It should not have come to that where you are locked in a battle with your in-law for the bed. A man of and with class would have readily given way to his in-law, making this a non-issue.
George
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Help with your aspirations is likely, and profits could follow. Don't be too hard on yourself. Plans to make physical improvements may lead to psychological changes, too. Your emotions are fluctuating, so be careful not to say things you'll regret. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Make love, not war, and all will be fine. Try spending the day catching up on any responsibilities that need to be taken care of. Extravagance and overindulgence are not a cure if you're feeling sorry for yourself. Residential moves are evident. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Changes in your home will be positive. Elders may need your help. You need to do something energetic and different. You will be quite excitable this week. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Sit back. Your partner may be reluctant to tell you how they feel. Avoid letting children and friends borrow. Do your own research and be prepared. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your best efforts will come through investments concerning your home. Travel and entertaining conversation will be informative and uplifting. A day at the beach may satisfy the whole family. Travel will promote new romantic connections. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Compromise if you wish to have any fun at all. Your energetic personality will make you the center of attention at social gatherings. Try and avoid getting involved in idle chatter or gossip that might get you in trouble. Don't give your heart too readily.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may find yourself in an uncomfortable situation if you have overloaded your plate unintentionally. Use your creative flair. Tie up your personal papers or push to have legal settlements completed. You must be sure not to be frivolous, because as the saying goes, easy come, easy go. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Don't be too eager to start any debates. Sudden changes concerning coworkers may surprise you. Mishaps due to preoccupation will be upsetting. Call a good friend. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Don't let yourself get rundown. Hard work will not go unnoticed. Enjoy the company of relatives this week. Older family members may try to make demands that are impossible for you to handle. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You will do well in social settings, and new and interesting individuals may spark a romantic curiosity. Stick to your work and avoid emotional confrontations. Social events should be the highlight of your day. Try to be patient and understanding. Remain calm and you'll shine. Passion should be your goal. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Be prepared for an active but rewarding day. Don't let your personal problems interfere with your professional responsibilities. Moves will be hectic but favorable in the end. Property deals will pay big dividends. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) A series of misunderstandings may be at fault. Invite friends over. Changes in your residence may be financially favorable. Pleasure trips will be emotionally favorable.
ACROSS 1. Cashless deal 5. Pirates “yes” 8. Dish cooked in a pot 12. Fairy tale bear 13. Succeeded 14. Certain Asian cuisine 15. Turn inside out 17. Reddish-brown 18. Male or female 19. Pix 21. Antiquated 22. Waited 23. Noises 26. Made a baseball card transaction 30. Not hers 31. Long time 32. Number on a football team 36. Follower of Joseph Smith 39. We __ family 40. Chronological threshold 41. Wine’s home 44. Opulent 48. Booty 49. Reason for an “R” 51. Estate division 52. Complete 53. Way out there 54. He and she 55. Something we all look up to 56. House member in UK DOWN 1. Emissions result 2. Surfer’s challenge
3. Prayer’s end 4. Forgive 5. Customer incentives 6. ___ Tube 7. Enroll for service 8. Levels 9. Bully 10. No trouble at all 11. Mental keenness 16. Retained 20. Taint 23. Green Day song 24. Saudi export 25. Capitalize 27. Public works project
28. “I” problem 29. Household study 33. River setting 34. Period 35. ___ of steel 36. Strain 37. Race site 38. Unmask
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. 19.
41. Powwow 42. Respectively 43. Mousetrap 45. News 46. Surgery aftermath 47. Round up 50. Calligrapher’s purchase
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20. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Morris optimistic about emerging football talent
Pete Morris (right) in conversation with Second VicePresident of the SVGFF- Wayne Grant. FORMER ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES INTERNATIONALPete Morris, is buoyed by the amount of “raw” Vincentian Football talent that is available, and is looking forward to
players’ development in the shortest possible time frame. Morris, one of the country’s most accomplished footballers of the 1970s and 1980s, made his assessment after viewing
some of the practice matches used to select players to the St Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s team- Vincy Heat. “What I have recognized is that there is an abundance of talent out there… I am very excited with the amount of talent that is on show,” Morris commented. Morris noted that apart from local coaching, players are making some good use of the inordinate amount of Football on television. “They are watching a lot of television, and are picking up a few things that the international clubs and teams are doing, so their game is beginning to look more modern,” he opined. A skillful and lethal striker in his heyday, Morris disclosed that he is particularly impressed with the attackers. “Vincentian players have always been sharp… That quick passing and moving are always within our repertoire… From what I have seen, there are lots of attacking players… I am a big critic at times, but with this current crop of players, they seem ready to explode,” Morris related. Morris believed that it was
a good move to have the zonal training and practice matches, given the absence of a National Football Competition. “You have to compliment Theon (Gordon) for putting the system in place to have the players get some form of competition and I can tell you, the selectors will have a good problem coming up with the list of players,” Morris stated. Gordon is the Director of Technical Matters of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation. Harnessing of Talents Notwithstanding the prospects of the players, Morris felt strongly that a system must be instituted to fine-tune the current talents. “We now need to harness the talent with the modern way of training. These players can become very good players, once they also get the right coaching,” he underlined. Having had extensive experience playing and coaching in the USA, Morris wants to see a greater thrust towards making the nexus from talent to stardom. He pointed to the need for the existing positive attributes among the players to be merged with the right
attitudes, proper administrative policies and a cultural change among players and other stakeholders.
Morris’ portfolio Morris, who was part of the St Vincent and the Grenadines team that placed second in 1979 and 1981 in the then Caribbean Football Union competition, built a reputation as a most potent striker. His performances on field saw him being selected to a Caribbean team that toured Mexico in the mid-1980s. Morris, Raultie Lowe and the late Tyrone Spence and Keith ‘Slick’ Bonadie, were the four Vincentians who made that Mexico trip. Morris boasts a rare feat of having played in three different positions for St Vincent and the Grenadines — as left back, central midfielder and centre forward. Other than his exploits in St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Caribbean as an amateur, Morris played professionally in the Caribbean League, Portugal and the USA, and had training stints in England, Peru and Germany.
Karate Federation holds seminar THE HAIROUNA KARATE FEDERATION (HKF), which is now recognized by the world governing body for Karate, successfully hosted its first Tournament Officials Seminar last week. The seminar was slated as a kickstart to the activities for the 2022 calendar year, and saw a total of sixteen persons attending from the three clubs - SVG IKD Shotokan Karate Club, Shotokan-Ryu Karate, and the Seishin Karate Club, which are all members of the Federation. The seminar introduced the modalities of World Karate Federation (WKF) Karate, Kata and Kumite and covered the judging and scoring criteria. The focus was on accuracy and recording of scores and timings, while effectively reading referee signals. This is the first in a series of three seminars scheduled for the first quarter of the calendar year. The
Claude Bascombe Jr, certified Pan-American Karate Federation Kata and Kumite Judge C. Left: Pics from Allen #700: The sport of Karate in SVG continues to make strides.
second and third seminars will cover competition kata and competition kumite respectively, and will cater primarily for athletes, judges, and
coaches. The seminar was conducted virtually via Zoom and facilitated by Claude Bascombe Jr, certified Pan-
American Karate Federation Kata and Kumite Judge C and president of the Hairouna Karate Federation. I.B.A.ALLEN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. 21.
Sports
Spencer pleased with preparation
tournament, the players will represent well. The SVGTTA is presently preparing a squad under Spence and his assistant Joseph Carrington, to take part in the Caribbean Senior Table Tennis Championship in Havana, Cuba, in Romano Spencer – head Coach of March. the SVGTTA Senior table tennis “The time we have to work with teams. the team was shortened. We had scheduled to start in October last Stanley, is expecting that it will year but we got some delays so we attract not only those already in started in January. However, the training but the leading junior and method of training now is good and senior players from across the state. the players are putting in the work “The Tournament will give the and I am pleased with the results players who are presently in a training so far,” Spencer said. squad vital match practice as will He added that he has seen the accord the coaches an opportunity to players get better as far as view other players who are coming Players during a training session movement and sharpness are through the system,” Stanley stated. concerned. Spencer concurred, commenting NEWLY APPOINTED HEAD Coach of the (SVGTTA) - Romano Spencer, believes Spencer is also happy that the that the Assessment Tournament “… senior teams of St Vincent and the that despite the depleted time they have players in the training squad will be will be an opportunity for us coaches Grenadines Table Tennis Association had to prepare for the first overseas taking part in to assess their (players’) progress.” the first According to the SVGTTA plan, SVGTTA training is scheduled to intensify on Assessment completion of the Tournament. Tournament “As we get closer to competition we this Saturday, are going to increase the days and to be held at hours by introducing more technical the West St work,” Spencer disclosed. THE ST VINCENT AND THE Grenadines George The Table Tennis programme, like Cycling Union (SVGCU) will this weekend stage Secondary that of all the sporting bodies here, two events, as the 2022 National Cycling School from was affected by the Covid-19 pandemic Programme rides off. 10:00am, and and the eruption of the La Soufrière First up will be a Cycling Festival at the PRO of the decommissioned ET Joshua Airport this BMX cyclists will show off their skills this SVGTTA-Sean I.B.A.ALLEN Saturday, and will involve BMX, Junior Road Saturday. bikes and Mountain bikes. President of the SVG Cycling UnionTrevor Bailey said that Saturday’s event “.. will be having some races among these cyclists, as this first event, is THE FRIENDS OF represent basically to stimulate interest among FEMALE Cricket St Vincent them.” Organisation (FFCO) and the He noted, “We want to do more of this continues to fulfill its Grenadines, type of event from time to time.” commitment to support the Momentum shifts on Sunday with a women cricketers here, as Windward Road Race, that will traverse a route the cricketers aspire to Islands, between Stubbs and Bridgetown, foster a career in the sport. yourself, Biabou. The latest assistance on your Describing the circuit related, Bailey said, “We will be starting at the bottom the part of the Organisation parents, of Stubbs at Browne’s Hardware, go out came through a donation of coaches and cricket gear (shoes and all those to Bridgetown, Biabou, come back to gloves) to five Under-19 persons Gynette Anthony (3rd from right) pictured Calder Gap and finish at the top of female cricketers, who are who would with recipients (L-R): Kareese Boyea, Argyle.” part of the Windward have Tracy Byam, Schey-Ann Gaymes, Amelia The Road Race will cater to Elite, impacted on Williams, and Danella Crease. Masters, Juniors and Females, with the Islands Under-19 team currently engaged in a four- your life. Elite riders doing three laps, the and at this time with the match T20 series against Make them proud of you, Masters two, and the Juniors and Covid situation and how the United States Under-19 most of all you make Females, one lap. things have been going female, being played at the yourself proud. Be a good Both events are scheduled for 3pm with parents, stepping up Arnos Vale Playing Field. character at all times and starts. by donating cricket gears That series is scheduled with that, things are going Following this weekend’s opener, in this way is tremendous cyclists will take to the road on 12th and to finish today, Friday 28th. to work in your favour.” and is highly appreciated. Gynette Anthony, Cleton Barnet, 13th February. The recipients (players) Secretary of the FFCO, in Committee member of the On Saturday 12th, a Road Race is expressed gratitude for the making the presentation, FFCO and Head Coach of planned from Arnos Vale to Belmont, donation and assured the the Windward Islands with Sunday 13th set aside for a 20-mile encouraged the players to always strive to be their Under-19 Female team, was Friends of Female Cricket race. best. happy his organization had Organization that they Sunday’s race will start at the ET Cleton Barnet, Coach of the will use the gears to “You are being trained by come to the aid of the Joshua Airport with cyclists journeying Windward Islands Under-19 enhance their skills and the coaches so you are going players. to Bridgetown, ending at Belmont via Female team commended ability. to take what you would have “The Friends of Female Argyle and Calder. the FFCO for their The full calendar for 2022 sees the learned over a period of time Cricket has always been generosity during these local races and events culminating I.B.A.ALLEN and put it into practice. I pretty much involved in challenging times. in September. want you to go out and helping female cricketers
Cycling Programme rides off this weekend
Friends of Cricket assist cricketers
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22. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
The beat goes THE WEST INDIES UNDER-19 Cricketers will see how far they can reach up the list sixteen as the championship draws to an end. England progressed to the semis last Wednesday, overpowering South Africa. They will be joined by three others who will put themselves in contention for the title. Those in the reckoning were Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, who battled yesterday Thursday 27, Australia and Pakistan and India will look to derail Bangladesh’s chances of retaining the tile. West Indies lost to Australia and Sri Lanka in the Group stage. They beat Papua New Guinea in the melt down to determine the order of the sixteen teams. Their senior colleagues salvaged some pride in the first of the T/20 series with England. That was courtesy a bowling display by Jason Holder, setting the foundation for a nine wicket win. England rebounded in the second, winning by one run. But fans will tell you that the loss is reflective of a morale booster for the West Indies. The commentators are keen to instil that England fielded a Third squad. That’s part of the cynicism, to disparage the West Indies. But cricket is not played in the press boxes. Pundits decry the English bowling attack for allowing the West Indies to get that close. Hosein joined Romario Shepherd with the score 98 for 8, and 29 balls left to get to the 172 target. For most people, it should have been a matter of time before the England victory. But the ninth wicket pair plundered 72 in the time ending at 170 for 8. That was as good a loss as any victory they ever achieved. The tension heightened in the third match with the West Indies snatching a lead. That was based on Rovman Powell’s 107 off 53 balls. He hit ten sixes and four fours, and shared a 122 run third wicket partnership with Nicholas Pooran 70 off 43 balls. The 224 for 5 looked paltry to some West Indies fans, wary of the fickle performances time and time again. English supporters outnumbered home support, perhaps an indictment on the region’s economic thrust, or our tendency towards ensuring maximum hospitality to the visitor even if it comes at our sacrifice. British fans get tickets to the Kensington Oval in Barbados, easier than the average Barbadian. There is a love/hate relationship between England and the Caribbean. Caribbean history continues to be a subject of debate and as a famous Vincentian once uttered, “the final chapter” is not yet written. Societies throw up their own culture and adjustment to the subtleties of those balances. Civilisations evolve, adapt and strive. Caribbean people rake a cautious approach to his English counterpart. There is no animosity for wrongs suffered have been overlooked. There is no time for self-pity. If you want you see a West Indian cricketer fired up, put him in contest with England. The West Indies will look to seal the deal in the fourth T/20 to ensure a series win. Here is the Indian tour in the mix. That will be another opportunity for players to showcase their wares and revive West Indies cricket.
WI U19s out of title contention
debutant Kevin Wickham top-scoring with 56 from 91 deliveries, Jordan Johnson striking 47 from 56 balls, and Teddy Bishop and wicketkeeper Rivaldo Clarke each stroking 45. In reply, Sri Lanka’s opener Sadisha Rajapaksa underpinned the run chase with an excellent 76 off 115 deliveries, as his team overhauled their target with 10 balls to spare. Anjala Bandara carved Sadisha Rajapaksa, 76, provided the out 40 from 52 balls foundation for Sri Lanka’s victory. while Shevon Daniel for the quarter-finals, the young struck a busy 34 from 33 West Indians failed to muster the deliveries. But it was Ranuda Kevin Wickham, 56, top scored for effort required, and finished third Somarathne, belting an unbeaten the W.I. in a losing cause. in the group on two points behind 28 from 27 deliveries, who sealed HOSTS WEST INDIES crashed out of winners Sri Lanka on six points, the win for the Asian side. and second-place Australia on the ICC Under-19 World Cup title West Indies will now enter the four points. race after suffering a three-wicket Plate phase of the tournament West Indies’ solitary victory defeat to unbeaten Sri Lanka, in and was expected to play the came against Scotland. their final Group D game played at fourth placed finishers in Group C In the actual encounter against in Trinidad, on Wednesday. the Conaree Cricket Centre, St Kitts Sri Lanka, the West Indies and Nevis. Needing a big victory to qualify Under-19s gathered a competitive I.B.A.ALLEN 250 for nine off their 50 overs,
USA U19 Females lead T20 series THE USA U19 Female team wrapped up their first ever T20 quickly on Monday, beating their Windward Islands counterparts by nine wickets, after they successfully chased down a 71-run target in only 63 balls, at the Arnos vale Playing Field. After falling behind 5/2 in the third over, Zaida James (24 from 36) and Skyy Smith (11 from 48) stopped the bleeding for Windward Islands, fighting through a 42run partnership that lasted 71 balls. However, the run rate never warmed up to a point where the USA would be challenged and the Windward Islands ended their innings 70/6. They were helped by a generous 25 from extras. USA Captain Geetika Kodali used seven different bowlers in the attack, but Snigdha Paul (4 overs, 8 runs, 3 wickets) and Yashaadidi Teka (4 overs, 8 runs, 1 wicket) were the standouts on the day. Chetna Pagydyala (18 not out from 30) and Laasya Mullapudi (17
from 13) were standout contributors to the USA victory. In last Tuesday’s second of the 4-match T20 series, the USA again defeated the Windward Islands, this time under the Duckworth/Lewis Method, after a truncated day’s USA and Windward Islands (facing camera) Under-19 play caused by Females exchange pleasantries after the first match. two rain interruptions, at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. The match was reduced to 15 overs aside after the first interruption, and the Windward Islands Women’s Under-19s who won the toss and batted first scored 843, with a top-score of 35 from Zaida James. The second rain Ritu Singh was joint top interruption further scorer for the USA in the reduced the match to 7 St. Lucian Zaida James first match. She is the overs. The United top scored in both youngest player States Under-19 made matches to date for the competing in senior 53-4, including 17 Windward Islands. competitions in the USA. extras, off 7 overs. at the Arnos vale The third and fourth for Thursday 27th and matches were scheduled Friday 28th respectively, Playing Field.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, 2022. 23.
Advice/Classifieds
A driving problem
Continued from Page 18. If he refuses then you need to take note and do George, he is showing what is best for you and me he cannot trust me. the relationship. How can I get him to trust me and do you George think I’m making too much fuss over nothing?
Need to Know Now Dear Need to Know Now, You have to pay attention when your boyfriend makes it clear by words and actions that you are not to be trusted around men. This is especially significant now that marriage is in the mix. He would have to first deal with his own insecurities before moving forward. Suggest to him that he sees a counsellor who can help him with this.
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EVERTON ANDRE LEWIS Saturday, 22nd January, 2022 Mt. Coke Methodist Church Stubbs Viewing: 9:00 a.m. Service: 10:00 a.m. Interment: St. Joseph Cemetery Stubbs MOTHER ELMINA LOUISE DENNIS KING Sunday, 23rd January, 2022 Mount Moriah Spiritual Baptist Church, Fountain Viewing and Tributes: 9:00 a.m. - 9:55 a.m. Service: 10:00 a.m. Interment: Belair Cemetery
FRANK LABORDE AUGUSTUS ALLICK PRIAM
Saturday, 22nd January, 2022 Kingstown Methodist Church Viewing: 9:00 a.m. Service: 10:00 a.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery
Sunday, January 23rd, 2022 SDA Church, Questelles Service: 11:00 a.m.
RUTH NICKIE D N D ³0LVV 1LFNLH´ DQG ³7DQW\ 5XWK´ Saturday, 22nd January, 2022 Park Hill Church of God Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Park Hill Cemetery
DELTA CRUICKSHANK Saturday, 22nd January, 2022 Wesleyan Holiness Church Buccament Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Penniston Cemetery
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 28,
2022
VOLUME 116, No.04
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MASON CHARGED WITH MURDER the lead investigator in the matter. Prosecutor Pierre, however, requested HANIF FORBES, A 40-YEAR-OLD MASON of that the date be extended a little. Spring Village, Georgetown, will return to Court The Magistrate granted his request and on February 22 for a paper committal rescheduled the matter to February 22. proceeding, in connection with the death of The Prosecution intends to call about 12 Joshua ‘Cabbage’ Pompey, a 47-year-old truck witnesses. driver who was resident in O’Brien’s Village, Many lawyers have been taking the paper Georgetown. committal route which saves a lot of time. A Forbes has been charged with the murder paper committal procedure could be of Pompey who was shot in the head around completed within minutes, while an oral PI 12:05 a.m. on January 22, 2022 at O’Brien’s in which witnesses are called to testify, can Village. He died on the spot. take weeks or even months. Forbes was not required to plead when he In a paper committal procedure, all appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne witness statements and other relevant Browne at the Serious Offences Court on material to the case are reviewed by the Tuesday. He was represented by Attorney prosecution, defense, and the Magistrate, Ronald Marks, who told the Court that the following which the Magistrate makes a defense was seeking to have the Preliminary determination as to whether there is Inquiry (PI) done by paper committal sufficient evidence to send the matter to the procedure. High Court for trial. Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre did not object Forbes is also charged with assaulting to Marks’ application, but the Chief auxiliary police officer Lekeitha Harris Magistrate told the lawyer that at the Pompey of O’Brien’s Village, causing her Serious Offences Court, such a procedure is actual bodily harm. usually ready within three week, and she That offence reportedly occurred shortly initially gave a February 15 date to have it before midnight on January 21, 2022. done. Both offences are said to be linked and She acknowledged the competence of therefore, Forbes was not called upon to plead to the assault charge. Sergeant Malcolm Alexander, popularly The assault matter was also adjourned to known as ‘Fireman’, who was in court. He is February 22. Stories by HADYN HUGGINS
Joshua Pompey, originally from New Grounds, was reportedly shot once in his head and died on the spot. (FaceBook photo)
COURT COULD HAVE RULED DIFFERENTLY PRIME MINISTER DR RALPH GONSALVES has weighed in on the national outrage surrounding the case of a man forcing a 4-yearold into performing fellatio on him. The man was sentenced in the Family Court to two years in prison on each of two counts of indecent assault of the child, after he pleaded guilty. The sentences are to run consecutively meaning he will serve four years. A maximum of five years was permissible under the relevant statutes. Speaking on the January 23
episode of Issue At Hand aired on We FM, the Prime Minister advanced the view that the court would have been within its right if it had departed from the guidelines relating to sexual offenders. But even as he said that and recognized that the citizens of the country had all right to be appalled by the sentence, he appealed to persons to come to grips with the facts as they related to sentencing guidelines. Referencing the sentencing guidelines rules for a range of
offences as laid down by the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, Dr. Gonslaves recognized that the court is obligated to apply the relevant sentencing guidelines, unless, as he said, “to do so would not be in the interest of justice.” He explained further that, as per the ruling of the Supreme Court, a magistrate, or judge for that matter, should only depart from the guidelines in exceptional circumstances and proffered, “Surely, a departure could have been justified in that case.”
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Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, advanced a view that people had a right to be appalled by a recent four-year-sentence imposed upon a sex offender here.
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