THE VINCENTIAN PDF -02-07-21

FRIDAY, JULY

02, 2021

VOLUME 115, No.26

Morgan: No public servant Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

RSVGPF Looking within Page 7

SVG touches 10-year-old Page 11

EC$1.50

Footballers outraged Page 20

Our Agenda Page 24

SPECULATIONS END which is normal.

There was much talk of that the police and other sectors involved in investigating the matter were dragging its feet.

The referrals of the files on four occasions should put spend to this talk,

by DAYLE DA SILVA been borne out…I said each of these persons are Dr. Gonsalves noted.

He reminded that AFTER WEEKS OF entitled to an abundant under the Police Act, SPECULATION, Sejilla Ms number of rights and they can lay a charge, Dowall - Director of Public freedoms,” Prime but the DPP was Prosecutions (DPP) issued Minister Dr. Ralph responsible for all a release dated June 24, in Gonsalves said, adding, prosecutions. which she indicated that “And there is the It is normal for the charges had been laid presumption of innocence police and the DPP to against Senator Ashelle and the procedural exchange information, Morgan and Deputy DPP fairness.” and the DPP is not Kareem Nelson.

The prime minister Morgan will answer to explained that his role as subject to direction or control by anybody, a charge of intent to minister of legal affairs Gonsalves said. commit wounding and national security is against Cornelius John, to ask the Commissioner Bail granted and Nelson to a charge of of Police about matters wounding and unlawful as they relate to ongoing Meanwhile, when discharging a firearm, investigations.

Morgan, Nelson and also against John.

And as for the length John appeared at the The DPP also of time it took before the Serious Offence Court on indicated that John was DPP directed that June 25, John was charged with using charges be brought slapped with a second threatening language to against Morgan and charge of using his wife and to Morgan.

Nelson, Dr. Gonsalves referenced that she sent threatening language to Nicole John, he was The process plays out the file back to the previously charged with Commissioner of Police one count against Nicole “What I have said on at least four times, John and one against from the beginning has

Morgan.

The three all pleaded not guilty to their charges and were granted bail as follows: John $2,500.00 on his own recognizance; Morgan $2,000.00 with one surety; Nelson — composite bail of $10,000.00 with one surety.

They are expected to appear at the Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court on July 5.

Sejilla Ms Dowall - Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) – reminded citizens that in ‘an ordered society, the Administration of Justice should take its free course, without prejudice… .”

ANOTHER MURDER IN GLEN the death of Raheem Durham better known as “Scatter”, 20 THE FREQUENCY OF year old labourer of Glen, that DEATH by the gun and the occurred on Tuesday night. seeming failure to identify the Reports are that Durham faces behind the killings, has was in the Glen public road heightened concern among the when he was approached by citizenry, especially as an assailant who shot twice in another man was killed in the head. He was rushed to Glen, on Tuesday. the Milton Cato Memorial Police confirmed that they Hospital where he was were investigating the pronounced dead. circumstances surrounding A resident in the community described the deceased as a humble person.

Raheem Durham’s death Durham was the father of added to the number of fatal one daughter. shootings in the state.

by KENVILLE HORNE

In a related matter, two persons have been arrested in relation to the death of Travez Hernandez, 23-year-old bus conductor of Park Hill, which occurred sometime around 6:50 am on Friday 25th June.

The police said they were alerted about a person lying on the ground in the vicinity of the playing field in South Rivers. When they visited the scene, they discovered the victim with what appeared to be a wound to the side of his neck.

Travez Hernandez’s lifeless body was found in a bushy area near to the playing Field in South Rivers.

Continued on Page 3.

2. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 3.

News 3 A Senator: not a public servant

Gonsalves on radio, June 27.

Speaking in relation to Morgan, Gonsalves said the House of Assembly has no power to suspend Morgan.

He explained that she can only be suspended if she breaks the rules governing the House …..commits murder or is sentenced for a period of 12 months or more.

“There are circumstances where a person may feel that it may be politically advisable for them to resign, to ask for a leave of absence, or whatever the case may be,” Gonsalves said.

He referred to Chapter 1 of the Constitution Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves stated which relates to the categorically that Senator Morgan was not a ‘Protection of public servant and therefore entitled to different Fundamental Rights and consideration.

Freedoms’ to explain that under the constitution, THE QUESTION OF Nelson should have been there was the security of WHETHER Senator Ashelle suspended pending the Morgan and Assistant outcome of their trials was tenure and that the constitution provided for Director of Public addressed by Prime special rules for public Prosecutions Kareem Minister Dr Ralph

servants based on that privilege.

Regarding Morgan, Gonsalves stated that she was not a civil servant, in that she held the office of Senator, but she did not hold an office of a public servant.

But Kay BacchusBaptiste, attorney for Cornelius who is at the centre of the charged brought against Morgan and Nelson, challenged the comments of the Prime Minister, saying that senators were paid by the people.

“I cannot fathom the Prime Minister’s explanation; it is the most garbage that I have heard,” BacchusBaptiste said while speaking on radio on June 28.

“He mentioned qualifications and disqualifications to be a senator, that has nothing to do with the person being charged with an offence and it becomes a

No one off payment for fishers FISHERS IN THE GREEN AND YELLOW ZONES have not qualified for the one-off payment of income support. This is so because the fishers in those areas were assessed to not have been affected in a direct manner with respect to the eruption of the La Soufriere Volcano.

This was how Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves responded to President of the National Fisherfolk Organisation (NFO), Winsbert Harry, when he reported that a number of fishers were turned away when they went to receive the one off payment, which began on June 23.

Fishers, Harry said, were told categorically that they were not to receive the one-off payment of the $500 income support.

But Harry argued that fishers in the Green and Yellow zones were affected during the eruption — with the temporary closure of the fish market and that they were not able to fish in waters to the North which were off limits to vessels during the eruption.

He further contended that some fishers took in fishers and their families who were evacuated from the Red and Orange Zones, adding to their household costs.

So, while as the Prime Minister

They seem to have been a misunderstanding on the part of fishers with respect to who were entitled to income support. further stated that farmers and fishers will receive income and/or production support, the difference was in where the fishers resided.

Fishers living in areas South of Belle Isle on the Northwestern side, and those South of North and North Central Windward, will not be receiving the one-off payment.

“Fishers, if you are in the Orange Zone, you will get the same money like you get if you are a farmer. But there is no money for the fisher South of North Central or South of Belle

Isle, for the simple reason that the fishers in those areas were assessed to not have been affected in a direct manner in respect of the Soufriere volcano,” Dr. Gonsalves explained.

Some EC$1.5 million had been set aside in a Supplementary Budget passed in Parliament on May 11, for the fishers, Dr. Gonsalves said, but added that fishers were expected to receive production assistance in the form of materials used in fishing, example fish pots and boats. (DD)

moral duty,” she continued.

Bacchus-Baptiste said that the Prime Minister tried to refer to the Fundamental rights and

Freedoms, but the question that the public ought to be asking was: Why was the prime minister trying so hard to defend Morgan? (DD)

Morgan granted leave of absence SENATOR ASHELLE MORGAN has been granted one month leave of absence from her duties in the House of Assembly.

News of this development broke days after the Unity Labour Party (ULP) appointed Senator and Deputy Director of ProsecutionsKareem Nelson were charged for their alleged involvement in a gun related incident Ashelle Morgan, against Cornelius John, pictured at her swearing of Diamond. in as a Government Morgan is charged Senator, will vacate her with intent to commit seat in parliament for wounding of John, and one month.

Nelson with wounding and unlawful discharge of firearm in respect of complaints by Mr. Cornelius John.

And in a media release on Monday 28th January, 2021, Morgan disclosed that she had written to the Speaker of the House, in a letter of the same date, requesting a one month leave of absence.

In that letter, Morgan stated inter alia, “While there is no legal or moral obligation for me to take such a leave, I have chosen to do so voluntarily because I do not wish for the upcoming trial to distract from or to overshadow the business of the House of Assembly.”

The Speaker approved the Senator’s request (for leave) on the same day the request was made. (DD)

Another murder in Glen Continued from Frontpage.

Police last Tuesday arrested and charged Zane Lewis, 23-year-old labourer, and Aldon Thomas, 24-year-old labourer, both of South Rivers.

Lewis was charged additionally with aggravated burglary and abduction.

The accused men were arraigned before the Serious Offences Court on 30.6.2021. They were not allowed to plead to the charges. The cases were adjourned to the September 28. (See more on Page 4)

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4. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Ashton: Guilty of murder Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY A 12-MEMBER JURY, last week Friday, June 25, returned an unanimous verdict of guilty of murder in a matter involving Pedro Ashton, of Biabou. He will return to the High Court in Kingstown July 23 to hear his fate.

Ashton, 33 at the time of the incident in 2017, was charged with the death of Monique Clarke, a 44-year-old of Massey Hill, Biabou.

Clarke passed away at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital August 22, 2017, after she was reported to have been doused with

gasoline, and set ablaze in an incident at her home on August 13.

Reports at the time indicated that Clarke suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns to 85% of her body.

Sergeant Biorn Duncan recorded a statement from her at the hospital, Wednesday August 16, 2017 but the victim was unable to sign because of the burns that had affected her.

Duncan returned to the hospital Saturday 19 accompanied by Justice of Peace Hazell who signed the statement as witness, while Duncan did so as recording officer.

Duncan had given evidence to the effect that Clarke had told him her common-law husband - Pedro Ashton poured gasoline on her and burned her.

Besides Duncan, Crime Scene Specialist Constable Joel Williams provided evidence, including pictures of the scene.

Pathologist Dr. Ronald Child, who had conducted the postmortem examination came under examination by the defence attorney, Michael Wyllie.

The prosecution also called one of Clarke’s sons and her sister Iesha Richardson to the stand.

Everet Thompson, a 58-year-old Biabou man also provided testimony.

However, Wyllie dismissed his presentation as a “fabrication.”

Crown Counsel Rose Ann Richardson, who prosecuted, described the incident as a tragedy.

She pondered about the state of our society when a woman is “incapable of saying no to a man.”

After Richardson and defence counsel Wyllie addressed the court last Thursday, presiding judge Brian Cottle, in directing the jury before they deliberated, urged them to consider all the

Duo remanded for murder

Pedro Ashton – pictured in 2017. evidence. He pointed out, inter alia, that Ashton’s refusal to testify ought not to be held against him; that he had no previous convictions and that good character was a positive feature.

Delpeche and Lewis differ on intent PROSECUTOR Adolphus Delpesche and defence lawyer Dr. Linton Lewis differ on the interpretation of what is regarded as intent.

But Magistrate Rechanne Bowne will make her determination today, Friday, July 2.

She made that announcement last Wednesday after a

submission by Dr. Lewis and a response from Depeche.

They exchanged differing interpretations in the trial of two Greiggs women, charged with attempted murder charge.

Dr. Lewis regarded that the matter was an “awkward case.” He questioned whether there

was enough evidence on which the prosecution can proceed with that charge.

“Was there an attempt to commit murder?” Dr. Lewis asked.

He added that there was no evidence to suggest that either of his clients threatened to kill anyone. He told the court that “even when there

was a pushing, the sharp edge of the cutlass was not used.”

“You have to have the intention to commit that offence,” the Defence lawyer argued.

“There was no demonstration of the intention to commit murder,” he submitted.

But Delpesche was up to the battle. He noted that the defence attorney raised “excellent” issues, but that his argument was for another forum.

Delpesche countered that the test was “whether there was

enough evidence.”

Delpesche pointed out that both accused were involved in an incident wherein the complainant suffered a six centimetre laceration to the nose and left eye.

“It is for the jury to say whether or not ‘a plan’ could have caused those injuries,” the Prosecution pointed out.

Lesha Johnson and Paige Baptiste are facing the charge as a result of an incident on January 29, 2020 in Greiggs, during which Ziannie Charles received injuries.

ZANE LEWIS, aged 23, and Alban Thomas, 24, both of South Rivers, are slated to return to the Serious Offences Court September 28 for continuation of a matter into a charge of murder brought against them.

The charge arose from an incident between June 24 and 25, which led to the death of Park Hill resident Travis Fernandez.

Inspector Adolphus Delpeche indicated that “investigations were moving apace,” and that bail for the accused was not an option.

He contended that a three-month window was needed for the inquiries and that 12 witnesses are likely to be called.

Lewis is also charged with Abduction and Aggravated Burglary as a result of entering Fernandez’s house armed with a cutlass.

Cocaine earns ÂMuleÊ 16-year sentence

DAVID LEGAIR’s sentence is three days short of ten years for trafficking and six years, two months, 27 days for possession. The sentences will run concurrently.

Legair’s fate is as a result of an incident dated back to September 12, 2016, when he attempted to dispatch a box to Union Island in the Southern Grenadines. He got to the Grenadines Wharf by way of a delivery truck for a company with whom he was working, and proceeded on foot to take the package on to the vessel.

The box he was carrying had in six rectangular shaped packages which turned out to be cocaine estimated at 6.825 kilos according to court figures.

The box had a name on it, and Legair was arrested.

His trial began May 31 and ended June 7 this year. The jury returned a guilty verdict, but Legair’s penalty came last Friday, June 25.

Lawyer Duane Daniel, acting in defence, made an impassioned plea.

He noted that Legair “was at level best a ‘mule’.”

Daniel also pointed out that “there was clear tampering of the packages.”

He described Legair, aged 49, as having an “industrious character.”

The defence attorney noted that Legair co-operated with the Police and that “there are no aggravating factors.” He requested the lowest scale of sentencing.

But Justice Brian Cottle had a different perspective of things. He pointed to the jury’s unanimity and took into consideration, Daniel’s reference to time on remand. That was for three days from June 7 to 9.

Cottle outlined the seriousness of the offences which can earn a life sentence, or as high as 25 years and fines up to $5M. During police investigations, a search of Legair’s home uncovered a vacuum sealer and tape.

Crown Counsels Rose Ann Richardson and Shackell Bobb appeared for the prosecution.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 5.

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6. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

We have forfeited our morals

our moral judgment. We have simply gone too far, i.e. thinking we can apply the brakes when it FEW WILL DOUBT that Vincentian is clear that we are heading politics has become increasingly down a path of no return. polarized in recent years, Extending this argument particularly over the last two further, it might even be safe to decades. say that our reason for casting a If the truth be told, the very vote one way or the other, is adversarial nature of our moreso a rationalisation of the politics, dating back to Adult ways our depraved moral guts Suffrage, means that our politics have shaped our political has always been polarized, albeit leanings. to varying levels. But we just The vote is cast not on the might be correct in saying that basis of a moral code or what is our modern day politicians have morally correct in the face of taken this to another level, or is threats to the nation as a whole. it depth?

It is a case that we cast a vote As it stands now, the major having been influenced by what repercussion of this polarisation we have been made to accept is is that people are only willing to right about and for our society follow their political leaders, in in the first place. the process setting aside any No longer do we stand on any moral brakes that could make moral high ground and say with their leaders hold on a matter fear of impunity, enough is which they feel is being enough. improperly ventilated.

So, two high ranking Now that it has got to this officers/servants of the state are point, we cannot expect morality charged with committing a to function as a deterrent to criminal action but remain in ‘dirty and/or spin politics’. their substantive offices, the This is so because people’s result of our compromise of sense of right and wrong is what is right and what is coopted if not reshaped entirely wrong. No longer do our for political ends… to safeguard personal morals on which the a position or win another good of society rests, come into election. play.

When politics, not necessarily Instead, we have become a classical political ideology slaves to the law, to the takes over the driver’s seat, a technicalities (if not loopholes) it more extreme, exacting allows on which, we are told, we polarized political landscape must wait to be played out readily gives way to a depraved while those who have moral reality. transgressed enjoy the fineries Any sense of what is right or of their offices. wrong is compromised in the Any person who is employed name of the immediate political in positions that are tasked with agenda. safeguarding the good of all To get to that point is to society and is fingered allegedly admit that morality is no match for a transgression against a for our politics. citizen of the state, will demit Recent research suggests that office only if there are formed by political ideology, a certain a ‘package’ of personal morals. political agenda, a politics of Not to do so and believing cultism are more than likely the that the law always supersedes shapers of our morals and moral what is right in the sight of God judgement, and not the other and man, is to forfeit any right way around. you might feel you have to stand Our personal morals, if we among those who uphold tried have any left, will never shape and tested morals.

“All ah dat is Mas” (First published in THE VINCENTIAN of Friday 3rd July, 2015)

P.S Luis De Shong I TRUST THAT MY ADVICE is not too late, but in any event I will urge Vincentians to exercise restraint and grant some licence at carnival season to our calypsonians who make social comment in song.

As a fellow Bottom Town man I appeal to Luis simply to pad up and duck any intimidatory balls sent down by a hostile bowler, like Bajan Malcolm Marshall who had made it to cricket Hall of Fame.

I am not here concerned with the legal aspect which is available to every aggrieved citizen but carnival traditionally accepts leeway from rigid norms, and any threat of suit affects the spirit of carnival and ought not to be pursued unless defamation is really outlandish.

Deceased relative, Vibert De Shong is a former great mas man, will turn in his grave at the spoilage of carnival on legal grounds.

So, too, I imagine would have been the case of Luis’ maternal grandmother, Vivy, who was a most beautiful Black woman that enjoyed the normally innocent fun of carnival.

And to dwell on the legal aspect we may take notice that many advanced countries led by the “USA” has ruled that being a “bowler” is no longer socially deviant. Perhaps, who knows, it is just a matter of time.

Unbecoming Behavior People have raved on all sides of the immoral behaviour usually displayed at carnival season, as a more or less sure sign that The Almighty is about to reclaim his decadent earth.

Generally, they have a point to make, but I suspect that we seldom go beyond the boundary which is limited to all-night fetes, loud noises, and “wet dances”, which are more than counter-balanced by the innocent fun, and genius on show in steel-band beating and breath-taking displays of mas bands.

In the face of all these contradictions, what I personally found most annoying was the head line of my own hosts in the middle of carnival season, of the grant of a commonwealth award to a youthful and enterprising junior member of staff.

We are indeed an Independent member of the Commonwealth. Independence should teach us what sovereignty really means, not subservience to the Queen, or worship of all things British.

The lead article was servile, to say the least. And the timing of its appearance exposed an inferiority complex just when

carnival was trying to hew a truly new path for us. I have been so troubled by the tone, timing and meaning of that article that I intend shortly to produce a fuller response to it.

Queen Show In early days the Queen show was hogged usually by light-skinned people so that, for instance, dark-complexioned person like Yvonne Lartique nee Wilson or Sylvia De Freitas nee Clouden did not stand a ghost of a chance.

Then came Girls High School Graduates including chicks around Kingstown.

Now the entire system has been democratised with time and girls from the four corners of SVG have a fair chance of winning.

I can pinpoint even today candidates of the middle period whom I knew personally or at arm’s length. Here are some names: Fleur Cox, Norma King, June Baynes, Jeanette Bowman, Trilda Russell, Annelle Paynter, Judy Corea, Juliet Nanton, Julie Campbell

Thirtieth Birthday of Carival I had my early differences with Carnival as introduced to our package in 1985, 30 years ago.

It is recalled that we had a new Government, an NDP administration which won the 1984 election with “Horn Fuh Dem” thrust as minister of Culture under which Carnival fell, Randy Cato headed the Carnival Development Corporation.

It so happened that at its birth we had been blessed with a gracious multitalented Queen Donna Young who walked away with the first title of Miss Carival in 1985. Sadly, Donna perished in a mysterious plane crash within our borders the following year.

There followed other Vincentian Miss Carival Queens, such as, Roxanne Israel in 1987, Lafleur Fraser in 2002, Shevorne Peters in 2003, Casynella Olliverre in 2005 and Ronique Dellimore in 2008.

So far three nations are tied with 6 wins each, St Kitts, Dominica and St Vincent and the Grenadines. If one of these records this year’s victory, it would be luck 7 for Deyonte Mayers?

This year’s carnival promises to be one of the best, all round. And the real champion may be fine weather!

But this weekend belongs to Patches Knight. He is getting married to Sharon Steele this Saturday afternoon, and hopes to crown it in the top three in the Big Yard on Demarche Gras.

Ring De Bell.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 7.

Letters

Do this for The RSVGPF: the Workers Looking within “..... I AM A BIG SUPPORTER of organized labor; I think that groups of workers should organize themselves to secure their rights.”

This is a comment attributed to the Minister of Finance, in another newspaper. I am glad to hear that you are a strong supporter of Unions because some of the government’s actions lately have left me to wonder out loud, what we are coming to and where we are going.

In a country where more than half of the workforce is employed by government, it is good to know the government is pro-union. However, I am disappointed to hear that the Teachers Union and the government have not signed a collective bargaining agreement for many years. What’s up with that? I can only hope the other workers are doing better, but you would know that, and maybe there is an “excellent” explanation for why teachers do not have a signed agreement. In your comments, you also suggested that they should not misjudge management friendliness for kindness (my words), also a timely warning, in my opinion.

Our government should be more proactive in protecting our workers, especially when entering public-private partnerships with foreign-based companies. I am still disappointed with the way the government walked away from the LIAT workers. This is another opportunity for the government to negotiate an agreement with companies like Sandals and Marriott. These companies should not be allowed to resist the employee’s efforts to organize.

The government should be setting the minimum salary for all the different job classifications.

Workers should have the opportunity to earn and buy shares in these companies; they should receive incentive bonuses and profit-sharing based on their performance. Workers should be allowed to invest in a matching differed benefit pension plan with specific vesting rights based on service years.

Workers should be provided education credits for years of service to particular training to advance themselves in the company. Unused credit should be consolidated every four years and provided to qualified workers’ children for use in any field of study, with no obligation to the company.

These are just a few of the things that I think a Labor Government should be doing to ensure the growth of our nation. After all, we have a substantial investment in these companies through the incentives we provide upfront. It is incumbent upon us to value this investment and secure a reasonable return for our people.

THE ROYAL ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) has come under much scrutiny and has been the target of much criticism of late.

This cannot mean well for an organization which is there to protect and serve.

We must all agree that there are many hardworking, dedicated and reputable officers.

We must, on the other hand, point out that there are those who are bringing this noble organization into much disrepute.

Suffice it to say, much of what is thrown at the police is merely allegation and may not be true, for we know that every story has three sides. Nevertheless, it is reasonable to have an inward look at this organization.

These various allegations give rise to a lack of confidence and respect in and for the Force by the general public. It gives a bad image of such a noble profession. What has gone wrong with some of these officers is a question worth researching. Is it that many enter without proper scrutiny? Is it that some enter due to political influence? Has the Force corrupted them? These questions are worthy of reflection.

Whatever answers we find, the fact is that the RSVGPF is fast losing its credibility. We recognize the officers are human and prone to failures like anyone else. However, in such a noble profession it is important that standards be maintained.

Added to that they are supposed to be above reproach and role models. The later is debatable as to whether they are.

All is not lost. They must continue to serve and protect with distinction. Efforts must always be made to encourage and ensure that police officers are made to perform their duties professionally and with a fair sense of self control and knowledge.

The bad ones must be dealt with and be made public examples. In doing so, the RSVGPF can gain the confidence of the general public.

There must be no room for corruption the ‘bad boy’ mentality that exists within the organization must be dealt with. We know

National security in SVG A FIREARM was discharged, a man was shot in his foot in his own home and taken to the hospital. The doctor, I assumed, did his/her duty. If a bullet was found, it was handed over to the police. Both doctor and police signed for having given and received the bullet, and the doctor gave a statement. The police then launched an investigation.

The Bible is the Christian Democrat constitution along with the national constitution which is hinted on the supremacy of God. According to St. Luke 3:14, the police shall investigate such crime without bribe, etc. If the suspected

criminal comes to terms quickly with his/her enemy, there could be a reconciliation. If not he/she should go to court and if found guilty, handed to the officers and be thrown into jail, and shall stay there until the fine is paid or the time is up. This is according to Matt 5: 25-26.

This is what Jesus said in Matt 17: “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law…., or the writing of the prophets.

No, I came to fulfil them.”

What Jesus was saying there, is that there shall be no favouritism when it comes to the law of God and the law of the state or the kingdom, as Horatio the case maybe. No law for one set of people and another for others. James 2:1 confirms that Jesus condemned partiality.

Our Prime Minister, who is head of MY INTENTION is to make their parents to gain control parents could not bind him Security of our state which has this country great with for themselves. Those who do anymore. representation on the Security Council wisdom, knowledge and things right will come out Are you following me understanding for the next prosperous. Those who go closely? Jesus chose to marry of the United Nations, is answerable for not having our security safe. The generation, and I am going to down the wrong way will end the church instead of a officers on duty failed to carry out extract it from the Bible. up in destruction. woman because he didn’t One of the things I A girl can marry when want to carry sin into heaven. their duty; as a result guns and extracted from the Bible is she’s 12 years of age, He knew what sin is. So now, bullets were taken out of the that when a child reaches 12 according to spiritual law. my friend, I hope you got the Georgetown Police Station. years of age, that’s the time When Jesus was 12 years old, essence and recognize that Who next is going to be shot and or wisdom flows to the child’s he became married to the there is no way God is a killed and there is no justice? From brain and mind so that they Church. He was full of so black man, as some people which other police station will guns can know good from evil. much wisdom, knowledge and say, and neither was Satan and bullets go missing? Our security is And at that point, their understanding that he stayed ever in heaven as some at risk. education and knowledge can away from his home. When pastors preached.

Police must do their jobs without be higher than their parents his mother — Mary - and his I think they interference. Maybe this will own. But some children can father — Joseph - went misinterpreted what Isaiah encourage us to have confidence in the inherit the sins of their looking for him, they found said. Satan was thrown out National Security of SVG, which is parents and lose control of him in the temple preaching from Eden. He never existed something we cannot boast about now. themselves. However, some of to teachers and pastors who in heaven. them will speak wisdom to could be his parents. His Alistair ‘Live Up’ Simon Christian Democrat

What the bible teaches

officers are human and are not perfect. We are not looking for perfection, but credible service and good discipline.

Kennard King

Sorry, Charles; it can’t work I COMMEND Charles, Edinboro’ for his optimism. In last week’s issue, he suggested that we get the fifteen elected members of parliament and those candidates whom they defeated, to spearhead a campaign to encourage our people to take the Covid-19 vaccine.

When you come to think of it, it’s high time we get those elected members to do some real work.

However, I must draw to Charles’ attention that our parliament, our society (i.e. how we engage with one another) is based on something we call adversarial politics. And there is no one who loves this more than our own Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

In other words, it’s always a fight and argument before we could get anywhere, and it’s usually a case that we get nowhere.

So, Charles, getting them together is a grand idea, doing so in reality is another kettle of fish.

And it seems we will die with this approach to politics that has helped to shape our society in general.

Togetherness????

Naaaay!!!!

Robert Glasgow

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8. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

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Our work continues at the UN Security Council Introduction THIS WEEK, we focus on the work being done by representatives of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on the United Nations Security Council. With everything that has happened over the last 15 months - dengue, Covid-19 pandemic, volcanic eruption of La Soufriere, we may have forgotten that this country is currently a nonpermanent member of the UNSC, and continue to bring our principled perspectives to the debates and general work of the council. Our term on the council ends in December of this year 2021, but it would go down in history as a successful term and one that has done a lot to advance our positions and improve our reputation globally as a small state that’s principled and consistent. On Monday, June 28, 2021, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sen. Keisal Peters, delivered a statement at a sitting of the UNSC, which is being published below in its entirety.

international actors to engage in prevention, and protection work, and to provide psychosocial support for children. Girls are also disproportionately affected by school closures and overall attacks against education. They are far less likely to return to schools and suffer increased risk of experiencing sexual violence in these contexts. Boys are however far more likely to be victims of the most prevalent verified violations. They are killed and maimed and recruited and used at much higher rates when compared to girls. In addition, boys are more likely to be detained in state institutions and to be held by armed groups.

We welcome necessary developments to improve accountability and implement increased child protection measures.

These developments include: “Thank you, Madam President, 1. The appointment of a Minister Counsellor to the President on child Let me begin by thanking our protection and the Promulgation of distinguished briefers, the Secretary the Child protection code General H.E Mr. Antonio Guterres, criminalising child recruitment in the Executive Director of UNICEF; Ms. Henrietta Fore, Advocate for Children Central African Republic; 2. The November 2020 launch of Affected by War; Mr. Forest Whitaker, the child protection policy by the and Education Specialist at Plan Ministry of the Interior in International Nigeria, Mr. Laban Onisimus, for presenting, in very clear Afghanistan, where there exists an alarmingly high number of children terms, the urgency with which we killed and maimed; and must act in service of our children.

3. Advances on the implementation Saint Vincent and the Grenadines of the Safe Schools Declaration, takes this opportunity, in the 25th through a draft law on the protection year since the emergence of the of education against attacks in Mali.

Children and Armed Conflict mandate, to acknowledge the Madam President, remarkable progress in shifting consciousness and in creating national Saint Vincent and the Grenadines mechanisms to protect and promote underscores the importance of actions the wellbeing of children in fragile which emphasise rehabilitation, and conflict affected countries and reintegration and the consistent regions. Against this backdrop, we congratulate the Office of the Special application of handover protocols in line with juvenile justice standards Representative of Children in Armed established in the Convention on the Conflict upon receiving the Sapienza Rights of the Child (CRC) and its Human Rights Award 2020; another Optional Protocol on the involvement signal and most deserving of children in armed conflict; achievement. recognising, of course, that children are, first and foremost, victims of Madam President, armed conflict. We are gravely concerned about the erosion of In spite of progress made, the number and severity of verified grave progress on child protection, as what we are now witnessing is a rapidly violations against children, in 2020, deteriorating humanitarian situation, remains worryingly unchanged. This linked to increasingly complex and is especially concerning, given the challenging security contexts, globally. challenges encountered by the Certainly, a combination of political Monitoring and Reporting will and national ownership; Mechanisms (MRMs), as a result of cooperation between the UN and COVID-19 containment measures regional bodies; and consistent and globally. As we have heard this predictable funding is required to morning, children, particularly refugee and displaced children, suffer ensure compliance, by states, with the worst effects of the ever changing their obligations to protect children, and complex nature of armed conflict. as enshrined in the relevant international accountability The report of the Office of the SRSG mechanisms. These include adherence and UNICEF, on the Impact of the to International Humanitarian, COVID-19 Pandemic, paints a grim Human Rights and Refugee Law, CRC picture of how the situation for children is further compounded by the juvenile justice standards, and all other relevant international current health and related economic accountability mechanisms. crises. There is urgent need for In closing Madam President, I wish adherence to the call for a global to recall analysis drawn from the 2017 ceasefire, and to ensure that the Policy on Child Protection in pandemic response and recovery Peacekeeping Operations. We must programmes are both child-centred ensure that relevant child protection and gender-responsive. provisions are consistently included in Emerging child protection actions, the mandates of all UN peacekeeping mechanisms, and related adaptation measures must embed critical gender operations (PKOs) and special political missions (SPMs). analysis. This will ensure Excellencies, we must remind appropriately tailored responses for ourselves that children bear no girls and boys who are differently affected by violence in armed conflict. responsibility for violent conflict. Yet, Although significantly underreported, they remain most adversely affected.

Let us seize this moment of collective the overwhelming majority of sexual violence is perpetrated against girls; a and renewed commitment to embark on truly transformative actions for the situation made worse by the reduced sake of all the world’s children. capacity of national, regional and I thank you.”

Motion on decorum and responsibility of members must be debated THE ALLEGED shooting and beating of Mr Cornelius John has been covered a lot in the local media, attracting front page attention in the papers. It has been the main topic of discussion on radio talk shows for several weeks. And has even attracted regional attention. The New Democratic Party (NDP) has also been vocal on the issue and has called for senator Ashelle Morgan to step-down or be suspended from that position pending the outcome of investigation into allegation that was made against her.

We recall that during the meeting of the House of Assembly on Tuesday May 11, 2021, Leader of the Opposition, Dr. the Honourable Godwin Friday, was suspended by the Speaker, Ms Rochelle Forde, after he objected to the participation of Senator Ashelle Morgan in the proceedings of the House. Dr. Friday submitted that Senator Morgan should not continue to be in the House while the serious allegation against her was under investigation by the police (as confirmed publicly by the Commissioner of Police).

Subsequently, charges were laid against Senator Morgan. Contrary to what Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves thinks about Ms. Ashelle Morgan’s position as Senator, now that she is being charged, the NDP is of a different view and is continuing its call for Senator Ashelle Morgan to be suspended form the House of Assembly.

To this end, Dr. Friday has tabled a Motion in parliament which is set to meet on Tuesday 6th July. The Motion is, On Decorum and Responsibility of Members. It is proposed by Dr. Friday, Leader of the Opposition and Seconded

by Parliamentary Representative for the Southern Grenadines, Terrance Ollivierre. The Following is the Motion: WHEREAS this Honourable House must seek always to promote the values and principles enshrined in our laws and democratic traditions and to foster respect for the rule of law; AND WHEREAS each Member of Parliament is accountable to the public for their decisions and actions and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office; AND WHEREAS each Member of Parliament shall never undertake any action which would cause significant damage to the reputation and integrity of the House of Assembly as a whole, or of its Members generally; AND WHEREAS it is alleged that Mr. Cornelius John was beaten and shot in his leg at his home in Diamond and that Senator and Deputy Speaker Ashelle Morgan was one of three assailants involved in the incident; AND WHEREAS the Commissioner of Police has confirmed publicly that the matter is under police investigation and that Senator Morgan is a person of interest in the investigation; AND WHEREAS this matter has stirred the conscience of our nation and caused many to question the administration of justice and the rule of law in St. Vincent and the Grenadines AND WHEREAS Senator Morgan attended the meeting of the House of Assembly on May 11th, 2021 and the Leader of the Opposition with the full support of all members of the Opposition sought to invite Senator Morgan to withdraw from the sitting of

the House or to have her suspended from the House pending the outcome of the police investigation into the serious allegations concerning her; AND WHEREAS Senator Morgan was appointed by the Governor General acting on the advice of the Prime Minister and that appointment can be revoked by the Governor General acting on the advice of the Prime Minister; AND WHEREAS Senator Morgan has not withdrawn from the House and her appointment as senator has not been revoked and thus, she remains a member of the House and the Deputy Speaker; AND WHEREAS the Speaker of the House has a constitutional duty to interpret and apply the Standing Orders so as to facilitate debate and promote the decorum and dignity of the House; BE IT RESOLVED that this Honourable House calls on Senator and Deputy Speaker Ashelle Morgan to withdraw from the sittings of House; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that should Senator Morgan fail or refuse to withdraw, she be suspended for the sittings of the House pending the outcome of the police investigation into the serious allegations made against her in relation to the beating and shooting of Cornelius John.

Will the Motion be debated?

The Unity Labour Party regime has denied members of the opposition their rights to debate Motions in parliament.

Will this Motion, On Decorum and Responsibility of Members, be debated?

The NDP has brought several Private Member’s Motions to parliament which is their right and not one has ever been debated, for example, the Spiritual Social and Redemption Charter, Integrity Legislation, Electoral Reform and the Motion on the COVID-19 pandemic. The ULP government has blocked every effort by the NDP to get Private Member’s Motion debated.

The rules of the parliament allow for private members to bring a motion to the parliament once per year.

Whenever the NDP has brought a motion to parliament, either noncabinet members of the government have brought a motion, or the government includes a number of Ministerial Statements on the Order Paper of parliament for that sitting, strategies to use up the time that should have allowed for the debate, therefore preventing the NDP from debating its motion.

There was a similar occurrence when the No Confidence Motion was brought against the ULP government in 2018. The No Confidence Motion was not debated after Dr. Gonsalves made significant changes to it and called it a Confidence Motion. This is what Dr. Gonsalves said during the intense exchanges that took place in the House of Assembly that day: “Mr. Speaker, with great respect …I have already said that the opposition can bring a motion of no confidence only if the government acquiesces or agrees….” The denial to debate Motions go against the Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We wait to see what transpires on 6th July.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 9.

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Transformation and Empathy

‘Nothing is more dangerous to the wellbeing of the body-politic than a public official who is technically competent or strategically astute but ethically illiterate or unfit.’ G. Evans

“Transformation happens whenever we open ourselves to see another’s experience, looking beyond our own vision and encountering another’s pain, fear, or hopes.” - Win Collier – Writer for Our Daily Bread Ministries THERE WAS A TIME when this writer had very little sympathy for individuals who were classified as alcoholics, adulterers, gamblers, and drug addicts. These individuals were especially despised when their “bad habits” created and sustained situations that were traumatic for others – especially their children. It was difficult to understand and accept that a man (the male is usually the visible felon) could be so very selfish that he can spend all of his wages on alcohol, illicit relationships, gambling, and/or the consumption of illegal drugs at the expense of maintaining his home.

However, it is not until efforts are made to “walk in the individual’s shoes” that we can better understand why they may unwisely attempt to drown their life concerns by engaging in such activities; behaviours that may create temporary distractions or relief but often generate much bigger problems. Without empathy it is unlikely that we can see life from their perspective.

Demonstrating empathy does not mean that we condone or justify their actions.

It simply puts us in a better position to understand their demise and, hopefully, we may be in a position to aid their transformation away from such addictive and destructive behaviours.

Today’s trained counsellors and social workers now receive instructions and coaching that will enable them to demonstrate greater empathy when seeking to assist individuals to better cope with life’s various traumatic situations; events that seem to encourage (but not justify) the socially unacceptable behaviours highlighted in the previous paragraph. These caring individuals develop skills/techniques that allow them to listen with compassion and objectivity. Their non-judgemental approach provides avenues for their clients to develop their problem-solving skills noting that the individual needs to commit to making the positive change if they are to resolve their problems. Councillors and well-wishers may suggest approaches but it is the individual who must commit to making the necessary attitudinal and behavioural adjustments. They are the ones who determine whether they remain in the situation, progress out of it, or regress to even deeper misery.

Dr. Alfred Adler (1870-1937), the Austrian medical doctor, psychotherapist, and author reminds us of the value of empathy as efforts are made to guide others to pursue better life choices. He noted that, “Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another.” Positive transformation can occur when we demonstrate empathy; when the sharing individual realises that we are seeking to understand and that we do care. Our ability to care enough to listen may be all that is needed for the desirable positive transformation.The feeling of acceptance is often considered a strong determinant of behaviour.

That sense of being appreciated can often be a very strong motivator.

Individuals generally feel valued when others appear to be listening with interest. Positive transformation

SVG lacks political hygiene

can occur when we pause long enough to listen to another. Listening with the intent to understand the other person’s point of view can, and does, generate a feeling of acceptance … even when the individual is aware that we may not be in total agreement with their actions.

Dr. Stephen Covey (1932-2012), the American motivational speaker and author, in his best-selling book entitled “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” (ISBN 9780613191456), highlights the importance of listening to others with empathy — seeking to understand their situations from their perspective. He notes that this ability to listen with compassion, sympathy, and understanding can be critical in getting to understand their true beliefs and intentions. In doing so we, the listeners, have a better appreciation of their situation. This, in turn, places us in a better position to assist them (where necessary and practical) in the thought transformation that may be considered desirable. Dr. Laurie Buchanan, a former holistic life practitioner and life coach, reminds us that “When we invest in active listening, the dividend is an expanded capacity for compassion.”

Throughout this discourse the focus has been on highlighting how listening with empathy can enable the positive transformation of the person who is sharing and in need of an intervention. However, we (the listener) can also be transformed through listening with compassion.

In so many instances, we may have travelled similar life roads and can therefore appreciate the situations being described. We have made mistakes, been involved in accidents, experienced heartbreak, and so on.

We know what such situations entail.

On other occasions, listening as another person describes his or her situation could enable us to better appreciate our own. We may even recall ourselves saying, “But for the grace of God, there go I.” And while this observation is not advocating that we seek to elevate our situations and circumstances above those of another individual’s, the reality is that when we pause to listen with empathy we, too, can also be transformed. We can gain new insights that enable us to improve our various situations and the circumstances of those around us.

We can be helped and inspired even as we pause to listen to another’s pain, fear and hopes. In seeking to be a blessing we can be blessed. This is a reality of life. As we give, we get.

As we share, we receive.

We all can better develop that ability to see with the eyes of another, hear with the ears of another, and feel with the heart of another as we continue life’s journey. In doing so, we will continue to transform lives, homes, workplaces, churches, and communities for the better. Enhanced transformation is possible when we demonstrate empathy.

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

‘A statesman is a dead politician.’ PM Ralph Gonsalves.

Morgan’s pompous statement, which disregards her moral and ethically responsibility to herself, if not the nation, demonstrate their contempt for good governance best practices.

We inherited our system of government from the British. There is a Code of Conduct for Parliamentarians in the UK, which embraces the general principles of Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty and Leadership.

In addition, members of parliament are required to base their conduct on the consideration of the public interest and resolve any conflict arising between the public and private interest in favour of the public interest.

The Australian code of conduct declared that its purpose is not to control the behaviour of parliamentarians but to: -set public standards by which the behaviour of parliamentarians can be assessed -provide a basis for assessing proposed actions and so guide behaviour -provide an agreed foundation for responding to behaviour that is considered unacceptable -assure and reassure the community that the trust placed in parliamentarians is well placed.

Is it too difficult for the ULP leadership to see that the accusation and subsequent laid against Senator Morgan places SVG in a bad light? Is it too far fetched to ask her to stand down until the air is cleared? Only hubris explains the party’s position.

In light of many of the scandals that have engulfed post-independence SVG, we need a set of guidelines to govern us.

Sadly, too many of our public officials either disregard or take their obligation lightly when they assume political office. They swear and make oaths to serve in the interest of the people.

However, when they are elected or appointed to public office, they trample on the people’s hope and desires.

The argument is posited that there is a democratic ballot every five years.

However, history is replete with examples where the ballot box does not always remove people whose actions fall below par. Those controlling the machinery of government can conceal information necessary for electors to make an informed choice. Worse, votes can be bought. As a result, people who subvert the system of governance can often do great harm to the institutions of government- damage that may persist for a very long time.

Fortunately for us, the events of the last eight weeks have short a level of maturity on behalf of the people. It was said that everything in SVG is a nineday talk and then fades away. Not so with Mr John’s accusation against Senator Morgan and others in her company.

Initially, it was said that parliament was powerless to censure Senator Morgan. Then we were told she could not be asked to step aside while the investigation goes on. Now the sustained advocacy of the people did not only ensure that she was charged but that she withdraw from parliament pending the outcome of her trial.

Step by step, we are taking our democracy to higher heights.

VINCENTIANS GOT AN ACTUAL SEAT of the pants indication from PM Ralph Gonsalves as to how he intends to rule this land.

Gonsalves’ statement that Senator Ashelle Morgan will continue sitting as a government senator even though she is charged with a criminal offence is problematic for several reasons.

Gonsalves explained that politicians are not public servants in the same way as other person employed by the government. He argued that the constitution provided protection and security of tenure. He claims that no one can be denied their fundamental rights as are enshrined in the constitution unless she voluntarily decides to give them up.

Gonsalves’ legal explanation for why Senator Morgan will remain as a senator amounts to a flight of fantasy.

His reasoning convinced no one listening to him except for his most loyal supporters rejected his attempt to explain the unexplainable.

Emboldened by Gonsalves song and dance, senator Morgan issued a statement asserting boldly, ‘While there is no legal or moral obligation for me to take such leave, I chose to do so voluntarily because I do not wish for the upcoming trial to distract from or to overshadow the business of the House of Assembly.’

Young and inexperienced, Senator Morgan failed to see that for the last eight weeks, the accusation by Cornelius John that she and others stormed onto his premises, kicked and beat him about his body and then shot him in the leg while she drew a gun on him and threatened to shoot him has distracted and overshadowed the business of the country.

She fails to see that the populace consistent and persistent agitation about her alleged illegal and criminal conduct compelled the state to charge her. Her statement reeks of arrogance and haughtiness and puts her in an unfavourable light with much of the population. Rather than humble herself and let her legal team do magic in her defence, she chooses to ramp up her social profile as if certain of the case’s outcome.

But this is hardly a statement about Senator Morgan. It is more about the leadership of her party and arrogant display and misuse of power. Such was evident from the moment Gonsalves offered the theory that this was a case of defence of women, particularly in light of the fact that there was so much violence against women. He took exception to the fact that people were making disparaging remarks rather than embracing his senator as a heroine.

Assume for a moment that Ms Morgan does not have a legal obligation to step aside. Indeed, while she is charged with a crime, she is presumed innocent until proven guilty. But does she and Dr Gonsalves have an appreciation for the fact that there is a code of conduct for parliamentarians? Of course, they do. The legalistic Send comments, criticisms & explanation by Gonsalves of his decision suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com to keep Morgan on as a senator and

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10. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

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Public debate on SVGÊs public finances needed WARRANT OFFICER Ivan Bertie O’Neal, who spent three years full time at Oxford Brookes University, England, reading for his BSc (Hons) degree in Accounting and Finance and Economics, strongly contends that SVG has become the South Africa of the Caribbean with ‘Apartheid in taxation’.

It been 42 years since we gained independence from the UK, but still non-nationals who reside in Mustique and Canouan and the type of relations we have with Taiwan, continue to dictate how the indigenous black Vincentians live in SVG. The Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, objects to what appears to be the influence on government by the non-nationals in Mustique and Canouan and Taiwan, which in turn influences how the black, poor and powerless indigenous population live in SVG. Taxation and public finances in

SVG are in a real mess and our country is very poor. To help find solutions to these problems, our country needs a public debate on SVG’s public finances between PM Gonsalves and Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal.

SVG Director of Audit reports have highlighted the poor financial management by the ULP regime.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, offers an insight into the SVG 1979 ConstitutionallyAppointed Director of Audit Report of SVG for the year 2012.

Public Debt Investment was $853,121,005.94. There was a lack of transparency about where this huge amount of government debt has been squandered.

The Overdraft at the Bank was $31,348,999.87. This was a large and excessive overdraft that the government had. It showed that the ULP regime lacks the ability to create

enough revenue to manage SVG. Cash of $23,378,920.32 was unreconciled. The accounting term unreconciled means that cheques (outstanding) drawn against the $23,378,920.32 have not been accounted for. There may be cheques totalling $23,378,920.32 that are about to be paid, and the amount of cash could actually be zero. This was a very good example of the workings of a highly incompetent and unqualified Minister of Finance.

The incompetent ULP government had no Contingency Fund. This is very serious and dangerous for the people of SVG. In the likely event of a serious disaster in SVG, the ULP Regime will be unable to react immediately, and be forced to beg the International Community for money. We have seen this come true recently.

There was a shortfall of $4,095,041.65 in the collections for Corporate Tax. This told us that the

SVG business sector had contracted quite significantly — less tax collected suggests businesses had a lower amount of sales. This was a sign of the SVG economy getting smaller, and the fallout of this is seen all around our country, with the increased unemployment and crime.

The SVG economy is getting smaller and our people suffer, with increased unemployment and crime.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA is calling for a public debate on the strengthening of financial governance and competent management of the public sector in SVG, in order to build a framework for addressing economic growth, mass employment and prosperity for all our people.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, our country is in its worst condition in living memory. The economy is dying, crime and unemployment are high, and SVG is a financial disaster under the incompetent ULP regime.

The Portuguese and his Uppity Negroes THE PORTUGUESE and his Uppity Negroes turned a blind eye to ‘gangsterism’ among the warring youths. They have not found a solution to or a remedial strategy to curb the seriousness of gang violence that has shattered the aspiration of the troubled youth of SVG. As a passionate PanAfricanist, I am concerned about the state of our youth; they are the leaders of the future. Therefore, we have a responsibility to guide and nurture them to take their rightful place in this world, even if it is cluttered with racism, bigotry, and tyranny.

In this land where there is a lack of opportunity, the youth turn to guns and knives to settling strife. Gangsters are running wild and they

have become a menace to our civilized society.

Who is going to save the delinquent youth from a path of death and destruction? Where are the black progressive thinkers? What are they doing to stop the carnage?

Are they paying lip service? Ah, the black opportunist impostors have turned their eyes from the black youth who murder each other senselessly.

I have said it I have said countless times that the Portuguese will not raise the consciousness of the youth of African origin in SVG. Neither, have I heard anyone from the New Democratic Party propose the ideas of Garvey’s

States. We can save the delinquent youth by giving them a perspective of their history.

that cared and cares little about the misguided youth. As I can see, most black progressive thinkers are opportunists; they are The murder rate “Mr. Gunslaves” The steelpan initiative no different from the white elites, scumbag.

According to one media If “Mr. Gunslaves” truly The steelpan initiative The black demagogues personnel, about three loves “Niggers”, he would wasn’t a bad idea. adhere to the ideas of hundred plus of our youth initiate a subject in However, what our Thomas Carlyle, a have died in gang-related schools on Garvey and youngsters need is a Scottish historian/writer violence over the past other black progressive historical perspective of who said that European twenty years. I don’t know thinkers. He would do so self. Beating a steel-pan should rule blacks, and if that statistic is correct. by counteracting the cannot teach them history. their handpicked educated What I do know is that teachings of white Playing a steel-pan cannot “Negroes” should keep the the murder rate amongst supremacists. But he show them the graphic underprivileged “Niggers” our youth is wouldn’t do such a thing. images of what guns did to in subjection. astronomically high. It is After all, he has a high our ancestors on the appalling that many of our purpose for keeping Plantation. Playing a pan The Biblical injunction young men have fallen “Niggers” at his feet, just cannot tell them that victim to gun violence in as your highness Queen Europeans used the gun to Ah, mine you! The St. Vincent and the Isabella and King indoctrinate us. And it biblical injunction says “he Grenadines, while the Ferdinand, who supported won’t tell them that guns who knoweth the way and leadership of this country the African slave trade. caused the destruction of doeth it not, shall be seems to turn a blind eye the black civilization in whipped with many The Portuguese to this crisis. In Mamma Africa. stripes”. Surely, those downplaying the horrific Those of us who are opportunistic blacks shall The Portuguese do not crimes committed by the knowledgeable of the be whipped with the rod of give a heck if “Niggers” plight of Black America correction. If Malcolm X kill “Niggers,” ‘cause he have gained such were here, he would cry punctually stated that transformation through shame on the black sothese black boys who the accessibility to black called progressive thinkers engage in gang activity history. As I stated, for their inability to are just a few vagabonds, Malcolm X and George organize the youth as a causing disturbances in Jackson are proof, and collective.

SVG. This made me countless young black men The so-called black wonder if he shares some were reformed through progressives are not of the ideals of the Klu this process. Therefore, grounded with the masses.

Klux Klan. He shows a our youngsters that fire If they were, they would lack of concern and guns like pirates can be guide the vulnerable youth empathy when black kills redeemed. from a life of black. What a heartless ‘gangsterism’.

Squandering the man!

Ah, the Portuguese and opportunity his uppity Negroes don’t The misguided youth give a damn! The only Jomo Sanga Thomas time the suckers would get Those misguided youth had the opportunity to a reality check is when — victims of gun violence - revolutionize the minds of one of their kin becomes a had the same quality as the youth of SVG, but he victim of gun violence.

Malcolm X, and George squandered the Then they would know Jackson who fell victim to opportunity. He how serious ‘gangsterism’ the miseducation by the compromised his stance is.

European educational when he aligned himself system in the United with a political regime Carden A. Michael philosophy. This makes me wonder if they are one of a kind, like Bud and Lou.

youth, the leadership fail to articulate the ideas of self-preservation, culture, and history.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 11.

Feature

SVGÊs plight touches a ten-year-old

Alexander ‘Alex’ Barracks and his classroom teacher and pillar of support Alysa Workman.

Academic Officer, a native of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Moreover, “My Mom works with Dr. Stapleton,” he said.

And so it was that in April, 2021, as the La Soufrière volcano was erupting explosively, Alex, armed with the knowledge of the harsh reality confronting the people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, convinced some of his classmates to join in a drive to gather items to help the displaced people in Dr. Stapleton’s homeland.

“We were hoping that our parents, teachers and the adults would donate items,” the young man said.

The drive found an unexpected footing across the Academy. So much so, Alex was invited to make a full presentation on his drive to the entire faculty of the The opening page of Alex’s power point presentation to the Principal and Academy. faculty.

He stood tall before the ‘elders’ and delivered a 30-minutes power point ALEXANDER BARRACKS is ten years old.

University, and Cornell University.’ supported presentation about his ‘World He might just be your ordinary 10-year-old That is the environment in which Change’ organization that had since American boy, growing up in some large Alex finds himself and where he finds morphed out of his classroom drive. Its city in the USA. Then again, he just might encouragement and a drive to be immediate aims and objectives, as Alex be that extraordinary 10-year-old that different. pointed out, focused on the plight of the makes you stop and wonder: What makes people in St. Vincent and the him tick?

Focus on St. Vincent Grenadines.

That this 10-year-old has founded an Needless to say, the 10-year-old lad organization he calls “World Change’ is Alex was recently moved to do impressed and received full support from enough to tell you that Alex is different — something that was unprecedented at the principal, and faculty, who also gave different in how he views the world and his Elementary school and at the their wholesome support to the launch of how much he wants to make it better for Academy. a GoFundMe Page.

The crusade took everyone.

His Mom, he said in an interview with off!!

Alex, as he prefers to be called, is a THE VINCENTIAN, had first drawn his Grade 4 student of the Uniondale attention to what was happening in St. Not forgetting Ms. Workman Elementary School in Long Island, one of Vincent and the Grenadines. two elementary schools that are ‘She told me about the La Alex does not forget the role of his managed and operator by the Academy Soufrière volcano on the island; about Charter School which operates two the volcanic eruption; about how ash was classroom teacher — Alysa Workman - in charter schools on Long Island New all over persons’ houses; how it (the ash) advancing his World Change vision.

Alysa spoke glowingly about Alex’s York, on two campuses in Hempstead would burn your eyes, how it had disposition to help others. She, said the and Uniondale, New York, that includes destroyed plants and people had to be school is committed to offering a wide two elementary, two middle and two removed from their homes which were ranging education. “The world, the high schools.. (See accompanying article destroyed,” he related. environment, people are all important to on this page.)

Alex had never been to St. Vincent the classes that are taught,” she told Alex is enrolled in the Uniondale but the stories of destruction hit him THE VINCENTIAN. Elementary School. hard.

She thinks a class discussion on Many of the Academy’s graduates go His one connection with St. Vincent leadership and the environment might on to attend America’s top universities and the Grenadines came through Dr. including Harvard University, Columbia Nicholas Stapleton, the Academy’s Chief have helped to drive Alex even further.

When Alex came to her with the idea of “helping the people in St. Vincent Dr. Stapleton’s homeland - I immediately supported him and helped to open the opportunity for him to address the full faculty,” Aylsa said.

Alysa is proud of Alex’s drive and commits her full support to World Change.

Progress to date To date, the GoFundMe page has raised US$1000.00, and a quantity of food items and other supplies have been collected.

The items and money raised will be presented to Dr. Stapleton who will arrange with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consulate in New York, for onward shipment and presentation.

Alexander Barracks probably knows one Vincentian but his heart, his soul feels for and reaches out to persons who have been adversely affected by the eruption of La Soufriere volcano… people whom he does not know but whom he will “love to meet some day.”

He is a beacon — standing out as a human and what it means to be humane, years beyond his tender age.

A Vincentian making a difference THE ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL, New York, USA, an independent organization, operates two charter schools on Long Island, New York.

It currently employs over 400 staff on two campuses in Hempstead and Uniondale, New York.

This includes two elementary, two middle and two high schools.

Founded in 2009, it is expected by September 2021 to enroll up to 2300, the majority being young people from low-income families.

It is now common knowledge that the high school seniors are admitted and attend America’s top universities

- including Harvard, Columbia and Cornell University.

In the midst of this environment is Dr. Nicholas Stapleton who hails from St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He serves as the Chief Academic Officer at the Academy and is among those pivotally responsible for the success of the Academy.

Dr. Stapleton, an alumnus of the St. Martin’s Secondary School, Kingstown, holds a doctorate in Education Administration from Columbia University, and his expertise bears directly on the operations of the Academy.

But his role and impact,

according to the staff, go well beyond the chambers of administration and decision-making.

Merely being at the Academy was enough, for example, to directly influence the action of tenyear-old Alexander Barracks who, on learning that Dr. Stapleton was from St. Vincent and the Grenadines where a volcano was erupting and causing damage to houses and plant life and discomfort to many hundreds of persons, launched a drive to collect relief items to be shipped to the multi-island state.

Dr. Stapleton’s impact According to Barrigton

Goldson, a member of the faculty at the Academy, “Dr. Stapleton will never speak of himself.”

In Goldson’s words, “Dr. Stapleton has turned around the community,” referencing the Academy and the wider community.

His positive impact on students is unquestionable, Goldson said, and pointed to the fact that one of the students of the Academy, a student with whom Dr. Stapleton engaged, was a recent valedictorian at Harvard University.

And with all the difference he has made at the Academy, something he is wont to ignore, Goldson described him as “not having forgotten who

he is… one grounded in his humanity — one who has built a career to lead.”

His drive to make a difference in people has not gone unnoticed and without results.

The most impacting element of this drive, according to Goldson, is that that attitude has become contagious, so much so it has permeated the majority of the faculty.

“Dr. Stapleton’s heart is sold out to education, and his dedication to his immediate and extenuating responsibilities, has redounded in an eagerness among the student population to ‘become all they can be’, and to make the Academy Charter

Dr. Nicholas Stapleton – impacting beyond the halls of administration – impacting lives.

School a top performing school in New York,” Goldson said.

Dr. Stapleton labours in a vineyard far removed from his homeland, but with a sense of dedication and preparedness to go the extra mile in service to humanity. He is on a path to making a difference.

12. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

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14. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Clean-up begins THE CLEAN-UP in the Red Zone has begun.

Confirmation of this came via email dated June 24, 2021, from Roads, Buildings and General Services Authority (BRAGSA), the Agency tasked with the responsibility of undertaking the clean-up.

According to BRAGSA, the undertaking is dubbed “Ash Clean-up” and will see the preliminary cleaning and removal of ash from the roads in communities north of the Rabacca River on the Windward side of the island, and Fitz Hughes on the Leeward side of the island.

BRAGSA’s Communication Officer Mr. Rohan Cupid - in giving an idea of the task at hand said, “There are ash deposits in excess of three feet in height on the roads.”

In addition to the roads, Cupid said emphasis will also be placed on clearing the heavily silted drains and rivers in these communities.

This phase of the cleaning, according to

Ash from roads and byways being loaded on to a truck for transport to designated storage locations.

Cupid, is being done to facilitate a more detail assessment of the areas by government agencies and the utility companies.

BRAGSA is requesting that persons stay clear of the Red Zone, since the ALL CLEAR has not been given for their return.

Work has already

started in the Orange Hill, in the North Windward constituency and as work ensures, the ash will be transported to storage sites at Langley Park and the BRAGSA landfill on the Windward side and Bottom Troumaca and Richmond n the Leeward. (Source: BRAGSA)

Pastor Robert McBarnette, founder and head of the St. Matthias Charities Inc., pictured next to some of the supplies his organisation recently donated to the Stubbs Polyclinic.

St. Matthias Charities on the ground THE STUBBS Polyclinic has been adopted as one of the beneficiaries of assistance from the New York-based St. Matthias Charities Inc., a nonprofit organization established in May, 2012.

Headed by the indefatigable Pastor Robert McBarnette, the organisation focuses on uplifting “the educational, humanitarian and religious aspects” of the lives of the people in SVG and the wider Caribbean.

In keeping with that cause, St. Matthias Charities Inc. recently made a donation of medical and other supplies to the Stubbs Polyclinic.

This donation, according to Pastor McBarnette, was made as part of a wider volcano relief effort which was mounted immediately after the first

explosive eruption of La Soufriere, on April 9. It was not the annual donation that St. Matthias makes to the Polyclinic.

According to Pastor McBarnette, the organisation has been working tirelessly to assist with the needs of citizens affected by the eruption, and has made several donations in affected communities.

An assessment will be done towards informing a specific plan to assist residents of the Red Zone.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment Cuthbert Knights expressed gratitude to the organization for its ready response and its continued donations.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 15.

Donation

SVG Embassy in Taiwan gives a hand “WAS IT NOT for diplomatic relations established between SVG and Taiwan 40 years ago, this gift could not have been realized”, so, prefacing his remarks, was the Director of the Youlou Radio Movement (YRM) Donald De Riggs who also acts as coordinator for the Stoney Ground Neighbourhood Watch Group (SGNWG).

He was at the time handing over safety equipment and supplies to both organizations, on Sunday, June 27, 2021, compliments the SVG Embassy in Taiwan.

The safety supplies among other things include two way radios, solar lanterns for emergency lighting, portable solar panels or charging small devices like tablet computer and cell phones, PPE’s and medical kits. The medical kits were delivered directly to the Ministry of Health by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while the YRM was responsible for distributing the other devices, mainly radios to the SGNWG and YRM. The SGNWG received UHF FRS radios to enable homeowners to communicate with each other during times of national emergencies like hurricanes, as well for crime prevention / reporting.

Initial testing proved 100% efficiency, by all members who received radios. A weekly network is planned to keep members updated about any security issues, while if there is an impending storm, the latest weather information will be shared instantly. Another part of the gift was a solar lantern, which is especially useful during power outages at night. These lanterns can be recharged by their built in mini solar panel and each household present received a lantern.

The gift for the YRM included programmable two-way radios which are commonly used by radio amateurs (Hams), and 5 watt portable solar panels, which can be used to charge a phone or tablet computer during extended stays outdoors or if domestic power is lost for an extended period following a natural or manmade disaster. During the handing over ceremony, radios programmed for the marine frequencies were handed over to three fishermen from Rose Place including Captain Mark Dennie, who got lost due to poor visibility from thick Saharan dust some years ago and ended up in Puerto Rico 11 days later.

Another three radios have been earmarked for fishermen in Mayreau, while three radios will be entrusted to radio operators in Union Island and another three for Canouan. These will be delivered in early July. Radio operators in Bequia also received the modest gift from Taiwan on Monday, June 28, 2021.

Her Excellency Ambassador Andrea Bowman and staff of the Embassy of SVG in Taiwan, were responsible for making the negotiations to get these supplies which will better equip Vincentians to prepare for and respond to natural and manmade disasters; In closing De Riggs said, “ I’ve been asked by both the SGNWG and the YRM to extend our sincerest gratitude to the business sector of Taiwan for such a wonderful and useful set of gifts which we will cherish and care for, and in particular Ambassador Bowman who coordinated the entire shipment”. Before taking up her first diplomatic posting, Ambassador Bowman was an honorary member of the SGNWG. A total of 50 dual band radios were received for radio operators and fishermen while 25 UHF radios were received for the SGNWG. Report submitted by: Donald De Riggs

Gifts, compliments the Business Sector of Taiwan.

16. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

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18. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

A fantasy fulfilled??

Dear George, I TOLD a friend – a sex partner - about a fantasy of mine, i.e. to be with two guys at the same time. I never told him I wanted to act out my fantasy.

I was at his house recently having a few drinks and we ended up in bed.

While in the act, a man walked into the room and began to fondle me. I was too drunk to push him off me and he ended having sex with me against my will.

When it was all over, I asked my partner why he allowed this; he reminded me about my fantasy.

I’m in a position where I do not know what action to take. My hands are tied. I cannot make a complaint to the police about me being raped because that would mean my husband finding out about my sex partner. Do you have any advice for me?

Dear Feeling violated, Not only were you raped but your sex partner could possibly be an accomplice to that crime. This should be reported to the police. The decision to do so hinges on you understanding that you will have to come clean with your husband about your extra marital activities. It is not fair to your husband to be living a double life.

One thing is certain: If you are going to paint, chances are you will end up with some paint on your person.

George

Feeling violated

Stand with your husband Dear George, MY HUSBAND is responsible for the pregnancy of our neighbor who could well be younger than 18 years old, and he is denying it.

I do not believe him.

I had no issue with my husband stepping out on me in the past but this time it’s different and I believe both the girl and her mother I was clear: if he had anything to do with this pregnancy, our marriage was over. I was taken aback when he said he was not going to wait around and would leave right away.

George, I do not want to lose my husband but at the same time I do not want to be sharing a bed with a cheating husband.

Mixed feelings Dear Mixed feelings, You chose not to question your husband’s fidelity in the past yet now you have opted to lean on the side of his accusers, without concrete evidence to prove their case.

There is clearly a trust issue between you and your husband and this needs to be

addressed. It is not too late to apologize to your husband for disbelieving him and suggest to him that both of you talk to a counsellor, with a view to opening up about your feelings toward each other.

As far as the pregnancy is concerned, let the appropriate tests be done so as to reveal the paternity of the child. The onus is on his accusers to prove their case. This is a good time to stand with your husband until evidence to the contrary is presented.

George

Clean house, Bro. Dear George,

Uneasy

I KNOW this businessman in Kingstown is sleeping with my girlfriend. I confronted him about it and he made it clear to me my girlfriend was not my wife, and he was free to sleep with whoever wanted to sleep with him.

I spoke to my girlfriend about it and she pretended not to know anything about it.

George, the source of my information is very reliable and I even have a text message she sent to one of her friends about her affair.

I thought I had the right woman all this while but now, I don’t know.

What should I do about this businessman?

Dear Uneasy, Your issue is not with this businessman but with your girlfriend. Whatever this man did with her was authorized by her. She is the one who made that decision to do what she did.

The fact that she chose not to come clean with you about it spoke volumes. You need to make a decision on whether to continue in a relationship where there is no trust or move on. From the looks of things you will be better off cleaning house and beginning afresh.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You can accomplish a lot if you direct your thoughts toward starting your own small business on the side. Empty promises are evident.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Back off if you want to keep the relationship intact. Satisfy your passionate mood. You can get your point across and make valuable connections.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Pleasure trips will promote new romantic encounters. Spending too much time talking to friends or relatives could easily turn into a debate that could lead to estrangement.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Work diligently and you will get ahead this week. You will be extremely sensual; take precautions and don’t take any risks.

Try not to allow others to burden you with additional responsibilities.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) False information is likely if you listen to idle chatter or gossip. You can receive recognition for the work you’ve done. Be ready to explain your actions.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You will find that you are able to clear up a number of small but important details.

Get thinking about prolonging longevity.

This is a turning point.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You must take care not to over exert yourself if involved in sports. Mingle with those who can help you get ahead. Your personal situation is fluctuating. Don’t blow situations out of proportion.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your ability to deal with others will help you accomplish your goals. Your personal life will still be experiencing difficulties and you are best to avoid the issues for the time being.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) A long, quiet walk alone may help you sort out your thoughts. They will not be in the right frame of mind to put up with tactless comments. Dead end projects could plague you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Promote your ideas now. There is not much you can do to alleviate the problem, but consider putting some extra work into your house. Don’t second guess yourself, just go to it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Don’t go overboard; start small and work toward building it up slowly. Make plans to do the things you enjoy. Investments may not be as lucrative as you thought.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Education may be the answer. In return, the satisfaction you get is enough for you.

Do not sign contracts or get involved in any uncertain financial deals.

ACROSS 1. Unruly crowd 4. Horse pace 8. Unholstered furniture piece 12. Vigoda of “The Godfather” 13. Wisconsin neighbor 14. Fanatical 15. Japanese drink 16. Plant support 17. Humorous Jay 18. Church songs 20. Bold requests 22. Umpire-uttered call 24. Tropical liquor 25. Garden blooms 29. Diva Ross 33. Be indisposed 34. Canine bark 36. Vegas intro 37. _ bear, soft toy 40. Root veggies 43. Spider-built home 45. Pedicure target 46. Affluent properties 50. Conscious 54. Suggestive look 55. Drapery poles 57. Small boy 58. Raked item 59. Polish (paragraphs) 60. Make a tunnel 61. Upper limbs 62. Light browns 63. Tavern refreshment DOWN 1. Numbers class 2. Comply with 3. Smile proudly 4. Gauzy paper product 5. Decay slowly

6. Had debts 7. More docile 8. Savory launch meat 9. Stove part 10. Come across 11. Major commotions 19. This moment 21. Sticky earth 23. Attempt (to) 25. High-calorie nutrient 26. Speak dishonestly 27. Like antiques 28. Use a pew 30. Actress MacGraw 31. Doze briefly 32. Braying pack beast 35. Place (down) 38. Snow White’s buddies 39. Still 41. Beef entrees

42. Recently bought 44. French cap 46. Music great Fitzgerald 47. Clairvoyant individual 48. Pair (up)

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 19.

49. Fount beverage 51. Hollywood family name 52. Train-track section 53. Limit 56. Loud noise

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20. FRIDAY, JULY 20, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

National Senior Male Footballers outraged THE PLAYERS’ GROUP of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s Football Team, has highlighted a number of burning issues, ahead of their Concacaf Gold Cup Qualifiers match this Friday, 2nd July.

The Vincentians are due to meet Haiti at the DRK PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, however, all seems not well with the players.

A release last Tuesday night on the players’ behalf and sent from the email of former Captain- Cornelius Stewart, listed twenty- five points of contention.

Among the discontentment listed are: no adequate international practise games for us to use as preparation; no proper health maintenance plan nor balanced meals while on camp, to provide the nutrients required to sustain the standard of performances we are being asked to produce; no provision of bodybuilding supplements and vitamins to enable the players to maintain the standards required, to attend training twice a day while on camp, nor to aid in the recuperation from injuries.

The Vincy Heat delegation that spent time training in Grenada before losses to Guatemala and Cuba.

Other issues highlighted are that the players, while on camp at the Brighton Technical Centre, are required to sleep on bunk beds, or mattresses on the floor, in overcrowded rooms with only one fan and no air condition unit.

The release lamented that players who are adults and in some cases fathers, are told to hand in their phones after dinner, while on camp or on tour.

Also listed as a concern was the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation’s handling of the

visas for players, which resulted in a smaller contingent being able to travel to Miami.

Another of the matters irking the players is the ongoing tension between the team’s coach - Kendale Mercury - and interim manager - Renson Haynes.

The Player’s Group noting, “It is clear and obvious that the Coach and Manager are not on the same page when it comes to team issues and decisions”.

The release reiterated a previous call for the removal of Haynes. “As we had said

before, the current Manager of the Senior Men’s team is not fit for the job, as he does not have the players best interest at heart and do not understand his job”.

Despite their dissatisfactions, the players have vowed to give of their best.

“We, the members of the SVG Senior Men’s Football team, without a doubt, love playing football and love representing our country… We also promise that any and every time we are given the opportunity to step on the field of play in national colors, we

will give of our best”, the release outlined.

“We however must note that our best are based on preparation and whether things are put in place to ensure our best possible chances… Although we will put our best foot forward, we and the Vincentian public must also be realistic given the various negative circumstances surrounding our preparation”, the release ended.

The release was complemented by the signatures of twenty- one players.

Vincy Heat looking to improve EVEN AS A GROUP OF PLAYERS of Vincy Heat, this country’s senior national football team, registered serious concern about a number of issues they see as affecting the team, the SVG Football Federation is proceeding with preparation and plans for Vincy Heat’s next encounter.

After failing to advance to the next round of the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers, attention now turns to ensuring a much improved performance when Vincy Heat face

Haiti in the Concacaf Gold Cup Preliminary round today, Friday 2rd July, in Florida.

Should Vincy Heat win the match against Haiti, they will face the winner of the Bermuda and Barbados match on Tuesday. If the team is again victorious, they will face United States, Canada and Martinique in the next round of the competition on 11th, 13th and 18th July respectively.

At a virtual media briefing held last Tuesday, assistant coach Alfred Grant expressed

his confidence in the team, despite the challenging circumstances that have impacted the team.

“We are looking to better our results as we are training harder….. we’re just hoping to improve day by day. We have been watching a few games with Haiti against Canada so we analyze them, picking out their strengths and weaknesses, so it’s up to our players now to execute our plans,” Grant said.

He pointed to the need for the team to look to

improve in all the areas technical, physical, tactical and mental.

“We’re just looking forward for everything to fall into place as planned and see a better performance that brings success,” the assistant coach concluded.

Team manager Renson Haynes is seeking the support of the public. “…. I just want to assure everybody that with all the limitation thus far, we are still trying our best and (we) make use of every opportunity we get to prepare this team. ….. I

Assistant coach Alfred Grant.

Team manager Renson Haynes.

am not looking back and would like to reach out to the general public asking for your support for the team going forward,

because the entire team has been trying their best,” Haynes reasoned.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 21.

Sports

Joseph, Glasgow in CWI A-Team VINCENTIANS Jannillea Glasgow and Japhina Joseph have been included in a 15-member Cricket West Indies (CWI) Women A-Team squad, to take on Pakistan in a T20 and One Day International series next month.

Both 17-year-old rightarm medium-pacer Glasgow and aggressive top order batter Joseph were participants in recent CWI camps for females, under the direction of West Indies Female cricket coach, Courtney Walsh.

Melissa Lewis,

Manager of the National Female team, was elated on learning about the girl’s inclusion.

“I was extremely excited because I know they have been putting in the work and now they finally get a chance to not only represent the West Indies team but to represent SVG,” she commented.

“I know coach Samantha (Lynch) has been working hard with them and encouraging them. I also keep in contact with them to encourage them and find

out about their wellbeing,” Lewis added.

Joining the two Vincentians on the Ateam is Windward Islands team mate 16year-old left-arm medium-pacer Zaida James from St. Lucia.

She was also a participant in the CWI camp.

The full squad reads: Reniece Boyce (Captain), Shabika Gajnabi (Vice Captain), Shanika Bruse, Cherry Ann Fraser, Jannillea Glasgow, Sheneta Grimmond, Caneisha Isaac, Zadia

James, Japhina Joseph, Qiana Joseph, Mandy Mangru, Kaysia Schultz, Stteffie Soogrim, Rachel Vincent and Rashada Williams.

The T20 and ODI series for the A-Team runs from June 30th to July 16th, with matches scheduled for Antigua at the Antigua’s Coolidge Cricket Ground and Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.

I.B.A.ALLEN (L-R): Jannillea Glasgow and Japhina Joseph.

Female footballers in World Cup Qualifiers ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ female footballers have been assigned to Group A of the Concacaf Under-20 World Cup Qulifiers.

The Vincentians are grouped with Bermuda, Dominica and the US Virgin Islands.

Also involved in the qualifiers are: the Cayman Islands, Anguilla and Martinique in Group B; St Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda and The national Female U-20 squad is said to be in ongoing preparation for the World Cup Qualifiers.

Curacao in Group C; and Grenada, Suriname and Belize in Group D. The Round Robin stage of the qualifiers takes place in September. The winners of the four groups will advance to the Knock Out phase of the Tournament.

Based on their rankings, sixteen teams do not have to go through the qualifying phase.

They are the USA, Mexico, Canada, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Guyana,

Guatemala, El Salvador, Puerto Rico, Panama, Cuba, Nicaragua and St Kitts and Nevis.

These sixteen will be placed in groups of four. After their round robin play, the three top teams in each group will advance to the direct single match elimination.

The Group and Knock Out stages are set for the first quarter of 2022. The winner, the runnerup and third places will gain berths to the Finals.

Costa Rica will host the 2022 FIFA Women’s Under-20 World Cup.

SVGCA donates to volcano relief THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Cricket Association Inc. (SVGCA) confirmed its commitment to aid in the relief effort pursuant to the fallout associated with COVID-19 and the explosive eruption of the La Soufrière, when they made donations to three organizations here.

Last week, the SVGCA Inc. donated EC$4,000.00 each to the Rotary Club of St. Vincent and the Lions Club South. The Association also donated

EC$2,000.00 to Rise Up Junior Bacchus, President of O.T.R, a group from Lions Club South, accepts “Over the River” (North donation from Desron Maloney representing the SVGCA Inc. Windward), on the same day.

These donations are SVGCA Inc. Romel part of a wider relief effort Currency noted the undertaken by the SVGCA importance of Vincentian Inc. The Association has also people and provided relief supplies to a organizations, at home number of affected cricketers and abroad, in leading and their families, bringing and sustaining the the total spent in its relief humanitarian effort effort to just over EC$23,000. needed to assist SVG to return opportunity to express “my profound gratitude to all for In making the to a place of normalcy. presentations, President of the The President also took the their involvement in making VPL 3.0 a success.”

He added, “The VPL is fast becoming a household tournament, with tremendous anticipation from patrons. Spectators have been actively aligning themselves with various teams in the VPL as borne out by the many

requests for team jerseys.

These along with the number of positive responses from our stakeholders suggest the remarkable advancement of the tournament in just one year.”

Close to 200 persons had direct, temporary employment, in addition to the many indirect opportunities created, with the hosting of the VPL. I.B.A.ALLEN

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22. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Cricket and politics YESTERDAY’S FOURTH MATCH in the T/20 series Windies against South Africa was the turning point in the five match encounter. The West Indies ran cold after the first and found themselves in a rear guard situation in order to salvage pride.

The West Indies must win the last two. The final will be tomorrow Saturday July 3. That will be as good a token of a reminder of what cricket is about. Caribbean unity has drifted from reality from the moment of the breakup of the Federation.

The idea of Caribbean integration remains illusionary, for it is known and accepted that Caribbean leaders are not too keen on relinquishing national sovereignty for a regional platform.

The thrust towards regional solidarity comes as a means of convenience. That is why there is so much interest in West Indies cricket. The sport remains the real symbol of regionalism.

There is little difference between politics and sports. Politicians know how to use whatever measures for their gains, and cricket is one of those platforms.

Many regional leaders have grown on or near a sporting arena. They know the value of sport to the neighbourhood.

Keith Mitchell was a national cricketer before he flourished on political stage. Wes Hall was regional icon having distinguished himself as a criekt and administrator in his native Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. He also served on the political stage. Vance Amory rose to the top of Nevisian politics as a consequence of his exploits on the cricket field for the Combined Islands.

Names like Roy Frederick, Wavell Hinds have surfaced on the poilitcal scene. I once attended a function and came across the name Hermangale Francis. That jogged my memory for I recall the name in the cricket circles. He confirmed that St. Vincent and the Grenadines was the first place he toured as a youth cricketer.

Francis elevated himself to be his country’s Security Minister.

Caribbean political leaders have shown the inclination to be obsessed with cricket and the fortunes of the regional squad.

The legislators can use their authority to enhance sport for it is their role in in seeing that the region develops. Governments e from the staging of cricket in the region, whether internally of internationally. There is this situation where reciprocity is demanded.

It is something for something and no one will condemn a politician for wanting to reap the benefits of their investment. Separation between politics and cricket, and sports for that matter, is difficult.

Perhaps the time will come when regional unity returns as a genuine agenda item. Until that change, there will be token mention of real solidarity.

Caricom has gone beyond the cricket field, and while it is dynamic and symbolic, until the political will surfaces, there will be that shadow over every aspect we can think about.

The Diamond Track and Field facility will be abuzz with action this weekend.

National T & F finals this weekend AFTER two weekends of preliminary rounds, top athletics will descend on the Diamond Track and Field facility this weekend, Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th July, to vie for top honours in the National Track and Field Championship finals.

Among those who will be on show are athletes from IT DAT who dominated the sprints in their respective classes, in the preliminary rounds.

These include: Tyhra Charles who brings a

time of 26.99 sec. to the Girls U15 200m; Rolando Richards with a 24.28 sec. clocking in the Boys U15 200M; Shonte Matthias and her 26.64 sec. in the Girls U17 200M; Keo Davis who brings a time of 23.11 sec. in the Boys U17 200M; Odesha Nanton and her 25.86 sec. clocking in the Female Over 17 200M; and Sage Primus and his time of 22.20 sec. in the Male Over 20 200M. Eyes will also be on athletes from Xcel Track

and Field Club.

Among these are: Nellie Ambriton in the Male U20 800M, for which he clocked 2:04.70 in the preliminary round; Desroy Jordan in the Over 20 800M who comes in with a time of 2:06.66 under his belt; and Joshua Bennett in the Boys U17 bringing a time of 24.54 sec.

Patrons will also be on the lookout for top female middle distance runner- Zita Vincent.

She was unchallenged in the Over 20 800M in the

preliminary round when she clocked 2:28.15. She represents the High Performance Club.

That club will also be represented by Darren Morgan in the Male U-20 200M. He recently clocked 22.52 sec. to take that event in his last outing.

Chatoyer would be pinning their hopes for a win on Newman Peters in the Over 20 800M in which he clocked 2:07.52. recently.

I.B.A.ALLEN

SVGTTA marks Olympic Day MEMBERS the St Vincent and the Grenadines Table Tennis Association (SVGTTA), an affiliate of the local National Olympic Committee (NOC), were pleased to be involved in a walk last weekend, to mark Olympic Day 2021.

This was the sentiment expressed by Orville Haslam OD, president of the SVGTTA. “The National Olympic Committee (NOC) has always recognized and used June 23rd to 27th to encourage a walk/run by local affiliated members in respect of Olympic Day. As you know, Table Tennis is an Olympic Sport hence we see the significance to be part of such an event,” Haslam said further.

Orville Haslam president of the SVGTTA, says his Association was pleased to be part of the activities to mark Olympic Day 2021.

Olympic Day is celebrated all around the world on June 23.

The International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) website states that the first Olympic Day was celebrated on 23 June, 1948 by countries including Venezuela, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, Portugal, Greece, Austria, Great Britain, and Uruguay.

The website added, “Hundreds of thousands of people — young and old — get moving and participate in sporting and cultural activities, such as runs, exhibitions, music and educational seminars.”

And while the Day was initially observed to promote the idea of the Olympics and in order to celebrate the establishment of the International Olympic Committee (IOC, it has grown in significance as its aim has been broadened so as to attract people, regardless of their age, towards the Olympics.

According to the IOC, its three pillars are move, Some of the learn and discover are members of aimed at engaging people SVG Table to perform physical Tennis Association in exercises. the walk to mark Olympic I.B.A.ALLEN Day 2021.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 02, 2021. 23.

Classifieds

ÂNo one will set our agendaÊ

Continued from Backpage.

Holding up a placard which stated, ‘There is no freedom without equality’ Horne called for equality and transparency.

She said while she was not a criminal lawyer and refrained from commenting on the charges, she said it was a little odd that the Cornelius John case was tried in the Magistrate’s Court and not in the High Court.

The mother of three said she always teaches her children that when they are wrong, they will face punishment, …… but was disappointed that she was teaching her children these principles, and the wider society had an opposite reflection of justice.

She admitted that while she has only been on a picket line about three times in her life, she stated that at this

point, the issue surrounding Cornelius John’s case was so serious to fundamental rights and rule of law, that there was no excuse

for anyone to just sit back and complain in private and walk around like everything was normal.

ASHLEY JEMMETH MURRAY a.k.a. Jemmeth Springer

ENA WILLIAMS GILL Trinity Apostolic Church Saturday, 26th June, 2021 Lower Questelles Bay Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service:11:00 a.m.

Barrouallie Evangelical Church Sunday, 27th June, 2021 Viewing: 10:30 a.m.

Service: 11:30 a.m.

Interment: Glebe Hill Cemetery

Layou Methodist Church Saturday, 26th June, 2021 Viewing: 10:30 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

SELINA CLAUDIA ROBINSON S.D.A Church Mesopotamia Sunday, 27th June, 2021 Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service:11:0 a.m.

Interment: Dumbarton Cemetery

ELDA ROLITA CONNELL

WINSTON PETER WARREN KENTON WINSTON JACOBS S.D.A Church Kingstown Sunday, 27th June, 2021 Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service:11:00 a.m.

Emmanuel Baptist Church Sunday, 27th June, 2021 South Rivers Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Park Hill Cemetery

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FRIDAY, JULY

02, 2021

VOLUME 115, No.26

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

‘NO ONE WILL SET OUR AGENDA’ partnered with the newly formed Rise Hairouna and took their protest to ACTIVIST and calypsonian the Headquarters of Robert “Patches” Knights National Emergency is adamant that protest Management will continue to counteract Organisation (NEMO), what he noted were the Old Montrose. “wrong doings” in society.

And while the protest On Friday 24th June was intended to raise 2021, Knights and his concern about NEMO’s Frontline group distribution of relief Story by SHERON GARRAWAY

Lawyers Chelsea Alexander and Zinga Horne on the picket line last Tuesday.

CORRECTION

Last week’s caption to the photograph at right that accompanied a story headlined ‘Fake COVID19 Vaccination Card Surfaces’, was incorrectly caption: ‘Chief Education Officer Dr. Simone Keizer Beache…. ‘.

Of course, our many readers immediately spotted the error which out ‘sign off’’ didn’t.

We apologise to Dr. Keizer Beache, Chief Medical Officer for incorrectly referencing her designation and assure her that there was no illintent on our part.

Protestors, including Robert ‘Patches’ Knight (centre front) took their action to NEMO headquarters last Friday. items, Knights told THE VINCENTIAN that the case surrounding the shooting of Cornelius John, was also an issue of concern among the protestors and Vincentians in general.

He touted, “I want to make it clear. Nobody is going to set the agenda for us. Nobody is going to set the narrative. We are intelligent and analytical

enough to know why we are here. …. We are now here to tell the people at NEMO that they should share the stuff that people sent from overseas equitably. The people need food to eat and mattresses to sleep on.”

The protest continued on Tuesday in front of the Court House/Parliament

Building.

A representative of the Rise Hairouna activist group which had called for the original protest, said they will remain focused and protest the issues affecting the country.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Rise Hairouna representative Nikisha Williams said her group was not going

anywhere.

She noted that Vincentians were tired and they were not going to stay in their “little cozy corners and mumble”.

Meanwhile, lawyers Zhinga Horne and Chelsea Alexander joined the picket line last Tuesday.

Continued on Page 23.

QUICK-PICK WINS LOTTO JACKPOT A QUICK pick Lotto ticket has fulfilled the dream of a lifetime for a janitor with 15 years of service at HOT 97.1 FM. Matina Mavis Lee from Richmond Hill spent a mere $2 to win the $330,000 Lotto draw of Friday 25th, 2021.

The winning numbers 8, 12, 29, 33 and 36 were selected randomly by a Lotto machine, after Lee had sent her nephew to purchase a Play 4 ticket and a Lotto ticket as a second option, if the Play 4 was not available.

During a presentation at the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) in Paul’s Avenue, last Wednesday, c Lee recounted: “….I was sleeping and I heard my door booming down about 6 o’clock on Saturday and I say why are you (her nephew) behaving like that? of her winnings.

Both General Manager MacGregor Sealey and He say wake, wake, we win the lotto. So I rise up Product Development Officer Anthony Dennie of and I hold the ticket,” the NLA congratulated Lee, with Sealey She said that she has no immediate plan for use encouraging her to use the money wisely. (KH)

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.