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FRIDAY,

MARCH 04, 2016

VOLUME 110, No.10

LOWMANS MEN KILLED

Stories by KENVILLE HORNE

TWO LOWMANS HILL residents have been brutally murdered, leaving

the community in a state of shock, as police continue to look for the perpetrators of the heinous crime. Dead are 32-year-old

farmer Jomo “Bollie’ Williams and 36-year-old farmer Kevin ‘Red Man’ Warren. The bodies of the men were discovered at Woods Mountain in Campden Park, by Warren’s brother, Haniff Warren, and a friend who goes by the sobriquet ‘Waggie’. The two went in search of their colleagues after they had not been heard from or seen up to Sunday morning. According to Haniff, he and his friend left Lowmans on the morning

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of Sunday 28th February, in search of Warren and Williams, who had gone to Wood Mountain to tend their farm . They arrived at the location just before 10am. “When we reach up close to the shanty (hut), me call but me na hear nobody, so when me step up a little more, me see me brother (Kevin Warren) like tied up. So me say, ‘Waggie boy, like the man an them dead. Me see me brother like he get shoot in his head.’ When me go into the

shanty now, me a look for ‘Bollie’, me na see Bollie, so when me come back out now, and me step over the bag , me raise up the bag with the cutlass and me see ‘Bollie’ under the bag dead,” Haniff recounted. He confirmed that Williams (Bollie) had gunshot wounds to his head, and that the men were tied up, with their hands behind their backs. Continued on Page 3.

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The last picture taken of Jomo’ Bollie’ Williams before his death.

Kevin ‘Red Man’ Warren was known to have a ‘few drinks’, but was not by nature a trouble-maker.

TWO MOTHERS LEFT TO MOURN

Arlene Williams (sitting), mother of Jomo Williams, with Jomo’s daughter Reihanna Nanton, his girlfriend Mellisa Warren (centre) and Shemeca Williams, his sister.

THE DEATH of two men from Lowmans Leeward, has placed a heavy burden on the shoulders of their mothers. Elma Warren, mother of Kevin Warren, one of the deceased, told THE VINCENTIAN that she is confident God will deal with those who took her son’s life. She was adamant that her son and his friend were tortured “for their own things.” Warren recalled that she was on her way to church when she heard of

her son’s death. All she could do, she said, was to place her hands over the area of her heart and continue on her way to church, where church members prayed for her, and gave her the strength to carry on. She admitted that her son could be troublesome, especially when he had some strong drinks. But he was never known to be someone who picked fights with others. Warren remembers her son, who was not living with her at the time of his death, as being always

ready to “do something around the place,” when he visited. And she is trying to come to grips with a dream she had which she related to her daughter Antonette. She had dreamt on Saturday night that someone was going to die and she told her daughter that “Saturday morning dream does come through.” Little did she know, that someone was going to be her son. Elma Warren, mother Continued on Page 2. of Kevin ‘Red Man’ Warren.

2. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

DeceasedÊs lover recounts last moments

one girl. She distinctly recalls telling her MELLISA WARREN, the girlfriend of boyfriend how much she loved him, murder victim Jomo ‘Bollie’ Williams, is before she left the home, and also to understandably heartbroken. take care of himself. Her boyfriend and his friend Kevin When Warren returned home, she Warren were discovered dead in the did not meet her lover so she Woods Mountain, in Campden Park, immediately ’texted’ him. on Sunday 28th, February. He responded that he had reached The men were tied up, and showed his shanty (hut), and told her that he signs of being beaten and shot. was in the company of Kevin ‘Red Mellisa said that she last saw her Man’ Warren. boyfriend sometime after 8 am on They exchanged ‘text’ in the Saturday. They shared the downevening. stairs (ground floor) apartment of her “Around minutes to 8 in the night, mother’s house. he ‘text’ me again and asked me if me She remembered telling him that still a do my hair. Me tell him yea, she was going into Kingstown that and he said ok,” said Warren. day, to collect something from her Williams then told her he was going child’s father. Mellisa is the mother of to sleep, before which he sent a photo two boys, while Warren is the father of of himself to her. That was the last Stories by KENVILLE HORNE

Two mothers left to mourn Nothing seemed to work in his favour, “So he decided to go to the “Whoever take my son’s life, God mountain to help his family, and that will deal with them. Not me will deal was the mistake he made. Dem kill with them, my God will deal with um,” said Williams. them. I cannot do it, but my God will She said she would miss her son, do my battle for me,” said the grieving and his death means that she is left to mother. struggle with his daughter. “He nar trouble nobody, he will Reluctant to go to the hills come here and sit down and me na know,” said Williams, who further Mother of Jomo ‘Bollie’ Williams, explained that sometimes her son Arlene Williams, when speaking to would leave the house where he lived THE VINCENTAIN, was visibly with his girlfriend, and visit with her overcome by grief. to watch television, to get away from She stated that her son was finding the noise. it difficult to get a job, and had visited “Me na understand why dem kill the Social Welfare Department in um, me feel bad, …. and dem kill ‘Red search of support for her daughter, but Man’ too. Nobody na deserve dem to no avail. death day,” she continued. Her son also expressed a desire to Like the other distraught mother, go overseas in search of work, the Arlene Williams is “leaving everything mother said, adding that he was to God.” reluctant to go to the mountain. Continued from Front page.

time she would ever hear from her lover.

The dreadful Sunday When she woke on Sunday, her son told her that he had dreamed that the police had locked up her boyfriend. “And me tek up me phone now and me start to call um. Me can’t get on, me can’t get through,” said Warren, as she began to break down into tears. Soon after, she told a friend ‘Waggie’ that she couldn’t make contact with ‘Bollie’. Waggie assured her that he and ‘Bollie’s’ brother, Haniff would go in search of her boyfriend, and that he would call her as soon as they got to the shanty. She was so anxious that she telephoned Waggie only to hear that he had not yet reached the shanty. “And then Waggie, call me back now, and Waggie say, ‘Mellie, ‘Bollie’ and them dead.’ Me na do nothing else more than just drop the phone and run,” said Mellisa, as she broke down in tears again. She then informed the police, who mounted a search and recovered the bodies. “Dem na deserve to dead so, because ‘Bollie’ don’t trouble nobody. ‘Bollie’ go hear people a cuss, and he go just walk away because he don’t want to get involve. When me go run to hear cussing, all he a tell me, ‘Na go up dey fo’ people to hit you. Jus keep out the way of the argument’,” she managed to say. Recounting a special moment they had on Friday, two days before his body was recovered, Mellisa said they had gone to the cinema that Friday night , and when they returned home , and were lying in bed, ‘Bollie’ told her, “‘Mellie, me want me and you bring somebody in we life.’” With what seemed like a gleam in

Mellisa Warren displaying the ‘ring of love’ which she will wear for as long as possible. her eyes, she continued, ”Well me bin think a baby he going talk about, so me say, way u mean? He say he want we bring God in we life, he just want we just live good. He even a tell me, we go start to go a church Sunday time,” That Saturday, after she had finished braiding her hair, she watched a Christian movie called ‘War room;’ that her deceased boyfriend had recommended. She admitted that the movie touched her, “and me a say ,boy he tell me he watch the movie, but tomorrow (Sunday) me going tell he how nice the movie is , and we really have to sit down together and watch this. We never get to see it together.” Asked what she would miss most about him, she replied, “Don’t care how a vex, ‘Bollie’ would come and me say ‘Bollie’ don’t hold on pon me, don’t touch me’. Don’t care how much I told he don’t touch me, a better me just leave him. Because he just a come and grab me up and tell me, ‘Cool down na. Wha happen to you? He just find a way … to calm me down. “Me na know way me going do. Me na know how me a go get through,” Mellisa sighed. Mellisa had placed a ring made of twine on her marriage finger as a sign of their togetherness, and she said she intends to keep it on as long as she could possibly do so.

API Reporter receives death threat A JOURNALIST with the Agency for Public Information (API) is appealing to the authorities to protect her from a mentally challenged man, following what she said were threats the man made against her. Ashecia Sam told THE VINCENTIAN that she is living in constant fear for her life, as death threats are being made to her every day, by a Caratal, Georgetown man, who goes by the name of Marvin. Sam said her troubles began in January when she stood up for her son, who was

viciously beaten with a stick, by the man. “All I did was stood up for my child in an unfortunate situation on January 20, and now I have become his prime target,” Sam said. The man is said to be mentally deranged, and was released from the Mental Health Centre earlier this year. Last Monday, Sam had another encounter with him, during which she said she summoned the courage to stand up to the man, who had approached her with cutlass in hand. Recounting what transpired

on that occasion, Sam said the man came up to her and asked for a dollar. She told him she didn’t have any… “and from the time I told him I didn’t have any, he started behaving very irately, brandishing his cutlass in my face and striking it on the ground.” A distraught Sam disclosed, “I have made several reports to the Georgetown Police Station against this man, and I am calling on the authorities not to wait until something happens to me to do something about this menace to society.” The journalist said that the man is known to have

committed acts of violence in in the past. She intimated that another young lady had ‘messaged’ her, saying the man has been harassing her too. Sam alleged that the man has threatened to break into the said young lady’s house, rape her and burn down the house with the family in it. The female journalist is repeating her appeal to those in authority to do something about this situation, before Ashecia Sam said that she has made someone ends up several reports to the police about a getting killed. man who has threatened her life.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 3.

News 3

Soca artiste safe after kidnapping

Kevon ‘Kev’ Alleyne, soca performing artiste/writer, is considered one to watch for the future.

AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into the alleged kidnapping of one of this country’s soca artistes, Kevon ‘Kev’ Alleyne. Superintendent of Police (SP) Ruth Jacobs, Head of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), told THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday that Alleyne had been dropped off at the Central Police Station in Kingstown, just before 10 pm on Tuesday March 1, a little

over 24 hours after he was last seen. According to a post by Alleyne’s manager and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Creative Entertainment, Dawson Lewis, and which appeared on Tuesday night, Alleyne was last seen around 9pm on Monday February 29, in the vicinity of VINLEC’s power station at Cane Hall. The posting stated that he was last seen wearing a pair of blue

gym shorts, grey t-shirt and grey sneakers. Lewis told THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday that he posted the information 24 hours after Alleyne went missing, and after it was revealed that an EC$80,000 ransom was being sought. Lewis intimated that there was a definite fear for the young man’s life at this point. He explained that he was not prepared to give detailed information at

Lowmans men killed “Me and he use to reason. Up to the last day, me dey a tell him about “But they tied my brother hand a phone somebody was selling, and and broke his legs, so he couldn’t he was saying that if he had the move,” said Haniff , who expressed money he would have buy it for me. sadness and anger. “I just can’t …. Me go miss him, Even before he believe,” said the grieving brother. go to the mountains he was playing with my two daughters. … . He had Family in grief a way of making people laugh; he was always calm no matter what the Williams is the father of a 10situation,” said Shemaca. year-old daughter, Reihanna She said she learned of her Nanton. He is described by many as brother’s death from his girlfriend. a very easy-going person, who “I still can’t believe,” she managed avoided confusion. to say as she broke down into tears. He attended the Lowmans Shemaca described the death as Leeward Anglican School and the horrible, noting that if he had died Emmanuel High School Kingstown. of natural causes, she would have His mother, Arlene Williams, told felt “a bit better,” and added, “I pray THE VINCENTIAN that she is still to God that he will rein judgment on trying to come to terms with the them, who took my brother life, death of her son, her second child. because I know that isn’t one person She had struggled, she confessed, who kill them.” to raise him in the absence of his A police source told THE father. VINCENTIAN that the bodies, in Williams’ sister, Shemeca addition to gunshot wounds, showed Williams, who admitted to having signs of blunt trauma (beating), and shared a very close relationship with chop wounds. her brother, called for justice for her Up to press time, post mortems brother and his friend. had not been concluded. Continued from Front page.

this time, except to say that Alleyne was dropped off in Kingstown, where he was picked up and taken to the police by two individuals. Lewis and SP Jacobs both confirmed that Alleyne was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, from where he was released after undergoing a medical check. Alleyne, up to Wednesday morning when THE VINCENTIAN spoke with SP) Ruth Jacobs, was at the Police Headquarters assisting

with investigations.. Kevon ‘Kev’ Alleyne is known for the songs ‘Voicenote’, ‘Small Ting’ and ‘Change’, all released for Vincy Mas 2015. His first two compilations were released in 2014 - ‘Me Alone’ and ‘Slackness’, produced by Trinidadian

KC Phillips. He has also established himself as a songwriter, penning the lyrics for the 2014 single ‘Ah Rude’, featuring Vincentian songbird Danielle Veira and Trinidadian soca artiste ‘Kes’.

Father killed by mentally ill son A MENTALLY ILL man is in police custody, helping with the investigation into the death of his father. On Tuesday evening, Wayne Hillocks discovered the body of his neighbor, 74-year-old Christopher Hepburn, after he was told by Dexter Hepburn, the man’s son, that his father was in his house dead. Dexter and his father shared a home at Redemption Sharpes. Residents in the community said that Dexter, who has a history of mentally illness, is

abusive to his father. Hillocks told THE VINCENTIAN that he was speaking to a relative on the telephone when he saw Dexter. He said he made mention to the person on the phone that Dexter was playing crazy. Dexter, who had heard the conversation, responded, “How you say I playing crazy when my father is in the house dead.” Hillocks said that he immediately left to investigate and when he entered the house, he saw Hepburn lying with his

head up and his mouth open. Persons who know Dexter said he was a practitioner of Taekwondo and even travelled overseas to participate in tournaments. He gave up that sport, according to residents of Redemption Sharpes, when he began showing signs of getting sick. It was also revealed that he was married, but his marriage fell apart , after which he seemed to lose interest in caring for himself. (KH)

4. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

GovernmentÊs E-technology base being strengthed

highest accreditation for information protection and security from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), was being made available to any institution in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Ambassador Ger described the issuing of the certification as “an affirmation that the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines has successfully adopted and complied with the highest management standards in information security in the world.” H.E. Ambassador Baushaun Ger (right) and He also referred to the 2011 launch of the Minister of Information Technology Camillo Technical Cooperation Gonsalves the ISO 27001 Certificate.. Project between Taiwan HIS EXCELLENCY Baushaun valued US$2M. and this country, and Ger, Ambassador of the Ger made his pointed to the subsequent, Republic of China on excitement known last 2013, establishment of the Taiwan, is looking forward Tuesday at the SVG Ee-Government Centre as to signing the agreement Government Centre at the having “turned concepts with this country’s Clico Financial Centre, into reality.” Information Technology Kingstown. He was Information Technology Minister Camillo Gonsalves speaking at a ceremony Minister Camillo for a new phase of for the presentation of the Gonsalves cited the ISO cooperation. ISO 27001 Certificate. certification as a steppingThat will be an The Taiwanese stone to this country’s Electronic Management Ambassador acknowledged thrust in technological Documentation System that it was the first time development. which Ambassador said is that an ISO certificate, the

Gonsalves pledged his Ministry’s commitment to improving the availability of data to the public. Gonaslves observed that this country had met international standards to withstand threats to cyber security that threatened, as he prefaced his reflection on a recent occurrence whereby government’s website was hacked. “I was distressed at the lack of systems and procedures in place,” Gonsalves confessed, and lamented the absence of facilities “to deal with breaches in security” at the time. Andre Bailey, the E-Government’s centre manager, also referred to the hacking incident when he addressed the gathering. “We have to be reinventing and ensuring that we stay on top of business,” Bailey pointed out He praised members of his staff, who made extra sacrifices so as to progress with the process thus far, and thanked the Audit

Garifuna Heritage Foundation: Going ‘Back To Our Roots’ THIS COUNTRY is into its annual celebration of National Heroes and Heritage Month, March, and The Garifuna Heritage Foundation (TGHF) is poised to unfold a week of activities to mark the occasion. According to information received from the TGHF, its activities will begin on Wednesday 9th March with its now annual International Garifuna Symposium. The Symposium, themed ‘Living the Garifuna Heritage and Culture: Yurumei/ Garifuna Diaspora Relationship as A Reflection of the Caribbean Indigenous Experience’, will be held at the Peace Memorial Hall, beginning at 9:00am, and is open to the public. Rawle Gibbons, Director, Playwright and former Head and Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Creative and Festival Arts, UWI, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad, will deliver the keynote address on the topic ‘Arandara: Caribbean Futures in History’. Also set to open on March 9 and run until March 12, is the Garifuna Village, which will feature a traditional Garifuna Village constructed on the grounds of the Carnegie Building (Old Public Library). This Village will showcase educational booths, display of cultural items, and other cultural activities. Nearby at Heritage Square, craft

work, jewelry, local food and other local products will be available for sale. Activities move to Victoria Park on Friday, March 11th, for the National Schools Garifuna Cultural Folk Festival. Students of some thirty Primary and Secondary Schools are expected to participate in a cultural package — including choral speeches, dance, drumming and song — under the theme, ‘Children of Chatoyer, Fruits of Our Heritage’. They will also be involved in a presentation of historical exhibits, under the theme, ‘Know Your History’. This event is being held in collaboration with the Ministry of

The grounds of the Old Public Library, Kingstown, will be transformed into a traditional Garifuna Village.

team for their contribution in this regard. The forthcoming EDRMS aims to build a digitised document

interchange and management system to be used between government agencies at different levels. (WKA)

Plastic surgery specialists explaining patient’s needs to a mother.

WPP missions continue ANOTHER 130 young persons from St Vincent and the Grenadines and around the region were the beneficiaries of free health care from the World Paediatric Project (WPP). Last week, doctors and other specialists related to ophthalmology, plastic surgery and speech therapy. traveled here from Virginia and North Carolina, USA, to give of their time and talent to the children, eight of whom were from outside of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The visiting doctors were competently assisted by local doctors and specialists. Fifty-five (55) children were attended by ophthalmologists Drs Donna Brown and Nadia Blanchet, while Dr Hao Zhang attended to 55 children with plastic surgery concerns. Twenty (20) speech cases were seen by Miriam Kerr. A total of 41 children (21 - ophthalmology, and 20 plastic surgery) received surgeries at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. The doctors were assisted by certified registered nurse anaesthetist Mary O’Hanley and operating room nurse Cindy Jeter. This most recent paediatric mission brings the number of children receiving free medical care to more than 6000, since the charitable organization began operations in the region, beginning with St Vincent and the Grenadines in 2002. The next WPP mission is scheduled to arrive here on March 31, and will focus on cases related to cardiology. The World Paediatric Project is encouraging parents and guardians who may have children with the above-mentioned medical issues, along with scoliosis, dental, orthopaedic, and others, to contact their office at Bentick Square, Kingstown, and take advantage of the free services.

Inset: The works of local artisans will also be on display and for sale. Education and the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture. National Heroes Day, March 14, activities centre around paying respect and homage to this country’s only declared national hero, His Excellency Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer.

Speech therapist Miriam Kerrin in session with a young patient in the company of his mother.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 5.

Regional - Jamaica Elections Feature

Opposition JLP wins election in Jamaica

THE JAMAICA LABOUR Party (JLP), under the leadership of 43-year-old Andrew Holness, takes over the reins of government in Jamaica, once again. The initial count following last week Thursday’s (Feb. 25) general elections in that country, gave the JLP victory by 33 seats to 30 for the incumbent People’s National Party

(PNP), led by Prime Minister Portia SimpsonMiller. However, a recount on Sunday reversed the initial result in one constituency, handing victory to the PNP’s Dr. Winston Green over the PNP’s Norman Dunn, by a mere nine votes. (See Story on this page) As such, therefore, while Jamaicans await the official count and

Portia down but remains ‘big’ PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY (PNP) President Portia Simpson was the picture of dejection as she conceded Thursday’s general election to the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). “The other side won, and I am going to be very big. I commend them on their victory.” So said outgoing Prime People’s National Minister of Jamaica, Portia Party (PNP) Simpson-Miller, as she acknowledged defeat in the President Portia Thursday 25th, 2016 general Simpson tried to elections in that country. appear strong, as Making what observers say she conceded the was a great effort to remain general election to “brave”, she told supporters of the Jamaica her People’s National Party on Labour Party election night after the (JLP). (Credit: preliminary count, that the Loopjamaica) PNP had not ruled out winning the election through the court. That preliminary count showed a victory for the opposition Jamaica Labour Party - 33 seats to her PNP 30. But a recount would turn around one seat in the PNP’s favour, to leave the seat count at: JLP 32, PNP 31. To applause, the first female Prime Minister of her country declared, “We are down, but we are not out. .... I have given all I could in this campaign. If anything, I am stronger than yesterday. This is not a time for crying or moping.” Simpson Miller also promised that, “We are not going to allow them (JLP) to wreck the economy of this country that Comrade Dr Peter Phillips (Finance Minister) built up and put in position for take-off,” and assured that the PNP would be watching the new government, to ensure that “those who succeed us will not throw away the gains made by the People’s National Party.” (Source:Loopjamaica)

Dejected PNP supporters on election night, as they take in the results. (Credit:nyscaribnews.com)

report, the JLP forms government with a oneseat majority (32 — 31), the slimmest margin of victory for any party in the history of politics in Jamaica. Reports from Jamaica say that the poll was marked by low voter turnout, estimated preliminarily as a 47% turnout of an estimated 1.8m persons eligible to vote. The low turnout, according to some observers, may have worked against the PNM. Andrew Holness

JLP supporters in wild celebration of their party’s victory in the recent poll. (Credit: Loopjamaica) Left: Prime Minister Andrew Holness will be joined by his wife Juliette in parliament. She also won a seat in the February 25 general election. (Source: You Tube Photo)

briefly served as Prime Minister in 2011 after local unrest created by a US attempt to extradite drug kingpin Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke, forced his predecessor, Bruce Golding, to resign. He will be joined in

the House of Representatives by his wife, Juliette Holness, who captured the St Andrew East Rural seat in her first political outing. In the last election in 2011, the PNP won 42 of the 63 seats in the House of Representatives, seven

of them with margins of fewer than 300 votes. The February 25 general election was the 17th to be held since the country achieved universal adult suffrage in 1944. (Source: Jamaica Gleaner, Observer, CMC)

‘Our plan will work,’ says Holness ANDREW HOLNESS, newly elected Prime Minister of Jamaica, has vowed to lead “a responsive government that is accountable to the Jamaica people.” Holness made the promise while delivering his victory speech at the Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) headquarters last week Thursday, following his party’s victory in the 2016 general election. “We have a team, and all members of our family are committed to serving you,” he said, according to the Jamaica Observer. The JLP had campaigned on a promise to grow the economy and create jobs, and Holness reiterated this promise as he addressed thousands of party supporters. In typical campaign mode, he also committed to “..address your water problems …. your housing problems…..education problems, and …. fix your health care problems.” “What it takes is a team that is willing to try new, innovative and creative ways to solve the problems of Jamaica, and I commit to bringing new, creative and innovative solutions to the challenges faced in Jamaica,” the Observer reported Holness as saying.

Though there was no indication from the Jamaica media that he made reference to it, the JLP also campaigned on a promise to abolish personal income tax for everyone who earns a gross salary of $1.5 million or less. Both the PNP and some independent financial analysts slammed it as unworkable, saying further that it will, among other things, derail the economic reform programme approved Andrew Holness delivers his victory speech in the 2016 General Election at by the International Monetary Fund. the Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) But Holness said during headquarters in St Andrew, on February the campaign, that his team 25. (Credit: Loopjamaica) had confidence in their numbers, because they have today than it was in 2008, a poverty been thoroughly researched. rate that has doubled since 2007 The 2016 election campaign and unemployment at 14.2 percent, seemed to have focused on the higher today than during the height economic situation in Jamaica, as of the global recession. the country grappled with the Holness promised that his fiscal challenge of meeting its plan, especially the income tax commitments under the conditions alteration, will not affect of a four-year International government revenue. Instead, he Monetary Fund (IMF) austere said, his party’s economic and fiscal programme. plans will have a positive impact for The opposition sought to make households and the economy. wind of what it said was a PNP (Source; Jamaica Observer, US created economy that was smaller Jamaica report)

Recount reverses result THE INCUMBENT People’s National Movement (PNP) has secured another seat in the general elections in Jamaica. Following the preliminary immediate count of votes immediately following Thursday 25th February, 2016 general elections, the opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) was declared winner with 33 of the 63 seats up for grabs. However, last Saturday, Orrette Fisher, Director of Elections, announced to the nation that the PNP candidate, Dr. Winston Green, was the official winner of the South Eastern constituency and not the JLP’s Norman Dunn, who was originally declared winner in the

preliminary count, with 7,311 votes to Green’s 7,184. The recount gave the incumbent Green victory by a mere nine votes, and with this development, the JLP now had 32 seats to the PNP’s 31. According to the Jamaica Observer, sources close to the process say that one of the boxes that were counted on election day (preliminary count) had Dunn winning, when it should have been the other way, with Green winning. Other media reports coming out of Jamaica indicate that Dunn will seek a magisterial recount. (Source: Jamaica Observer. CMC)

Norman Dunn of the JLP had a short-lived victory celebration. (Credit: Caribbean 360)

Dr. Winston Green, a PNP incumbent whose victory was declared after a recount. (Credit: Ja.gov.org)

V National Heroes Day activity set for NY 6. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Stories by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

THE NEW YORK-BASED Garifuna Indigenous People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Incorporated (GIPSVG, Inc.) is hoping to tap into nostalgic celebrations by hosting, for the very first time, a grand National Heroes Day spectacle in New York. Marsena Ballantyne, the Sandy Bay-born GIPSVG, Inc. president, told THE VINCENTIAN in an exclusive interview, that the inaugural event, on Saturday, Mar. 12, at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn, promises to be very exciting. Ballantyne said the extravaganza, held in commemoration of National Heroes Day, “will take on the form of a cultural variety show and dance. “I’m very excited because this is the first time National Heroes Day is being commemorated in New York and, as descendants of Joseph Chatoyer [Carib Paramount Chief and St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ national hero], we are the ones hosting it,” she said. “The event will place particular emphasis on celebrating Chatoyer’s legacy and the heritage handed down

to us by him and our ancestors,” added Marsena Ballantyne, Ballantyne, whose Garifuna Indigenous group is also People of St. Vincent celebrating its first and the Grenadines, anniversary. Incorporated Garifuna “We hope to make Indigenous People of St. this event an annual Vincent and the one, in an effort to Grenadines, preserve the Incorporated president, remnants of our is excited about her Garifuna culture, group hosting the first promote a sense of ever National Heroes pride among Day commemoration Vincentians, and the Members of the New York based Garifuna Indigenous People of St. Vincent activity in New York. realization that our and the Grenadines, Incorporated strike a happy pose. Garifuna heritage is a rich one — and it belongs to all GIPSVG Inc, Timna Lockhart, bam”), farine and dukuna — She said proceeds raised at Afari Haywood, Chief Joseph will also be on sale. of us,” she continued. the event “will benefit the Chatoyer Dance Company, the In addition, handicraft “We also hope that we will indigenous communities north United Vincy Cultural Group items — such as placemats, do justice in replicating our of the Rabacca River.” coasters and baskets — will be National Heroes Day Festival, of Brooklyn, Lively, Prim For more information, Adonna and Skarpyon. on display and on sale, and which takes place every year contact Ballantyne at (347) Local delicacies — such as artists will conduct paintings, 553-9545 or email at in Fancy [the northern most cassava bread (“chokee bam Ballantyne said. village on mainland St. gipsvg@gmail.com. Vincent that is considered an integral part of the ‘Garifuna Country’]” entertainment scene IN CONTINUING its expansion Ballantyne said. worldwide,” stating that he in Europe, Tarakon Records, She said the has been working with founded and managed by the event runs from numerous “esteemed Vincentian husband and wife 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 internationally-known team of Kevin and Jacqueline midnight, with a artists.” Lyttle, has partnered with the mini cultural James-Lyttle, Tarakon Dutch entertainment company, exhibition for the Perpetual Motions Entertainment. Records’ chief executive first two hours. officer, with a Ph. D in civil Kevin described the Afterwards, engineering, said the label, collaboration with Perpetual Ballantyne said founded in 2007 by her and Motions Entertainment as aimed there will be husband, is “ready to turn at expanding the development, cultural the world on to every genre production and distribution of performances by, of Caribbean music in a music projects. among others, very big way.” The partnership seeks to In April 2015, Tarakon broaden supporting media, Records announced the marketing and tour, as well as opening of an office in subsidizing licensing of thirdParis, France; and, only a party non-music projects and year later, the small record endorsement opportunities, label is making “gigantic featuring all Tarakon Records moves by creating a artists in Europe. By partnering with Perpetual presence in all European Kevin Lyttle with wife and business countries,” including the Motions Entertainment, the partner Dr. Jacqueline James-Lyttle. United Kingdom, the Miami-based Lyttles have Lyttles said. appointed Guillermo Tjin as sold over five They said Tarakon managing director of Tarakon million units Records “represents all Records Europe and “exclusive worldwide, making Caribbean music — from representative” of Tarakon the single a multithe Bahamas to Jamaica to Records in Europe. platinum record, St. Vincent [and the “Guillermo Tjin is looking Lyttle said. forward to this new challenge and Grenadines] to Venezuela He has to strengthening Tarakon Records’ and all the beautiful released follow-up countries in between.” position in the international albums and Kevin Lyttle said he entertainment scene,” said the singles, such as was “thrown into the Lyttles in a statement. “Fyah”; “I Love international spotlight” “Guillermo Tjin has been in Carnival”; with his breakout smash the entertainment scene for “Anywhere”; “The single, “Turn Me On.” numerous years, holding to his Diplomat”; and Lyttle’s strong live credit a broad spectrum of reliable “Bum Bum,” which Guillermo Tjin, contacts and sound rapports with performances, with his also features R&B CEO of Perpetual own style of soca, managers, record labels, promo songbird and Motions influenced by dancehall companies, agencies, promoters Grammy Award Entertainment. and contemporary R&B, and clubs, etc. in Europe and all winner Mya. made “Turn Me On” a hit over the world,” they added. Lyttle has been worldwide, racking up top As chief executive officer of named a cultural ambassador by Perpetual Motions Entertainment, 10 spots in Europe and the United the Government of Prime Minister the Lyttles said TJin has achieved States. Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves in St. The single and album have an “exceptional reputation in the Vincent and the Grenadines.

Lyttle’s Tarakon Records broadens reach

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 7.

News

Eustace: Government fooling the people THE PEOPLE of this nation continue to be fooled. So says the Leader of the Opposition, Arnhim Eustace, who on Monday, made the comment during his response to the 2016 Budget presentation, on the first day of a two-day exercise held at Frenches House, Kingstown. According to Eustace, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves had stated that the central theme for the budget hinged on economic growth, job creation, zero hunger and fiscal consolidation. But in order to consolidate the fiscal situation, or the financial situation, then the economy must be moving in a certain direction, Eustace argued. Eustace further explained that, despite all the talk about fiscal consolidation, the budget presented for 2016 is the same - nothing but the same as was presented before citing, for example that the cash deficit for this year is EC$151 million and is expected to rise to EC$205 million by 2018. “Now, if you are in fact moving towards fiscal consolidation, as you say you are doing, then you are starting off

on the same old foot, and it is getting worse not better; two years later, deficit is 205 million, so what fiscal consolidation is he speaking about?” Eustace questioned. He continued, saying that if there was not enough money in the budget to implement projects as outlined, then the government is forced to borrow money, apply for grants or increase taxes, as has been seen in this budget. “So I really have no confidence that we are able, in the next couple of years, to consolidate the fiscal and financial position of this country,” he said. Eustace addressed the issue of Capital Receipts, something he said that he has been doing for the previous 10 years or so, and chastised the government for not making any real effort to deal with this issue. According to Eustace, the deficit presented stood at EC$151 million, “so you put in EC$149 million to cover that, but when you check what capital receipts means, it is money the government can earn in taxes from things they sell other than land.”

Government will be looking to sell the remaining shares it is holding in the BOSVG.

BOSVG shares for sale GOVERNMENT will be looking to sell the remaining 200,000 shares in the Bank of St Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG), formerly the National Commercial Bank (NCB). Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said in his 2016 Budget presentation last week Monday, that included in the financial plan was an amount of EC$149.6 million under the caption ‘Other Receipts’, and that various devices were available to the Government under this heading. As part of the sale of the NCB in 2010, it was announced that the purchaser, East Caribbean Financial Holding Company Limited (ECFH) paid EC$42 million and received 51 percent of the shares. Of the 49 percent retained by the government, 29 percent were to be divested to the National Insurance Services (NIS) and citizens of the country, and the rest of the region. (DDD)

However, it has been checked, year after year, that the government is only able to generate between $3 and $4 million, Esuatce claimed, adding, “So it means you still have a gap to fill of over 100 million dollars, and when you can’t fill the gap, you can’t do the projects that you told the nation you were going to do,” Eustace said. “If you have that gap, you haven’t filled it at

all, you are going to borrow to try and fill it, or increase your revenue in some way or the other,” he continued. Eustace contended that the government utilised another strategy, in that it cuts back the amount designated to the Capital Budget. “When you look at the estimates, the amount of money available to do projects is 100 million less.”

So a situation where projects cannot be carried out, or important departments within government are underfunded arises, he said. “This puts a strain on the ability of the government to create jobs, and the economy cannot grow. Therefore, if the government continue to have these deficits all the time, there is going to be

Arnhim Eustace, Leader of the Opposition, sees nothing ‘new’ in the 2016 Budget. problems with economic growth and trouble with jobs,” he said. (DDD)

Opposition’s response still effective LEADER of the Opposition Arnhim Eustace defended his party’s decision to respond to the Budget outside of Parliament, a week later, saying that he did not see his party’s response having a lesser effect. Speaking on the NDP ‘New Times’ radio programme on Monday, Eustace said that some people were upset with the decision taken by the elected members of the New Democratic Party (NDP) not to attend Parliament. However, according to the Those who attended day One of the NDP Budget response heard the political party’s leader, there Party leader underscore the effectiveness of the boycott of Parliamentary proceedings. was a principle involved. “We do not accept the results “We are trying to ensure that as many persons as of the election and therefore, we don’t feel that we possible have an opportunity to hear our response should be going into the Parliament.” to the budget, and give some of our ideas in terms of The opposition members participated in the going forward. And that is basically it,” he swearing in ceremony of the new parliament back explained.(DDD) in December, in order to avoid losing the seats to which they were elected, Eustace said. Since then, they have not made an appearance in the House. The government, has, in response, moved to introduce legislation that would penalise members for absenting themselves, including loss of pay. “Let the government go ahead with its Bill to do that,” Eustace continued. “We will make a determination at an appropriate time as to what we will do.” He explained that while the NDP did not recognise the government, they had an obligation to respond to the Budget. “We are taking the Budget very seriously; the only difference is that we are not doing it at the place that we are accustomed to.” The time selected, according to Eustace, was to ensure that as many people had the chance to listen.

8. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 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

And two spoke TWO OPEN PRONOUNCEMENTS by two men of the clerical cloth – one moreso than the other – for two different reasons, hit home with an added dose of interest, and evoked obvious emotions, to some of our readers and many of those who make their feelings known to the Editor on a weekly basis. The first had to do with a story carried on the back page of our issue of Friday 26th February, 2016. The article reported, very briefly, on the fact that outgoing Bishop of the R.C. Diocese of Bridgetown-Kingstown, Rev. Jason Gordon, had apologised for something he had said that implicated the highest political officer of the land. Bishop Gordon, the man of God and servant of the people that he is, saw it fit and Christian to publicly apologise to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves for having relied on a newspaper article for the context of a statement he made, viz the Prime Minister’s reference to banana and marijuana in the same breath, so to speak. Bishop Gordon crossed the lines of self-righteousness, stubbornness, arrogance and a heap of other vile attitudes that abound in society, to extend a hand of, ‘I am sorry’. That is a lesson, a practical demonstration of what it means to ‘man-up or shut-up’. Bishop Gordon chose the nobler of the two directives, and came out of the crossfire, a bigger man. Interestingly, Bishop Gordon apologised for ‘the context’ on which he was misled, but stopped far short of saying that what he had to say by way of ‘interpretation and conclusion’, had been removed from the books. All in all, though, it was a question of who had the last say, and we are certain the Prime Minister accepted the apology as genuine and as a message that ‘we have to move on’, but ‘eyes still pon you’. Bishop Gordon in his ‘brief’ shepherding of the Roman Catholic flock in a country administered by the same political party since 2001, would have impacted not just his own church’s understanding of its broad ministry, but the political landscape as well. Pity, though, that his guarded representation of an option for the poor, did not influence in greater stead the secular acceptance of the same position. Pity, as he departs this bishopric, that in the political landscape that he leaves, the option for the poor

gets bandied about by people on all sides of the political spectrum. It (option) remains, insufficiently so, a debate regarding welfare, charity and political advocacy. What a pity! Oh for a want of a genuine stance in favour of the truly poor! And then, there was Monty Maule, considered by many from across the political milieu of this multi-island state, one of the better, if not the best, most impartial, balanced Speakers of the House this country has had since its Independence in 1979. There was Maule, a Methodist lay preacher of renown, up front and in clear view of the hierarchy and rank and file of the New Democratic Party, unearthing his view that those NDP members elected to the House of Assembly should have been making their Budget rebuttals in the House of Assembly and not at some town hall type event. There are mixed feelings and there have been mixed reactions to the NDP’s decision to absent itself from the proceedings of the House of Assembly, on the grounds that the ULP administration is an illegitimate one. The elections of December 9, 2015 were stolen, the NDP declares, and it has since filed Election Petitions before the High Court. Maule, in his understanding of how our parliamentary democracy works (or should work), his sentiment for what the people expect and the, so to speak, ‘hallowed ground of parliament’, and maybe his understanding of the role of the state and government machinery in favour of all people and the common good, would have had it no other way. That he took the partisan political nit-picking, the self-serving tendencies of our politicians, and the leaning towards parliamentary authority and, on the other hand, some say meaningless demonstrations of opposition, should be enough to cause a reflection on the part of the two rival parties — one that has moved to divorce itself from the practises of parliamentary democracy, the other ready, able and willing to introduce a process of penalties and punishments for equal servants of the people. What a sordid tale of two cities! Bishop Gordon and Monty Maule speak to our consciences which both men, if this column should take the liberty to say, are well aware could be simply awaiting a little prodding. Are we up to the task?

A ray of light lightens our darkness WE IN SVG supposedly operate a two-party system after the British model which, over the past 15 years, has degenerated to a point where it breeds extremism and has threatened to become dysfunctional to the polity. The breaking-point has been captured in the “losing” party the NDP at the last elections crying foul at the results, does not recognise a ULP Government, and allowed itself to be sworn in as an Opposition only to ignore Parliament until the Court has ruled on their claim that “ULP stole the Government”, and proper redress has been made. So far, the worst effect of this approach has been that the budgetary proposals were one-sidedly pushed through by “the Government” in the absence of debate from “the Opposition”. Lo and behold, the NDP rented privately owned “Frenches House” where they presented their views of the budgetary proposals which they totally condemned, pointing to alternative ways which they suggested are dire necessities if this country is to be saved from going under by the fruitless antics of the Gonsalves Government. To my relief and joy, one political commentator, Stephen Joachim, who is generally supportive of the ULP, could not help but describe the content, direction, and style of the first half of the session held on the 29th February as “great,” which is a far cry from his description of anything featuring Arnhim Eustace ! But the “Cuban cutlass” was opposed by his “brother of the spear” Bing Joseph, who strangely concentrated on whether Arnhim has any right to hold his confab elsewhere other than at the House of Parliament, to which his entire “dream” team has been sworn elected members thereof. Disappointedly, especially given the usual endearing rambunctious style of Bing, he appeared to be grabbing at straws while missing the bigger picture. Arnhim is criticised for “not doing” and for “doing”. The leader must take the initiative at unexpected moments of crisis when the time taking a party poll, or other consultation can be fatal. And the issue of consultations and mandates could be grossly overdone, and stymies swift and urgent action. After all, a member of Parliament is a representative not a delegate. In short, Bert François had the better of the chat. Scoring a big Bang against Bing! To go back to NDP’s budget, three citizens of outstanding worth, all of them badmouthed by Ralph over the years, adorned the sessions. They were the venerable John Horne, Monty Maul and Jerry George. All seven elected men were tremendous in content but varied in delivery which, no

back-talking challenges, cross-talk or speakers intervention or P.M shouting about like the cock of the walk, were well received and appreciated Members of the Dream Team all spoke brilliantly and feelingly as usual. But I was particularly moved by the contribution of the two senators, Jules Ferdinand who displayed a measured maturity guided by biblical principles, and the warm, exciting speech of Zita Barnwell, NDP’s only female M.P among its current caucus. Forty years ago, 1972, as a member of the Educational Forum of the People, I offered a critique of the major parties running government as follows: “In the House, the parties are engaged in a veritable life-and-death struggle. There is no let up, with the government setting about its business as if the opposition does not exist. For them, this other group of men are mere democratic window dressing: they have ornamental values only, and should be seen not heard. The Government has tremendous advantages, for it can wield virtual dictatorial powers, without unduly straining the constitutional instruments. This is because the Westminster model of Government, which we supposedly operate, places very much formal powers in the hands of the ruling group, powers which in the metropolitan country, are cut down by a sense of restraint, a democratic attitude, and the censure of an informed and critical public opinion. In St Vincent, on the other hand, the population is polarised as between support for the two established groups, and the ruling, motto is: “My party right or wrong”. This sort of attitude filters down from the leadership to infect their mass following with an almost blind fanaticism that in turn inflates the ego and strengthens the hand of the leaders to do anything. So, in the House, the Government of the day bulldozes everything, riding rough-shod over democratic niceties. The speaker is invariably a party politician, actual or potential, who tows the line with gusto. The Council is too small to have Government backbenchers, so the ruling party moves like a well-oiled steamroller crushing everything in its way. Questions by the Opposition are side -tracked and evaded, their motions struck out, their contributions omitted from the Government radio station.” Over the years, we have simply gotten worse. The NDP government has pledged to inaugurate meaningful change from the seat of power.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 9.

Letters

Change? Not Vincy!

Responding to the PMC

BOY, dey say SVG is the onliest place in de h’hole worl dat bus a cirsus. Dat is wat ah hare ole people sayin. Well dat is not de onliest ting we famus for. We famus fey ah ‘hole set ah udder tings. Like we politics. Wen de hole Caribbean changing, we markin time. Look wat jus happen in JA. De government change. Look wha happen in St. Kitts. De government change. Look wha happen in T&T? De government change. Look wha happen sometime gone in Antigua. De government change. And before dat, ah tink, change in Grenada too. So wha happen to we? Goat bite we or wha? Buh yo know, dat is we Vincy — de natural place to be because we air changing anything now regardless ah how stink it is. We like it so.

I REFER to a Press Statement, dated February 12, 2016, in the name of the People’s Movement for Change (PMC). Not to be facetious, Mr. Editor, but for one reason or the other, I thought the PMC had all but disappeared from the ‘political landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadine’s. I especially thought so, when one of its vanguard founding members, Jomo Thomas, had decided to align himself fully with the Unity Labour Party (ULP), and subsequently contested the December 9, 2015 general elections on that party’s ticket. It was quite a revelation, therefore, when I happened on the Press Statement referred, a statement signed by Oscar Allen, in his capacity of Chairman of the PMC. Readers will recall that the PMC was launched in a very formal ceremony in 2008.

No Change

Among the faces who graced that ceremony were Oscar Allen, Jomo Thomas, Ronnie Daniel, Fr. Mark Da Silva, Marlon Stephenson, to name a few. Interestingly, I found out later that one Luzette King had also signed on to membership of the PMC. Since 2008, other than a few Press Statements on some national issues, and a demonstration here and there, the PMC seemed not to have had the impact that it desired. According to its Facebook page, the PMC is ‘a not-for-profit organization (est. 2008) based in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, whose main aim is to ‘serve all Vincentians by advocating for social justice and Real Development’. That is a noble intention and one which should have attracted wider acceptance.

Laughing out loud OUR PRIME MINISTER evidently has a new joke writer; his latest jokes, which certainly are much funnier than anything published during the recent re-election campaign, except possibly “skanking”– turning himself into an object of scorn and ridicule, if you really know the meaning of the word–are far more humorous than anything in recent memory. His Health Minister announced that our plan for coping with the Zika

virus is procuring from somewhere, a supply of mosquito nets. Well, I certainly feel safer now that this has been taken care of. And we are being asked to thank him (please, hold your applause until the end of the act) for putting in place new taxes on chicken, salt, sugar, cooking oil, cooking butter, and table butter, the consuming of which are factors contributing to our population’s increased rate of disease,

MR. EDITOR, I can’t help but think these are challenging times — a test by Our Lord God. The dreaded diseases that have plagued us reminds me of the pestilence during the time of Moses. God sent the plagues on Egypt so as to force the Pharaoh to free ‘His people’ — to liberate ‘His people’ from slavery and bondage. I grapple with whether or not to conclude that these times — with HIV, Ebola, Dengue fever, Chikungunya, and now Zika — are also directed at those who continue to keep thousands of people across the globe in ignorance and servitude. Even if this is not directed as a message to world leaders — including our own — isn’t it at least asking that we take a little time to reflect on our relationship with others? I pray for world peace and peace in my land.

decreased life expectancy and higher health care costs. Of course, withholding any tax on strong rum encourages me to forget my hunger with a couple shots of rot gut. Well, thanks a lot! I may die of malnutrition, or cirrhosis of the liver, but not high cholesterol or diabetes. And he didn’t say so, but he probably believes yeast causes yeast infection in women, another reason to tax yeast! Gun ownership licences are increased, so we won’t shoot each other as much. He’s keeping us safe! I just hope the pain in my side due to excessive bursts of laughter doesn’t necessitate a trip to the emergency ward, entailing a five hour wait for treatment for which there will be no medication or appropriate equipment available (awaiting another free contribution of same from U.S., Canadian, or U.K. charitable sources). Ha, Ha, ouch!

Cheryl

HJA

Time for reflection

However, it appears from where I stand, that the PMC failed to garner any real support. That may have been because the populace could not tell, with any certainty, whether the PMC was or was not a political party. Now, with this recent press release, the PMC has ‘risen like the Phoenix from the ashes’, and produced what is, in my humble opinion, a rather balanced view of developments here since the December 9, 2015 elections. I can see clearly the hand of Bros Allen and Daniel in the sentiments expressed, i.e. a call for reconciliation and compromise, acknowledgement of one’s errors and a recognition of the power that lies in the hands of the people. The message, I discern, and I agree with the PMC if I am correct, is that there will be no real change until the people recognise the need for harmony and a single voice, in the struggle against injustice and unfair play. And now to another point. It would serve the PMC in good stead if it would clear the air with respect to the role, if any, of two of its original members. I speak here of Jomo

Thomas and Luzette King who have demonstrated without question, where their allegiances lie. They have opted for the side of partisan politics, and cannot, therefore, be considered representative of a quest that seeks to advocate on behalf of social justice. The struggle for social justice has to be one that fights social injustice and ‘ignorance’ wherever it exists, whether it emanates from the ULP, NDP, Green Party or what have you. I cannot accept that these two persons, and others who have so chosen to align themselves with political parties, can speak with

SVG here I come? “LABOUR LOVES YOU”, unless of course you want to work here. The PM admitted in Parliament that there is a dearth of skilled workers in many sectors (skilled workers here have emigrated to seek employment elsewhere), and this acts as a detriment to foreign investors, who will find no readily available skilled local workers for immediate employment. If you are a skilled worker seeking to immigrate to St. Vincent, depending on where you are coming from, all licences have been increased dramatically. Unless you have a firm job offer, this is no place for a skilled worker to look to come for work. If you are a foreigner and want to live here, or buy

property here, or do business here, the costs have accelerated. Hey, that makes this a place I want to move to and open a business! I would love to come to St. Vincent to open a business where tourism is declining and skilled workers are emigrating and educated families are moving out, taking their children with them, thus decreasing the enrollment in the public schools. Hey, that’s the kind of country I want to invest big money in, and buy property in, and create a new business in, and bring my employees to (some of whom are gay, and will be ostracized, if not prosecuted)... Yeah? Really? JOE

straight tongues on behalf of the people. The PMC must first rid itself of those manifestations of contradiction before it can think of endearing itself to the population, and encouraging genuine, non-partisan, open discussions on the issues that affect us. Theodore James

* Was the duty free concession granted to a developer here, refused by customs authorities? * Were that concession granted before or after the December 9 general election? * Is the search for the next Commissioner of Police going outside the Police Force? * How could the PM say he favours the poor, and put VAT on leg quarters? What happen, doesn’t he know that that is what the poor buying now? * Will the removal of duty free concession start with Ministers of Government, Parliamentarians and public servants, all of who can buy vehicles otherwise? * Did we boast about decreasing the number of ‘indigent poor’ in this country? How come now we talking so much about Hunger Fund and so forth? Are we admitting that they have people here who don’t have anything to eat or who don’t have enough to eat?

10. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Excerpts from the Budget Address delivered by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves Economic growth and job creation (i) General Introductory Comments ALL THINGS being equal, real economic growth and job creation are attained through the efficacious and harmonious workings, within, and through partnerships between, the private, cooperative, and the State sectors of the economy. The investment for economic development, and job creation, comes from each of these sectors. Domestic and foreign direct investment of a private kind are major investment contributors. Substantial public sector investment takes place through the public sector investment programme of the central government and public enterprises (statutory entities and stateowned companies). The major productive sectors through which economic growth and job creation occur are: Agriculture and Fisheries; Tourism; Manufacturing; Energy; Telecommunications; Wholesale and Retail Trade; Transportation; Banking, Insurance, Credit Unions, and Financial Services; Construction; Educational and Health Services; Real Estate and other Professional Services; and Creative Industries. Historically, the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has had a relatively low absorptive capacity for labour. This fact is reflected in the continued stubbornness of the employment rate of roughly one-fifth of the labour force since the Second World War. Interestingly, as the data from the 2012 Census show, although the actual number of employed persons increased from 35,036 in 2001 to 40,821 in 2012 ___ an increase of 5,785 persons or 14.7 percent, the rate of unemployment remained roughly the same (approximately 20 percent) in 2012 as in 2001. This condition is explained by the fact that the labour force increased to 52,014 persons in 2012 from 44,984 in 2001, an increase of 15.6 percent. The size of the labour force grew significantly between 2001 and 2012 despite the fact that the overall population increased marginally by only 0.01 percent between 2001 to 2012; the actual overall population in 2012 being 109,991 persons. The significant increase in the size of the labour force in the midst of only a marginal increase in the overall population, is explainable by way of the altered composition of the population. For example, the percentage of the population between 15-24 years fell between the inter-censal years 2001 to 2012, while the number of persons above 60 years increased sharply by 31.5 percent over the same period. An increased number of the over-60 population actually remained in the labour force. The finding in the 2012 Census that there has been an actual increase in the number of employed persons compared to 2001, is supported by the data of active registrants at the National Insurance Services (NIS). The NIS data show that in 2000, there were 32,064 active registrants (30,061 active employees, 1,726 active employers, and 277 active selfemployeds)); in 2014, there were 36,426 active registrants (33,642 active employees, 1,915 active employers, and 869 active selfemployeds) an increase of 4,362 active registrants or an increase of some 14.0 percent. So, the economy created an actual increase in jobs, but not enough to dent the unemployment rate, in the face of the altered composition of the population and the increase in the size of the labour force. This is one of the principal reasons why our

government has been addressing in a focussed way the necessity and desirability of effecting structural changes in the nature of our economy through, among other things, education, and health, appropriate private sector investment, technological enhancements, and significant public sector investments in areas such as airports, energy, seaports, the roads and bridges networks, sea and river defences, information communications technology, housing, and initiatives in agriculture, fisheries, industry, and tourism. This is what encompasses our quest to build a modern, competitive, post-colonial economy which is at once local, national, regional, and global.

(ii) Public Sector Investment The financing of the public sector investment programme comes from the following sources: Government revenues or the resources of state enterprises; grants from countries and agencies overseas; and local or external loans, mainly soft-loans. The central government’s capital budget for 2016 amounts to $197.7 million. Of the nine functional classification expenditure heads in the Capital Estimates, four have been allocated 88.1 percent or $174.2 million in the capital budget. These four dominant functional classification heads in the capital budget are: (a) Economic Affairs, which receives a share of 52.5 percent or $103.8 million of the capital budget. Projects financed under this heading include major infrastructural developments such as roads, bridges, and airport infrastructure. Also included under this heading is the central government’s capital expenditure on productive sectors such as Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries, and Telecommunications. (b) Environmental Protection, which has been allocated $27.2 million or 13.8 percent of the 2016 capital budget. As a small island developing state, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is extremely, and increasingly, vulnerable to natural disasters and the impact of rising sea levels as a consequence of climate change. We must accordingly make the requisite investments to enhance our country’s resilience and disaster response capabilities. (c) Health, which has received an allocation of $22.8 million or 11.5 percent of the capital budget. The capital projects under “Health” are geared principally to improving the physical plant across the health sector. (d) Housing and Community Activities, which account for $20.4 million or 10.3 percent of the capital budget. Resources under this functional classification head are allocated to improve housing, rural development, and infrastructure at the community levels. The other five functional classification heads which receive capital allocations are: General Public Services, Public Order and Safety; Education; Social Protection; and Recreation, Culture and Religion. All nine functional classification heads are budgeted to receive, too, recurrent expenditure in 2016 of $715.2 million. The total budget of $912.9 million contribute immensely to economic growth and job creation, among other things. To be continued……

The NDP has the better programmes and policies THE 2016 BUDGET which was presented by Dr. Gonsalves on 22nd February 2016 did not address the economic and social problems that are affecting the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It did not offer any hope for Vincentians. Instead, it was all about oratory and rhetoric. Based on the budget presentation, there isn’t any plan to halt the steadily declining tourism sector which has the potential to generate more revenue that it is presently making, so that it will contribute more to the economy. Agriculture has not been given the attention it deserves. It appears that it is a deliberate ploy so that the farmers will suffer and be dependent on the regime. Manufacturing is nonexistent and no attempt is made to stimulate that sector. As a result, unemployment will continue to increase. Crime is also a major problem, and no strategy has been outlined to tackle it. Meanwhile, because of the mismanagement of the country’s economy by this illegitimate Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime; we have had four (4) consecutive years of negative growth and a number of deficit budgets. And there aren’t any innovative ideas or major projects in the budget that will stimulate economic growth and development, and create jobs. As a matter of fact, based on the estimates; there has been a significant reduction to the capital estimates of 2016. It has been reduced by approximately $100 million from $296 million in 2015 to $197.6 million in 2016; this would have a negative effect on employment. However, It was said by a senior government minister, that the budget was not about creating jobs. We must bear that in mind. Furthermore, the budget is laden with new taxes which will ultimately create more hardship and suffering to the poor and working class of this country. For instance, during the last general elections campaign, the New Democratic Party (NDP) promised the electorate of this county that it would have removed VAT on over one hundred basic food items. Instead, the illegitimate ULP government has increased the number of items that are now to be charged VAT. Items that were on the exempted list are now taxable, making it more difficult for the poor and working class to purchase basic food items, all this in an attempt to raise revenue. Definitely, this revenue measure has shown that the illegitimate ULP regime is clueless as how to go about generating revenue. The NDP should now take its rightful place in governing the affairs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The NDP will do a better job in governing this country. The electorate on 9th December 2015 voted for the NDP to govern the country, but the elections were stolen. The time has come for the ULP to vacate office so that the NDP can take its rightful place in managing the affairs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. There is no doubt that the NDP has the better programmes and policies which, when implemented, will return this country to economic growth and development and ultimately improve the lives of all Vincentians. The New Democratic Party will in due course reply fully to the budget presentation by the illegitimate ULP administration. However, it’s an opportune time to remind Vincentians of the NDP’s programmes which would have enhanced the lives of Vincentians: * Remove VAT on over one hundred (100) basic items. * Remove VAT on electricity, and

pursue other options to reduce overall electricity cost. * Replant and rehabilitate one thousand (1000) acres of bananas * Reinstate a development bank to support the development of enterprise in agriculture and tourism, etc. * Design and implement community-based projects in every constituency, to provide local employment under the auspices of the Constituency Development Fund. * Pay the fees for CSEC and CAPE exams * Revive and refinance the Book Loan Scheme * Develop and maintain playing fields in every constituency * Tackle and reduce corruption and crime * Bring to parliament and pass integrity legislation * Design and implement a national health insurance service * Ensure the availability at the community level, of basic health care facilities and medications for diabetes, pressure and other common ailments. * Pay down the government’s debt to the private sector by 50% * Provide five hundred (500) jobs in information and communication technology * Design and implement a true lowincome housing programme that will provide quality houses at affordable prices.

Development Projects * A major international construction group will partner with the NDP to finally get the Argyle Airport into a state of readiness. * A major international development group will build a one thousand (1000) unit integrated residential and hotel resort complex in St. Vincent. * An important international group will use St. Vincent and the Grenadines as its base to establish a new chain of retail banks throughout the Caribbean. * A major international construction group specializing in infrastructure projects, will establish a regional head office in St. Vincent and the Grenadines * A global player in the trust and corporate services sector will be involved in overhauling our financial services. * A global player in private aircraft services will set up a state of the art aircraft registry * A significant seaport improvement initiative is planned for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, again partnering with a major international construction firm. * Final negotiations are taking place for very significant investments into our technology sector. * The NDP is working with some of the world’s international tax specialists to establish tax treaties that will generate further investment into our country. * The NDP will develop our agricultural sector to benefit from cocoa, and value- added, to supply the demand at high prices for premium chocolate. We will also utilize our joint venture infrastructure in the UK for further agriculture diversification, alongside banana rehabilitation. Undoubtedly, the projects listed would have created employment and economic growth and development, and improve the lives of all Vincentians.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 11.

Views

A slippey slope to slime

“Indeed the safest road to Hell is the gradual one—the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts, …” ― C.S. Lewis (18981963). British novelist, poet, academic, medievalist, literary critic, essayist, lay theologian, broadcaster, lecturer, and Christian apologist. The Screwtape Letters

Dr. William Glasser’s book entitled “Reality Therapy”. Glasser describes how relatively easy it is for some individuals to seek to assuage their consciences after committing wrongs DICTIONARY.COM defines the noun by seeking to pass the blame onto “slime” as a thin, glutinous mud; any someone else. We hear these ropy or viscous matter, especially of a utterances so often, “The devil made foul kind; and a viscous secretion of me do it” or “He/she made me do it.” animal or vegetable origin. The word This is so far from the truth. Unless conjures up images of something we are drugged or forcibly accosted gruesome and unsanitary – something (as in the case of rape) we make those that we seek to avoid coming into choices. Persons may influence our contact with. As we reflect on this thoughts and actions but in the final week’s topic, and marry the title with analysis we were the ones who chose. We decide whether we walk the the quotation from C.S. Lewis that was used to introduce this week’s essay, we narrow road to purity, honesty, and integrity. We are the ones who decide recognize the strong warning that emanates. We note that we should seek whether to select the slippery slope that leads to slime. to avoid those “little compromises” of Even as these words are being our principles that could so easily lull us penned it is possible that the into a level of comfort as we spiral introspection that has been taking downwards to the dark side of life and place has resulted in some readers the pain, heartache, guilt, and regret concluding that they had selected the that so often gather as we descend. latter option (the slippery slope). It is Those “white lies”, those “little sins”, those “small infractions” have a way of not too late to turn back. Many have taking us down that slippery slope that done so and have avoided the character smears and guilt that leads to slime. emanates from the indecent exposure Jerry Bridges shared some useful insights on this topic his book entitled that is common among those whose lives are wrecked by the vermin that “The Pursuit of Holiness”. The book lured them to the dark side of life. focuses on encouraging successful Christian living. In it, he cautions us The adulterer can discontinue his/her nefarious deeds and experience the that “Too often, we say we are peace that is generated from a life of defeated by this or that sin. No, we forgiveness and restoration. The thief are not defeated. We are simply can discover that a focus on gaining disobedient. It might be good if we things lawfully can generate a sense stop using the terms victory and of satisfaction and accomplishment defeat to describe our progress in that no amount of “unfair gain” can holiness. Rather, we should use the create. The slippery slope to slime terms obedience and disobedience. can be avoided when we focus on what When I say I am defeated by some is right and just. When we entertain sin, I am unconsciously slipping out thoughts that take us along the upper from under my responsibility. I am road to honesty and decency. saying something outside of me has Clive Staples Lewis was right when defeated me. But when I say I am he cautioned us that “Indeed the disobedient, that places the safest road to Hell is the gradual responsibility for my sin squarely on one–the gentle slope, soft underfoot, me. We may in fact be defeated, but the reason we are defeated is because without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts.” Very we have chosen to disobey. We need to brace ourselves up and often, our gravitation to the “realm of darkness” is not an abrupt one; it to realize that we are responsible for regularly takes the path of simple, thoughts, attitudes, and actions. We little, innocent, unsuspecting need to reckon on the fact that we compromises of what we know to be died to sin’s reign, that it no longer right and just. The Old Testament has any dominion over us, that God has united us with the risen Christ in hero David knew what that was like. Just a “little glance” in the wrong all His power and has given us the Holy Spirit to work in us. Only as we direction can trigger a thought that leads to an action that can result in accept our responsibility and serious negative consequences. He appropriate God’s provisions will we looked at another man’s wife, coveted make any progress in our pursuit of her, orchestrated to get her for holiness.” himself, got her pregnant, and We are fearfully and wonderfully designed and then implemented a plot made — every last one of us. God provided us with a free will — the will to kill her husband. One little glance in the wrong direction took him down to choose. Choice is an awesome a painful and shameful road to guilt privilege and responsibility. Life is and regret. Our temptations may not laid out before us. We can choose to pursue honesty, purity, integrity, and resemble his. They may take a totally different form and come from a all of the other virtues that make completely different angle. We must societies strong. Alternately, we can therefore guard our thoughts and select the option to be dishonest, discipline ourselves to avoid these lustful, greedy, covetous, lures of the eye, the flesh, and the disrespectful, and any of the other pride of life as we seek to avoid that corrosive and destructive behaviours that weaken the fabric of society. We self-destructing slope to slime. choose. We decide. We are Send comments, criticisms & responsible for our thoughts and suggestions to actions. This is so well described in julesferdinand@gmail.com

Our country is an intellectual wasteland “IN AN ENVIRONMENT conducive to criticism and self criticism, steel is supposed to sharpen steel. In a marketplace of ideas, the best communicator is most persuasive. However, where the free and open discussion of all issues is discouraged or choked out of existence, the mind becomes fossilized, and stagnation and disintegration take hold.” Ho Chi Minh, late president of North Viet Nam speaking to academics and intellectuals in 1963. The plain truth is that politics is choking off open discussion in SVG. It is not that people are not talking, because we are speaking more than ever before. The sad truth is that most of our conversations on major issues of life and death, the past, present or future, are premised on which side of the political divide we fall. This is an unfortunate state of affairs because there is so much more than can be said on an issue without even mentioning the governing party or the opposition. We can discuss critical issues affecting or impacting on our lives, with turning the issue into a political football. This is why in the more developed countries or even at the campuses of the University of the West Indies, issues are researched. They may be adopted by politicians and implemented as government policy; but the key is that the policy was not driven by the political party. Not so in SVG. A few years ago, a leading politician chided me for wanting to have solutions oriented policy neutral discussion that was absolutely devoid of politics. In his view, there was no clear difference between policy and politics. They were one and the same, he said. It may well be that many persons on either side of the political aisle may share those views. However, such shortsightedness holds back our country. Such thinking blocks the emergence of new and creative thoughts. It demands that some of our brightest minds go along to get along. This forced unity of mind and opinion is amazingly pervasive and damaging. In private conversations with persons from both sides of the fence, they sometimes articulate cogent and reasoned views as to why they may disagree with this or that view of their party, but dare not articulate it in public for fear that it may get back to someone of influence and authority. This cannot be good for our emerging and developing polity. Some say that they like a weak or weakened opposition because it means the ULP will remain in power longer. I will love the ULP, with its people-centered policies, to remain in office forever, once it continues to deliver; but I am absolutely certain that all ULP politicians will be forced to hone their craft and improve their ‘game’, if there is an opposition that is meaningfully demonstrating heft in all areas of national life. The most unfortunate development in SVG over the last 25 years is the emergence of the ULP and NDP as the two most important institutions in Vincentian society. The organizations are much more powerful than the

churches and schools, parents and teachers. Everything and everyone runs through them for authentication and validation. Let’s see how this is damaging our country. A judge makes a reasoned decision, and depending on how it goes, different sides break down along political lines either trashing or supporting it. Worse, some will join in the melee without knowing the facts or bothering to read what the judge of high training and long years of experience said. A minister of Government announces a plan to clean up Kingstown. Although we all agree that Kingstown needs a facelift, the conversation breaks down along partisan lines. A businessman claims he is targeted and, without a bit of evidence, one side of the divide joins in the chorus that he is indeed being targeted. The converse is all true. Without weighing the facts, many supporters of the government declare that there is no way such a claim could be true. During the budget presentation, the PM announced taxes on cooking oils, (not coconut oil), milk and sugar, and premised the increases on the basis that lifestyle diseases were murdering us because of our bad eating choices. You would think that opposition politicians will at least bow to the fact that diabetes, hypertension, stroke and heart ailments are killing us in record numbers, and join the refrain which attempts to swear people off these products. But no sir. We take the political easy street. Government is killing the poor with taxes, says the elected opposition, thus reinforcing the ignorance of the populace. Similarly, those supporting the government will not offer a shade of difference with what the government proposed in its budget because it is said such expression of difference lends succour to the other side. The school of thought that is most attractive is the one which says sunlight is the best disinfectant there is. The school which proclaims that steel sharpens steel, inevitably leads to enlightenment. The institute that reminds us that nothing is settled for all times, that what may be true today, may fade into falsehood tomorrow, is well recommended. Success breathes arrogance and disdain for other views. But it is the most successful who must constantly look back and delve into ways to make his work better. If we don’t do constant introspection, in the end, our only arsenal will comprise of the destructive language of labeling, smear and the violence of ‘lick up.’ If we keep this up, this refusal to look critically at all things before jumping on a band wagon, SVG will forever remain an intellectual wasteland. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

12. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Argyle Airport – death knell of SVG PEOPLE have expressed concerns to the Leader of SVG Green Party, Mr Ivan O’Neal, about the viability of Argyle airport. They feel that the airport will not work and will fail to get a licence, because the runway is not strong enough. According to the Argyle Airport Environmental Impact Assessment report (EIA report), the Argyle airport was built to cater for jumbo jet aircrafts, the Boeing B747-400. This aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of almost 400,000 kg or 400 tonnes. The Argyle runway has already failed compaction testing, and people are worried that the runway lacks the appropriate stiffness and compactness to accommodate the Boeing B747-400. The type of runway

stiffness and compactness testing that was carried out at Canouan airport has not been seen at Argyle. The landing of light planes during the election, at Argyle airport, does not prove the runway will work for jumbo jets. Proper testing, as was done at Canouan, is needed at Argyle. In the EIA report, the original costing for completing the Argyle airport was $502 million. Already, after 8 years of construction, the cost is almost double that at about $960million. Yet, the public have not been told whether the Argyle Airport runway is viable to cater for jumbo jets, and (that) the project can achieve its original goal. There is little evidence of any work being carried out at the Airport, and no date of opening. Will there be an opening?

development. Haiti has an international airport, The Argyle airport is become another and yet remains one of the death knell of the Thailand. Mass tourism the poorest countries in SVG economy, and now is being forced on the virtually no money indigenous people in the the world. The argument circulates in the country. Grenadines, and is full of for an international airport is economic Tourism does not create corruption. delusion. For our longstrong economies. Most We should convert of the Caribbean Argyle into a wind farm term development, a countries focus on for renewable energy and knowledge-based economy is the way tourism, and their an industrial estate for economies are weak, and light industries to create forward to bring prosperity. they have high levels of jobs and revenue. We The concern of unemployment, poverty should also shift our members of the public and significantly high focus on to high quality about whether the levels of public debt. education for economic The money wasted on Argyle airport and the focus on tourism is killing our economy. Economically, SVG is like a graveyard, and things will get worse, as we have been told that Argyle will not make a profit, and public debt is gratitude to Almighty DEPUTY Prime expected to be high until Minister and Minister of God for mercies to him 2030. and indeed the rest of Foreign Affairs and Tourism will destroy Regional Integration Sir his parliamentary our agricultural lands colleagues, their Louis Straker is of the and in the long-term put families and the nation opinion that the our food security at risk. as a whole, when he opposition New We do not want to made his contribution Democratic Party are

Argyle airport runway can take the weight of a 747 aircraft on landing and take-off is natural. One billion dollars will have been wasted if Argyle Airport does not get a licence to operate international flights. Has there been more compaction testing since the Argyle Airport runway failed the earlier testing? SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Opposition ashamed to show up afraid of coming to the House of Parliament. That is his interpretation of the reason why the seven elected members and their two appointed Senators did not take part in either the debate on the 2016 Estimates or the Budget. Straker, first elected to the parliament February 21, 1994, secured four consecutive terms as Representative for Central Leeward. He vacated the seat in 2010, and his replacement, Maxwell Charles, retained the constituency for the Unity Labour Party. Straker was hauled back into the fray for the December 9, 2015 general elections, and once again held the sway. But he has made it plain that he will not be contesting another poll. Straker expressed

last Wednesday, to the debate on the 2016 Budget/Appropriation Bill. He chided the opposition for their no show and suggested that they were “ashamed to show, up in the House.” In a cynical reference to his opposition counterparts, Straker chimed, “They should not be ashamed that they are not in government. That is something they are accustomed to.” The Central Leeward representative hinted that new laws, aimed at making the opposition members enter the House, will be effective. “They will be here by will or force,” Straker emphasised. Straker used the opportunity to dispel rumours that he had been sick, and that he had suffered a stroke

Sir Louis Straker, MP for Central Leeward, has judged the Opposition NDP to be ‘ashamed’ about coming to parliament. while in New York. “I had no stroke,” Straker disclosed, and added, “I am feeling as fit as a fiddle.” Straker celebrated his 74th birthday last week Tuesday, February 23, and referred to the 22nd anniversary of his election to parliament. He was elected as one of three opposition members, February 21, 1994. (WKA)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 13.

News

Company ought to be held accountable WOULD FRANCO CONSTRUCTION Company Limited, the company contracted to repair a piece of road in the Murray’s Road area, be held accountable for not completing the work there? The Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown, Daniel Cummings thinks that the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines ought to be given an account of what transpired in terms of that project. Speaking last Tuesday during the 2016 Budget response session put on by the New Democratic Party (NDP), Cummings raised the issue and asked a few questions to which he said the public needed answers. According to the NDP

Parliamentarian, the project dates back to 2011 when it was included in the Estimates then, at an original cost of EC$2.2 million. “It has been a long time now that a firm, Franco bold-facedly went and took off the pitch that the New Democratic Party (NDP) put down, and left us travelling on that bumpy road…damaging, mashing up our tyres and our suspension,” Cummings said. He went on to note that he was not sure if Government Senator Julian Francis had any shares in the company, but acknowledged that it is owned by the Senator’s relatives. The estimate cost of the work moved from

EC$2.2 million to EC$2.45 million, and in 2011, the completion date was moved to 2012, and then it subsequently moved from 2012 to 2013, then 2015, and now in 2016, there is a project listed at a cost of EC$1.82 million to repair the piece of road, Cummings explained. “But I want to point something to you. This is a project funded by the Republic of China on Taiwan, and I want to suggest to you that it is not accidental. You see, the Republic of China on Taiwan does not require nearly the same level of accountability as any other agency,” he said. It was initially noted that Franco would be responsible for repairing the road, but now there was talk of a new

Not a good time for increase in items DANIEL CUMMINGS, the Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown, has accused the government of initially intending to increase the rate of the Value Added Tax (VAT). However, after being called out on it, the Dr Ralph Gonsalves administration denied it, Cummings is contending. According to Cummings, at a time when wages were stagnant and unemployment high, it was unfair to impose such a heavy burden on the people. He spoke of the Leader of the Opposition, Arnhim Eustace, who advanced alternative forms of generating revenue, similar to what was currently taking place in St KittsNevis. “Because we found out that they were going to move VAT from 15 percent to 17 percent, you heard how quickly they denied it?” Cummings said while giving his response to the

2016 Budget last Tuesday. He further explained that when the tax was first introduced, the government generated 20 percent more revenue than anticipated. “And the problem is that he putting VAT on the things that the poor people must buy,” Cummings said. During the 2016 Budget presentation last week Monday, Gonsalves indicated that, as part of the fiscal measures to generate revenue, some zero-rated items would now be taxed, including packaged rice for retail sale, whole chicken and chicken parts, table and cooking butter, brown sugar, pigeon and lentil peas, cooking oils, shortenings, salt and yeast. With regard to the allegation that VAT would be increasing, Gonsalves said at a press conference back in January, that this was false, and that he never contemplated an increase in the rate of VAT. (DDD)

The revenue yield expected from the adjustments in the VAT regimen is estimated at $8 million per annum, according to the Prime Minister’s Budget Address.

MP Daniel Cummings has called for a reckoning with respect to expenditure to repair a primary stretch of road leading into Kingstown. contractor to be assigned, and according to Cummings, no explanation of why the previous contractor was severed, or what money was paid, or if there was a penalty imposed on the company. “Don’t we deserve to know? Isn’t that normal behaviour for a government to give

account for money given to them?” The taxpayers of Taiwan gave the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines the money to be spent, and not the Unity Labour Party (ULP), Cummings said, and therefore (the government) must be held accountable. During the

presentation of the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure back in January, Senator Julian Francis, who is also the Minister of Transport and Works, apologised to the public for the condition of the section of road, saying that he was upset, more so because the contractor was related to him. (DDD)

14. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Community

Trinity ÂKid CompanionsÊ brings joy to orphans “IT’S ALL ABOUt focusing and deepening the personal development of its members.’ That’s how Dian Freeman, the first President and founder of ‘Kid Companions’, a recently (February 2016) formed group comprised of students of the Trinity School of Medicine. “At my first Student Government meeting, I noticed all clubs centered on student self-involvement. The Christian organizations had outreaches to orphanages and different homes around SVG. They only gave money, but I wanted to belong to an organization that put time and effort into building the lives of the children in these institutions: that’s why I started ‘Kid Companions’”, Dian explained. Dian said she found little difficulty attracting persons to the cause, “as everyone was willing to get involved and to help out.” After three weeks of deliberation as per the objectives and focus of the group, ‘Kid Companions’ journeyed to Georgetown, Saturday 20th February, to visit with the children of the St. Benedict Children’s Home, where some twenty children between the ages of two months and eighteen years reside. It didn’t take long for the students to warm to their charges, and soon

they were conducting a number of fun activities on the playground. They raced, drove the children in their wheelchairs, climbed, slid down the chute, and see-sawed, among other activities. It was a rollicking afternoon. There was an outpouring of sentiments from members. Rachael Perkins excitedly expressed her reason for joining Kid Companions as, “I really love, love kids!” Jesse Schmidt beamed, “Once I heard about it, I had to sign up. I wanted to see the kids and hang out with them. Now, I’m absolutely happy that I’ve come, when I see the joy they experience when they run around so super happy.” Alexx Hames was overjoyed at the experience. “I just love kids,” she gushed, “so it was exciting to go to meet with them. I can’t believe that I got to hold a baby for two hours”. The sole male student Companion, David Mantilla, was not to be excluded. “I absolutely enjoyed this afternoon,” he blurted, “I felt like I got as much out of it as the children did. I was just so happy to see the smiles on their faces, the joy that they had in playing with us and spending time with us; it really is so simple as just coming out here and spending time with them.”

It didn’t take long for members of ‘Kid Companions’ to warm to the children who reside at the St. Benedict Children’s Home, Georgetown. And as far as President Dian Freeman was concerned, the activity fulfilled the intention of ensuring that the children had “a great time.” The institution’s Director, Sr. NyraAnne Pajotte, was extremely happy that ‘Kid Companions’ chose to visit and interact with the residents at the Home. She concurred that, “The interaction is really encouraging to the children,” and confided that, “Sometimes, the children do not quite know how to engage outsiders sufficiently and persons coming in to

focus on companioning them.” The visit, she assessed, was a definite boost to their social skills. Kid Companions has planned two other visits to the St. Benedict Children’s Home for this term, during which the children will be taken on some “marching paths”, and will be given the experience of a carnival festivity. They also plan on giving companionship to children from the Social Services Clinic of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 15.

Arts

Alec and Galexia top Latin Dance Competition

“DAD made a joke. Mum took him seriously.” That’s how 12-year-old Alec Best became a Latin dancer and last Saturday won his first competition with partner Galexia Awad, also aged 12. The youngest in the competition, the duo topped four adult couples, and captured the heart of the audience at the First Amateur Bachata Latin Passion Dance Competition at Beachcombers’ Hotel. An extra bonus: one of the competitors they triumphed over was Alec’s own father, pilot Everette Best. Latin dance expert Mary Chen, who helped popularize the bachata in Trinidad and Tobago, was one of the judges. She said of the winners: “They had a connection.’’ Alec joined the Latin Passion SVG dance club a year ago after seeing a flyer. His father had said, lightheartedly, that maybe they should join. His mother, Andrea, took the cue, and the whole family started learning the basics of salsa, bachata, kizomba and other Latin dances. Galexia gave up hip hop and ballet for Latin, and when Alec

asked her to be his partner (after his older sister Lia, 17, turned him down), she thought it might be fun to train for the competition. The competition was part of a week of anniversary celebrations forLatin Passion SVG, which was formed in 2013. The duo, who had met as pupils of Windsor Primary School, practised for three weeks, three times a week, for three hours a night - while juggling homework as first formers at Grammar School and St Joseph’s Convent. When Galexia’s mother Kathleen Bailey-Awad was asked whether she was concerned the dancing would interfere with her daughter’s school work, she replied, “Oh gosh, no. She is at the top of her class. She won the principal’s merit award this year.’’ While they were confident on stage, Alec confessed that he began to feel some quivers as he watched the other performers. “Everybody’s routine fit the songs,’’ he said. Before the results were announced, Chen explained that timing was a key aspect of

successful bachata, and fluidity counted for more than spins and turns and exciting moves. Alec and Galexia practised in socks instead of dance shoes as they developed their smooth steps. The bachata originated in the Dominican Republic and is more sensual and slower than the fiery salsa, and there is an element of theatre to the dance. Alec exuded a strong, intense, unsmiling persona (“I was trying to control my nervousness’’), and he opened by dramatically tossing his white fedora to the floor, almost like a bullfighter flicking away an invisible cape. Galexia was cheeky, playful and the audience melted when she tucked her finger under his chin, and called him with her expressive eyes (“I was trying to make him smile’’). In a word, what they had was believability - as they portrayed the push and pull of a boymeets-girl story. Although Alec and Galexia

Alec Best and Galexia Awad belied their 12-year-old status to enthrall with a winning interpretation of the Bachata.

looked like best pals on the dance floor, during their hectic three-week preparation, with choreographer Haidee Dunn, the duo had their squabbles over technique. “He would start it usually,’’ Galexia said, jokingly. “He would say you are not doing it right. I would just laugh.’’

But with their first-place finishing, Alec and Galexia look forward to working together again. He said: “I like her styling. You can do a basic step but add the shoulders and hands and some footwork, and it would look completely different.’’ She said: “He expresses his emotions in the dance.’’ And then, she did it again. She flashed the look which helped them win the competition - that impish halfsmile, which made her eyes shine like the gold medals around their necks.

16. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Beating back the ZIKA Virus The following is provided as a public service by THE VINCENTIAN.

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Foreign Relations

Venezuelan Ambassador on added mission

Nicolas Maduro (2013 to present), has increased hundredfold its assistance to this country and the Anglo-phone Caribbean region in general. Assistance has been forthcoming in areas of H.E. Ambassador Yuri energy, health, education Pimentel is on a and culture, and inframission to deepen and structural development, expand relations through, though not between his country, inclusively, PetroCaribe Venezuela, and St. and ALBA. In fact, Vincent and the Venezuela is one of the Grenadines. major benefactors of the Argyle International NEWLY INSTALLED Airport project. Ambassador of the And while H. E. Bolivarian Republic of Ambassador Pimentel is Venezuela to St. Vincent tasked with ensuring and the Grenadines, H.E. that assistance in these Yuri Pimentel, has his eyes established areas set on broadening the continue unabated, as areas of relations between committed to by the two countries. President Maduro, he Venezuela, moreso recognised that there through the exist other opportunities administrations of the from which both late President Hugo Venezuela and SVG can Chavez (2002 — 2013) benefit, and further and current President strengthen the fraternal

relations that have taken root between the two countries. One of these areas is a broadening of trade, and H.E. Ambassador Pimentel is determined to begin initiatives in this regard. Of course, this requires a close working

relationship with government and the private sector, a challenge which the Ambassador is prepared to face head on. Given the overwhelming influence on the Western media on the news that reaches the region, as far as

developments in Venezuela are concerned, the Ambassador is also committed to ‘righting this wrong’ and avail himself and his embassy of every opportunity towards fulfilling this undertaking. H.E Ambassador Pimentel is the second

full Ambassador to be accredited to St. Vincent and the Grenadines since 2002. The first was H.E. Yoel Perez Marcano. THE VINCENTIAN was pleased to welcome the Ambassador to its offices on Tuesday 23rd February.

Korean Ambassador presents credentials ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES recently welcomed a newly accredited non-resident Ambassador from the Republic of Korea, who is based in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. On Monday, February 15, 2016, H.E Lee DooYoung Lee presented his Letters of Credence to his Excellency Sir Frederick Ballantyne, Governor General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines at Government House. Following a number of courtesy calls thereafter, H.E. Ambassador Lee, on Tuesday, February 17, handed over a quantity of medical equipment to the Ministry of Health and Wellness during a brief ceremony at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. The equipment has an estimated cost of $100,000 USD, and will benefit several departments at the Milton Cato Memorial

Hospital. H.E. Ambassador Lee’s accreditation, in addition to Trinidad and Tobago and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, also extends to Barbados, Grenada and, Saint Lucia. St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Republic of Korea established bilateral relations on October 28, 1979, one day after our nation’s attainment of political independence. H.E Lee Doo-Young Lee, newly appointed Republic of Korea Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Avoid any hassles. Your energy will be high; however, if not channeled suitably, temper tantrums may erupt. Your emotions will be touched off concerning recent encounters with your lover. Confusion regarding other people's money and joint ventures will come to a head. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You will get along well with your colleagues this week. Opportunities to learn important information will surface through discussions with peers or seminars you attend. You can expand your circle of friends if you get out and socialize. You can make a serious attempt at quitting those bad habits that you've picked up over the years. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You can make adjustments in your domestic scene this week. Difficulties will result if you have to deal with controversial groups this week. Unrealistic promises will only get you in trouble. You should check out prestigious clubs or groups that have a cause you believe in. CANCER (June 22-July 22) You're in the mood for love. Consider making residential changes; either moves or renovations could payoff. Someone important may be watching you from afar. Trouble could be brewing at home. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You may think gifts will win their heart, but it could add stress from lack of funds. Younger relatives may seek your advice. Don't push your mate if you want to keep this union going. You will need to finalize important deals this week. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Talk to your mate about a vacation and discuss the expectations of your relationship. Don't let the erratic behavior of someone you live with interfere with your professional performance. Don't beat around the bush; state your case in plain and simple terms. Use your ingenuity to manipulate things to get what you want. Someone you live with will, be

impossible. LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Watch your tendency to live for the day and to spend too much on entertainment and children; it could set you back. Avoid scandals of any sort. Use your added discipline to get what you want. You should get out and enjoy social events where you are likely to meet new potential mates; however, don't over spend. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Losses could occur if you haven't been careful when dealing with joint financial ventures. Children will keep you busy. You need to look into ways to change your self-image. You might not be as reserved on an emotional level as you'd like. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You should be setting up interviews or sending out your resume this week. Do things you enjoy instead of being a chameleon. Take care of any paperwork concerning institutional or governmental agencies. Try not to upset others with your plans. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You could be attracting individuals who are anything but good for you. Your efforts will be rewarded handsomely. Use your obvious talent to work with detail and you can come up with something great. Look for something entertaining to do. You've got that competitive edge. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Your creative ability will surface, giving you good ideas for ways of making money. You can make favorable changes in your home environment. Pleasure trips will be favorable and bring about possible romance. You can ask for favors and get sound advice from close friends or relatives. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Ferret out information that will hold them responsible. Work quietly on your own and you will forge ahead. A romantic infatuation from your past may surface if you frequent places that you both used to go. Children may be less than honest with you.

ACROSS

back on the hook (2 wds.) 1.Poppy or 48. Wife of sesame Zeus 5. June honoree 49. Frat letter 8. Spongelike 51. Risk cake 52. Upon 12. Jack rabbit 53. Hungary’s 13. Era cont. 14. They’re 54. Assocs. often yoked 55. Glazier’s 15. Tel __ material 16. Fiddler’s 56. Dover’s device state 17. Furrier’s (abbr.) item 57. Russian 18. Actor rejection Robert __ (2 wds.) DOWN 20. Lives 22. Evil act 1.Roe source 23. Comedienne 2. Roof Charlotte __ projection 24. Standish’s 3. Actress stand-in Moran 27. Missile 4. Contrive 31. Sticky mess 5. Apply, as 32. Maple’s perfume fluid (2 wds.) 33. Clump 6. Gone by 34. Bears 7. Morning witness moisture 37. Mix 8. Little 39. Feminine shepherdess pronoun (2 wds.) 40. Pursue 9. Skating ardently jump 41. Hackneyed 10. Ringing phrase device 44. Put the 11.Industrious receiver insects

19. “__ Tin locale Tin” 40. Tilt-a-__ 21. Combat 41. Fellow, in 24. __ Khan Falmouth 25. Great 42. “I __ Song quantity Go Out 26. Morse code of My Heart” symbol (2 wds.) 27. British thanks 28. Lamb’s mother 29. Former VP Quayle 30. Bizarre 32. Infused 35. Get free 36. “Quiet!” 37. Squeezing serpent 38. Big Ben’s

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 21.

43. Laundry room item 45. Sinise of “CSI: NY” 46. Egg (on) 47. Annoying person 50. Bring suit

22. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

He wanted to come back woman into the houses, and now I understand that she has cleaned him THANK YOU for the advice you gave me a out completely, and is believed to be somewhere in Guyana. while back, when I asked you if you He came crying to me, begging me thought I should leave my two-timing to come back to him, but I have better husband. You told me then, that once sense than that. The woman had her he remained set in his ways, the own man all the time, but just wanted marriage was going nowhere. his money. I left him not too long after that. I am the one who had the last In fact, I left him, the house and the laugh. business. He moved the (other) George, I want you to keep up the

Dear George,

good work you are doing to help people like me.

Forever thankful Dear Forever thankful, I am happy that you are satisfied with my advice and that you are contented with the decision you took to walk away. Your ex-husband may have finally

come to the realization that all actions have corresponding consequences, and he must now face the music he has created. The decision to take him back would have been totally up to you. You have made your decision, and I wish you all the best as you look forward to the years ahead.

George

Stay away, man pregnant and her boyfriend does not A FRIEND of mine came believe in having sex to me asking me to have with a pregnant sex with her on a regular woman. This is a woman who basis, seeing that she is

Dear George,

is extremely attractive, and I would not mind granting her that request. I want to know from you if I do have sex with her, if anything would happen to the baby. I must admit that I am very big and that is why I am concerned.

J-J Dear J-J, Your main concern

should have been about getting involved in a relationship that you have no right to be in. Granting your friend her request could ruin the friendship you two now have, and create a very negative situation between you, her and the boyfriend. You do not want to get mixed up in that triangle of confusion. Your friend will respect you more if you respectfully decline her offer. Encourage her to take her boyfriend to a relationship counselor to explore his fears of not wanting to be sexually involved with his pregnant fiancée.

George

Raise the issue with her saw her, and I did not report her but still feel I CAUGHT a good friend that I should do of mine shop-lifting, and something about it. I just do not know what to since that incident I do. have not been comfortable relating to Worried her. I could not believe she would do such a Dear Worried, thing. To me, she should not be that Based on the good desperate, because she has a good paying job. I relationship that exists am bothered by trying to between you and your friend, I would suggest figure out why she that you use the would find the ‘need’ to strength of that do something like that. friendship to discuss the She does not know I incident. Such a discussion could give you deeper insights as to your friend’s actual situation, and an opportunity to assist if need be. Friends should be able to talk about the good and the bad. This could only result in strengthening the friendship.

Dear George,

George

V Former Speaker talks out News

A FORMER SPEAKER of suggest that the December the House, Montgomery 9, 2015 General Elections Maule, has indicated that were not free and fair, and he would have preferred if has not recognise the elected members of the current administration as New Democratic Party a legitimate government. (NDP) had given their Petitions were responses to the subsequently filed in the budgetary proposals at High Court and, according the House of Assembly. to Maule, he remained Maule, who served in confident that “the the capacity as the findings, rulings and Speaker of the House admonitions of the court from 1991 to 1998, said will reveal truth, (and) on Monday during his vindicate the innocent, opening remarks at the inspire confidence in our beginning of a two-day democratic institutions and Monty Maule, a former enable a swift return to session put on by the NDP that saw its elected Speaker of the House, normalcy.” and nominated members would have preferred “St Vincent and the to see the Opposition Grenadines remains a respond to the budget members make their presented last week, democratic state,” Maule rebuttals to the 2016 that seven of its declared, “and the right to members were elected to Budget, in the House. dissent and to protest (Photo Credit: NDP the House, and that legally at any level is Facebook Page) “remained the highest enshrined in the title deed and most important possessed by every citizen. debating chamber in the “For those in state. government and especially those “Many look forward to following the elected directly by the people, that debate of the budget and to enjoying fundamental right also carries with it the drama at times of it all,” Maule a peculiarly awesome responsibility added. which must be exercised with equally The NDP have, however, claimed awesome diligence, maturity and that there was sufficient evidence to honesty,” Maule said.( DDD)

‘Major’ reprimanded SWORN IN MEMBERS address, Leacock said: of the Opposition New “The 2016 budget reply is Democratic Party (NDP) not even provocative, but to the House of Assembly I am tempted to title my may have resorted to response to Ralph as one remain out of of lies, liars and Parliament, however, the liabilities.” behaviour of one such Maule, in his capacity, member appears not to interjected with a request have changed. for Leacock not to resort Parliamentary to such language. Representative for To which the Central Kingstown, St Parliamentary Clair Leacock, was his Representative for usual self, demonstrating Central Kingstown no difference in his admitted that, “The manner between his moderator is on the ball, presentation at a Budget so we begin to resemble Rebuttal Exercise hosted St. Clair Leacock, MP how I behave in for Central Kingstown, by his party, and when Parliament, so I felt the authority of the he makes his withdraw lies, liars and moderator first-hand. contributions in the liabilities and don’t House. associate them to any Leacock was asked by the reference.” moderator and former Speaker of the Within recent times, Leacock has House, Montgomery Maule, to “tone” been involved in incidents of verbal down his language while delivering his clashes with members of the House on (Leacock) response to the 2016 Budget the government side, and with the on Tuesday. former Speaker of the House, Within the first few minutes of his Hendrick Alexander. (DDD)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 23.

V Apologies demanded

24. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 05, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Attorney Grant Connell (left) has questioned the haste with which the police were invited to investigate the matter involving his client Uyi Osunde (right).

ATTORNEY Grant Connell, lawyer for Nigerian born medical student Uyi Osunde in a matter against the Bank of Nova Scotia, has confirmed that he and his client are demanding a public apology from the bank and the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF). Connell, however, did not confirm whether or not legal action would be taken, as he would have to await further instructions from his client. He described the matter as very unfortunate. “One would have thought that thorough checks would have been made before an alarm was raised. This was a very serious allegation, ramifications of which have no boundaries. Getting the police involved so quickly just added insult to injury, especially given some of the officers’ proven lack of ability to solve crime,” Connell said. He queried that mystery surrounds “the journey the sum of money my client deposited at the bank’s ABM on December 16, 2015, may have taken”. The lawyer confirmed, “I have communicated with the bank since the DPP issued the nolle prosequi in this matter, for which he must be commended. Without doubt, we are demanding a public apology from the bank and the police. “Scotia Bank is a reputable institution, led by an experienced manager. I trust they would do the honourable thing. The remaining issues I am certain will be addressed without delay”. Uyi Osunde was arrested on December 17, 2015. He was accused of dishonestly obtaining by deception on December 16, 2015, the sum of $10,000 in cash from Stacey DeFreitas of Villa, the property of the Bank of Nova Scotia.

Campus manager demands public apology SYAM SL, Manager of Syam Sl, Manager of the the American American University of University of the School the School of Medicine of of Medicine of St St Vincent, has extended Vincent, is demanding a the issue of defamation to public apology from the the University as a whole. Bank of Nova Scotia, claiming that the Bank defamed the school by making a false allegation against one of the students, Uyi Osunde. The bank’s report to the police last December led to Osunde being charged with deception, allegedly by carrying out a transaction at the bank’s Auto Banking Machine (ABM) on December 16, 2015. Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Colin Williams, however, discontinued the case against the Nigerian medical student last week, and Osunde was formally discharged at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. The campus manager told THE VINCENTIAN that the bank not only defamed Osunde, but also the school and all the students, since the allegation reflects negatively on the school’s image. Sl stressed that Osunde is a very young person, and had gone through tremendous mental trauma as a result of the allegation. “We believe in God, and we know one day the truth will come out,” Sl said. Several Nigerian medical students turned up at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday to show solidarity with and support for Osunde. The students told THE VINCENTIAN they threw their support behind Osunde, in the face of the criminal charge brought against him because they knew from the beginning that he was innocent.

Top cop says police acted lawfully COMMISSIONER OF Nova Scotia. POLICE Michael Charles However, though the says that in his opinion, Commissioner has given his the police have nothing opinion on the issue, he to apologize for in respect indicated that he had sent of the arrest and Connell’s letter to the charging of Nigerian Attorney General for advice student Uyi Osunde, last on its contents. December. Osunde was charged with Charles told THE dishonestly obtaining by VINCENTIAN on deception the sum of Wednesday that he had EC$10,000 in cash from received a letter from the Stacey DeFreitas, the defence lawyer Grant property of the Bank of Nova Connell earlier that day, Scotia. Osunde was accused of Michael Charles, asking for an apology making the transaction on Commissioner of from the police for what December 16, 2015. Police, does not Connell described as Director of Public think the police has wrongful arrest of Prosecution (DPP) Colin anything to Osunde, his client. Williams nolle prosequied apologise for in The Commissioner the matter last week. relation to the arrest said that in his view, the Connell is also demanding of Uyi Osunde. police acted in accordance an apology from the bank as, with their lawful duties according to himl, neither in arresting Osunde, when they the bank nor the police had any responded to a report from the Bank of evidence against Osunde.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 25.

News

Another Mission Hope to SVG A TEAM of Mission Hope volunteers arrived in the state Thursday 25th February. The team is led by Fr. Mike McDermott of Grand Island Nebraska, and comprises nine other members who are skilled in medical, mental and or pastoral care. They are on a one-week mission with Kingstown Diocese, and will be working closely with the St. Benedict’s Nursery and the Bread of Life in Georgetown. This is the team’s fifth trip to SVG, but it will be their third year doing work with children and persons in need of assistance, through the Carmelite Sisters located in Georgetown. Fr. McDermott, pastor at Resurrection Catholic Church in Nebraska, stated that they wished they could have stayed

longer, and will endeavour to do that in the coming years. He further spoke about the need for missionary work, and that his skilled team was focused on “Making God’s healing presence Mission Hope team eader Fr Mike present.” Some of the McDermott (left) and co-leader skilled persons leader Renee Miller include a the team’s visit to SVG is physical therapist, a timely one, especially as occupational therapist, mental health counsellor, the universal church celebrates the jubilee year registered nurses and other ancillary persons to of mercy. It is an opportunity for the church assist with the mission’s along with its people to thrust of assistance. The Kingstown Diocese make visible the love and compassion of God for is pleased with Mission others. Hope and the work they The group leaves SVG have been doing. The on Thursday 4th March. church also realizes that

VINSAVE students get ‘Feel for the earth’ STUDENTS in training and Vinsave staff got a “feel for the earth,” as they prepared ‘grow boxes’ for planting lettuce, and made ‘banks’ to plant cucumbers at the Vinsave Child Development Training Centre, Kingstown, on Thursday 25th February 2016. The exercise was part of the Vinsave Early Childhood Training Programme facilitated by Mr. Tyrone John of the Ministry of Agriculture. A release from Vinsave said that the exercise brings a new dimension to the Vinsave Early Childhood Training Programme, as it serves to equip the students to develop their own school gardens, where they can grow their own vegetables. It is anticipated that the students (trainees), on their return to and/or placement at pre-schools, would introduce the growing of vegetables at

Preparing the banks for sowing cucumber seeds. their schools, so as to encourage an appreciation for vegetables by the children under their care.

Four leap year births recorded FOUR BIRTHS were recorded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital on Monday, February 29, a senior nursing staff at the institution has confirmed. This year is a leap year, accounting for an ‘additional day’ in the month of February. The ‘every-four-years’ occurrence puts families in the predicament of deciding whether to celebrate the new offspring’s birthday on February 28 or March 1. By Wednesday, the moms and their new-borns

were already discharged, which is usually indicative that they are in good health. “Usually, once there are no complications, they (mother and infant) are treated and discharged within 24 hours,” Sister Onell Wyllie told THE VINCENTIAN. The phenomenon of the ‘leap year’ follows the Gregorian Calendar, which has now become the calendar of choice throughout the world. A common year has 365 days and a leap year 366, with the extra day being

designated as February 29, and occurs every four years to help synchronize the calendar year with that of the solar year or the length of time it takes for the earth to completely orbit the sun, which is about 365 and a quarter days. (DDD)

26. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

International Women’s Day Celebration

ÂPlanet 50-50 by 2030: Step up for gender equalityÊ I EXTEND WARMEST greetings to all women and girls of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Caribbean and World, as we commemorate International Women Day (IWD), celebrated this year under the theme, ‘Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step it Up for Gender Equality’. Our vision is that of a world in which all women and girls have equal opportunities and rights by 2030. ‘Step It Up!’ asks governments to make national commitments that will close the gender equality gap — from laws and policies to national action plans and adequate investment. NOW is the time to Step It Up!

Historic beginning The United Nations

began celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March during International Women’s Year 1975. Two years later, in December 1977, the General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming a United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace, to be observed on any day of the year by Member States, in accordance with their historical and national traditions. IWD first emerged from the activities of labour movements at the turn of the twentieth century in North America and across Europe. Since those early years, the Day has assumed a new global dimension for women in developed and developing countries alike. The growing international

women’s movement, which has been strengthened by four global United Nations women’s conferences, has helped make the commemoration a rallying point to build support for women’s rights, and participation in the political and economic arenas. IWD is a time to reflect on progress made to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played extraordinary roles throughout the history and development of their countries and communities. IWD is an opportunity for us to recognize the achievements of our women who have been through the rough and tough times. In so doing,

we congratulate all women on their achievements, even as we call for nondiscriminatory education benefits for both girls and boys, which will contribute to more equal relationships between women and men. Unquestionably, education is a human right and an essential tool for achieving goals of equality, development and peace, and we cannot over-emphasise this. We sympathize and empathize with those of our women and girls who fall prey to the vicious attacks of senseless and inhumane acts of rape and attempted rape, physical and psychological abuse, and violation of their human rights for the favor of jobs and other worthless

gifts. Women can protect themselves from predators and perpetrators by being more vigilant, for any women, anywhere could be the next victim of a vicious act of inhumane treatment. As women and girls, we are also expected to be resilient. Life has a way of throwing violent and discriminating boulders in our path. But we are strong, and must stand up for something. We are the agents of change and empowerment. Let us move forward, despite the indecisions that have tried to hinder our progress. We must place gender equality at the forefront of all development, and support women’s

empowerment as a transformational force for human rights, for economic growth, for sustainability. Investing in women’s education, health, property rights, access to and control over financial resources, knowledge and information is fundamental. So another IWD, let us reaffirm our commitment to women’s rights, and move forward with courage and determination. Let us defend human rights, the inherent dignity and worth of the human person, and the equal rights of men and women. As we commemorate the Day, governments, civil society and the private sector are urged to commit to gender equality and the empowerment of women. The energy, talent and strength of women and girls represent humankind’s most valuable untapped natural resource. Beverly Richards President National Council of Women

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 27.

Historic Rugby Qualifier comes to SVG RUGBY!!! It may not yet be one of the major sports played here, but SVG Rugby Union (SVGRU) officials are confident that Saturday’s Rugby Union World Cup Qualifier against Jamaica, will do a tremendous amount to win support for and encourage participation in the sport. Saturday’s encounter, the first ever Rugby World Cup Qualifier to be played in St. Vincent, is set to start at 2;00pm at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, and is expected to be preceded by women’s tag rugby showcase. Students will take to the pitch during the half time break to demonstrate some of the skills they have learned in the ongoing

Rugby training programme for schools here. Last Wednesday evening was a special occasion for local Rugby officials, including SVGRU President Sophie Goddard, players and enthusiasts, as SVG welcome the arrival of the famous World Cup ‘William Webb Ellis Cup’, the symbol of World Rugby Union supremacy, at the E. T. Joshua Airport. Accompanying the Cup were: James Fitzgerald, member of World Rugby Association; Scott Harland, Regional Development Officer for the North America Caribbean Rugby

Association (NACRA); and Nigel Owens, International referee. Wales born Nigel Owens refereed the 2015 Rugby World Cup between Australia and New Zealand, and officials here consider it quite an honour to have him oversee the Qualifier here. Speaking exclusively with THE VINCENTIAN on his arrival at the E.T Joshua Airport, Owens expressed a deep sense of commitment to the sport. “It (Rugby) means a lot to me. It doesn’t matter the level - World Cup finals, international, any level, community games, Under 12, 16, it doesn’t matter what game you

International Rugby Officials (L-R): Nigel Owens, International Referee, who is looking forward to officiating tomorrow’s match; James Fitzgerald and Scott Harland being welcomed by Sophie Goddard. Right: Sophie Goddard, President of SVGRU and the ‘William Webb Ellis Cup’. referee in, it’s a game of rugby.” He expressed how much he was looking forward to doing Saturday’s match and expects “the two teams to be very competitive.” Recognizing the effort to promote the sport worldwide, Owens said, “I

McIntosh is new netball boss by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

DORIS MC INTOSH is the new President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA). McIntosh was voted for a second stint and replaces Dellarice Duncan, who declined the opportunity to run for a second term, when the Association held its AGM at the Thomas Saunders Secondary School on Wednesday March 3rd, 2016. McIntosh was first elected President in 2008, with the departure of Gloria Ballantnye, and served three terms as stipulated by the Constitution before giving way to Duncan. She served previously as Secretary of the organisation. At Wednesday’s meeting, McIntosh easily brushed aside sports administrator Wollis Christopher, 21 votes to 9. “I was asked to return to take over the sport…by people who are involved, and even by people who are not part of the sport but follow it closely,” McIntosh said when asked about her reason for returning. She said that netball was in her blood, and she believes that she has something to offer the sport, …. one played primarily by female — and which was going through a critical period. “I have time now on my hands and can give a bit more to the sport, and will do just that

Executive of the SVGNA (from right): Sylvorn Harry, Jacintha Ballantyne, Helen Yammie, Cheryl Alexander, Doris McIntosh, Dian Robinson, Dian Questelles, Pearlina Thomas. because these are crucial times for netball in the area of administration and on the court, so it is a time for experience and committed people to join hands to rescue the sport.” McIn tosh said. Mc Intosh will have the experienced Jacintha Ballantyne, as her first vice-president. Ballantyne who was the organisation’s long-serving Treasurer, was elected unopposed, and so too second vice-president, Sylvorn Harry. Neteko Quammie in absentia garnered 28 of the 30 votes to become the Association’s Treasurer. She beat Gailene Gordon who was also absent from the meeting. Dian Robinson collected 23

votes to Gordon’s seven and Silma Millington’s one, to sweep the Secretary’s position, while Dian Questelles took the PRO position unopposed. Cheryl Alexander got what appeared to be an 18/12, upset win over the indefatigable Thelma Foster, to claim the Games Secretary position. In a five-person fight for two Committee Member places, Helen Yammie (25) and Pearlina Thomas (16) prevailed. The opening of the National Netball Tournament is among the immediate tasks of the new executive. Fifteen clubs attended Wednesday’s meeting.

think it’s also important that the World Rugby is trying to promote the sport all over the world, and most important, that players get opportunity. It’s an opportunity also for me as well, especially after refereeing the Rugby World Cup in 2015, to give something back. And to come out to SVG for the first time, it’s an immense pleasure.” He continued: “I have been in rugby for 28 years now, after I started when I was 16 years, so I hope the legs keep on going for the next four years to the World Cup in 2019 in Japan.” Sophie Goddard, President of the SVG Rugby Union, was obviously elated as she welcomed the Rugby World officials. “I think it’s our most important match so far,

partly because it’s an opening Qualifier for the World Cup and also because the Cup is here and it’s a big profile for us.” Plugging for the work her Union has been doing, Goddard quipped, “It just goes to show how far we have come as a Union during the few years that we been promoting the sport, with everyone working really hard.” Goddard is anticipating a good turnout of support for tomorrow’s Qualifier. She assured that the national players had been hard at practice, and had no doubt that they will give of their best. Home court support will go a long way in encouraging them, and all are invited to this historic game, Goddard said. I.B.A.ALLEN

Correction to caption SEE STORY HEADLINED ‘Opportunities open for Vincentian athletes’ on page 23 on our issue of February 26, 2016. The caption should have read: Erasto Da Silva (3rd from left), Rogike Thorpe (4th from left), Consolo Adams (3rd from right), AND Kailon Kirby (right), NOT Neilo Thomas (right).

28. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Defending champs into 2016 T/20 Final

trouble, had a chance offered by Harley DEFENDING CHAMPIONS Team Rivals Skerritt been taken, marched into the final of the NLA when the batsman was National T20 competition, with a still to reach double comfortable 34-run victory over Police figures. TWO in their semi-final match played at Skerritt, capitalising the main Arnos Vale Playing Field, on on his good fortune, Sunday. joined with Casmond SCORES: Team Rivals 141/7, (20 Walters (38) in adding overs), RSVG Police TWO 107/7 (20 44 for the fourth wicket, Harley Skerritt hits out during his overs). before the latter was half century for Team Rivals. Winning the toss and batting first, LBW. Walters struck Team Rivals found themselves up four sixes and one four. against the tide in the early stage, as Skerritt then took partnership was broken when they struggled to get on top of the advantage of some loose Williams lost his middle stump to Police TWO Danson Andrews drives through cover. bowling, and were 42/3 at the end of bowling and motored West Indies U19 pacer Obed McCoy the 10th over. In that period they lost the score along. He who returned figures of 1/27. Asif Hooper (1), Marvin Small (17) and made 55 which led the bowling for Police TWO. In the end, the task was too much Hyron Shallow (10). included three fours and four sixes. Police TWO, needing to score at just for Police Two, as the experienced The defending champions could Promising pacer Darius Martin, about seven an over, were dealt a Team Rivals bowling remained focused have found themselves in even more 2/23 and veteran Kenroy Martin, 2/25, telling blow when their lead batsman, and disciplined, with off-spinner Salvan Browne, went for nought, off Walters, 2/19 from four overs, and the final ball of the first over, with the veteran leg-spinner Olanzo Jackson, total on seven. 2/19 from four, leading their team to It was a blow from which they never victory. recovered, despite holding wickets in The final will take place this Gianni Infantino hand. Opener McCleon Williams (35) Sunday at the Park Hill Playing Field won in a second and Danson Andrews (37) added 63 for from 2 p.m. round of voting. the second wicket, but in 13 overs. The by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT the likes who would THE ST. VINCENT and the be able to Grenadines Football Federations (SVGFF) always supported new FIFA influence “If you have a team THE INTERIM president, Gianni Infantino, according certain COMMITTEE set up by or club which did not situations, to president Venold Coombs. participate in a affiliates attending the but we The 45-year-old Infantino beat tournament affiliated to extra ordinary meeting believe that Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al of the St Vincent and the Federation in the he would Khalifa by 115 votes to 88, to secure past two years, you have the Grenadines world football’s top job in last Friday’s help to to take care of your Basketball Federation develop the election. affiliation fees,” on 9th February, 2015, smaller He succeeded the embattled Sepp Bramble advised. has outlined the Blatter, to become the ninth president nations,” Bramble, who framework for the Coombs said. in the organisation’s 100 plus years conduct of elections of a declared his intentions Coombs said history. new executive, set for of launching his that the SVGFF Reports say Infantino’s passionate candidacy for an 22nd March. Karel Bramble, a plea to the FIFA Congress clearly won has an excellent undisclosed executive Karel Bramble, one relationship member of the interim over some voters who may have been post, also called on member of the Conrad with UEFA, and committee of the SVG unconvinced of his credentials to run affiliates to take Simon led interim based on that, Basketball Federation, world football’s governing body. advantage of the committee in outlining explained certain Infantino was Analysts believe that one of nomination processes. some of the procedural electoral procedures in Infantino’s central manifesto pledges — always going to “We are also asking matters to be followed , be their man to more than double development persons who figure they preparation for the said that based on the after front grants to FIFA’s federations to $5 can serve the Federation upcoming elections. constitution, members runner Michel million — was possibly the key to his to put themselves up for can vote by proxy, but Venold Coombs, executive was carried, Platini was victory. they must do so prior to nomination,” Bramble President SVGFF, and this set in motions, forced out of the confirmed that plugged. the meeting. The FIFA presidential election preparations for race. The interim Bramble revealed entered a second round of voting for Gianni Infantino elections of a executive. He said that that verification must be committee was installed the first time since Brazilian Joao was always SVG’s The Executive elected over the years, after the 9th February ascertained by the Havalenge beat Sir Stanley Rous of man in the race for in April 2014 comprised they have meeting failed to settle elections committee England in 1974, after Infantino of FIFA top post. Sutton — President; on matters of voting. before the proxies are received support Switzerland secured more backing Wayne Williams- First That meeting was called accepted. than pre-vote favourite Sheik Salman from the Vice President; Sonya “We must have that to replace Junior Sutton European ruling bin Ibrahim al Khalifa of Bahrain in Lewis — Second Vice who resigned as proxy in our hand and body, and they expect to see this the first round, where a two thirds President; Conrad President of the verify before that time continue, as the SVGFF moves majority was required to win. Simon — Third Vice Federation after taking and make sure that forward with its programmes. A simple majority of more than 50 President; Gailene up residence overseas. everything (is) in place,” Coombs along with vice-presidents per cent - 104 votes - was sufficient for Gordon — Secretary, However, after Bramble explained. Otashie Spring and Marvin Fraser victory in the second round. Rohan Providence — revelation that several Pointing out other “We have to support people who will attended the Congress. Treasurer, Suzette standing orders, others elected members Infantino, Platini’s former rightlook out for the smaller countries like Jackson- Assistant were either nonBramble stated that hand man, will serve the remaining us, and I am confident that Mr. Secretary/Treasurer. functioning or had affiliate teams/ clubs term of office for which Blatter was Infantino will do just as he said….we Romaine Reid was coresigned, a vote of must ensure that they elected last May, meaning there will opted as the Public know that there would be the large confidence against the are financial. Relations Officer. countries like Germany, England and be a further election in 2019. by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

SVGFF always supported Infantino

All set for Basketball elections

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 29.

Sports

Infantino for the fans IF GIANNI INFANTINO manages to impose his will on FIFA, the 2022 World Cup will see eight more teams in the final. He promotes the idea of having more than one host for the competition which adds to the fan base and broaden the interest and excitement. Infantino, who studied law, is of Swiss and Italian nationalities, and his fluency in Italian, French, and German, with adequate grasp of English, Spanish and Arabic, made it easy for him to operate as general secretary of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), for the past six years His elevation to FIFA came February 26 in an event stigmatised by a series of unsavoury occurrences. His links with Michel Platini is seen by some cynics as indications that the same circle of influence will continue to bear on the echelons of the FIFA executive. Bear in mind that Platini was touted as a replacement to Sepp Blatter before they both came under scrutiny. Infantino will endeavour to stamp his authority and with the anxiety to clean up the FIFA image and rekindle the impact of the sport, Infantaino is appealing to the broader platform. He plans to involve the fans, and reflects on his introduction to the game from the 1978 World Cup as an eight year old. Having scaled the global ladder, Infantino has conditioned himself to the mantra that without players and fans, football is nothing. His desire to see eight more teams on the big stage is his answer to teams getting the opportunity to fulfil their dreams on the big stage. Additionally, others will harbour more realistic expectations of even being there and rubbing shoulders against more fancied oppositions may induce some momentum to spur some upsets. It is known that the ninety minutes of continuous flow can throw up the unlikeliest upsets. That might make it easier for Vincy Heat. They resume their campaign for a Russian ticket Friday, March 25 on a day that some purists find utterly unceremonious. There will have to be a reversal in fortunes and results for Vincy Heat to place themselves in a position for a place of reckoning. And other teams might be spurred by their kick-start and will want to continue with their progress. The drama will step up four days later at the Halsey Crawford Stadium in Trinidad. After that there will be two matches remaining, and the Vincentians will want to see what they can salvage from the return leg against the United States of America. Expectations were high for an acceptable result in the opening encounters. Hopes were raised when Oalex Anderson sent the world into upheaval as he converted within six minutes of the game. It turned out to be a hoax for the Vincentians and the US notched up six goals to seal an emphatic triumph. That conversion has paid dividends, for Oalex has since been drafted into the Seattle Sounders FC, on the strength as much of that goal as did his sojourn with the Sounders FC 2 for the 2015 season. The dream of Vincy Heat recovering from the US debacle faded when Guatemala managed to befuddle a somewhat dazed outfit and the four/nil score left the home fans in a deepened state of misery. It is redemption time as far as the Vincentian fans are concerned and they will be satisfied with nothing short of a win against the Trinidad and Tobago squad. Although some sceptics might not be displeased if the Soca warriors are not exposed to any hindrances from a Vincy Heat entourage with slim chances of staging a renewed surge.

Cyclists maintain status quo IT WAS THE SAME order among the elite bunch, when the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union staged its second road race for 2016 last Sunday afternoon. The race, a 20-mile event, utilised the Ratho Mill to the Arnos Vale round circuit as its route. Once again, Zefal Bailey claimed the top spot in a time of 1 hour eight minutes 37 seconds. Second to Bailey was Enroy Lewis in two seconds slower in 1 hour eight minutes 39 seconds, as the two pedalled their way almost neck and neck to the finish line at Howard’s Marine at Villa Flat. Finishing third overall was Peter Durrant, who also topped the veterans’ category. Durrant’s time was 1 hour ten minutes 59 seconds. Samuel Lyttle maintained his fourth place on his last outing, this time over the shorter distance. He clocked 1 hour twelve minutes 35 seconds. And, completing the top five was Deptor Culzac, in a time of 1 hour

12 minutes. Others to finish the distance were Luck Antrobus, Randy Wilkinson, Okerya Sylvester and Oral Johnson, in that order, as nine of the thirteen cyclists who started, stayed the course. Prior to Sunday’s race, a hill sprint took place at Argyle on Saturday morning. Bailey notched up the first of his weekend’s win as he was the first cyclist to reach the summit, with Lewis — second. Durrant also won the Masters segment Zefal Bailey of the hill sprint, ahead of Steve Ollivierre. President of the SVG Cycling Union Trevor Bailey informed that only cyclists, who contested both events, were eligible for prizes, and

had double wins on the weekend. also disclosed that the 2015 Cycling Union Awards Ceremony which was carded for this Friday, has again been deferred to a date to be announced.

Pope takes it to another level HIS VITAL CONTRIBUTION to the West Indies capture of the prestigious ICC Under 19 World Cricket title will not wear off for some time, but the 19-going-on-20year-old has his eyes set on making a similar contribution at the more senior levels of the sport. And he has got his first opportunity so to do with a call-up to the Windward Islands senior cricket team for the 2015/16 WICB PCL four- day tournament. Pope joined the team in St Lucia last weekend for the 8th round match against leaders Guyana. Before he left the ICC Youth World Cup in Bangladesh, the Mt. Grenan-born Pope told THE VINCENTIAN that his aspiration was to play at the senior level. He says now that the call-up is like a dream come true. And his most recent comment to THE VINCENTIAN was:

Gidron Pope, West Indies Under 19 opening batsman.

“Well, it was a good experience to achieve one of my goals which was to make the Windwards. Now I just need to back

myself and keep working hard and keep pushing myself. In my opinion, the work has just started, so I am looking forward to a

good first class encounter and in time, (to) take it to the next level.” I.B.A.ALLEN

30. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 04, 2016. 31.

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also known as Albina Browne A mother’s touch, A mother’s kiss, A grieving child, The mom we will always miss. An empty house, an empty chair, A mother’s love, no longer there. A broken heart, tear-filled eye, Another soul up in the sky. The times we shared, The laughs we had, Things we miss when we think of OUR MOM.

Always missed and fondly remembered by children, grandchildren, other relatives and friends. May you continue to rest in peace.

MR. NOEL ALEXANDER ALLAN also known as (Charmers and Red Man) Mt. Moriah SDA Church Sunday 28th February, 2016 2:30 p.m.

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ENID KING ALBAN DAVIS Methodist Church Arnos Vale Friday 26th February, 2016 3:00 p.m.

Methodist Church Kingstown Thursday 25th February, 2016 3:00 p.m.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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MARCH 04, 2016

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MEDICAL STUDENT ALLEGES DAMAGE by HAYDN HUGGINS

UP TO PRESS TIME Wednesday, it was still uncertain as to whether or not legal action would be taken against Bank of Nova Scotia in respect to its report of dishonesty, involving Nigerian medical student Uyi Osunde, last December, which the bank now acknowledges may not be sustainable. Based on the factual background of a further statement the bank provided to the Crown, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Colin Williams last week applied the full code test for prosecutors, and discontinued the charge against Osunde. The Nigerian was accused of dishonestly obtaining by deception on December 16, 2015, the sum of $10,000 in cash from Stacey DeFreitas of Villa, the property of the Bank of Nova Scotia. While Osunde is happy that he has been cleared of the charge, he told THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday that his character and image have been terribly tarnished, and his education set back as a result of the allegation. He also indicated that his father fell ill and collapsed in Nigeria on hearing of the matter. Fortunately, it was not fatal. Osunde, a student of the American University School of Medicine of St. Vincent since May 2014, said he had completed his basic science studies here and was supposed

to have started his clinical sciences in the United States in January this year, but this was set back because of the case. Asked whether he would be taking legal action, Osunde said he was awaiting a response from the bank before he decides what he intends to do, and the issue would have to be discussed with his lawyer. The 26-year-old student, however, believes that nothing would make up for the loss, as well as the psychological, emotional and character damage he suffered. “My mom and dad are still traumatized by the situation,” Osunde said, and noted that he had contracted skin infections while in police Uyi Osunde (3rd from right) has the full support of his fellow students in a matter involving custody. the Bank of Nova Scotia.

The race card The Nigerian is of the view that the allegation was brought against him because of his race. He believes that if he were white, he would have been treated differently. He said the police even wanted him to accept the blame. A media release issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) last week stated, in part, that the bank now acknowledges that, “Its earlier report of dishonesty against the Nigerian medical student may not be sustainable.” The bank’s conclusion was

looking for any red flag which may indicate unusual activity, as we seek to protect our customers.” He noted that in this case, the circumstances raised questions, and the bank’s practice in such situations is to conduct thorough internal investigations. “This was done, and in so doing, we recognized that Mr. Osunde’s version of the events may be correct,”the bank’s Scotia admits wrong country head revealed. According to Wright, the When contacted on Tuesday bank was very proactive. It for comment, Country Head of contacted the authorities and the Bank of Nova Scotia conveyed the information. He Fitzaudy Wright told THE that the bank was also VINCENTIAN that, “At Scotia added very cooperative throughout Bank, we are vigilant in reportedly based on further internal checks conducted earlier this month, and a forensic audit conducted by a Canadian-based service provider. The bank had stated that the report against the Nigerian was based on initial checks conducted at the Bank. These were referred to in the DPP’s release.

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

the investigations. “We also recognized that the circumstances may have caused Mr. Osunde some embarrassment and distress. The bank regrets this, and we have already conveyed this to Mr. Osunde through his representative,” Wright said, without identifying who that representative was. Osunde was arrested on December 17, 2015. He subsequently appeared in court and was granted bail in the sum of $12,000. He had maintained his innocence, and the matter was adjourned on a number of occasions. See related stories on Page 24.

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